The new OnePlus Pad 2 excels as an entertainment device, boasting a stunning display and exceptional speakers. In fact, the Android tablet’s enhanced performance makes it ideal for watching movies, playing games, and listening to music. During my testing, it was so impressive that I didn’t even feel the need to use my 2022 iPad Air for streaming shows or listening to music. However, the Pad 2 falls short as a productivity tool. Despite being marketed as such, it didn’t meet my expectations in this regard. Additionally, the price increase of $70, bringing the cost to $549.99, makes it less competitive in the midrange tablet market, especially when compared to its predecessor, which offered better value.
One of the standout features of the Pad 2 is its impressive screen, which surpasses similarly priced tablets. With a 144Hz variable refresh rate, the display offers smooth scrolling and easy navigation. The 3K LCD screen supports Dolby Vision and can reach a peak brightness of 900 nits with a sharp resolution of 3000 x 2120. This results in vibrant colors and good contrast levels, making the viewing experience immersive, especially indoors. The tablet is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 mobile processor, doubling the storage and increasing the RAM to 12GB. This ensures that apps load quickly and run smoothly, all without compromising battery life.
However, the tablet’s size and weight are less than ideal for extended use. At 12.1 inches and weighing around 1.29 pounds (584 grams), it becomes uncomfortable to hold for long periods, particularly when lying down. While the display is spacious and enhances content consumption, its heft makes it tiring to use without a stand or case.
The speakers, though, are a highlight. Despite dropping support for Dolby Atmos, the six speakers deliver loud and full sound, complemented by OnePlus’s Holo Audio, which adjusts audio channels based on the tablet’s orientation. This creates a surround sound effect that’s rare at this price point. The lack of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a drawback, but many tablets now rely on wireless headphones.
As for productivity, the OnePlus Pad 2 is underwhelming. The Open Canvas feature, which allows multitasking with three apps on split-screen, doesn’t match the multitasking capabilities of Apple or Samsung tablets. Many Android apps, like Slack, aren’t optimized for larger displays, leading to a subpar user experience. Although basic productivity tasks can be accomplished, the tablet lacks the robust features needed for serious work.
OnePlus’s accessories also hinder the Pad 2’s productivity potential. The Smart Keyboard, while functional, isn’t sturdy enough for regular use, and the Stylo 2, though improved, still doesn’t fully replicate the pen-and-paper experience. Overall, while the OnePlus Pad 2 offers an excellent entertainment experience, its high price and lackluster productivity features make it hard to justify, especially when compared to competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus.