Recs.
Updated
Specs
Pros
Pro Great performance for the price
The Snapdragon 801 paired with 3GB of RAM is the same hardware we saw in high end phones from 2014. Instead of going with modern budget processors, OnePlus went with the best performing processor from 2014 to provide good performance while keeping prices low. This works, and scores about 47 000+ on AnTuTu v6 and 2350 in Geekbench.
When it launched, its GPU would only perform at about 30% of its potential. This was a bug, which has been fixed. Gaming performance now is good - much better than most other budget phones.
Pro Large community for customization
OnePlus X has a large community to offer help on customization, whether its custom ROMS or others.
Pro Good design and build
Unlike most budget phones, the OnePlus X was designed and built to look and feel good. The aluminum band going around the sides has ridges cut into it to provide better grip, and the glass back feels very premium even if it is more prone to cracking than plastic backs.
Pro Quick and easy notification managing
The OnePlus X has a notification slider on the left side, which has three positions (one for all notifications, one for priority, and one which acts as do-not-disturb). This makes it quick and easy to switch between notification modes, as you can do it while your phone is still in your pocket. This could be a great feature, especially for frequent movie-goers, students, and anybody who frequently goes into meetings.
Cons
Con No fast charge or NFC
Not every user will use these features, but for those who do these are pretty big omissions. Fast charge is helpful especially for phones such as this which will often require recharging before the end of the day. NFC would have been able to take advantage of Android Pay, as well are wireless printing (if you have compatible hardware) or utilizing NFC tags for automating some tasks.
Con Poor battery life
The 2525mAh battery provides enough power to go a full day for light users, but most will need to recharge their phone before the day is done. Playing a 90 minute video dropped battery by 27%, and GSMArena only rates the battery at 54h in their tests - a lackluster result.