Should You Buy the OnePlus 12 Now or Wait for the OnePlus 13?

The OnePlus 13 is actually a huge upgrade from the OnePlus 12, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite. It has the potential to be more powerful than the chips in many handheld consoles, making it the most cost-effective phone in 2025.

Below are the benefits the OnePlus 13 has compared to the OnePlus 12 (on paper):

1. Snapdragon 8 Elite

This upgraded chipset offers 40% improvements in efficiency, CPU, and GPU, ideal for gaming, editing videos, or managing heavy workloads. Enhanced CPU and GPU performance means smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and superior gaming experiences. Moreover, lower power consumption ensures extended battery life without sacrificing speed or power.

2. Local Variable Refresh Rate

The OnePlus 13 introduces a more advanced variable refresh rate display. This technology dynamically adjusts the refresh rate to match on-screen content, improving efficiency. You can save battery during static tasks while still delivering fluid visuals for high-motion activities. Plus, expect crisp graphics for gaming and smoother scrolling for everyday use.

3. 6000mAh Battery

One of the most impressive upgrades is the OnePlus 13’s 6000mAh battery, providing extended longevity. With nearly two days of battery life (1.96 days, to be precise), it’s a game-changer for heavy users. Combined with fast-charging technology, you’ll spend less time tethered to an outlet.

4. Share to iPhone

This feature, likely part of OxygenOS 15, makes file sharing between OnePlus and iPhones seamless. If confirmed, it could bridge the gap between ecosystems, offering users:

• Convenient Transfers: Share photos, videos, and files without compatibility headaches.
• Better Collaboration: Perfect for users juggling both Android and iOS devices.

5. Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor

Unlocking your phone just got faster and more reliable. The ultrasonic fingerprint sensor reads your fingerprint in milliseconds. Additionally, the AquaTouch 2.0 ensures flawless unlocking even when your fingers are wet or oily.

6. New Cooling System

The revamped cooling system in the OnePlus 13 is designed to handle demanding tasks with ease. This keeps the phone cool during extended gaming or 4K video recording sessions. Reduced thermal stress ensures your device stays in peak condition for years.

7. Flat Display

A flat display might seem minor, but it’s a meaningful improvement, offering better accessibility. It's easier to apply tempered glass screen protectors for added durability. A flatter display also reduces accidental touches compared to curved edges.

8. IP68/IP69 Rating

The OnePlus 13’s higher IP rating means better resistance to spills, rain, and accidental submersion. This is perfect for adventurers or "clumsy" users.

The numbers and features on the paper comparison make you high, but if you dig deeper and use your logic, you will find out something is not as good as you thought, just like in real life:

1. The battery on the OnePlus 13 is only 600mAh more; the OnePlus 12 has a battery that is big enough.
2. “Share to iPhone” is gimmicky, requiring iPhone users to install an extra app for it. Nothing new from a 3rd party file share. OP/OPPO hyped and implied there’s something to do with native AirDrop, but it turned out to be disappointing.
3. Those already exist for curved phones—they have existed for quite some time, actually. They use liquid glue that hardens under UV light and works absolutely flawlessly.
4. From a material science perspective, the curved screen can actually be more stable than the flat screen when dropped. Although, it certainly depends on the drop. But a curved screen isn’t inherently less stable or worse than a flat screen.
5. We've heard people in China saying the OnePlus 13 camera is bad.

We have to say, buying new tech is just like buying ice cream with chocolate topping for a 6-year-old kid. But OnePlus phones are no longer cheap disposable phones that cost little. To make the decision, you should look at your wallet and check your wish list and shopping list.

If money is not a problem and you have lots of extra coins to toss, waiting for the OnePlus 13 is definitely the best option. Why? I have several answers below:

1. The OnePlus 13 will be released soon, so since you’re not in a hurry, it will (theoretically) at least be better than the OnePlus 12.
2. The new Snapdragon Elite is an amazing thing that makes the phone more powerful yet stays cooler with higher performance while gaming.
3. Besides the “on paper” advantage, don’t forget that the OnePlus 13 now has an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner.
4. The main reason for me would be not having to deal with the curved screen on the OnePlus 12, which just gives reflections and hassle when using tempered glass protectors.
5. And last, well, the new generation is always a better generation for sure.
6. Oh wait, don’t forget the perk for pre-orders—a free 299 watch for sure.

Now, if your money is tight or you have other expenses, like gifts for your family, need to get a PS5 Pro, or just want to spoil yourself with fancy meals, as long as your phone can still handle daily life, you can go for the OnePlus 12 with promotions.

Why?

1. The OnePlus 12 is already a freaking beast—it does everything we need smoothly.
2. OnePlus 12 can also upgrade to ColorOS 15, which will definitely make the phone smoother.

Unpopular opinion: Upgrading your phone every year isn’t a necessity. Instead, consider using your money wisely—save, invest, or even spend it on books that expand your knowledge. Don’t let consumerism control you, pushing you to endlessly scroll through social media and fall into the trap of chasing the latest gadgets just because targeted ads are nudging you.