Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9 Pro vs. Samsung Galaxy M35
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-03-30 | 2024-05-24 | Galaxy M35 is significantly newer, likely with better software support, but 9 Pro may have price drops. |
| Dimensions | 163.2 x 73.6 x 8.7 mm | 162.3 x 78.6 x 9.1 mm | M35 is wider and thicker, making the 9 Pro potentially more comfortable for single-handed use. M35 has a larger overall volume, making it a more bulky device. |
| Weight | 197g | 222g | 9 Pro is significantly lighter, making it easier to hold for long periods. M35's heavier build may feel more substantial to some. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.6" | Slightly larger screen on the 9 Pro is better for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking, but the difference isn't huge. |
| Resolution | 1440x3216 | 1080x2340 | 9 Pro’s higher resolution leads to sharper text and images, noticeable in detailed content and VR applications. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 525 | 390 | 9 Pro has noticeably sharper visuals, making text and fine details much clearer. M35 will appear less crisp in comparison. |
| Technology | AMOLED | M35's AMOLED offers better contrast, deeper blacks, more vibrant colors and power efficiency, especially with dark mode. 9 Pro's display tech isn't specified but likely to be an older OLED version. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | 9 Pro has superior outdoor visibility under bright sunlight with a significant difference in brightness. Galaxy M35 brightness is unknown, making it potentially problematic in bright conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 (5nm) | Exynos 1380 (5nm) | Snapdragon 888 offers superior performance for gaming and demanding tasks. Exynos 1380 is a decent mid-range chip, but not as powerful. |
| AnTuTu Score | 877,600 | 578,500 | 9 Pro is significantly faster, resulting in smoother performance, faster app loading, and better gaming experiences. M35 is slower overall. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G68 MP5 | Adreno 660 is generally superior for graphically intensive tasks, providing better gaming performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 6000mAh | M35 has a much larger battery, likely providing much longer battery life. 9 Pro users may need to charge more frequently. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 9 Pro charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. M35 takes longer to charge. |
| Battery Features | Wireless, Reverse, Non-removable charging | Non-removable | 9 Pro supports wireless and reverse charging, offering greater convenience. M35 is limited to wired charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/1.43", IMX789 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2", LYT-600 | 9 Pro has a larger sensor for better low-light performance, although the M35 has a higher MP count. Sensor size is generally more important than MP count. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13", IMX471 | 13MP, f/2.2 | 9 Pro has higher resolution but a narrower aperture; M35 has a wider aperture for potentially better low-light selfies, although it does not list sensor info. |
| Telephoto Lens | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", OV08A10 | None | 9 Pro offers optical zoom capabilities, allowing for clearer zoomed images. M35 has no optical zoom. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/1.56", IMX766 | 8MP, f/2.2 | 9 Pro has a significantly higher resolution ultra-wide lens for detailed wide-angle shots. M35's wide angle lens is much lower resolution. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | M35 can take very close-up photos, which the 9 Pro cannot do. |
| Black & White Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | 9 Pro has a dedicated B&W sensor for unique monochrome shots. M35 has no B&W sensor. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@30fps with HDR | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | 9 Pro offers higher video quality, useful for professional content creation. Both have EIS, but the 9 Pro's options are more advanced. |
| DxOMark Score | 122 (Mobile) | Not Tested | 9 Pro's camera is a proven performer with higher photo and video scores. The M35 has not been tested, but will likely have a lower score. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | M35 has a newer version of Android out of the box. 9 Pro will have likely reached its end-of-life update window. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer modern Wi-Fi standards for fast internet speeds. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.3 | M35 has a newer Bluetooth version, with potentially more advanced features and better connectivity. |
| GPS | L1+L5 dual-band, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou | A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS | 9 Pro has a more accurate GPS system with more frequency support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both have the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 6GB/8GB | 9 Pro has more RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo speakers, noise cancellation microphone, 3 mics | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo speakers | 9 Pro offers noise cancellation for clearer calls while the M35 offers Hi-Res Audio for higher quality audio playback. The 9 Pro also has better mic support with 3 microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | M35's side-mounted fingerprint sensor is generally faster and more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus | M35 has superior screen protection from scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Compass | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Hall, Geomagnetic | Both have a good suite of sensors; the 9 Pro includes a compass, while the M35 has a Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Hall, and Geomagnetic. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster processor and GPU, leading to better gaming and multitasking.
- Higher Resolution Display: Sharper visuals with more detail.
- Brighter Display: Better visibility in bright outdoor conditions.
