OnePlus Pad 3 Review 2026: Powerful Android Tablet?

The tablet market continues to grow in 2026, and OnePlus has stepped up its game with the OnePlus Pad 3. This flagship Android tablet promises to deliver premium performance, a stunning display, and features that rival even the iPad Pro.

If you are looking for a powerful tablet that can handle everything from work to entertainment, the OnePlus Pad 3 might just be what you need. This detailed review covers everything you need to know about this device before making your purchase decision.

Key Takeaways

Before we dive deep into this review, here are the most important things you should know about the OnePlus Pad 3:

Powerhouse Performance: The OnePlus Pad 3 features the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which is currently the fastest mobile processor available. This means you get desktop level performance in a tablet form.

Stunning Display Quality: With a 13.2 inch 3.4K LCD display running at 144Hz refresh rate, this tablet delivers smooth visuals and exceptional clarity for both work and play.

Premium Build Quality: The device features an ultra slim 5.97mm aluminum body weighing just 675 grams, making it one of the thinnest and lightest flagship tablets on the market.

Impressive Battery Life: The massive 12,140mAh battery combined with 80W fast charging ensures you can work or play all day without worrying about running out of power.

Software Support: OnePlus promises three years of Android OS upgrades and six years of security updates, which is excellent for long term value and device security.

OnePlus Pad 3 Design and Build Quality

The OnePlus Pad 3 immediately catches your eye with its premium design language. The tablet features an incredibly slim profile at just 5.97mm thick. This makes it one of the thinnest tablets you can buy today. The all metal unibody construction feels solid and premium in your hands. You will notice the Storm Blue color option gives it a unique look that stands out from the typical gray and black tablets.

The weight distribution is excellent at 675 grams. You can hold this tablet for extended periods without feeling any strain. The bezels around the display are thin but not so thin that you accidentally touch the screen when holding it. OnePlus has found the perfect balance here. The rounded corners add to the comfort factor and give the tablet a modern aesthetic.

The build quality is exceptional. There are no creaks or flex when you apply pressure. The aluminum body feels cold to the touch initially but warms up nicely during use. The back panel features a smooth finish that resists fingerprints well. The camera module sits flush with the body and does not wobble when you place the tablet on a flat surface.

The button placement is logical and easy to reach. The power button and volume rockers are positioned on the right side when held in landscape orientation. They have good tactile feedback and are easy to locate by touch alone. The USB C port sits at the bottom and supports both charging and data transfer at high speeds.

Display Performance That Impresses

The 13.2 inch 3.4K LCD display is the star of the show on the OnePlus Pad 3. The resolution of 3400 x 2120 pixels delivers sharp text and crisp images. You will notice individual pixels are nearly impossible to see at normal viewing distances. This makes reading text comfortable and viewing photos a pleasure.

The 144Hz refresh rate makes everything feel incredibly smooth. Scrolling through web pages, swiping between apps, and navigating the interface all feel buttery smooth. Once you experience this high refresh rate, going back to a 60Hz display feels sluggish. Gaming benefits tremendously from this feature as well.

The brightness levels are impressive. Peak brightness reaches high enough levels that you can comfortably use the tablet outdoors in direct sunlight. Indoor viewing is excellent at all brightness levels. The 12 bit color depth means you get over 68 billion colors displayed on screen. This results in smooth gradients and accurate color reproduction.

The display supports HDR content which makes streaming movies and shows more enjoyable. Colors pop off the screen without looking oversaturated. Black levels are deep for an LCD panel. The viewing angles are wide and colors remain consistent even when viewing from extreme angles.

Top 3 Alternatives for OnePlus Pad 3

If the OnePlus Pad 3 does not quite fit your needs, here are three excellent alternatives worth considering:

Snapdragon 8 Elite Performance Unleashed

The Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset inside the OnePlus Pad 3 is a beast. This processor delivers performance that rivals many laptop processors. You get desktop class computing power in a thin tablet form factor. The chip is built on a 3nm process which makes it both powerful and efficient.

Multitasking is where this tablet really shines. You can have multiple apps open simultaneously without any slowdown. Split screen mode works flawlessly with even demanding apps. Switching between apps is instant with no lag or stutter. The 12GB of RAM in the base model ensures smooth operation even with many background processes running.

