Introduction

In 2017, the smartphone world witnessed a device that would become an instant classic — the OnePlus 5. Known for delivering high-end specs at a relatively affordable price, OnePlus continued its “Flagship Killer” legacy, but the OnePlus 5 took it a step further by redefining what users could expect in terms of speed, performance, and design. Fast-forward to today, and the OnePlus 5 still holds a special place among tech enthusiasts and smartphone purists.

In this blog, we take a closer look at why the OnePlus 5 became a benchmark for speed and value — and why it’s still remembered fondly even in 2025.

The Powerhouse Under the Hood

At its core, the OnePlus 5 was all about raw performance. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor — the same chip used in premium flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S8 — the device came equipped with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM depending on the variant.

Combined with an Adreno 540 GPU and a clean, lightweight OxygenOS based on Android, the OnePlus 5 delivered blistering fast multitasking, smooth gaming, and seamless app switching.

Key Specifications:

  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 835
  • RAM: 6GB/8GB
  • Storage: 64GB/128GB
  • Battery: 3,300 mAh with Dash Charge
  • Display: 5.5-inch AMOLED, 1080p resolution
  • Camera: Dual 16MP + 20MP rear cameras

If you’re interested in how OnePlus evolved after the 5, you might also enjoy our blog on the OnePlus 3 and its impact on the budget flagship segment. (Internal Link)

Even today, many mid-range smartphones struggle to replicate the fluid experience that the OnePlus 5 delivered out of the box.

A Leap in Camera Technology

The dual-camera setup on the OnePlus 5 was a significant leap forward. At a time when dual cameras were still emerging trends, OnePlus combined a 16MP primary lens with a 20MP telephoto lens, enabling 2x optical zoom and portrait mode for professional-looking shots.

The camera’s performance wasn’t just about hardware; OnePlus fine-tuned its image processing to offer vibrant photos with strong detail, decent low-light performance, and stunning bokeh effects — a big win for photography lovers at the time.

Dash Charging: A Revolution in Battery Life

One feature that truly set the OnePlus 5 apart was Dash Charge. Promising a “day’s power in half an hour,” this fast-charging technology offered an incredible level of convenience. Unlike other fast chargers that overheated phones, Dash Charge cleverly managed heat in the adapter rather than the phone itself — ensuring quick charging without performance throttling.

Even today, Dash Charge is referenced as one of the most practical fast-charging solutions in smartphone history. (For more on Dash Charge, check out the official OnePlus support page.)

Minimalist Design with a Focus on Comfort

Design-wise, the OnePlus 5 took a more refined approach compared to its predecessors. With a slim, 7.25mm thick profile and a curved aluminum body, the phone felt premium yet lightweight. The fingerprint scanner was one of the fastest on the market, embedded in the front home button for natural access.

While it drew some comparisons to the iPhone 7 Plus because of its rear design, the OnePlus 5 maintained its individuality through its simple elegance and ergonomic comfort.

Why the OnePlus-5 Still Matters Today

Even after several years and multiple OnePlus generations, the OnePlus 5’s spirit lives on. It represented a perfect balance between price, performance, and design — a formula that many brands today still try to replicate.

The OnePlus 5 proved that users didn’t need to spend $800+ to get flagship performance. It gave consumers choice, value, and trust in a market dominated by bigger brands.

Lessons from the OnePlus 5:

  • Performance and optimization can matter more than sheer specs.
  • A clean, fast software experience enhances hardware longevity.
  • Smart design choices can keep a phone relevant beyond its release cycle.

In many ways, the OnePlus 5 paved the path for affordable premium phones that are now reshaping the smartphone landscape.

Conclusion

The OnePlus 5 wasn’t just a product; it was a statement. It challenged the norms, empowered users, and raised the bar for what a flagship could be — at nearly half the price of its competitors.

As we look back, the OnePlus 5 remains a standout in smartphone history — not just for redefining speed but for reshaping user expectations for years to come.

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