Why the Dependable OPPO A98 Is the Smartest Mid-Range Gift Choice

The OPPO A98 is a mid-range 5G smartphone featuring a 6.72-inch 120Hz IPS LCD for fluid visuals and 67W SuperVOOC wired charging for rapid power recovery, aimed at everyday users who prioritize longevity and ease of use over extreme gaming performance. Released in May 2023, it enters a competitive landscape against the [Samsung Galaxy A34](/why-the-rugged-samsung-galaxy-a34-is-the-smartest-family-investment-right-now/) and the Redmi Note 12 Pro, offering a balanced mix of productivity features and a generous 256GB of internal storage.

We recognize that for most users, especially those buying for parents or students, the focus isn't on benchmark scores but on how long a device stays relevant. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G chipset found inside this handset is an established performer that prioritizes power efficiency. By pairing this with 8GB of RAM and UFS 2.2 storage, the device ensures that daily apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, and Google Maps open without frustrating delays. While some competitors have moved toward newer silicon, this specific platform is a known quantity with excellent thermal management, meaning it won't get uncomfortably hot during long video calls.

Passing the Parent Test

When we evaluate a phone for a non-tech-savvy user, legibility and comfort are paramount. The 6.72-inch display on this model offers a peak brightness of 680 nits in High Brightness Mode (HBM), which makes text readable even on a sunny afternoon. Because it uses an IPS LCD rather than an AMOLED panel, users who are sensitive to Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) flickering—which can cause eye strain or headaches—will find this screen much more comfortable for long reading sessions.

Furthermore, the 120Hz refresh rate ensures that scrolling through news feeds or contact lists is buttery smooth. For a parent who might struggle with small fonts, the large screen real estate allows for significant UI scaling without making the interface feel cramped. We also noted the inclusion of stereo speakers, which provide a necessary volume boost for those who often use the speakerphone or watch videos without headphones. The volume can be boosted to 200% in software, a niche but highly practical feature for the hard-of-hearing.

Unboxing and Initial Friction

Setting up a new device should be a hurdle-free experience. This model ships with ColorOS 13, based on Android 13, which includes a 'Simple Mode' specifically designed for those who find standard smartphone interfaces overwhelming. This mode enlarges icons and simplifies the settings menu. The inclusion of the 67W power adapter in the box is a major win, especially since brands like Samsung and Apple have stopped providing chargers. It means a student can get a 50% charge in just 18 minutes before heading to class, reducing 'battery anxiety' significantly.

Initial migration is handled via the Clone Phone app, which reliably transfers messages, photos, and contacts from both Android and iOS devices. In our assessment of the setup process, the side-mounted fingerprint sensor is a highlight. Unlike under-display sensors that can be finicky with thick screen protectors, this physical sensor offers an immediate, tactile unlock experience that feels more natural for most users. It’s a small detail that reduces daily friction.

Performance Reality Check

The choice of the Snapdragon 695 is a calculated trade-off. While it supports 5G connectivity for future-proofing, it is limited to 1080p video recording at 30fps. For students who want to film high-quality TikToks or 4K vlogs, this might be a dealbreaker. However, for a user whose primary camera use is snapping photos of documents or family gatherings, the 64 MP main sensor provides more than enough detail for digital sharing.

We also have to look at the 2 MP microlens feature. While it sounds like a gimmick, it offers a 40x magnification that can be genuinely educational for students. Imagine being able to see the fibers of a leaf or the pixels of a computer screen in high detail; it adds a layer of 'science kit' fun that you won't find on a Galaxy A34. The 32 MP selfie camera also holds its own, ensuring that video calls remain crisp and clear, which is a vital requirement for both remote learning and staying in touch with family.

The Competitive Landscape

In the sub-300 EUR market of May 2023, the competition is fierce. The Galaxy A34 offers an IP67 rating for water resistance, which this model lacks. If the gift recipient is prone to dropping their phone in the sink, the Samsung might be a safer bet. However, the Samsung charges much slower (25W vs 67W) and doesn't include the charger in the box, adding an extra cost for the consumer.

Then there is the Redmi Note 12 Pro. The Redmi offers an OLED screen with deeper blacks, but its software (MIUI) is often criticized for being more cluttered with advertisements and 'bloatware' than ColorOS. For a user who wants a clean experience out of the box, the OPPO software feels more polished and easier to maintain over time. The 256GB of internal storage on this handset is also a massive advantage, as many rivals still start at 128GB in this price tier.

Software Longevity and Support

One of the biggest concerns with [mid-range phones](/trend/best-mid-range-phones-2026/) is how slow they become after two years. To combat this, the manufacturer has implemented a '48-Month Fluency Protection' system. This is a suite of software optimizations designed to manage memory and storage fragmentation more aggressively. It aims to ensure the device feels as fast in 2027 as it does today.

While the device is upgradable to Android 14 and ColorOS 14, it is important to manage expectations regarding long-term OS updates. Typically, this series receives two major Android updates. While this is less than Samsung’s four-year promise, the focus here is on the stability of the current software rather than the novelty of future versions. For a non-power user, a stable, bug-free environment is often more valuable than having the latest niche OS features.

Durability and Reliability

The build quality of this handset uses a high-strength polycarbonate. While it doesn't have the cold touch of metal, it is much more resilient to drops than glass. At 192 grams, it has a reassuring heft without being a 'brick'. The 'Dreamy Blue' and 'Cool Black' finishes use a specialized glow technique that resists fingerprints, keeping the phone looking clean even without a case.

The 5000 mAh battery is paired with a 'Battery Health Engine.' This technology intelligently controls charging currents to ensure the battery maintains 80% of its original capacity even after 1,600 charge cycles. This effectively doubles the industry standard, meaning the phone could last four years before the battery starts to noticeably degrade. For someone who doesn't want to upgrade their phone every two years, this is perhaps the most significant feature of all.

The Gifting Verdict

If you are looking for a device that 'just works' for a family member or a student, this is a highly defensible choice. It avoids the pitfalls of complicated interfaces and slow charging. While it isn't a gaming powerhouse, it excels at the fundamentals: battery life, screen clarity, and storage capacity. It is a pragmatic purchase that respects the buyer's budget while providing a premium unboxing experience.

Ultimately, the OPPO A98 succeeds because it doesn't try to be a flagship; it tries to be a reliable companion. For those who value the peace of mind that comes with a long-lasting battery and a smooth daily experience, this handset earns its place in your shopping cart. It is a well-rounded tool that balances modern 5G speeds with the practical needs of everyday life.