1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Huawei Mate 50 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.2 x 73.6 x 8.7 mm | 162.1 x 75.5 x 8.5 mm | OnePlus 9 Pro is slightly taller and thinner, while the Mate 50 Pro is a bit wider. Impact on grip and pocketability is minor, subjective to user preference. |
| Weight | 197g | 205g | OnePlus 9 Pro is slightly lighter, which may feel more comfortable during long use, but the difference is minimal. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.74" | Negligible size difference. Both provide an immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3216 | 1212 x 2616 | OnePlus 9 Pro has a noticeably sharper display due to higher resolution, resulting in clearer text and images, particularly beneficial for detail-oriented tasks. |
| PPI | 525 | 428 | OnePlus 9 Pro offers a significantly sharper display; individual pixels are less visible, making text and images appear more refined. |
| Technology | OLED | Huawei Mate 50 Pro's OLED display offers superior contrast and color accuracy, leading to richer images. The tech for OnePlus 9 Pro isn't specified, which limits comparison. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both have smooth 120Hz refresh rates for fluid scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | OnePlus 9 Pro has drastically higher peak brightness, resulting in significantly better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. The Huawei's nits aren't specified, making a comparison impossible. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 4G (4 nm) | Huawei Mate 50 Pro offers faster performance and improved power efficiency, resulting in smoother app performance and gaming. Note the 4G limitation on Mate 50 Pro. |
| Antutu Score | 877,600 | 1,022,043 | Huawei Mate 50 Pro scores higher, indicating superior general performance for demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 730 | Huawei Mate 50 Pro's Adreno 730 offers better graphics processing capabilities, resulting in smoother gameplay and improved visual experiences in graphically demanding apps. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4700mAh | Huawei Mate 50 Pro has slightly more capacity, which could translate to slightly longer battery life, though usage patterns matter more. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 66W Fast Charging | Both phones feature very similar fast charging, so differences are negligible for daily use. |
| Features | 50W Wireless Charging, Reverse Wireless | 50W Wireless Charging, 7.5W Reverse Wireless | Both feature wireless charging, but the OnePlus 9 Pro has faster reverse wireless charging, useful for charging accessories wirelessly on-the-go. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | |||
| Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | Marginal difference in resolution; both capture high-detail images. |
| Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.4 | Huawei Mate 50 Pro has a wider aperture, capturing more light, leading to better low-light performance. |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.43" | 1/1.56" | OnePlus 9 Pro has a slightly larger sensor, which can lead to better overall image quality in some scenarios. |
| Telephoto Camera | |||
| Resolution | 8MP | 64MP | Huawei Mate 50 Pro's 64MP telephoto provides significantly more detail, allowing for better zoomed images. |
| Aperture | f/2.4 | f/3.5 | OnePlus 9 Pro has wider aperture for the telephoto, potentially giving better low-light shots, but is limited by the lower resolution. |
| Sensor Size | 1/4.4" | 1/2" | Huawei Mate 50 Pro has a larger sensor, leading to better light sensitivity and image quality for telephoto shots. |
| Wide Angle Camera | |||
| Resolution | 50MP | 12MP | OnePlus 9 Pro's wide angle camera provides more detail. |
| Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.2 | Both have the same aperture. |
| Selfie Camera | |||
| Resolution | 16MP | 13MP | OnePlus 9 Pro takes slightly more detailed selfies. |
| Aperture | f/2.4 | f/2.4 | Both have the same aperture. |
| Video | |||
| Max Resolution | 8K@30fps | 4K@60fps | OnePlus 9 Pro records higher-resolution video with more options for frame rates. |
| Slow Motion | 480 fps | 3840 fps (720p), 480fps (1080p) | Huawei Mate 50 Pro offers a higher frame rate option at a lower resolution of 720p, ideal for extreme slow motion shots and 480fps at 1080p |
| DXOMark Scores | |||
| Mobile Score | 122 | 149 | Huawei Mate 50 Pro significantly outperforms OnePlus 9 Pro across all camera test categories. |
| Camera Features | |||
| Additional Features | 8K Video, Quadruple camera, Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, RAW 12 bits | Triple camera, Laser AF, Dual front camera | Both share features, but they each offer different features that could appeal to different users |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | OnePlus 9 Pro runs on Android 11 with future updates up to 14. Huawei's OS is not specified, potentially a significant factor for app compatibility and security updates. | |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both support the latest WiFi standards for fast wireless internet. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 with aptX | 5.2 | Both support Bluetooth 5.2; OnePlus 9 Pro includes aptX for higher quality audio streaming. |
| GPS | Comprehensive suite | More comprehensive suite | Huawei has better positioning in non-urban areas and in-building due to added systems. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support Dual SIM functionality for using multiple numbers simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 256/512 GB | Huawei Mate 50 Pro offers more internal storage at its base configuration, and a higher max of 512 GB. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 8 GB | OnePlus 9 Pro has a 12 GB RAM option for heavy multitasking, though the difference may not always be noticeable. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, Noise Canceling Microphone, 3 microphones | Stereo Speakers | OnePlus 9 Pro has more advanced audio, including Dolby Atmos for more immersive sound, and noise-canceling for better call quality. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both offer standard biometric security with fingerprint sensors. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | OnePlus 9 Pro has a screen that is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5. The Huawei's screen protection is unknown. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Extensive Suite | More Comprehensive Suite | Both phones have basic sensors, Huawei Mate 50 Pro has additional environmental sensors, such as a barometer, for more robust data collection. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Pro Advantages:
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density result in clearer visuals, ideal for detailed work or media consumption.