- Advanced Camera System: Features a telephoto lens, a much higher resolution wide-angle lens and more powerful video recording capabilities including 8K. A dedicated Black and White sensor. Proven camera performance with DxOMark score of 122.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Options: Significantly faster charging and wireless charging convenience.
- More RAM Options: Higher RAM for smoother multitasking and app performance.
- More accurate GPS Dual-band GPS for more accurate location tracking.
- 3 Microphone support Better audio pickup with more microphones.
- Reverse Wireless Charging Ability to charge other devices using the phone.
- Better Audio pickup noise cancelling mic for better call quality.
Practical Implications: The OnePlus 9 Pro excels in performance-heavy tasks, offers a premium visual experience, and has a more versatile camera setup, making it suitable for content creators and power users.
Samsung Galaxy M35 Advantages:
- Significantly Longer Battery Life: Much larger battery capacity for extended use without charging.
- Newer Software: Comes with a newer version of Android, ensuring more up-to-date features and potentially longer software support.
- AMOLED Display: Superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors.
- Macro Lens: Allows for detailed close-up photography.
- More advanced Bluetooth Newer bluetooth standard with more profile support.
- Superior screen protection Gorilla Glass Victus offers better protection.
- More convenient Fingerprint Sensor Side-mounted reader is faster and easier to access.
- Hi-Res Audio Higher resolution audio for better listening experience.
Practical Implications: The Samsung Galaxy M35 is better suited for users who prioritize battery life, a great visual experience, and the ability to take close-up photographs, all on a more modern platform.
Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9 Pro: Lacks a macro lens, has lower battery capacity, and is an older device, which may have limited future software support.
- Samsung Galaxy M35: Significantly lower performance, lower resolution display, less impressive camera setup (especially for video), slower charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for OnePlus 9 Pro:
- Gamers: Demanding mobile games need the raw power of the Snapdragon 888.
- Content Creators: The versatile camera system (especially with 8K video), larger screen, and color-accurate display are ideal for content creation and media consumption.
- Power Users: Those who need a smooth experience with many apps running simultaneously and fast charging.
- Users who need fast charging The 65W charging provides the ability to charge quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime.
- Users who need accurate location tracking Dual band GPS with higher accuracy.
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Casual Users: Everyday users looking for good battery life and a modern user interface, particularly focused on media.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those seeking a good device at a more affordable price point, where performance is not the priority.
- Users Prioritizing Battery: Those needing all-day or multi-day battery life.
- Users who take many close up images Dedicated macro lens for close up photography.
- Users who want a convenient fingerprint sensor Side-mounted reader is fast and easy to access.
- Users who need the best screen protection Gorilla Glass Victus provides best in class protection.
- Users who want high quality audio Hi-Res audio enhances the listening experience.
Use Cases:
- OnePlus 9 Pro: Mobile gaming, video editing, professional photography, and heavy app usage.
- Samsung Galaxy M35: Browsing social media, watching videos, taking everyday photos, long travel days, and users needing a long lasting battery.
Price-to-Value:
- The OnePlus 9 Pro is an older flagship, it may offer better value at a reduced price if performance is the priority.
- The Samsung Galaxy M35 is a new mid-range phone that offers good value for those prioritizing battery, display and modern features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, photography, battery life, daily usage)
- How important is performance vs battery life? (Do you need top performance or all-day battery?)
- How much value do you place on camera features and display quality? (Do you need the best possible video recording and detail or just a decent camera?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Gaming, High Performance): Choose the OnePlus 9 Pro. Its faster processor, better GPU and more RAM ensure a smooth gaming and multitasking experience.
- Scenario 2 (Long Battery Life, Casual Use): Choose the Samsung Galaxy M35. Its large battery will last longer, and its AMOLED display provides a great visual experience for everyday use.
- Scenario 3 (Photography): The OnePlus 9 Pro is generally better due to its more powerful camera array. However, If macro photography is a priority, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is the better option. If the best camera scores are required, the OnePlus 9 Pro has a much better score.
- Scenario 4 (Balance of Features): This depends on individual needs. If a newer phone is a priority then the Samsung is the only option. The OnePlus 9 Pro would be a reasonable pick if you can find it at a good price.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would choose the OnePlus 9 Pro. While the Samsung Galaxy M35 offers excellent battery life and a newer Android version, my priorities lean towards performance, camera quality, and display sharpness. The OnePlus 9 Pro's significantly faster processor and higher resolution display offer a much more premium and responsive experience. I am willing to compromise on battery life and have faster charging as a backup, and I value a versatile camera system with optical zoom, high resolution and video capabilities. The older platform is a small price to pay for that performance boost, but it will be worth noting that software updates will likely be limited for this device.
