Why OnePlus 8 Pro Was a Game-Changer for Android Phones

Written by Shubham  »  Updated on: May 21st, 2025

When the OnePlus 8 Pro launched in 2020, it marked a significant turning point for both the brand and the broader Android ecosystem. Known primarily for offering "flagship killer" devices at affordable prices, OnePlus stepped into true flagship territory with the 8 Pro — and it did so with confidence. From cutting-edge hardware to premium design and an improved software experience, the OnePlus 8 Pro wasn’t just another phone — it was a statement.

In this blog, we at ControlZ, a leader in renewed smartphone excellence, take a deep dive into why the OnePlus 8 Pro was a game-changer for Android phones and why it continues to be a sought-after device even years after its initial release.


1. The First True Flagship From OnePlus

Before the OnePlus 8 Pro, OnePlus was seen as a brand that delivered high value without competing directly with premium flagships from Samsung or Apple. The OnePlus 8 Pro changed that narrative. For the first time, OnePlus offered features that were not just competitive — they were industry-leading.

With a 6.78-inch QHD+ AMOLED display, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support, the OnePlus 8 Pro offered one of the best displays available at the time. For media consumption, gaming, and day-to-day use, this screen was a revelation.

2. Display Excellence: A Visual Treat

The OnePlus 8 Pro’s Fluid AMOLED display was widely praised by experts and users alike. DisplayMate even rated it A+, placing it in the same league as top-tier smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra. The 120Hz refresh rate, combined with a 240Hz touch sampling rate, offered smooth interactions that significantly elevated the user experience.

This was the first time OnePlus added QHD+ resolution alongside a 120Hz refresh rate, something that even some bigger brands were hesitant to implement due to battery concerns. Yet, the company managed to pull it off beautifully — a clear sign that it was ready to play in the big league.

3. Camera System That Finally Delivered

Camera performance had always been OnePlus’s Achilles’ heel. With the OnePlus 8 Pro, that changed. It came with a versatile quad-camera setup:

  • 48 MP main sensor (Sony IMX689)
  • 48 MP ultra-wide lens
  • 8 MP telephoto lens with 3x hybrid zoom
  • 5 MP color filter camera

The main sensor captured stunning images in various lighting conditions, while the ultra-wide lens maintained excellent detail and color accuracy. Nightscape mode and Pro mode added more control for photography enthusiasts. This marked a shift in OnePlus’s commitment to camera quality, pushing it closer to the likes of Google and Samsung.

4. Wireless Charging & IP Rating – Finally!

Until the 8 Pro, OnePlus had resisted adding features like wireless charging and official IP ratings — possibly to cut costs and stay competitive. But with the OnePlus 8 Pro, that changed.

Warp Charge 30 Wireless: The 8 Pro introduced OnePlus’s proprietary 30W wireless charging system, allowing users to get nearly 50% charge in just 30 minutes wirelessly — a feat that few phones could match at the time.

IP68 Rating: This was the first OnePlus phone to receive an official IP68 water and dust resistance certification, placing it firmly in flagship territory.

These additions addressed long-standing user requests and showed that OnePlus was listening — and evolving.

5. OxygenOS – Fast, Clean, and Customizable

While hardware is critical, software experience is just as important. The OnePlus 8 Pro launched with OxygenOS 10 based on Android 10, and it received consistent updates over the years. OxygenOS was widely praised for its:

  • Minimal bloatware
  • Fast and fluid UI
  • Useful customization options
  • Regular security patches

This clean, almost stock Android-like experience was a key differentiator in the crowded Android market. For many users, OxygenOS made the OnePlus 8 Pro feel faster and more responsive than other devices with similar specs.

6. Future-Proof Specs

Even in 2025, the OnePlus 8 Pro holds its own thanks to future-proof specs:

  • Snapdragon 865 processor
  • Up to 12GB LPDDR5 RAM
  • UFS 3.0 storage
  • 450 mAh battery

These specs ensure that the phone continues to run smoothly even with today's apps and multitasking demands. That’s part of why renewed and refurbished OnePlus 8 Pro models remain in demand at ControlZ — they still deliver high-end performance at a fraction of the original price.

7. The Perfect Blend of Power and Design

The OnePlus 8 Pro also made headlines for its sleek and premium design. The glass and aluminum build, curved edges, and matte finish offered a luxurious in-hand feel. Available in stunning colors like Glacial Green and Ultramarine Blue, it was a device that looked and felt like a premium flagship.

It wasn’t just about specs or features — it was about creating a smartphone that delivered a complete experience.

8. A Cult Classic in the Making

With the OnePlus 8 Pro, OnePlus succeeded in doing what few brands can — it evolved without losing its identity. While newer models have arrived with incremental improvements, many tech enthusiasts still consider the 8 Pro to be the brand’s most iconic device.

At ControlZ, we’ve seen a strong market for the OnePlus 8 Pro among users who want flagship performance without the flagship price tag. Our renewed models offer the same power and premium feel, backed by our commitment to quality and sustainability.

9. Why It Still Makes Sense Today

In a world of rising smartphone prices, the OnePlus 8 Pro remains a solid value proposition. With 5G support, flagship-grade cameras, and a stunning display, it continues to perform exceptionally well — especially when purchased renewed through trusted providers like ControlZ.

By opting for a renewed OnePlus 8 Pro, you not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable tech ecosystem. At ControlZ, we restore devices to pristine condition, both cosmetically and functionally, ensuring they look and work like new.

Final Thoughts

The OnePlus 8 Pro wasn’t just another Android phone — it was a defining moment for the brand and the broader smartphone landscape. It showed that OnePlus could compete with giants, deliver industry-leading features, and still maintain its reputation for speed and simplicity.

Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a power user, or someone who values premium features at an accessible price, the OnePlus 8 Pro is still a worthy contender in 2025. And with renewed options available at ControlZ, it’s easier than ever to own a piece of Android history — responsibly and affordably.


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