1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | OnePlus 8T | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip5 offers unique form factor for portability and hands-free use. 8T is a standard slab phone. |
| Dimensions | 160.7 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | 165.1 × 71.9 × 6.9 mm | Z Flip5 is taller and thinner, while 8T is wider and thicker. Z Flip5 folds for better pocketability. |
| Weight | 188g | 187g | Virtually identical weight; negligible difference. |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip5 offers significantly better scratch and shatter resistance for the screen. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus 8T | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.55" | 6.7" | Z Flip5 has slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Z Flip5 has slightly sharper image due to higher resolution, though difference is minimal. |
| Pixel Density | 402 ppi | 425 ppi | Z Flip5 has slightly sharper image due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OnePlus 8T offers better contrast and potentially richer colors than standard LCDs, but the specific tech on the Flip5 is unknown | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and gaming experience. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1750 nits | Z Flip5 is much easier to view in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus 8T | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G (7 nm+) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Z Flip5 provides significantly faster processing, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance due to newer chipset. |
| AnTuTu Score | 744,900 | 1,531,700 | Z Flip5 offers a much smoother and more responsive experience in almost all tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 740 | Z Flip5 has superior graphics processing, beneficial for demanding games and graphically intensive apps. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus 8T | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 12MP | OnePlus 8T may capture more detail in well-lit conditions, but sensor size and processing also matter. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.7 | f/1.8 | OnePlus 8T may perform slightly better in low light conditions, but other factors are important. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 16MP | 10MP | OnePlus 8T captures more detailed selfies in good lighting. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP | None | OnePlus 8T can take close-up macro shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Both offer high-quality video recording. |
| Features | Quad Camera, Digital Image Stabilization, Laser AF, RAW | Dual Camera, Tracking AF, Noise Reduction | Each phone has unique features that cater to different photography styles. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | - | 127 | Z Flip5 offers better mobile camera results (photo and video). |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | 107 | - | OnePlus 8T offers better selfie camera results (photo and video). |
Battery
| Feature | OnePlus 8T | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 3700mAh | OnePlus 8T likely offers longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | OnePlus 8T charges much faster. |
| Wireless Charging | No | 15W Fast Wireless Charging | Z Flip5 offers wireless charging convenience. |
| Reverse Charging | No | Yes | Z Flip5 can charge other devices wirelessly. |
Storage and RAM
| Feature | OnePlus 8T | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 256/512GB | Z Flip5 offers higher maximum storage for more files, photos and videos. |
| RAM | 8/12GB | 8GB | OnePlus 8T (12GB) may handle multitasking better. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No option to increase storage on either phone. |
Other
| Feature | OnePlus 8T | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 13 (upgradable to 14) | Z Flip5 has a more up-to-date base OS. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Z Flip5 has a slightly newer Bluetooth version. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Z Flip5 offers eSIM support for flexibility. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 8T Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 65W charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Larger Battery: 4500mAh offers potentially longer battery life.
- Potentially Better RAM: Some configurations offer 12GB RAM, potentially improving multitasking.
- Dolby Atmos: Enhanced Audio Experience
- Additional Cameras: Macro and Black & White cameras
- Digital Image Stabilization: Can result in better stabilization without OIS.
- Lower Price: Likely more affordable due to being an older model.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Unique and portable form factor, hands-free use.
- More Powerful Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 offers significantly better performance.
- Brighter Display: Much better outdoor visibility.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient wireless charging capability.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Can charge other devices.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides superior protection.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: Offers improved connectivity features.
- eSIM Support: Provides flexibility in carrier selection.
- Better Mobile Camera Results (DxOMark)
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Convenient and easy to reach.
Trade-offs:
- Choosing the OnePlus 8T means sacrificing performance and modern features for a potentially lower price and longer battery life.
- Choosing the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 means paying a premium for the foldable form factor, performance, and features, with a smaller battery.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 8T Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life and fast charging.
- Users who value audio experience and more camera features.
- Users who don't need the latest performance or a foldable design.
Use Cases:
- Everyday tasks, streaming videos, browsing the web, light gaming.
- Users who need a reliable phone for long days without frequent charging.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Ideal User:
- Tech enthusiasts who want the latest innovations and a unique design.
- Users who prioritize performance, a great display, and camera quality.
- Users willing to pay a premium for a foldable phone with wireless charging.
Use Cases:
- Photography, videography, social media, gaming, multitasking.
- Users who want a stylish and portable phone that stands out.
- Hands-free video calls and content creation using the foldable design.
4. Decision Framework
Consider these questions:
- What is your budget? The OnePlus 8T is likely more affordable.
- How important is performance to you? The Z Flip5 offers a significantly faster experience.
- Do you value the foldable form factor and wireless charging? These are exclusive to the Z Flip5.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget is tight, and battery life is crucial: Choose the OnePlus 8T.
- Scenario 2: Want the latest technology and a unique design: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5.
- Scenario 3: Prioritize performance, camera quality, and a premium experience: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5.
Reasoning:
While the OnePlus 8T has some attractive features like faster charging and potentially longer battery life, the advantages of the Z Flip5 are simply too compelling. The foldable form factor offers a unique and convenient experience, especially for portability and hands-free use. The significantly more powerful processor ensures a smooth and responsive performance in all tasks, including gaming and multitasking. The brighter display is essential for outdoor visibility, and the wireless charging capabilities add a layer of convenience that I value. Also the DxOMark shows that the Z Flip5 has better camera quality than the OnePlus 8T.
Yes, the Z Flip5 is more expensive, but the combination of innovation, performance, and features makes it the better choice for my needs and preferences. I also have to consider that even though the Oneplus 8T has some very good features and at launch it was a great device, it is an old device right now, and there are options in the same pricerange as a Oneplus 8T that would probably be a better purchase.
