The OnePlus series has always been known for pushing the boundaries of smartphone photography, and the new OnePlus 15 continues this legacy with upgraded camera hardware, improved AI processing, and advanced image tuning. But how much better is it compared to its predecessor, the OnePlus 13? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll break down how both devices perform in real-world photography, covering image quality, video capabilities, and low-light performance.
Design and Camera Setup
The OnePlus 13 was equipped with a triple rear camera setup featuring a 50MP Sony IMX890 main sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 32MP telephoto lens. It delivered impressive photos with excellent color reproduction and sharpness, especially under daylight conditions.
The OnePlus 15, however, takes things to the next level with a quad-camera configuration. It includes a 50MP Sony LYT-808 main sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, a 64MP periscope telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a dedicated ToF depth sensor for improved portrait accuracy. This new arrangement not only enhances clarity but also allows for more flexibility in framing shots, zooming, and creating artistic effects.
Daylight Photography
In bright outdoor environments, both devices perform admirably, but the OnePlus 15 produces more natural colors and better dynamic range. Thanks to the updated Hasselblad color calibration, the OnePlus 15 captures more balanced tones with improved highlights and shadows. The OnePlus 13, while still strong, tends to oversaturate colors slightly and struggles with extreme lighting contrasts.
Low-Light Performance
Low-light photography is where the OnePlus 15 truly shines. Its larger sensor, combined with an improved Nightscape 3.0 algorithm, brings out remarkable detail even in poorly lit scenes. Noise levels are reduced, and images appear cleaner and brighter without losing texture. The OnePlus 13 does reasonably well in dim conditions, but its images sometimes show grain and reduced detail, especially without the use of a tripod.
Portrait and Zoom Capabilities
Portrait shots on the OnePlus 15 have a clear edge due to its enhanced depth sensor and better edge detection. Skin tones look more natural, and background blur (bokeh) feels smoother and more realistic.
In zoom performance, the 64MP periscope lens on the OnePlus 15 offers significantly sharper results, even at 10x hybrid zoom. The OnePlus 13’s 3x telephoto lens still performs well but cannot maintain the same clarity beyond moderate zoom levels.
Video Recording and Stability
Both phones support up to 8K video recording, but the OnePlus 15 has improved optical image stabilization (OIS) and electronic image stabilization (EIS). This results in smoother, shake-free footage. Its HDR video mode also captures a wider dynamic range, making videos more lifelike. The OnePlus 13’s video output, while good, lacks the fine detail and steadiness that the 15 delivers, especially when shooting handheld.
Front Camera Performance
The OnePlus 15 features a 32MP front-facing camera with better low-light capabilities and advanced AI beautification. It manages to capture crisp selfies with excellent detail and balanced skin tones. The OnePlus 13, though still capable, doesn’t match the same level of dynamic range or sharpness in challenging lighting.
Verdict
The OnePlus 15 marks a substantial improvement over the OnePlus 13, particularly in low-light and zoom photography. The refined image processing, advanced sensors, and upgraded stabilization make it one of the most capable camera phones in its class. While the OnePlus 13 remains a reliable performer, photography enthusiasts will find the OnePlus 15 a worthy upgrade.
FAQs
Q1: Does the OnePlus 15 have better zoom than the OnePlus 13?
Yes, the OnePlus 15 offers a 64MP periscope telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, providing sharper results than the 13’s 3x zoom.
Q2: Which phone performs better in low light?
The OnePlus 15 performs better in low light due to its larger sensor and enhanced Nightscape 3.0 mode.
Q3: Is there a major difference in video quality between the two?
Yes, the OnePlus 15 delivers smoother and clearer videos with improved HDR and stabilization features.
Q4: Are both phones equipped with Hasselblad color tuning?
Yes, both have Hasselblad tuning, but the OnePlus 15’s color science has been further refined for natural tones.
Q5: Should I upgrade from the OnePlus 13 to the OnePlus 15?
If camera performance and video quality are your top priorities, upgrading to the OnePlus 15 is definitely worth it.