Gaming performance is exceptional. Heavy games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile run at maximum settings without breaking a sweat. Frame rates remain stable even during intense action sequences. The large display combined with the powerful processor creates an immersive gaming experience. The tablet stays cool even during extended gaming sessions thanks to efficient heat management.

Productivity tasks are handled with ease. Photo editing apps run smoothly and exporting high resolution images is quick. Video editing is possible though rendering times can be long for very complex projects. Web browsing with dozens of tabs open presents no issues. The tablet handles everything you throw at it without complaint.

Camera System Overview

The OnePlus Pad 3 features a 13MP rear camera that captures decent photos for a tablet. The image quality is respectable in good lighting conditions. You get sharp details and accurate colors. The camera supports up to 10x digital zoom though quality degrades at higher zoom levels.

Low light performance is average. You will notice more noise in photos taken in dim conditions. The camera lacks optical image stabilization which can result in blurry photos if your hands are not steady. However, for a tablet camera, it performs adequately for document scanning and video calls.

The front facing camera is suitable for video conferencing. It captures clear video with good color accuracy. The camera tracks your face and keeps you centered in the frame during calls. This feature works well and makes video calls more natural. The microphone array does an excellent job of isolating your voice from background noise.

Video recording on the rear camera supports 4K resolution. The footage is stable and colors are accurate. You can record decent quality videos for casual use. The camera app is simple and easy to navigate. You get basic features like HDR and panorama mode but nothing too advanced.

Battery Life That Lasts All Day

The 12,140mAh battery in the OnePlus Pad 3 is massive. This large capacity translates to excellent battery life in real world use. You can easily get through a full day of heavy use without needing to charge. Light users might even stretch it to two days between charges.

Video streaming at medium brightness drains the battery slowly. You can watch around 12 to 14 hours of video content on a single charge. This makes it perfect for long flights or road trips. Web browsing and social media use consume even less power. You can browse for hours without worrying about the battery indicator.

The 80W fast charging is impressively quick. You can charge the tablet from empty to full in under 90 minutes. A quick 30 minute charge gives you enough power for several hours of use. The charger included in the box supports this fast charging speed. You do not need to purchase any additional accessories.

The battery management system is intelligent. It learns your usage patterns and optimizes background processes to extend battery life. You can enable battery saver mode when needed which further extends usage time. The tablet also supports reverse wireless charging though this feature drains the battery quickly.

Audio Quality and Speaker Performance

The OnePlus Pad 3 features an eight speaker system with Dolby Atmos support. This setup delivers impressive audio quality for a tablet. The speakers are positioned to fire sound towards you when holding the tablet in landscape orientation. This creates a more immersive listening experience.

Volume levels get loud enough to fill a medium sized room. There is minimal distortion even at maximum volume. The audio profile is balanced with clear mids and highs. The bass response is present but not overwhelming. You will notice the sound has depth and dimension thanks to the Dolby Atmos processing.

Watching movies and shows is a pleasure with this speaker setup. Dialog is clear and easy to understand. Action scenes have impact with punchy sound effects. Music playback sounds great with good instrument separation. You can enjoy your favorite songs without needing external speakers for casual listening.

The speakers work well for video calls too. Your voice comes through clearly to the other person. The microphone array does an excellent job of canceling background noise. Gaming with these speakers is enjoyable. You can hear positional audio cues clearly which helps in competitive games. Headphone audio quality through the USB C port is also excellent for those who prefer private listening.

Software Experience and OxygenOS

The OnePlus Pad 3 runs OxygenOS for tablets based on Android 14. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. OnePlus has not loaded the tablet with excessive bloatware. You get a near stock Android experience with useful additions. The software feels snappy and responsive thanks to the powerful hardware underneath.

The home screen layout is customizable. You can arrange icons and widgets however you like. The app drawer is organized and easy to search. Gesture navigation works smoothly and feels natural after a brief learning period. You can also use traditional button navigation if you prefer.

