📱 OnePlus 3: The Flagship Killer That Redefined Value
When the OnePlus 3 launched in June 2016, it shook the smartphone world with its flagship-level specs at a mid-range price. Branded as the “flagship killer,” the OnePlus 3 delivered top-tier performance, a premium metal build, and clean software — all at a fraction of what other high-end phones cost at the time.
Though it’s now a legacy device, the OnePlus 3 is still remembered fondly by fans and tech reviewers for its smooth OxygenOS experience, snappy performance, and overall balance. Even in 2025, some users still use or collect it for nostalgia or as a backup device.
đź’° OnePlus 3 Price (Launch vs Current Resale)
| Timeframe | Price (India) | Price (Global) |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Price (2016) | â‚ą27,999 | $399 USD |
| Used Price (2025)* | ₹4,000 – ₹6,500 | $50 – $80 USD |
Current resale value depends on condition, storage, and availability. It’s no longer sold officially.
đź“‹ OnePlus 3 Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 5.5-inch Optic AMOLED, Full HD (1920 x 1080), Gorilla Glass 4 |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 (14nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 530 |
| RAM | 6GB LPDDR4 |
| Storage | 64GB UFS 2.0 (non-expandable) |
| Rear Camera | 16MP Sony IMX298, f/2.0, OIS, PDAF, 4K video recording |
| Front Camera | 8MP Sony IMX179, f/2.0 |
| Battery | 3,000mAh (non-removable) |
| Charging | Dash Charge (20W fast charging via USB Type-C) |
| Operating System | Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow) at launch, upgradable to Android 9 (Pie) |
| Build | Anodized aluminum unibody |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Front-mounted (home button) |
| Audio | Single speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, NFC |
| Dimensions | 152.7 x 74.7 x 7.4 mm |
| Weight | 158g |
| Colors Available | Graphite, Soft Gold |
🌟 Key Highlights
- Premium Metal Build: The OnePlus 3 featured a sleek, all-metal unibody design that looked and felt premium in the hand.
- 6GB RAM in 2016: It was one of the first mainstream phones to come with 6GB RAM, offering incredible multitasking performance.
- Dash Charge: OnePlus’s proprietary fast charging solution could charge the phone to over 60% in just 30 minutes.
- Clean Software: Running on OxygenOS, the phone delivered a near-stock Android experience with added customization.
- Excellent Display: The 5.5″ AMOLED panel provided deep blacks and vibrant colors, making it great for media consumption.
đź“ť Final Verdict
The OnePlus 3 was a milestone device that marked OnePlus’s evolution from an enthusiast brand to a mainstream powerhouse. It delivered:
- Flagship performance
- Top-notch build quality
- Clean, responsive software
- Great value for money
Though it’s now outdated for modern apps, 5G, and advanced camera needs, the OnePlus 3 still holds a special place in smartphone history. If you find one in working condition, it’s a great collector’s item or backup phone.