The race to dominate the Android tablet space has become more exciting with the arrival of the OnePlus Pad 2, the successor to the original OnePlus Pad. Launched with much anticipation, the Pad 2 aims to outperform its predecessor, offering a refreshed hardware experience, refined design, and improved software integration. But just how different are the two tablets? If you’re considering a new Android tablet or contemplating an upgrade from the first-gen Pad, this comparison will help you make an informed choice.
Design and Build Quality
OnePlus has always emphasized premium build quality, and both the Pad and Pad 2 reflect this philosophy. The original OnePlus Pad introduced a unique, centered camera design and a slim, lightweight aluminum chassis that made it stand out in a crowded market.
The OnePlus Pad 2 keeps the elegant aluminum build but refines the finish and ergonomics. It’s slightly slimmer and sports flatter edges that align more with current design trends. The bezels are thinner, allowing for more screen real estate without increasing the physical size.
- OnePlus Pad: Rounded edges, unique centered camera, 6.5 mm thick
- OnePlus Pad 2: Flat-edged design, refined curves, ~6.2 mm thick
In terms of portability and aesthetics, the Pad 2 feels more modern in hand, and the design tweaks, though subtle, elevate the overall user experience.
Display and Visual Experience
Display quality is a major factor in any multimedia device, and OnePlus has taken steps to enhance the Pad 2’s screen for clearer visuals and richer color profiles.
While the first-gen Pad boasts an impressive 11.61-inch LCD panel with a 144Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision support, the Pad 2 upgrades several aspects. It ups the resolution and fine-tunes the brightness levels, making it more adept in outdoor lighting conditions.
- OnePlus Pad: 11.61″ LCD, 2800 x 2000 resolution, 144Hz refresh rate
- OnePlus Pad 2: 12.1″ LCD, 3000 x 2120 resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, improved brightness and contrast
The subtle increase in screen size and resolution makes the Pad 2 ideal for productivity applications and extended content consumption.
Performance and Hardware
Performance is one of the most significant differentiators between the two models. The original OnePlus Pad runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 9000, a solid chip capable of handling multitasking, gaming, and streaming. However, the Pad 2 takes it up a notch with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, a powerhouse found in flagship smartphones.
- OnePlus Pad: MediaTek Dimensity 9000, up to 8GB RAM, 128/256GB UFS 3.1 storage
- OnePlus Pad 2: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, up to 12GB RAM, up to 512GB UFS 4.0 storage
With these upgrades, the Pad 2 delivers faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and more efficient energy consumption. UFS 4.0 storage also significantly improves read/write speeds, positively impacting overall performance. Gamers, power users, and professionals will especially notice the difference.
Software Enhancements
Both tablets run OxygenOS based on Android, offering a clean and fast interface with minimal bloat. However, the Pad 2 introduces smart multitasking enhancements, more refined stylus support, and better connectivity with other OnePlus devices thanks to improved ecosystem integration.
One of the standout software features in the Pad 2 is the enhanced Multi-Window support and drag-and-drop functionality, allowing for seamless productivity tasks. In addition, apps optimized for tablets now scale better, utilizing the wider aspect ratio more effectively.
There’s also support for OnePlus Self-Healing File System (SHFS) in the Pad 2, which helps maintain long-term system performance by reducing file fragmentation—something not available on the first-gen Pad.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life remains impressive in both versions. The OnePlus Pad included a 9510 mAh unit with 67W fast charging, letting users juice up in under an hour. The Pad 2 keeps a similar battery capacity but introduces improved power efficiency thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.
- OnePlus Pad: 9510 mAh, 67W fast charging
- OnePlus Pad 2: ~9500 mAh, 67W SUPERVOOC fast charging with enhanced thermal management
This means even longer standby and usage times on the Pad 2, especially during intensive tasks like video calls or gaming sessions.
Camera and Audio
While tablets typically don’t focus on camera performance, both the Pad and Pad 2 offer decent camera setups for scanning documents, video calls, and casual photography.
- OnePlus Pad: 13MP rear, 8MP front
- OnePlus Pad 2: 13MP rear (enhanced processing), 8MP front with better low-light optimization
Audio on both devices is superb for the category, with quad Dolby Atmos speakers offering rich stereo sound. The second-gen model, however, introduces slight enhancements with software-level spatial tuning for a more immersive experience whether watching movies or gaming.
Accessories and Ecosystem
Both tablets support a range of accessories including magnets for stylus and keyboard attachment. The Pad 2 launches alongside a new generation OnePlus Stylus Pro and Magnetic Keyboard 2, both of which offer more responsive input and better ergonomics than the first-gen versions.
Additionally, the improved OnePlus ecosystem means better synergy with OnePlus phones and wireless earbuds. File transfers, clipboard sharing, and app continuity features have been enhanced in the Pad 2 for a smoother cross-device experience.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing is always a key factor. The original OnePlus Pad launched with a more budget-friendly positioning to attract first-time tablet users. However, the Pad 2 targets the premium mid-range segment with its flagship-level specs.
- OnePlus Pad: Starting at $479
- OnePlus Pad 2: Starting at $649
The increased price of the Pad 2 is justified by the boost in performance, display quality, and user experience. But those on a tighter budget may still find excellent value in the first-gen Pad.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choosing between the OnePlus Pad and Pad 2 comes down to your use case and budget:
- If you’re a casual user who browses the web, watches videos, and uses lightweight apps, the original Pad still holds up well and offers excellent value for the price.
- If you’re a power user, student, or mobile professional, the Pad 2’s superior performance, display, and ecosystem support provide a more future-proof investment.
Additionally, stylus users and those who rely on multitasking will greatly benefit from the Pad 2’s upgraded features and accessories support.
Final Thoughts
The OnePlus Pad 2 is not just a simple refresh; it represents a true evolution in OnePlus’s tablet journey. With a significant leap in performance, display quality, software intelligence, and design, the Pad 2 stands as a competitive option in the premium Android tablet market.
That said, the original Pad retains its charm with solid hardware and a lower price tag, making it a compelling pick for many users.
No matter which model you choose, OnePlus has proven that it’s here to stay in the tablet game, delivering a blend of performance and style that few can rival in the Android space.