Multitasking features are well implemented. Split screen mode lets you use two apps side by side. You can adjust the split ratio to give more space to one app. Floating windows are also supported for quick access to certain apps. The recent apps menu makes switching between apps effortless.

OnePlus has included several productivity features. You can connect to a OnePlus phone and share files seamlessly. Screen mirroring works with other OnePlus devices. The tablet can receive notifications from your OnePlus phone. You can even share mobile data from your phone to the tablet wirelessly. These features create a cohesive ecosystem if you own multiple OnePlus devices.

Keyboard and Stylus Accessories

The OnePlus Pad 3 Smart Keyboard transforms the tablet into a productivity machine. The keyboard connects magnetically to the tablet with no pairing required. It features a full size key layout with good travel distance. Typing feels comfortable even during long writing sessions. The keys have nice tactile feedback without being too loud.

The built in trackpad is large and supports multi touch gestures. You can use familiar gestures like two finger scrolling and pinch to zoom. The trackpad surface is smooth and responsive. Cursor movement is precise which makes editing documents easier. The keyboard also acts as a protective cover when not in use. The magnetic attachment is strong enough that you do not worry about it falling off.

The OnePlus Stylo 2 stylus offers a natural writing and drawing experience. It features 16,000 levels of pressure sensitivity which allows for precise control. The stylus attaches magnetically to the side of the tablet for storage and charging. Latency is impressively low which makes writing feel responsive and natural.

The stylus is perfect for note taking during meetings or classes. You can write naturally and the tablet converts your handwriting to text if needed. Drawing and sketching feel smooth and fluid. Artists will appreciate the pressure sensitivity and tilt support. The stylus battery lasts for weeks of regular use and charges quickly when attached to the tablet.

Gaming Experience on OnePlus Pad 3

Gaming on the OnePlus Pad 3 is an absolute joy. The combination of the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and the large 144Hz display creates an incredible gaming platform. Popular games run at their highest graphical settings without any performance issues. Frame rates remain consistently high even during demanding gameplay.

The large screen size makes games more immersive. You can see more of the battlefield in strategy games. Racing games feel more realistic with the wider field of view. The high refresh rate makes everything feel smoother. Fast paced action games benefit tremendously from the reduced motion blur.

Touch response is excellent. The display registers your inputs quickly and accurately. This is crucial for competitive gaming where split second reactions matter. The eight speaker system adds to the immersion. You can hear enemy footsteps and gunfire with clarity. This gives you a competitive advantage in multiplayer games.

The tablet stays cool during long gaming sessions. The thermal management system does an excellent job of dissipating heat. You might notice some warmth around the camera area but it never gets uncomfortable to hold. Battery life during gaming is respectable. You can game for around 5 to 6 hours on a single charge depending on the game and settings.

Productivity and Work Capabilities

The OnePlus Pad 3 is more than just an entertainment device. It can serve as a legitimate productivity tool when paired with the keyboard and stylus. Document editing is comfortable on the large display. You can view full pages without excessive zooming. Spreadsheets are easy to work with thanks to the screen real estate.

The split screen feature lets you reference documents while writing emails. You can watch tutorial videos while following along in another app. The multitasking capabilities make the tablet versatile for work tasks. File management is straightforward with a built in file browser that works well.

Web based productivity tools work excellently. Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides all run smoothly in the browser. Microsoft Office apps are available and work great on the tablet. You can attend video meetings using Zoom or Microsoft Teams. The front camera and microphones ensure you look and sound professional during calls.

The tablet supports external displays through the USB C port. You can connect it to a monitor for a desktop like experience. This makes the tablet even more versatile for work from home setups. Cloud storage integration is seamless. You can access files from Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive without issues.

Media Consumption Experience

Watching content on the OnePlus Pad 3 is a premium experience. The large 13.2 inch display with 3.4K resolution makes movies and shows look stunning. Streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus support the full resolution. HDR content looks particularly impressive with vibrant colors and excellent contrast.

The 144Hz refresh rate makes scrolling through content libraries smooth. The display brightness is high enough for comfortable viewing in bright rooms. The aspect ratio is well suited for watching widescreen content. Black bars are minimal when viewing movies. The color accuracy means content looks as the creators intended.

