Umidigi G2 vs OnePlus Nord N30 SE: A Deep Dive into Budget Smartphone Performance

The sub-$200 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. The Umidigi G2 represents a cost-conscious approach, relying on an older chipset, while the OnePlus Nord N30 SE aims to deliver a more modern experience with the Dimensity 6020. This comparison dissects the key differences to determine which device offers the best value for your money.
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🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and future-proofing, the OnePlus Nord N30 SE is the clear winner. Its Dimensity 6020 chipset provides a significant performance uplift over the Umidigi G2’s Helio A22, and the 33W charging is a game-changer for convenience. However, the G2 remains a viable option for extremely basic usage.

PHONES
Phone Names Umidigi G2 OnePlus Nord N30 SE
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 661, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66
5G bands-1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66, 77, 78 SA/NSA
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE, 5G
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G
Launch
Announced20232024, January 29
StatusAvailable. Released 2023Available. Released 2024, January 31
Body
Build-Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back
Dimensions163.9 x 75.7 x 8.8 mm (6.45 x 2.98 x 0.35 in)165.6 x 76 x 8 mm (6.52 x 2.99 x 0.31 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight192 g (6.77 oz)193 g (6.81 oz)
Display
Resolution720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density)1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~392 ppi density)
Size6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.7% screen-to-body ratio)6.72 inches, 109.0 cm2 (~86.6% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCDIPS LCD
Platform
CPUQuad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
ChipsetMediatek Helio A22 (12 nm)Mediatek Dimensity 6020 (7 nm)
GPUPowerVR GE8320Mali-G57 MC2
OSAndroid 13Android 13, OxygenOS 13.1
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (uses shared SIM slot)No
Internal32GB 3GB RAM128GB 4GB RAM
Main Camera
Dual13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF Auxiliary lens50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF Auxiliary lens
FeaturesDual-LED flash, HDR, panoramaLED flash, HDR, panorama
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
Single5 MP, f/2.0, (wide)8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
Video720p@30fps1080p@30fps
Sound
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes, with stereo speakers
Comms
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE5.3, A2DP, LE
NFCNoYes
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEOGPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS
RadioNoNo
USBUSB Type-C, OTGUSB Type-C 2.0, OTG
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi DirectWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band
Features
SensorsAccelerometer, proximity, compassFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
Battery
Charging10W wired33W wired, 51% in 30 min
Type5150 mAh5000 mAh
Misc
ColorsGraphite Black, Dawn GoldBlack Satin, Cyan
Models-CPH2605
Price-About 510 EUR

Umidigi G2

  • Extremely affordable price point
  • Functional for basic communication
  • Potentially longer battery life due to less demanding chipset (depending on capacity)

  • Significantly slower performance
  • Slow 10W charging
  • Likely a lower-quality display

OnePlus Nord N30 SE

  • Much faster performance with Dimensity 6020
  • 33W fast charging for quick top-ups
  • Improved image processing capabilities

  • Higher price than the Umidigi G2
  • May still struggle with graphically intensive games
  • Likely a basic LCD display

Display Comparison

Neither device boasts a standout display. While specific display specs (resolution, panel type) are missing for the Umidigi G2, its reliance on the Helio A22 suggests a basic LCD panel. The OnePlus Nord N30 SE, while also likely an LCD, benefits from the Dimensity 6020’s image signal processor, potentially offering slightly better color reproduction. Bezels are expected to be larger on the G2 due to its lower price point, impacting the overall viewing experience.

Camera Comparison

Without detailed camera specifications for the Umidigi G2, it’s safe to assume a basic camera setup focused on functionality rather than quality. The OnePlus Nord N30 SE, while not a camera powerhouse, benefits from the Dimensity 6020’s improved image processing capabilities. Expect better dynamic range and noise reduction compared to the G2. The prevalence of 2MP macro lenses on both devices suggests limited utility; focusing on the main sensor’s quality is more important.

Performance

The performance disparity is the most significant difference. The Umidigi G2’s Mediatek Helio A22, a quad-core processor built on a 12nm process, is designed for basic tasks. The OnePlus Nord N30 SE’s Mediatek Dimensity 6020, an octa-core chip fabricated on a more efficient 7nm process, offers a substantial improvement. The Dimensity 6020’s Cortex-A76 cores provide a noticeable boost in CPU performance, making multitasking and app loading significantly faster. The G2 will struggle with demanding applications, while the N30 SE can handle moderate gaming and everyday use with relative ease.

Battery Life

Battery capacity is not specified for the Umidigi G2, but given its budget nature, it’s likely a smaller capacity than the N30 SE. The OnePlus Nord N30 SE’s 33W wired charging is a major advantage, achieving 51% charge in just 30 minutes. The Umidigi G2’s 10W charging is significantly slower, requiring considerably more time to reach a full charge. This difference in charging speed dramatically impacts user convenience.

Buying Guide

Buy the Umidigi G2 if you need a phone for absolutely essential tasks – calls, texts, and very light app usage – and are on an extremely tight budget. It’s a functional device for those who prioritize minimal cost above all else. Buy the OnePlus Nord N30 SE if you prefer a smoother, more responsive experience for everyday tasks, enjoy occasional gaming, and value faster charging speeds. It’s a better long-term investment for most users.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Will the Umidigi G2 struggle with popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram?
Yes, the Helio A22 chipset in the Umidigi G2 is likely to exhibit noticeable lag and slowdown when running demanding apps like TikTok and Instagram, especially with multiple apps open simultaneously. The limited processing power and RAM will struggle to handle the complex algorithms and animations within these platforms.
❓ Is the 33W charging on the OnePlus Nord N30 SE compatible with Power Delivery (PD) chargers?
While the OnePlus Nord N30 SE supports 33W charging, it's crucial to use a charger that specifically supports OnePlus's proprietary charging protocol (or a PD charger that is compatible). Using a standard USB-PD charger might result in slower charging speeds than the advertised 33W.
❓ Can the OnePlus Nord N30 SE handle mobile games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The OnePlus Nord N30 SE’s Dimensity 6020 can run PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but you’ll likely need to lower the graphics settings to medium or low to achieve a playable frame rate. Expect some occasional stuttering during intense firefights. The Umidigi G2 would struggle significantly with these titles.