In November 2025, the Indian mid-range 5G smartphone battle heats up as Vivo launches its latest Vivo V40 5G, challenging the newly refreshed OnePlus Nord CE. Both target the ₹25,000–₹30,000 price bracket and promise premium experiences — sleek AMOLED displays, capable cameras, and all-day battery life.
If you’re planning to upgrade, this detailed comparison will help you choose between the Vivo V40 5G and the OnePlus Nord CE based on design, camera performance, display quality, battery endurance, and real-world pricing in India.
Design and Build Quality
Both smartphones embrace minimalist design language and premium materials, appealing to Indian buyers who want style without overspending.
| Feature | Vivo V40 5G | OnePlus Nord CE |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | Aluminium Alloy | Plastic |
| Back Panel | AG Matte Glass | Glossy Polycarbonate |
| Weight | 186 g | 184 g |
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 |
| IP Rating | IP54 | IP52 |
The Vivo V40 5G looks sleeker with its curved-edge glass and matte finish that resists fingerprints. The Nord CE, while lighter, feels slightly less premium but offers a better grip due to its flat sides.
Verdict: Vivo wins for build sophistication and in-hand comfort.
Display Comparison
Display quality defines this segment, and both phones excel here.
| Specification | Vivo V40 5G | OnePlus Nord CE |
|---|---|---|
| Display Type | AMOLED | Fluid AMOLED |
| Size | 6.78-inch Curved | 6.7-inch Flat |
| Resolution | 1.5K (2800×1260) | Full HD+ (2400×1080) |
| Refresh Rate | 120 Hz adaptive | 120 Hz adaptive |
| Peak Brightness | 2,800 nits | 1,500 nits |
| HDR Support | HDR10+ | HDR10 |
The Vivo V40 5G delivers a sharper and brighter display, especially under sunlight. The curved AMOLED edges enhance immersion for video and gaming.
Verdict: Vivo leads for brightness, sharpness, and overall display quality.
Processor and Performance
Both devices feature capable 5G chipsets optimised for smooth multitasking and gaming.
| Specification | Vivo V40 5G | OnePlus Nord CE |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 8300 Ultra | Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 |
| GPU | Mali-G615 MC6 | Adreno 720 |
| RAM | 8 GB / 12 GB LPDDR5X | 8 GB / 12 GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 128 GB / 256 GB UFS 4.0 | 128 GB / 256 GB UFS 4.0 |
| OS | Funtouch OS 15 (Android 15) | OxygenOS 15 (Android 15) |
The Vivo V40 5G performs slightly better in synthetic benchmarks and real-world multitasking. The Nord CE feels marginally lighter in gaming performance but shines in UI fluidity.
Verdict: Vivo wins in raw power, while OnePlus edges ahead in software fluidity.
Camera Comparison
Photography is the biggest deciding factor in this category.
| Camera Setup | Vivo V40 5G | OnePlus Nord CE |
|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 50 MP Sony IMX920 (OIS) | 50 MP Sony IMX882 (OIS) |
| Ultra-wide | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Macro | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Front Camera | 32 MP | 16 MP |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 60 fps | 4K @ 30 fps |
The Vivo V40 5G captures superior detail in low light and handles dynamic range better. Portraits look sharper and more natural, aided by Vivo’s V-series camera tuning. The Nord CE delivers accurate colours but occasionally overexposes bright backgrounds.
Verdict: Vivo offers better low-light and selfie performance, ideal for social media users.
Battery Life and Charging
| Specification | Vivo V40 5G | OnePlus Nord CE |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 5,000 mAh | 5,000 mAh |
| Charging Speed | 80 W FlashCharge | 67 W SuperVOOC |
| Charger in Box | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life | Up to 1.5 days moderate use | Around 1.3 days moderate use |
The Vivo V40 5G charges slightly faster and stays cooler under heavy use. Its adaptive battery software ensures slower long-term degradation.
Verdict: Vivo takes the lead with quicker charging and better thermal control.
Software and User Experience
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Vivo V40 5G: Runs Funtouch OS 15, which has been refined for smoother animations and reduced bloatware. It includes Smart Scene Recognition, AI battery management, and Ultra Game Mode.
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OnePlus Nord CE: Ships with OxygenOS 15, offering cleaner visuals and faster updates. Its minimal interface appeals to power users who prefer stock-like Android experiences.
Verdict: OnePlus provides a lighter interface, while Vivo delivers better AI optimisation for battery and camera.
5G and Connectivity
| Feature | Vivo V40 5G | OnePlus Nord CE |
|---|---|---|
| 5G Bands | 12 | 11 |
| Bluetooth | 5.4 | 5.3 |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | 6E | 6 |
| Stereo Speakers | Yes | Yes |
Both offer robust connectivity. Vivo slightly improves signal stability, while OnePlus maintains strong network switching performance.
Verdict: Nearly identical, though Vivo feels more stable in weak signal areas.
Price and Variants in India (November 2025)
| Variant | Vivo V40 5G | OnePlus Nord CE |
|---|---|---|
| 8 GB + 128 GB | ₹27,999 | ₹25,999 |
| 12 GB + 256 GB | ₹29,999 | ₹28,499 |
The Vivo V40 5G costs a bit more but justifies it with a brighter display and stronger cameras. OnePlus remains a solid choice for performance-focused users seeking a clean interface.
Verdict: Vivo offers better all-round value, while OnePlus wins on pricing.
Final Verdict
Both the Vivo V40 5G and OnePlus Nord CE bring excellent value for mid-range Indian buyers.
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Buy Vivo V40 5G for its superior camera, brighter display, and faster charging.
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Buy OnePlus Nord CE for clean software, slightly better performance efficiency, and lower price.
Final Verdict: As of November 2025, the Vivo V40 5G is the more premium all-rounder, while the OnePlus Nord CE is ideal for those who prioritise simplicity and affordability.
FAQs
Which phone has the better camera setup?
The Vivo V40 5G performs better in low light and selfies, while the OnePlus Nord CE focuses on colour accuracy.
Which display is better for outdoor use?
Vivo’s 1.5K AMOLED with 2,800 nits brightness is far superior for sunlight visibility.
How fast do they charge?
Vivo supports 80 W charging, reaching full battery in about 30 minutes, whereas OnePlus takes roughly 40 minutes.
Which one has cleaner software?
The OnePlus Nord CE, thanks to OxygenOS 15, provides a lighter, ad-free Android experience.
Are both phones 5G-ready across India?
Yes, both support all major Indian 5G bands with dual-SIM VoNR capability.
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