The eight speaker system elevates the viewing experience. Dialog is clear even in action heavy scenes. The Dolby Atmos processing creates a sense of space and depth. You feel more immersed in what you are watching. The battery life supports marathon viewing sessions. You can binge watch entire seasons without needing to charge.

Reading on the tablet is comfortable thanks to the sharp display. E books look crisp and clear. You can adjust text size and background color to your preference. Comics and magazines look fantastic on the large color display. The anti reflective coating on the screen reduces glare from overhead lights.

Connectivity and Ports

The OnePlus Pad 3 offers solid connectivity options. It supports Wi-Fi 6E which provides fast and stable wireless internet connections. You will notice quick download speeds and low latency when gaming online. The tablet also supports Bluetooth 5.3 for connecting wireless accessories. Connection stability is excellent with headphones and keyboards.

The USB C port supports USB 3.2 speeds for fast data transfer. You can transfer large files to and from a computer quickly. The port also supports DisplayPort output for connecting external monitors. You can charge other devices using the tablet in reverse charging mode though this is not a common use case.

GPS is built in which makes the tablet useful for navigation when paired with cellular data from a phone hotspot. Location accuracy is good for mapping applications. The tablet lacks a headphone jack which might disappoint some users. You need to use USB C headphones or wireless options.

One notable omission is cellular connectivity. The OnePlus Pad 3 is Wi-Fi only. This means you need to find Wi-Fi networks or use phone hotspots when away from home. Some users might miss the convenience of built in cellular data. NFC is not included which means you cannot use the tablet for contactless payments.

Storage Options and RAM Configurations

The OnePlus Pad 3 comes in two storage configurations. The base model offers 12GB of RAM with 256GB of storage. This is plenty for most users. You can install numerous apps and store lots of media without running out of space. The higher end model bumps this up to 16GB of RAM with 512GB of storage.

The extra RAM in the higher model helps with heavy multitasking. If you frequently use demanding apps simultaneously, the 16GB option provides more headroom. The additional storage is useful if you plan to store large video files locally. Both models use fast UFS storage which ensures quick app loading times.

Unfortunately, there is no microSD card slot for expandable storage. You are stuck with the internal storage you choose. This makes picking the right capacity important at purchase time. Cloud storage services can help offset limited local storage if needed. Both models offer excellent performance regardless of which configuration you choose.

The storage speeds are impressive. Apps install quickly and large files transfer in seconds. Game loading times are short which gets you into the action faster. The combination of fast storage and ample RAM ensures the tablet remains responsive even after installing many apps.

Price and Value Proposition

The OnePlus Pad 3 starts at $699.99 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage model. This positions it as a premium Android tablet. The price is higher than previous OnePlus tablets but reflects the flagship specifications. You get top tier performance and features for your money.

When compared to competitors, the OnePlus Pad 3 offers good value. It undercuts the iPad Pro significantly while offering similar performance. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Plus is similarly priced but the OnePlus has a faster processor. The premium build quality and excellent display justify the price tag.

OnePlus often runs promotions that include the keyboard and stylus for free with purchase. These accessories would cost an additional $300 if purchased separately. This makes the total package much more attractive. The long term software support adds value as your tablet will remain secure and updated for years.

The higher end model with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage costs more but provides extra capacity for power users. If you plan to use the tablet heavily for work or creative tasks, the upgrade might be worthwhile. For most users, the base model offers plenty of performance and storage.

Comparison with iPad and Samsung Tablets

When compared to the iPad Air, the OnePlus Pad 3 offers several advantages. The display is larger and has a higher refresh rate. The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor matches or exceeds the performance of Apple’s chip in many tasks. The OnePlus is more affordable especially when considering the free keyboard and stylus promotions.

However, the iPad has advantages too. The app ecosystem on iOS is more mature with better tablet optimized apps. Apple’s software support typically lasts longer. The build quality and materials on the iPad feel slightly more premium. If you are already invested in the Apple ecosystem, the iPad makes more sense.

Against Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Plus, the comparison is closer. Both tablets run Android and offer similar features. The OnePlus has the faster Snapdragon 8 Elite processor while Samsung uses their own chip. The OnePlus display is slightly larger and brighter. The OnePlus software experience is cleaner with less bloatware.

