When OnePlus first unveiled its tablet, it captivated users with a blend of high-end specifications and an affordable price point. Now, with the release of the OnePlus Pad 3, the company is refining this winning formula. The latest model features modest hardware upgrades, including a larger and sharper display, an enhanced battery, and an updated smart keyboard. Additionally, significant software improvements help it close the gap with competitors like Samsung and Apple.
Despite these upgrades, the overall verdict remains consistent: the OnePlus Pad 3 is an excellent choice for entertainment, but its capabilities for productivity are just average. Priced at $699.99, which is $150 more than its predecessor, potential buyers might wonder if it still represents good value. A year ago, my answer might have leaned towards no, but given today's landscape of tariffs and rising costs, the Pad 3 stands its ground—especially when compared to similarly spec'd devices like the $749.99 Galaxy Tab S10 FE. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific needs.
Price: $700
The OnePlus Pad 3 boasts a larger 13.2-inch LCD display with a sharper resolution of 3392 x 2400, enhancing the vibrancy of movies and shows. Encased in a slimmer and flatter aluminum frame, it is more portable, yet at 675g, it is heavier than the 13-inch iPad Pro, making it less comfortable for extended reading or viewing sessions.
The new eight-speaker system—comprising four woofers and four tweeters—provides an immersive audio experience ideal for gaming, streaming, and video content. OnePlus has also improved battery longevity with a slightly larger 12,140mAh cell. After a couple of hours of multitasking with two apps and several tabs open, the battery dropped only 15%, indicating that it can easily last over a day. OnePlus claims a full charge takes just 92 minutes, and in my testing, it charged from 20% to 80% in 76 minutes, demonstrating impressive performance.
The OnePlus Pad 3 retains the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, with options for either 12GB RAM with 256GB storage or 16GB RAM with 512GB. The performance is snappy, more than sufficient for most users. It ships with OxygenOS 15, the latest iteration of OnePlus' operating system based on Android 15, where notable software improvements lie.
One of the standout features is its compatibility with Apple devices. The OnePlus Pad 3 facilitates screen mirroring and effortless file sharing with Macs and iPhones, making it particularly appealing for users who own both Apple and Android devices. The Mac Remote Control feature allows for real-time viewing and control of your laptop or desktop, making file transfers simple. However, the setup process can be somewhat inconsistent, and issues with reconnection may arise.
Despite its strengths, the OnePlus Pad 3 is still not ideal for serious productivity tasks. While the larger screen and Open Canvas multitasking system allow users to run up to three apps side by side, many Android apps, such as Slack and Airtable, are not yet optimized for large displays. The software improvements, including enhanced writing tools and basic photo editing features, are beneficial but still limited by the Android ecosystem.
OnePlus has also improved its software update policy, now offering three Android version updates and six years of security patches, which makes the Pad 3 a more future-proof investment. However, it’s worth noting that competitors like Samsung offer even more extended support.
The OnePlus Pad 3 is compatible with a range of accessories, including the unchanged Stylo 2 stylus and the new Pad 3 Smart Keyboard, priced at $199. The keyboard features larger keys for better typing comfort and includes a built-in NFC receiver for quick file sharing. However, the trackpad can be problematic, causing unintended shortcuts and difficulties with text selection. Bluetooth support allows for wireless use, which is a plus.
The OnePlus Pad 3 excels in binge-watching, reading, streaming music, and light multitasking. Enhanced software updates make it a safer long-term investment, but it still falls short of being a true laptop replacement or a powerhouse for productivity tasks. Despite its limitations, it remains a solid choice for users seeking a high-quality Android tablet experience.
In summary, while the OnePlus Pad 3 provides significant improvements over its predecessor, potential buyers should weigh their specific needs against the tablet's productivity limitations and higher price point. If you prioritize entertainment and casual use, it may well be worth the investment.