- Brighter Display: 1300 nits brightness enables superior outdoor visibility in sunny conditions.
- 8K Video Recording: The ability to record 8K video offers higher resolution content creation for professional use.
- Faster Wireless Reverse Charging: 50W reverse wireless charging for efficient charging of accessories.
- Dolby Atmos & Noise Cancellation: Enhanced audio for a better sound experience.
- More RAM Option: A 12 GB RAM option makes it better for multitasking.
Huawei Mate 50 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Camera: Higher DXOMark scores, wider apertures, and higher resolution telephoto lens for better image quality, especially in low light and at a distance.
- Better Performance: A newer, more powerful chipset provides better performance for apps and gaming, and improved power efficiency.
- Larger Battery (Slight): A slightly bigger battery allows for potentially longer battery life, depending on usage.
- More Internal Storage: Comes with more storage options and a higher maximum internal storage of 512 GB for media and app storage.
- More Comprehensive GPS: More satellite systems provide more accurate positioning in various environments.
- More comprehensive sensors: With a barometer and other sensors, it offers a better sensor package.
- Better Slow-Motion Video: With the ability to shoot at up to 3840fps at 720p.
- OLED Display Technology: More accurate colors and contrast for better visual quality.
Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9 Pro: sacrifices camera performance and processing power for a slightly better display and higher resolution video.
- Huawei Mate 50 Pro: lacks 5G and a less bright display but has a superior camera and performance while providing a very capable 4G experience. Its lack of clear information on OS and screen protection could pose concerns.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9 Pro - Ideal User:
- Media Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize a sharp, bright display for watching videos and browsing photos.
- Casual Gamers: Users who play games casually and prefer smooth gameplay on a vibrant screen.
- Creators: Users who need the ability to record 8K video and fast wireless reverse charging.
- Audio Lovers: Users who want better quality audio and clear calls.
- Users who want the newest android experience: Android 14 compatibility gives it a major advantage.
- Users who want top tier screen protection: The use of Corning Gorilla Glass 5 gives it a major edge
Specific Use Cases for OnePlus 9 Pro:
- Watching high-resolution videos in bright sunlight
- Playing casual games on a sharp display
- Recording high-definition videos for social media or other media purposes
- Charging wireless accessories using reverse wireless charging
- Making calls in noisy environments
Huawei Mate 50 Pro - Ideal User:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize camera quality and need excellent low-light performance.
- Power Users: Users who need a fast and efficient phone for demanding tasks and games.
- Users Needing Long Battery Life: Users who want to maximize battery life while still maintaining good performance.
- Frequent travelers: Users who need the most accurate GPS tracking possible.
Specific Use Cases for Huawei Mate 50 Pro:
- Capturing high-quality photos in diverse lighting conditions, including low light and at a distance
- Playing graphically demanding games
- Running multiple apps simultaneously without experiencing lag
- Navigation for driving and walking in different areas
- Use of sensors for monitoring weather
Price-to-Value:
- The OnePlus 9 Pro's price has likely dropped due to its age, potentially making it more affordable, whereas the Huawei Mate 50 Pro may be priced higher due to its newer technology and camera performance.
- The Mate 50 Pro's 4G limitation could make it a worse value in areas with 5G.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- What is more important to you, display quality or camera performance? (OnePlus excels in display brightness and sharpness, Huawei in overall camera quality.)
- Do you need the absolute best performance and more advanced GPS, or is smooth performance sufficient? (Huawei has a superior chipset and a more comprehensive GPS, OnePlus is still capable but offers less.)
- Is future software support and 5G a major consideration for your use? (The OnePlus offers a full android experience with up to android 14 and 5G, the Huawei is missing a clear update path and is limited to 4G).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the best camera and performance: Choose the Huawei Mate 50 Pro.
- For the best display for bright, detailed viewing and more updated Android: Choose the OnePlus 9 Pro.
- If you prioritize affordability and good overall experience: Assess current market pricing, the OnePlus 9 Pro may be a good value if the price is much lower than the Huawei.
My Choice
I would choose the OnePlus 9 Pro. While the Huawei Mate 50 Pro has a better camera and superior performance, the OnePlus 9 Pro is a more well-rounded device for my personal use. I value the sharp and bright display for media consumption, and while its camera may not be as good as the Huawei's, it's still quite capable. Additionally, the confirmed Android 14 compatibility is a plus since the Huawei's software situation is unclear. The 5G capability and its lower price (likely) also add to its value, making it a more suitable choice for me.
Although the Huawei has advantages, the 4G limitation and lack of clear software details are significant drawbacks. The choice ultimately comes down to specific needs.
