The Android tablet space is heating up once again — and OnePlus is back in the game with its highly anticipated sequel, the OnePlus Pad 2. Launched with an array of hardware upgrades and software refinements, the device is squarely positioned to challenge Apple’s iPad and Samsung’s Tab series. But with competition this fierce, you might wonder: is the OnePlus Pad 2 a worthy upgrade? And more importantly, who exactly should upgrade to it?
TL;DR
The OnePlus Pad 2 is a performance powerhouse aimed at productivity enthusiasts, gamers, and creative users. If you already own the original OnePlus Pad and use it casually, the upgrade may not be necessary. However, those on older Android tablets or who are entering the Android tablet ecosystem for productivity reasons will find a compelling proposition here. With improved display, faster performance, and better accessories support, the Pad 2 is more premium than ever.
A Quick Look at the OnePlus Pad 2
Before diving into who should consider upgrading, let’s quickly review what the OnePlus Pad 2 brings to the table. The new device improves over its predecessor in several key areas:
- Processor: Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, offering enhanced speed and power efficiency
- Display: A brighter and more color-accurate 12.1-inch 144Hz LCD screen
- Battery: Upgraded 9,510mAh battery with 67W fast charging
- Accessories: Enhanced stylus and magnetic keyboard support
- Software: OxygenOS optimized for multitasking with improved split-screen and floating windows
With these upgrades, the OnePlus Pad 2 aims to attract a wider audience looking for a versatile tablet that can handle both work and play.
Who Should Consider Upgrading to the OnePlus Pad 2
1. Users of Older Android Tablets
If you’re currently using a tablet more than two years old, such as the Samsung Tab S6 or Lenovo Tab P11, the OnePlus Pad 2 represents a massive leap in performance and usability. Many older tablets struggle with multitasking, app compatibility, and fast charging—areas where the Pad 2 excels. For these users, upgrading will provide a much-improved experience in terms of speed, responsiveness, and media consumption.
2. Productivity-focused Users
One of the standout features of the OnePlus Pad 2 is its focus on productivity. Thanks to the software enhancements in OxygenOS and robust accessory support, this tablet blurs the line between a tablet and a lightweight laptop. With the magnetic keyboard and stylus now greatly improved, tasks like typing, drawing, or editing documents are more seamless than ever before.
Added multitasking features such as multi-window workspaces and gesture-based app switching make it a perfect device for professionals and students. If your current tablet setup feels limiting for office work or note-taking, the Pad 2 is a worthy step up.
3. Gamers and Media Enthusiasts
The Pad 2’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 ensures buttery-smooth performance in graphically demanding games like Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile. Coupled with the 144Hz refresh rate and exceptionally loud quad stereo speakers, the viewing and gaming experience are both top-notch in its price category.
If your primary use is gaming or binge-watching shows, the OnePlus Pad 2 is an excellent upgrade from entry-level or mid-range tablets that suffer sluggish performance or poor displays.
4. First-time Tablet Buyers
If you’ve never owned a tablet before and are considering one as a laptop alternative or secondary device, the Pad 2 makes a strong first impression. It strikes a fine balance between affordability, performance, and utility. For users hesitant about jumping into the Apple or Samsung ecosystems, especially due to cost or OS preference, OnePlus offers a compelling Android-based option that just works.
Who Should Wait or Skip the Upgrade
1. Existing OnePlus Pad Users (The Original)
This is a bit of a gray area. The original OnePlus Pad debuted just over a year ago, and while it was OnePlus’ entry into the segment, it was an impressive showing with similar design and solid internals. If your current Pad is meeting your needs — emails, watching videos, casual drawing — you probably don’t need to upgrade immediately.
The Pad 2 is certainly a performance boost, especially with the new Snapdragon chipset and stylus feedback improvements, but unless you’re finding your Pad “slow” or restrictive, it may be worth holding out for the Pad 3 in another year or two.
2. iPad Pro or Galaxy Tab S8 Users
High-end tablet users in other ecosystems may not find the OnePlus Pad 2 a significant enough advancement to make them jump ship. While the Pad 2 is excellent, it does lack some of the premium features that power users expect, such as OLED displays or ultra-wide camera integrations. If you’re heavily invested in the Apple or Samsung ecosystem, it’s probably better to stay within those product lines for performance parity and feature cohesion.
Performance and Battery Life
Real-world benchmarking and user feedback place the OnePlus Pad 2 in the upper tier of Android tablets. OxygenOS is snappy and well-optimized, with very little in the way of bloatware. Whether you’re switching between apps or gaming at high settings, the Pad 2 handles it all without breaking a sweat.
Battery life rounds out the experience, with the Pad 2 lasting around 11–12 hours on a single charge during moderate use. And with the 67W fast charging, you’re back to full capacity in under an hour — a huge plus for mobile productivity.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The OnePlus Pad 2 starts at an accessible price point, especially when compared to similarly specced devices from Samsung and Apple. OnePlus has also bundled some introductory deals, often packaging the tablet with its stylus or keyboard accessories at a discount. For the performance on offer, the Pad 2 scores high in the bang-for-your-buck category.
However, it’s worth noting that some accessories are sold separately. Power users may find the total cost ascending quickly if they’re adding the keyboard case or stylus. Nonetheless, it’s still competitively priced for those looking for a high-tier Android tablet experience without breaking the bank.
Conclusion: A Tablet That Delivers – But Not for Everyone
The OnePlus Pad 2 brings palpable upgrades across the board, from screen to software, for a well-rounded tablet experience. If you rely on your tablet for work, creativity, or media consumption, this upgrade is a smart move — especially if you’re coming from an older device or are new to the category.
However, not everyone needs to rush to upgrade. Users of the original Pad or those already in the premium Apple/Samsung ecosystems may want to wait for more significant innovations in future models.
Ultimately, the OnePlus Pad 2 proves that OnePlus is serious about tablets, delivering a device that caters to both fun and functionality.