Introduction to the OnePlus Pad 3
The OnePlus Pad 3 is the latest tablet from OnePlus, refining the formula that impressed with high-end specs at an affordable price. This latest model brings modest hardware upgrades, including a larger and sharper display, a bigger battery, and an updated smart keyboard. Along with these upgrades, the Pad 3 also features meaningful software improvements that help it inch closer to rivals like Samsung and Apple.
Hardware Upgrades
The OnePlus Pad 3 features a larger 13.2-inch LCD display with a slightly sharper 3392 x 2400 resolution, making movies and shows look more vibrant. The new eight-speaker system, featuring four woofers and four tweeters positioned around the device, is even louder, delivering a more immersive audio experience. The battery life has also been improved with a slightly larger 12,140mAh cell, which can easily last more than a day. The Pad 3 can charge from 0 to 100 percent in 92 minutes, with a 10-minute top-up delivering 18 percent.
Software Improvements
The OnePlus Pad 3 ships with OxygenOS 15, the company’s operating system based on Android 15. This represents a significant step forward, particularly for light productivity. One of the most notable upgrades is how well the Pad 3 now plays with Apple devices, a rarity in the Android world. It supports screen mirroring and easy sharing of files and live photos with Macs or iPhones, making it especially appealing for mixed Apple-Android households. The Mac Remote Control feature is also surprisingly useful, allowing you to view and control your laptop or desktop in real-time, transfer files between devices, and access PC files remotely from the tablet.
Productivity and Entertainment
The Pad 3 still falls short for serious productivity, mainly due to Android software constraints. Many Android apps, such as Slack and Airtable, are not optimized for large displays. However, the larger screen and Open Canvas multitasking system do allow for running up to three apps side by side or stacking and floating them, which can be helpful for reading and taking notes. For entertainment, the Pad 3 is excellent, with its improved display and speaker system making it ideal for binge-watching, reading, and streaming music.
Accessories and Update Policy
The Pad 3 can be purchased with a set of accessories, including the $199 Pad 3 Smart Keyboard and the $49.99 Pad 3 Folio Case. The Smart Keyboard features larger keys and a spacious trackpad, although the trackpad can be unstable and often disrupts productivity. OnePlus has also improved its software update policy, with the Pad 3 coming with three Android version updates and six years of security patches. This makes it a safer long-term investment, although Samsung promises seven years of OS and security updates for the Tab S10 FE Plus.
Agree to Continue
To use the OnePlus Pad 3, you must agree to several terms and conditions, including OnePlus’ User Agreement, OnePlus’ User Privacy Security and Protection Agreement, Google’s Terms of Service, and Google Play’s Terms of Service. You also have the option to opt-in to additional programs and services, such as the User Experience Program and Google’s location services.
Conclusion
The OnePlus Pad 3 is an excellent Android tablet for entertainment and light multitasking, with its improved display, speaker system, and software features making it a great option for those looking for a device for streaming, reading, and browsing. While it still falls short for serious productivity, the Pad 3’s improved software update policy and accessories make it a more attractive option for those looking for a long-term investment. Whether it’s the right buy for you ultimately depends on what you want out of your tablet, but at $699.99, it’s a solid choice for those looking for a high-end Android tablet without breaking the bank.