Samsung offers better stylus integration with their S Pen. The Samsung tablet has a fingerprint sensor for biometric security which the OnePlus lacks. Samsung’s DeX mode provides a more desktop like experience. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference and which ecosystem you prefer.

Who Should Buy the OnePlus Pad 3

The OnePlus Pad 3 is perfect for power users who want flagship level performance in a tablet. If you frequently multitask between demanding apps, this tablet will not slow you down. The powerful processor ensures smooth operation for years to come. Content creators will appreciate the large display and stylus support for drawing and note taking.

Students will find the tablet useful for taking notes and attending online classes. The long battery life means you can get through a full day of classes without charging. The keyboard accessory turns it into a capable typing machine for writing papers. The performance is more than adequate for research and productivity tasks.

Entertainment enthusiasts will love the display and speaker combination. If you spend hours watching movies and shows, the viewing experience is top notch. Gamers will appreciate the smooth 144Hz display and powerful graphics performance. The large screen makes games more immersive than playing on a phone.

The tablet is less ideal for users on a tight budget. At $700, it is a significant investment. If you mainly browse the web and check email, you might not need this much power. Users who prefer iOS or are deep in the Apple ecosystem should stick with an iPad. Those who need cellular connectivity will be disappointed by the Wi-Fi only limitation.

Common Issues and Limitations

While the OnePlus Pad 3 is an excellent tablet, it has some limitations. The lack of cellular connectivity is a significant drawback for users who want to stay connected on the go. You must rely on Wi-Fi networks or phone hotspots. This limits the portability compared to tablets with built in mobile data.

The absence of a fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication is disappointing. You are limited to face unlock or PIN codes. Face unlock works well but fingerprint sensors are more convenient in certain situations. This is a feature many competitors include that OnePlus chose to omit.

The Android tablet app ecosystem is still not as robust as iOS. Some popular apps do not have tablet optimized versions. They simply stretch the phone interface which looks awkward on the large display. This is improving but iOS still has an advantage in app selection and quality.

The camera quality is just adequate. While fine for video calls and document scanning, it does not match smartphone cameras. If you plan to use your tablet for serious photography, you will be disappointed. The lack of optical image stabilization means photos can come out blurry in low light.

How Does It Compare to OnePlus Pad 2

The OnePlus Pad 3 represents a significant upgrade over the Pad 2. The most obvious improvement is the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. This is a massive jump in performance over the previous generation. You will notice faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.

The display on the Pad 3 is larger at 13.2 inches compared to 12.1 inches on the Pad 2. The resolution is also higher which results in sharper images and text. The 144Hz refresh rate is the same but the overall display quality is improved with better brightness and color accuracy.

The battery capacity increased from 9,510mAh on the Pad 2 to 12,140mAh on the Pad 3. This translates to noticeably longer battery life. The fast charging speed improved from 67W to 80W which means quicker top ups. The Pad 3 also shaved off some weight despite the larger battery.

The software experience is similar on both tablets. The Pad 3 launches with a newer version of Android. The keyboard and stylus accessories are improved on the Pad 3 with better responsiveness and features. The price increased with the Pad 3 but the improvements justify the higher cost for most users.

Tips for Getting the Most from Your OnePlus Pad 3

To maximize your experience with the OnePlus Pad 3, consider these helpful tips. Enable the reading mode when browsing websites or reading ebooks. This reduces blue light and makes text easier on your eyes during extended reading sessions. You can schedule it to turn on automatically at night.

Use split screen mode frequently to boost productivity. You can drag and drop content between apps which saves time. Pin your most used apps to the taskbar for quick access. Set up multiple user profiles if sharing the tablet with family members. Each person can have their own customized experience.

Take advantage of the stylus features for creative work. The handwriting recognition is excellent for converting notes to text. You can annotate PDFs and images directly on screen. Screenshot tools work seamlessly with the stylus for marking up images.

Optimize battery life by adjusting display settings. Lower the refresh rate to 90Hz if you do not need the smoothest scrolling. Reduce screen brightness in dim environments. Enable dark mode in apps that support it to save power on the LCD display. Close background apps you are not actively using.

