OnePlus X

The 16GB variant of the OnePlus X is priced at QAR 1348, while the 32GB version costs QAR 1500. These prices make the OnePlus X an attractive option for those seeking a balance between performance and affordability in the Qatari smartphone market.

Specifications

Design and Build Quality

The OnePlus X boasts a sleek and premium design that belies its budget-friendly price tag. The phone features a smooth glass back with textured aluminum bezels, providing a comfortable grip and a luxurious feel. Available in two versions, Onyx and Ceramic, the OnePlus X offers a touch of elegance to users who appreciate aesthetics.

The Onyx version, with its dark glass back, is reminiscent of high-end smartphones, while the Ceramic version undergoes a 25-day manufacturing process, resulting in a unique and durable finish. At just 6.9mm thick, the OnePlus X is impressively slim, making it easy to hold and carry in your pocket.

Display and Performance

The OnePlus X features a 5.0-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. This Full HD screen offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, making it a joy to use for watching videos, browsing photos, or reading text. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, providing added durability against scratches and minor impacts.

Under the hood, the OnePlus X is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor, which, although not the latest chip, still delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks and light gaming. Coupled with 3GB of RAM, the phone can handle multitasking with ease, allowing you to switch between apps quickly and efficiently.

Camera Capabilities

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the OnePlus X’s camera setup. The main camera boasts a 13-megapixel sensor with phase detection autofocus, ensuring quick and accurate focusing for your shots. It can capture detailed images in well-lit conditions and performs reasonably well in low-light situations.

The front-facing 8-megapixel camera is perfect for selfies and video calls, offering clear and crisp images. Both cameras can record 1080p video at 30 frames per second, allowing you to capture life’s moments in high definition.

Battery Life and Charging

The OnePlus X comes equipped with a 2525 mAh battery, which may seem small by today’s standards but is adequate for the phone’s size and specifications. With moderate use, the battery can last through a full day, though heavy users may need to recharge before the day’s end.

Unfortunately, the OnePlus X does not support fast charging, which means it may take longer to recharge compared to more recent smartphones. However, the efficient processor and optimized software help to extend battery life as much as possible.

Software and User Experience

When first released, the OnePlus X ran on OxygenOS, based on Android 5.1.1 Lollipop. It has since been upgradable to Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow. OxygenOS offers a near-stock Android experience with some useful additions and customizations. The interface is clean, intuitive, and easy to navigate, making it suitable for both tech-savvy users and those new to smartphones.

Storage and Connectivity

The OnePlus X comes in two storage variants: 16GB and 32GB. While this may seem limited compared to current smartphones, the device does offer expandable storage via a microSD card slot, allowing you to add up to 128GB of additional space for your apps, photos, and media.

In terms of connectivity, the OnePlus X supports 4G LTE, ensuring fast mobile data speeds for browsing and streaming. It also features Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, and GPS for navigation. However, it’s worth noting that the phone lacks NFC, which may be a drawback for those who use contactless payments.

Release Date and Availability

The OnePlus X was first announced on October 29, 2015, and became available for purchase in November of the same year. While it’s no longer in production, you may still find it available through some retailers or in the second-hand market in Qatar.

Comparison with Similar Models

When considering the OnePlus X, it’s important to compare it with other smartphones in a similar price range and with comparable specifications. Let’s look at how it stacks up against some alternatives available in the Qatari market.

When comparing the OnePlus X to its successors, the OnePlus 3, 3T, and 5, it’s clear that OnePlus made significant improvements with each new model. The OnePlus X, released in 2015, was designed as a more affordable option with a focus on style. It featured a 5-inch AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 801 processor, 3GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage. While it offered a premium look with its glass and metal construction, its specifications were modest even for its time.

The OnePlus 3 and 3T, launched in 2016, marked a significant leap forward. Both models featured a larger 5.5-inch Optic AMOLED display and upgraded to the more powerful Snapdragon 820 (for the 3) and 821 (for the 3T) processors. They also doubled the RAM to 6GB and increased storage to 64GB.

The camera saw improvements too, with a 16MP rear camera compared to the X’s 13MP. Perhaps most notably, the OnePlus 3 and 3T introduced Dash Charge (now called Warp Charge), allowing for much faster charging speeds than the OnePlus X.

The OnePlus 5, released in 2017, further widened the gap. It maintained the 5.5-inch AMOLED display but upgraded to a Snapdragon 835 processor, offering significantly more power than the X. The OnePlus 5 also introduced a dual-camera setup with a 16MP main sensor and a 20MP telephoto lens, providing much more versatile photography options. It offered configurations with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, far surpassing the OnePlus X’s capabilities.

The OnePlus X competes with devices like the Huawei P8 Lite and the Motorola Moto G. The P8 Lite offers similar specifications but with a slightly larger display and a more recent processor. The Moto G, known for its excellent value, provides a near-stock Android experience and good battery life, though it may lag behind the OnePlus X in terms of build quality and display technology.

In the same price bracket, you might also consider the Samsung Galaxy A series, which offers more recent models with updated specifications. These phones typically feature larger displays, more storage options, and improved camera capabilities. However, they may not match the premium feel of the OnePlus X’s glass and metal construction.

For those willing to spend a bit more, the OnePlus 2 offers a significant upgrade in terms of processing power, with its Snapdragon 810 chip and larger 3300 mAh battery. It also includes a fingerprint sensor, which is absent on the OnePlus X. However, the OnePlus 2 is larger and may not appeal to those who prefer a more compact device.

When comparing the OnePlus X to these alternatives, it’s clear that its strengths lie in its premium design, excellent AMOLED display, and the clean OxygenOS interface. However, potential buyers should consider whether these features outweigh the benefits of more recent processors, larger batteries, and updated software found in newer budget smartphones.

Is the OnePlus X Right for You?

The OnePlus X remains an intriguing option for budget-conscious consumers in Qatar who prioritize design and display quality. Its sleek glass and metal construction gives it a premium feel that’s rare in its price range. The vibrant AMOLED screen is perfect for media consumption, and the compact size makes it easy to use with one hand.

However, it’s important to consider the phone’s age. Released in 2015, the OnePlus X’s hardware and software are several years old. While it can still handle everyday tasks smoothly, it may struggle with the latest apps and games. Additionally, it’s unlikely to receive further software updates, which could be a concern for security-conscious users.

For those who don’t need the latest features and are looking for a stylish, budget-friendly smartphone primarily for calls, messaging, social media, and light web browsing, the OnePlus X could be an excellent choice. Its price point in Qatar makes it an attractive option for students or as a secondary device.

However, if you’re a power user who needs top-notch performance, the latest software, or advanced camera features, you might want to consider more recent models, even if they come at a higher price point. Phones like the newer OnePlus Nord series or mid-range offerings from Samsung and Xiaomi might better suit your needs.

Where to Buy the OnePlus X in Qatar

While the OnePlus X is no longer in production, you may still find it available through various channels in Qatar. Here are some options to consider:

1. Online Marketplaces: Websites like Souq.com (now Amazon.ae) or Noon.com might have listings for new or refurbished OnePlus X devices.
2. Local Electronics Stores: Some brick-and-mortar electronics stores in Qatar may still have stock of the OnePlus X. It’s worth checking with popular retailers in malls and shopping centers.
3. Second-hand Markets: Websites and apps that facilitate second-hand sales could be a good place to find a used OnePlus X at a lower price. However, be sure to thoroughly check the condition of the device before purchasing.
4. OnePlus Community: There might be OnePlus enthusiast groups or forums where members sell their old devices. This could be a good way to find a well-maintained OnePlus X.

Remember to always verify the authenticity and condition of the device before making a purchase, especially when buying from individual sellers or second-hand markets.

Accessories for the OnePlus X

To enhance your OnePlus X experience, consider investing in some accessories. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Protective Case: Given the glass construction of the OnePlus X, a good quality case is essential to protect it from drops and scratches.
2. Screen Protector: While the phone comes with Gorilla Glass 3, an additional screen protector can provide extra peace of mind.
3. Power Bank: With its modest battery capacity, a portable power bank can be useful for heavy users who need extra juice on the go.
4. MicroSD Card: To expand the storage capacity of your OnePlus X, a high-speed microSD card is a worthwhile investment.
5. Bluetooth Earphones: While the OnePlus X has a 3.5mm headphone jack, wireless earphones can provide added convenience.