As opposed to the OnePlus 5T that was different from its predecessor, the OnePlus 5, with only one
change – the 18:9 screen – the new OnePlus 6 introduces a whole bunch of changes; cosmetic as well as
in terms of specifications.
Lots is different – from the processor, to the 6.28-inch Full Optic AMOLED 19:9 display and three
attractive glass rear panels. Surprisingly, it doesn’t cost a lot more than the model it replaces. The model we reviewed, with a Silk White finish, has an interesting rose gold frame and a smooth texture achieved with the use of pearl dust. There’s also an oblong rear fingerprint sensor and some accents around the centrally placed dual cameras.
With this model, OnePlus moves its handy alert slider from the left to the right, and it switches easily
between Ring, Silent and vibrate modes. At the bottom, you’ll find a 3.5mm headphone jack next to the
USB-C charging port. There are two Nano-SIM slots, but no microSD card slot in case you feel the need
for additional storage.
A small grouse is that the phone is a little large to hold comfortably, and is on the heavier side at 177g. The brand has also claimed it is water resistant, although we didn’t test this claim.
Now for the real deal – the phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 that is among the most
powerful processors in the market. Its quality is evident in everything from swift switching between
multiple apps to high-quality video streaming and top-notch gaming experiences.
The OnePlus 6’s dual camera system features a 16MP main camera, supported by a 20MP secondary
camera. Advanced HDR does a brilliant job of allowing you to play around with shadows, lighting and
more. The much-hyped Portrait Mode – available on both, the front and the rear camera – is an outright
winner with its multiple innovations. Admittedly, it’s a little hard to get the hang of in the beginning, but
you’ll soon master tricks to play with depth of field, bokeh effects and other customizations. Also new is
the slow-motion mode, which works spectacularly even in the highest definition.
Additionally, we checked out the all-new OnePlus Explorer Backpack – an upgrade to the one released
last year that has since been discontinued. Priced at Rs 4,990, it is available in two colours – Slate Black
and Morandi Green. The tear and scruff-resistant Cordura fabric is strong and very durable. So if the
price seems a little on the higher side, do remind yourself that this is a backpack that is likely to last you
that much longer as well.
The compartments are plenty, and come very handy. Two laptop pockets include a padded rear sleeve
as well as fairly large accessory pockets on either side. The shoulder straps and back are adequately
padded to ensure comfort when you are carrying heavy items. The fidlock snap fastener comes with the
attention grabbing signature OnePlus red strap.
The wide front compartment is waterproof with a draining vent for damp umbrellas, swimsuits etc —the
circular vent at the corner can prove to be quite helpful in draining out the water, and also airs out the
compartment to prevent dampness.
Prices
The OnePlus 6 is available in 6 GB RAM + 64 GB storage and 8 GB RAM and 128 GB options and retails at
INR 34,999 and 39,999 respectively in Mirror Black and Midnight Black color options. The limited-edition
Silk White with 128 GB of storage is priced at INR 39,999. The OnePlus 6 x Marvel Avengers Limited
Edition that comes with 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage retails at INR 44,999. The OnePlus Explorer
backpack retails at INR 4,990.