One Plus 13S Review: What's the S For? — Marques Brownlee

Quick Overview

Key Takeaway: The 'S' in OnePlus 13S stands for a 'Speed' and 'Slight' upgrade, indicating an incremental refresh focused on processor, battery, and camera software improvements rather than a complete overhaul.

Key Points: The OnePlus 13S features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3+ processor, a minor upgrade from the 8 Gen 3 in the OnePlus 13. Battery capacity increased to 5500mAh, offering slightly improved endurance over the previous model. Camera system received software optimizations, resulting in better low-light performance and color accuracy. The 'S' primarily signifies a mid-cycle refresh with performance and battery enhancements, not a major redesign.

Summary

The OnePlus 13S is an incremental update to the OnePlus 13, with the 'S' signifying 'Speed' and 'Slight' enhancements rather than a complete overhaul. The primary upgrade is the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3+ chipset, which delivers a modest performance increase, making everyday tasks and gaming slightly smoother. This is not a groundbreaking leap but a noticeable refinement for those sensitive to performance nuances.

Battery life sees a more substantial improvement, thanks to an increased 5500mAh capacity, allowing for longer usage between charges. Camera performance benefits from software optimizations, resulting in better image processing, especially in challenging lighting conditions, and more vibrant, accurate colors. While the design remains largely unchanged from the OnePlus 13, the internal refinements make the 13S a more polished device for those considering a new purchase, though it does not offer enough compelling reasons for existing OnePlus 13 owners to upgrade.

Key Points: The OnePlus 13S features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3+ processor, offering a marginal performance boost over the OnePlus 13's 8 Gen 3. Battery life significantly improved due to a larger 5500mAh capacity, providing extended usage times. Camera performance enhanced through software optimizations, leading to better low-light photos and color accuracy. Design and display specifications are carried over directly from the OnePlus 13, maintaining a familiar aesthetic. The 'S' model is an incremental upgrade, not a revolutionary redesign, focusing on internal refinements. The device targets users seeking the latest minor improvements without waiting for the next full generational release.