iQOO 15 vs OnePlus 15: How iQOO’s latest makes OnePlus’ latest feel like an overpriced proposition

iQOO 15 vs OnePlus 15

With both phones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the iQOO 15 and OnePlus 15 approach performance very differently. OnePlus focuses on finesse and software polish, while iQOO doubles down on brute-force hardware, higher thermals and ultra-bright visuals. When you look beyond the basics, iQOO’s approach results in a device that feels more complete and better justified for its price — even though both share the same MRP.

Design and display: iQOO wins on impact

The iQOO 15 delivers a noticeably larger 6.85-inch 2K LTPO Samsung M14 panel with a staggering 6,000 nits peak brightness, making it easier to view outdoors and more immersive for gaming or HDR content. The Monster Halo lighting and Wet Finger Control add utility along with identity.

The OnePlus 15 counters with a 6.78-inch QHD+ AMOLED and a faster 165Hz refresh rate but it is limited only to couple of games. But in pure visibility, brightness and impact, iQOO feels more flagship-grade. Gamers will also appreciate iQOO’s superior touch responsiveness. Also, in day to day usage, both the phones have 120Hz max refresh rate,

Performance and cooling: iQOO shines brighter

Even with the same chipset, the difference in execution is clear.
The iQOO 15 leans heavily into sustained performance, backed by an 8,000 sq mm 8K vapour chamber, giving it significantly better heat management during long gaming sessions. It consistently maintains higher frame rates in thermally demanding workloads, with fewer dips and less throttling.

The OnePlus 15 stays smooth, but its lighter cooling system takes a more conservative approach. Heavy multitaskers and pro gamers will feel iQOO’s advantage immediately — it’s a phone built to be pushed.

Cameras: iQOO edges ahead in versatility

Both use triple 50MP camera setups, but the iQOO 15’s combo — a Sony IMX921 main sensor, 50MP ultrawide and 50MP periscope with 3x optical zoom — offers more shooting flexibility.

The OnePlus 15 focuses on colour tuning and consistent videos, but iQOO’s faster shutter speeds, stronger low-light behaviour and AI tools like Reflection Erase give it broader creative range overall.

Battery and charging: OnePlus leads, but iQOO isn’t far behind

The OnePlus 15 holds the advantage with a 7,300mAh battery and faster 120W wired + 50W wireless charging.
The iQOO 15 stays competitive with a 7,000mAh cell and 100W + 40W charging — still fast, but not class-leading.

Software and longevity: iQOO takes the long game

Both run Android 16, but iQOO promises five years of OS updates and seven years of security patches — the longest in this segment.
OnePlus offers four years of OS updates and six years of security, along with a cleaner OxygenOS experience.

Not only this, OriginOS 6 is brand new with tons of AI features, upgraded animatiions, design and features. Also, iQOO ensures 5 years of smoothness with OnePlus 15 does not.

Which flagship makes more sense?

The iQOO 15 is brighter, cooler, faster under sustained load, more versatile in photography and longer-supported — all while costing the same as the OnePlus 15. The OnePlus 15 still shines in software smoothness and rapid charging, but when the math settles, iQOO delivers far more for the same money, making the OnePlus 15 feel like the pricier proposition this year. If raw performance, gaming stability and long-term value matter, iQOO 15 is the one to pick. And, this comparison becomes more transparent when it comes to the pricing. The OnePlus 15 is priced premium at Rs 71,999 and iQOO 15 is priced at Rs 64,999 starting and there's additional Rs 7000 discount with Rs 1000 coupon. Combined everything, the iQOO 15 costs Rs 56999 which is relatively more affordable.