Blind Camera Test: OnePlus Nord 2 vs POCO F3 GT vs iQOO 7 vs Realme X7 Max 5G

We’ve seen plenty of compelling phones launch in the Sub Rs 30K segment, but it’s safe to say that OnePlus popularised the tier with the launch of the OnePlus Nord last year. So much so, the OG Nord became the defacto recommendation for most reviewers, partly because the handset’s well-rounded specs were – at the time – unmatched in the segment. Fast forward a year and you’ll find plenty of enticing options around the Rs 30K mark including the OnePlus Nord 2 (review), the iQOO 7 (review), the Realme X7 Max 5G (review), and the POCO F3 GT (review). Interestingly, all four devices come toting powerful processors and capable cameras too so, we decided to pit the handsets against each other in yet another Blind Camera comparison.

The rules are simple – you will be presented with a bunch of images shot from the four phones across a variety of scenarios. Your job is to vote for the best-looking photo in every category. However, do note that we will not be disclosing which phone shot which photo – you’ll have to solely rely on your judgement. In a few weeks, we will announce the winners and the losers of the blind camera test so, without any further ado, let the competition begin.

HDR Off

Okay, let’s kick things off by talking about the shot from each of the four devices with the HDR mode disabled. In doing so, we are taking a good chunk of software processing out of the equation. Consequently, the images that you see below should give you an idea of the phone’s unembellished camera capabilities.

Phone A

Phone B

Phone C

Phone D

HDR On

Here, we are comparing the photos with the HDR mode enabled. Remember, HDR mode can work wonders for dynamic range, but it might muck up the colours in the composition too, so choose wisely.

Phone A

Phone B

Phone C

Phone D

Portrait mode

Our portrait mode test feeds two birds with one scone. For one, you’ll get to gauge the intensity as well as clarity of the bokeh effect – so, make sure to select the shot with the cleanest blur around the subject’s face, as well as their torso. Secondly, you’ll also get a number on the realism in photos involving a human subject. To that note, keep an eye out for the photo with the best representation of the complexion of the subject as well as the one with the most details around their face.

Phone A

Phone B

Phone C

Phone D

Night Mode Off

Smartphone cameras have quickly transitioned from “no light, more problems” to “no light, no problem” and most devices can churn out compelling images even after the sun has set. The same is true for our four contenders too so, take a look at how these devices perform in lowlight scenarios with the night mode utility disabled.

Phone A

Phone B

Phone C

Phone D

Night Mode On

With the night mode enabled, you should be able to see more of the scene in all the shots. Of course, some images will offer lesser noise across the board, as well as more information in the shadows so cast your votes accordingly.

Phone A

Phone B

Phone C

Phone D

Selfie

With the advent of social media, it’s hard to turn a blind eye to a smartphone’s selfie camera. Thankfully, our four contenders ship with capable front-facing sensors so, vote for the selfie that looks the most aesthetically pleasing to your eyes.

Phone A

Phone B

Phone C

Phone D

Lowlight Selfie

Of course, you might not always have a well-lit environment to click self-portraits. But, that probably won’t deter you from posting updates to your Instagram stories, right? So, let’s take a look at how the front cameras of these phones perform with little to no light around.

Phone A

Phone B

Phone C

Phone D

And that’s it for the blind camera comparison between the OnePlus Nord 2, the Realme X7 Max 5G, the POCO F3 GT, and the iQOO 7. The voting for the same is now open, so cast your votes and let your voice be heard. We’ll post the results after a few weeks have elapsed, so stay tuned!