When Oppo first unveiled the Reno3 Pro in China back in December 2019, it turned heads with its sleek design and promising specs. Fast forward to March 2020, and the global version arrived with a few key changes that make it a compelling option for a wider audience. At Revuvio, we’ve put this smartphone through its paces to bring you a thorough, hands-on analysis. In this review, we’ll explore every aspect of the device—from its build and performance to its camera and battery life—so you can decide if the Reno3 Pro is the right choice for you.
Design and Ergonomics
The Oppo Reno3 Pro’s global edition immediately stands out with its elegant appearance. Unlike the Chinese model, which featured a curved display, this version sports a flat screen—a welcome change that reduces accidental touches and improves off-angle visibility. The back is made of polycarbonate with a gradient color finish that shifts depending on the viewing angle, while the front is protected by Gorilla Glass 5. It feels sturdy in hand, and at around 175 grams with a thickness of 8 mm, it’s exceptionally comfortable for daily use.
On the front, you’ll notice the dual punch-hole for the selfie cameras, which might look a bit more prominent compared to single-hole competitors, but doesn’t detract too much from the overall aesthetic. The side frame is also polycarbonate, which helps keep the weight down but can feel less premium compared to metal frames. Button placement is intuitive—the power and volume buttons are on the right side, while the USB-C port and headphone jack are at the bottom. Overall, the Reno3 Pro offers a modern, attractive design that balances style with ergonomics, though some might wish for more premium materials like glass or metal on the back.
Look and Build Quality
The gradient color on the back creates a dynamic effect that changes with lighting, a signature trait of Oppo devices. In our testing, the ‘Aurora Blue’ variant received plenty of compliments for its unique appearance. However, polycarbonate is more prone to scratches than glass, so we recommend using the included silicone case for protection. With dimensions of 158.8 x 73.4 mm, it fits comfortably in most hands, and the curved edges make it easy to grip.
Practicality in Everyday Use
Over several weeks of testing, the Reno3 Pro proved highly practical. It’s light enough to carry in a pocket, and the 6.5-inch screen provides ample space for multitasking without feeling bulky. One minor drawback is the lack of NFC, which disables mobile payment services like Google Pay—a potential issue for users who rely on such features. On the plus side, the inclusion of a 3.5 mm headphone jack will be appreciated by those who still prefer wired audio.
Display: Super AMOLED Excellence
The global Reno3 Pro comes with a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display featuring FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels) and a 20:9 aspect ratio, resulting in a pixel density of 405 ppi. The screen is flat, unlike the Chinese variant, which we see as an advantage since it minimizes reflections and accidental touches. Colors are vibrant and saturated, typical of AMOLED technology, with excellent contrast and deep blacks. Maximum brightness is sufficient for comfortable outdoor viewing, and HDR10 support enhances the video-watching experience.
In our lab tests, the screen achieved an average brightness of 800 nits, which is above average for this category. Automatic brightness adjustment works well, and the color calibration options allow for personalization based on your preferences. For those who frequently read or watch videos, this display won’t disappoint—it offers sharp imagery and a comfortable viewing experience, with an eye comfort mode to reduce strain.
Battery and Charging Performance
The 4025 mAh battery, paired with the MediaTek P95 chipset, delivers solid endurance. With standard usage including web browsing, video streaming, and social media, the Reno3 Pro easily lasts a full day. Our continuous video playback test at 50% brightness yielded an impressive 15 hours. Additionally, the included 30W VOOC Flash Charge 4.0 adapter enables rapid charging—going from 0 to 100% in about 55 minutes, a standout feature for users on the go.
Audio and Speaker Test
The built-in speaker isn’t stereo, but it provides clear and sufficiently loud sound for watching videos or listening to music in a quiet room. In tests, maximum volume was adequate for personal use but could be limiting in noisier environments. Sound quality is decent, with good mid-range reproduction, though bass is noticeably lacking. Using headphones via the 3.5 mm jack or Bluetooth (Bluetooth 5.0 is supported) offers a much richer audio experience.
Performance and Software
Powered by the MediaTek Helio P95 chipset and 8GB of RAM, the Reno3 Pro handles everyday tasks with ease. Apps open quickly, multitasking is smooth, and even graphically intensive games run well on medium settings. In benchmark tests, it scored competitively within its mid-range category, though it doesn’t quite match the raw power of flagship devices. The phone runs ColorOS 7 based on Android 10, which offers a clean, user-friendly interface with useful customization options.
During our usage, we experienced no significant slowdowns or crashes. Gaming performance is respectable—titles like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty: Mobile run smoothly, though you may need to adjust graphics for the best experience. The software includes features like Game Space for optimizing performance and reducing distractions, which gamers will appreciate.
Camera Capabilities
The Reno3 Pro boasts a versatile quad-camera setup on the back: a 64MP main sensor, 13MP telephoto lens, 8MP ultra-wide, and a 2MP mono sensor. In daylight, photos are sharp with accurate colors and good dynamic range. The telephoto lens allows for 2x optical zoom and up to 5x hybrid zoom, which is useful for getting closer to subjects without losing too much detail. Low-light performance is decent with Night Mode, though it can’t compete with higher-end devices in extremely dark conditions.
On the front, the dual 44MP + 2MP cameras deliver detailed selfies with natural skin tones. Portrait mode works well for blurring the background, and the wide-angle option is great for group shots. Video recording tops out at 4K 30fps, with electronic stabilization that does a good job reducing shake.
Connectivity and Additional Features
Connectivity options include dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, and 4G LTE (with no 5G support). Call quality is clear, and signal reception is reliable. The absence of NFC, as mentioned, is a downside for contactless payments. Other features include an under-display fingerprint sensor that’s fast and accurate, and face unlock which works well in good lighting.
Conclusion
The Oppo Reno3 Pro global edition is a well-rounded mid-range smartphone that excels in design, display quality, and battery life. Its sleek build, vibrant AMOLED screen, and fast charging make it a strong contender in its price segment. While it may not have the absolute best performance or camera in class, it offers a balanced experience that will satisfy most users. If you prioritize style, everyday usability, and value, the Reno3 Pro is definitely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Oppo Reno3 Pro support 5G?
No, the global version of the Reno3 Pro does not support 5G connectivity; it is limited to 4G LTE networks.
How does the battery perform with heavy usage?
With heavy usage—including gaming, streaming, and frequent app use—the battery may require a midday top-up, but it generally holds up well for a full day of moderate use.
Is the display protected against scratches?
Yes, the front is covered with Gorilla Glass 5, which offers good scratch resistance, though using a screen protector is still recommended for added safety.
Can the storage be expanded?
Yes, the Reno3 Pro includes a microSD card slot, allowing you to expand the storage beyond the built-in 128GB.
How timely are software updates?
Oppo has improved its update schedule, but major Android updates may take several months to arrive after release. Security patches are generally rolled out quarterly.
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