Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9 Pro vs. Blackview A96
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.2 × 73.6 × 8.7 mm | 161.8 × 74.2 × 8.6 mm | OnePlus 9 Pro is slightly taller, but both are similarly sized and weighted; negligible difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 197g | 193.9g | Both are similarly weighted; minimal practical difference in portability. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | OnePlus 9 Pro has a slightly larger display; more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1440x3216 | 1080x2400 | OnePlus 9 Pro has significantly sharper visuals; noticeably clearer text and images. |
| Pixel Density | 525 PPI | 405 PPI | OnePlus 9 Pro's higher PPI leads to much finer detail; superior for reading, viewing high-res photos/videos. |
| Technology | Not specified | IPS LCD | Blackview A96 is using IPS LCD, which provides generally good color accuracy and wide viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations; no practical difference in this aspect. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | OnePlus 9 Pro is vastly superior in outdoor visibility; screen is easily readable in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) | OnePlus 9 Pro has a flagship-level chip; faster performance in apps, gaming, and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 877,600 | 423,393 | OnePlus 9 Pro demonstrates significantly higher performance; faster app loading and better gaming experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G57 MC2 | OnePlus 9 Pro's GPU offers superior graphics processing; better for demanding games and graphical applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/1.43" Sony IMX789 | 48MP, f/1.6, 1/2" Samsung S5KGM2 | OnePlus 9 Pro's larger sensor captures more light and detail; better low-light performance. Blackview A96 has a wider aperture, which can also aid in low light photography. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" Sony IMX471 | 16MP, 1/3" Hynix HI-1634 | Blackview A96 has larger pixel size; potentially better low light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4" Omnivision OV08A10 | None | OnePlus 9 Pro offers optical zoom capabilities; clearer zoom shots compared to digital zoom on Blackview A96. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/1.56" Sony IMX766 | 8MP, f/2.4 | OnePlus 9 Pro captures higher resolution ultrawide images; wider field of view. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Blackview A96 includes a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Black & White | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | OnePlus 9 Pro provides a black and white sensor for artistic shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@30fps with HDR, EIS, 4K@120fps | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | OnePlus 9 Pro offers professional-grade video capabilities; can shoot in 8K with better stabilization options. |
| DXOMark Score | 122 (Mobile), 124 (Photo), 118 (Video) | Not tested | OnePlus 9 Pro offers better image and video quality. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4380mAh | Both have similar battery capacity; comparable battery life with moderate usage. |
| Charging | 65W fast charging | 18W fast charging | OnePlus 9 Pro charges much faster; less time waiting for the phone to be ready. |
| Features | Wireless Charging 50W, Reverse wireless charging, reverse charging | None | OnePlus 9 Pro has wireless charging and can act as a power bank for other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 13 | Blackview A96 has a newer OS, although the OnePlus 9 Pro can be upgraded; the Android version might be more up-to-date on the Blackview in the future |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) + MIMO | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | OnePlus 9 Pro supports faster Wi-Fi and MIMO, better performance on supported networks. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.0 | OnePlus 9 Pro has a more advanced Bluetooth version; better power efficiency and more audio codecs. |
| GPS | Multiple systems (L1+L5, L1, B1, E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | OnePlus 9 Pro's dual-band GPS provides better location accuracy in urban areas. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB or 256 GB | 256 GB | Both have similar storage options, but the Blackview A96 has a sole storage option of 256 GB |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | Both have sufficient RAM for multitasking and running multiple apps smoothly. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both lack expandable storage options |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Stereo Speakers | OnePlus 9 Pro has better sound quality with Dolby Atmos and noise cancellation for calls. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Blackview A96 has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, often considered faster and more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | OnePlus 9 Pro has better screen protection for greater durability against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | OnePlus 9 Pro comes with Gravity sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, and significantly higher brightness make it far better for viewing content, especially outdoors.
- Flagship Performance: The Snapdragon 888 offers much faster processing, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming capabilities.
