When exploring the OnePlus Pad 3, one might ponder the criteria for elevating a device to a higher class. Marketed as an “Android tablet masterful by any measure,” this device may have aspirations that extend beyond merely topping the Android tablet hierarchy.
OnePlus Pad 3 Design Choices
The design of the OnePlus Pad 3 offers an initial hint of its ambitions. It retains the familiar tablet aesthetic—a sleek body with minimized bezels, though not entirely absent, providing a comfortable grip. The rear camera is modest compared to similarly priced smartphones, while the front-facing camera is well-suited for video conferencing.
For those seeking a traditional tablet experience, the expansive 13.2-inch display and eight speakers deliver impressive audio clarity, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.
However, it was upon connecting peripherals that the true nature of the OnePlus Pad 3 began to emerge. The kickstand, spanning the entire width of the tablet, evokes the feel of a Microsoft Windows 2-in-1 Surface tablet. Coupled with an attachable keyboard, the experience transforms. Transitioning from smaller tablet keyboards to a full-sized 13-inch keyboard is liberating, allowing for a more enjoyable typing experience—especially for those accustomed to physical keyboards.
Yet, the hardware experience raises a question: does Android truly support the productivity potential of such a larger screen? The answer lies in the Chrome web browser.
OnePlus Pad 3 Asks ‘App Or Browser?’
To illustrate, I find myself drafting this article on the OnePlus Pad 3, utilizing Google Docs. There are two avenues to access Google Docs: the Android app and the Chrome browser. While the app is familiar, it lacks the comprehensive toolset visible on the desktop version, making it feel constrained on a 13-inch tablet.
Conversely, using Google Docs through the Chrome browser feels more intuitive, mirroring my experience on desktop and laptop devices. After a month of using the Pad 3, both at home and while reviewing theatre shows in Edinburgh, I discovered that the Chrome browser was my most effective tool. While some apps are optimized for tablet use, many struggle with landscape orientation, leading to awkward layouts and usability issues.
OnePlus Pad 3 Needs Android’s Improving Tablet App Support
Google has made strides in enhancing Android’s support for apps not specifically designed for larger screens. While many prominent apps function well on tablets, notable exceptions remain, such as Reddit’s app, which does not support landscape mode. These compatibility challenges can create hesitancy when exploring new applications.
The increased screen size of the Pad 3 naturally encourages web usage. Although the Reddit app may not provide an optimal experience, the 13.2-inch display significantly enhances browsing comfort compared to its predecessor. This creates a tipping point where the Pad 3’s capabilities shine, leading to a browser-centric workflow.
If The OnePlus Pad 3 Acts Like A Laptop And Feels Like A Laptop…
When evaluating the OnePlus Pad 3 as a whole, a straightforward conclusion emerges. The full keyboard offers satisfying key travel and tactile feedback, facilitating touch typing. The design elements, including the rear cover and hinged kickstand, echo those found in various Windows 2-in-1 devices, bringing along certain ergonomic challenges, such as the need for a flat surface for optimal use.
The display exceeds expectations for both tablets and smartphones, providing ample space for creative endeavors. Its size supports a multi-window view, allowing for seamless multitasking—an advantage that smaller devices simply cannot match.
While discussions about the Pad 3’s positioning within the OnePlus portfolio and its marketing strategies may arise, the device itself presents a compelling case. Despite some limitations and a focus on portable productivity, OnePlus has successfully crafted a device that feels remarkably akin to a laptop.
Looking for a OnePlus phone to complement the OnePlus Pad 3? Consider the OnePlus 13R, which mirrors the mission of the original OnePlus One.
