The Coolpad Cool 6 and OnePlus Nord CE 5G represent different approaches to the budget 5G smartphone market. The Cool 6 aims for affordability with a focus on basic functionality, while the Nord CE 5G attempts to deliver a more refined experience with a stronger processor and faster charging, albeit at a slightly higher price point. This comparison dissects their key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing performance and future-proofing, the OnePlus Nord CE 5G is the clear winner. Its Snapdragon 750G chipset provides a substantial leap in processing power and 5G capabilities compared to the Coolpad Cool 6’s Helio P70. While the Cool 6 offers a lower entry price, the Nord CE 5G’s superior performance justifies the cost difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 39, 40, 41, 66 - Europe |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA - Europe |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat18 1200/150 Mbps, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| | - | 78 SA/NSA - India |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, October 15. Released 2020, October 15 | 2021, June 10 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, June 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 162.4 x 76.5 x 9.2 mm (6.39 x 3.01 x 0.36 in) | 159.2 x 73.5 x 7.9 mm (6.27 x 2.89 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 198 g (6.98 oz) | 170 g (6.00 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~410 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.53 inches, 104.7 cm2 (~84.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.43 inches, 99.3 cm2 (~84.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | Fluid AMOLED, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.1 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 570 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 570) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6771T Helio P70 (12 nm) | Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G72 MP3 | Adreno 619 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 11, upgradable to Android 13, OxygenOS 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | No |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 16 MP, f/2.5, (wide), 1/3.0", 1.0µm |
| Triple | 48 MP, (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 64 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 0.7µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.3, 119˚ (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | Motorized pop-up 21 MP | 16 MP, f/2.5, (wide), 1/3.0", 1.0µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | Yes |
| 35mm jack | No | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.1, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, NavIC |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 30W wired, 70% in 30 min |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 4500 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gray, Blue | Blue Void, Charkoal Ink, Silver Ray |
| Models | - | EB2101, EB2103 |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 250 EUR |
| Tests |
|---|
| Battery life | - |
Endurance rating 117h
|
| Camera | - |
Photo / Video |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: Infinite (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
-29.9 LUFS (Average)
|
| Performance | - |
AnTuTu: 318672 (v8) | 391770 (v9)
GeekBench: 1812 (v5.1)
GFXBench: 17fps (ES 3.1 onscreen) |
Coolpad Cool 6
- Lower price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Decent battery endurance (117h).
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks.
- Outdated Helio P70 chipset struggles with demanding apps.
- Limited display brightness and quality.
- Slow charging speed (unspecified).
OnePlus Nord CE 5G
- Significantly faster Snapdragon 750G chipset.
- Faster 30W charging (70% in 30 min).
- Brighter and more vibrant display (607 nits).
- Higher price compared to the Coolpad Cool 6.
- Battery life is comparable, not superior, despite faster charging.
- May still lack features found in higher-end devices.
Display Comparison
The OnePlus Nord CE 5G boasts a measured peak brightness of 607 nits, significantly improving visibility in outdoor conditions compared to the Coolpad Cool 6 (brightness data unavailable). While both devices likely utilize IPS LCD panels given their price points, the Nord CE 5G’s higher brightness and infinite (nominal) contrast ratio suggest a more vibrant and engaging viewing experience. The Cool 6’s display specifications are less detailed, implying a more basic panel. Bezels are likely comparable, but the Nord CE 5G’s overall display quality is expected to be superior.
Camera Comparison
Both devices offer photo and video capabilities, but detailed camera specifications are limited. Without sensor size or aperture information, a direct comparison is difficult. However, the OnePlus Nord CE 5G, being a more recent and slightly higher-priced device, likely benefits from more advanced image processing algorithms and potentially a larger main sensor. The Cool 6’s camera is likely adequate for casual snapshots, but the Nord CE 5G is expected to deliver better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on the Cool 6 is unlikely to significantly enhance the photography experience.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The OnePlus Nord CE 5G’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G (8nm) is a substantial upgrade over the Coolpad Cool 6’s MediaTek Helio P70 (12nm). The 8nm process node of the Snapdragon 750G translates to better power efficiency and reduced thermal throttling during sustained workloads. The Snapdragon 750G’s CPU configuration – 2x2.2 GHz Kryo 570 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 570 – offers a noticeable performance advantage over the Cool 6’s Octa-core (4x2.1 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53). This difference will be most apparent in gaming, multitasking, and app loading times. The Cool 6 will struggle with graphically intensive games, while the Nord CE 5G can handle them with more ease.
Battery Life
Both phones share an endurance rating of 117 hours, suggesting comparable battery life under similar usage scenarios. However, the OnePlus Nord CE 5G’s 30W wired charging capability is a significant advantage, allowing it to reach 70% charge in just 30 minutes. The Cool 6’s charging speed is not specified, but it’s likely considerably slower. This faster charging capability mitigates any potential battery life differences, providing more convenience for users who need to quickly top up their device.
Buying Guide
Buy the Coolpad Cool 6 if you need a functional smartphone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use, and your budget is extremely limited. You're willing to compromise on performance and future-proofing. Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G if you prioritize a smoother user experience, faster 5G connectivity, and the ability to handle more demanding apps and games. You value faster charging and a more modern chipset.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 750G in the Nord CE 5G handle demanding games like PUBG or Call of Duty?
Yes, the Snapdragon 750G is capable of running PUBG and Call of Duty at medium to high settings with playable frame rates. While it won't deliver the same experience as a flagship chipset, it provides a significantly smoother gaming experience compared to the Helio P70 in the Cool 6, which will likely struggle with these titles.
❓ How much faster is the 30W charging on the Nord CE 5G compared to a typical 10W or 15W charger?
The 30W charging on the Nord CE 5G is substantially faster. Reaching 70% charge in 30 minutes is a significant time saver compared to a standard 10W or 15W charger, which could take over two hours to fully charge the device. This is particularly useful for users who frequently need to top up their battery quickly.
❓ Is the 5G connectivity on the Nord CE 5G actually useful, or is it just a marketing feature?
The usefulness of 5G depends on your location and carrier coverage. However, the Snapdragon 750G includes an integrated 5G modem, offering faster download and upload speeds where 5G networks are available. Even if 5G isn't readily available, the modem supports 4G LTE, providing reliable connectivity.