- Advanced Camera System: Features a more versatile camera setup, including a telephoto lens, a higher-resolution ultrawide lens, and 8K video recording.
- Fast Charging & Wireless Charging: Offers much faster wired charging and 50W wireless charging, along with reverse wireless charging.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Supports faster Wi-Fi 6 with MIMO and Bluetooth 5.2 with additional audio codecs.
- Better Audio Features: Dolby Atmos and multiple microphones.
Blackview A96 Advantages:
- Newer OS: Ships with a more up-to-date Android version out of the box (Android 13).
- Dedicated Macro Lens: Offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.
- Side-mounted fingerprint scanner: More advanced fingerprint sensor that is generally faster and more convenient
- Potentially Better Selfie Low-light Performance With a larger pixel size.
- Lower Price - It is likely the Blackview A96 is much cheaper than a OnePlus 9 Pro.
Significant Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9 Pro: Sacrifices a macro lens for superior performance and a more advanced camera system; no expandable storage.
- Blackview A96: Sacrifices display quality, performance, and camera versatility for a lower price and a macro lens. It also has slower charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9 Pro Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Individuals who require top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value a versatile and high-quality camera system for both photos and videos.
- Media Consumers: Users who frequently watch videos or play mobile games and want the best display experience.
- Professionals: Individuals who benefit from fast charging, wireless charging, and advanced connectivity.
Use Cases:
- Gaming: Smooth and high frame rate gaming experiences.
- Professional Photography: High-resolution images and 8K video recording.
- Content Creation: High-fidelity media editing on the go.
- Outdoor Use: Easily visible display in bright sunlight.
Blackview A96 Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Individuals seeking a cost-effective smartphone with decent everyday performance.
- Casual Photographers: Users who occasionally take photos and want a dedicated macro lens.
- Users needing a newer android version: users who value the most up-to-date version of the operating system.
- Basic Users: Users who primarily use their phone for web browsing, social media, and communication.
Use Cases:
- Casual Photography: Capturing everyday moments and close-up shots.
- Web Browsing and Social Media: Basic tasks without the need for high-end performance.
- Daily Communication: Making calls, sending texts, and using messaging apps.
- Users who prefer a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- OnePlus 9 Pro: Offers premium performance and features but comes at a higher price point.
- Blackview A96: Provides good value for money, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious consumers.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The OnePlus 9 Pro will be significantly more expensive than the Blackview A96.
- How important is display quality and brightness to you? If you frequently use your phone outdoors or for media consumption, the OnePlus 9 Pro's display is vastly superior.
- Do you need top-tier performance and an advanced camera system? If so, the OnePlus 9 Pro is the clear choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming & Performance: If you prioritize mobile gaming and performance, the OnePlus 9 Pro is recommended.
- Scenario 2: Budget Photography: If you occasionally take photos and want a macro lens on a tight budget, the Blackview A96 is sufficient.
- Scenario 3: Outdoor Usage: For frequent outdoor usage, the OnePlus 9 Pro is far superior due to its brightness and better screen.
- Scenario 4: Basic Use: If you want a simple phone for calls, social media and browsing, the Blackview A96 will suffice.
My Choice
I would choose the OnePlus 9 Pro. While it is older and more expensive, its advantages in display quality, performance, camera capabilities, and overall premium user experience are compelling. I value high-quality displays for media consumption, require powerful processing for my tasks, and appreciate a versatile camera system for both photography and videography. Although the Blackview A96 is a newer, more budget-friendly option with a potentially better fingerprint sensor, its limitations in the display, performance, and camera aspects make it a less suitable choice for my specific needs and usage scenarios. I prefer not to have to worry about the quality of the screen if I am outdoors. The superior charging speeds on the OnePlus 9 Pro are also a significant advantage for my mobile lifestyle. While I would have to pay more, for me, the benefits of the OnePlus 9 Pro far outweigh the additional cost compared to the Blackview A96.