Final Verdict and Recommendations

The OnePlus Pad 3 is an impressive flagship Android tablet that delivers on its promises. The combination of powerful performance, stunning display, and premium build quality makes it one of the best Android tablets you can buy in 2026. It successfully competes with more expensive options while offering excellent value.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor ensures this tablet will remain fast and capable for years. The 13.2 inch 144Hz display is gorgeous for both work and entertainment. The battery life is exceptional and fast charging eliminates long waits. The software experience is clean and the ecosystem features work well if you own other OnePlus devices.

The main drawbacks are the lack of cellular connectivity and fingerprint sensor. The Wi-Fi only limitation reduces portability for some users. The Android tablet app ecosystem still trails iOS. The price is higher than previous OnePlus tablets but remains competitive against Samsung and Apple.

I recommend the OnePlus Pad 3 for anyone seeking a powerful Android tablet for productivity and entertainment. The base 12GB RAM model offers plenty of performance for most users. Consider the keyboard and stylus accessories to unlock the full potential of the device. If you can find a promotion that includes these accessories, the value proposition becomes even better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the OnePlus Pad 3 support cellular connectivity?

No, the OnePlus Pad 3 is a Wi-Fi only device. It does not have cellular connectivity built in. You will need to rely on Wi-Fi networks or use your phone as a mobile hotspot to get internet access when away from home. This is one of the main limitations of the device compared to some competitors that offer cellular models.

Can I expand the storage on the OnePlus Pad 3?

Unfortunately, the OnePlus Pad 3 does not have a microSD card slot for expandable storage. You are limited to the internal storage capacity you choose at purchase. The device comes in 256GB and 512GB options. You can use cloud storage services like Google Drive or OneDrive to store files online if you run out of local storage space.

How long does the battery last on a single charge?

The OnePlus Pad 3 features a large 12,140mAh battery that provides excellent battery life. With typical use including web browsing, video streaming, and light productivity, you can expect a full day of use on a single charge. Video playback can last 12 to 14 hours at medium brightness. Heavy users might need to charge daily while light users can stretch it to two days.

Is the OnePlus Pad 3 good for drawing and note taking?

Yes, the OnePlus Pad 3 is excellent for drawing and note taking when paired with the OnePlus Stylo 2. The stylus offers 16,000 levels of pressure sensitivity which provides precise control for artists. Low latency makes writing feel natural and responsive. The large display gives you plenty of space for sketches and notes. The handwriting recognition works well for converting notes to text.

Does the OnePlus Pad 3 come with a keyboard and stylus?

The keyboard and stylus are sold separately from the OnePlus Pad 3. However, OnePlus frequently runs promotions where you can get these accessories for free with tablet purchase. The OnePlus Pad 3 Smart Keyboard normally costs $199.99 and the OnePlus Stylo 2 costs around $69.99. Watch for bundle deals to save money on these useful accessories.

Can I use the OnePlus Pad 3 for gaming?

Absolutely, the OnePlus Pad 3 is excellent for gaming. The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor is powerful enough to run any mobile game at maximum settings. The 144Hz display provides smooth visuals with reduced motion blur. The large screen makes games more immersive. The eight speaker system delivers great audio for gaming. The tablet stays cool during extended gaming sessions thanks to good thermal management.

How does the OnePlus Pad 3 compare to the iPad?

The OnePlus Pad 3 offers similar performance to the iPad Air at a lower price point. It has a larger display with a higher refresh rate. The Android ecosystem is more open and customizable than iOS. However, the iPad has better app optimization for tablets and longer software support. The iPad feels slightly more premium in build quality. The choice depends on whether you prefer Android or iOS and your budget.

Does the OnePlus Pad 3 have a fingerprint sensor?

No, the OnePlus Pad 3 does not include a fingerprint sensor. You can unlock the device using face recognition or a PIN code. The face unlock feature works well and is fast in good lighting conditions. Some users might prefer the convenience of a fingerprint sensor which many competing tablets include. This is one feature OnePlus decided to omit in this model.

Last update on 2026-02-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API