1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 163.2 × 73.6 × 8.7 mm | 163.9 × 76.5 × 7.8 mm | M55 is slightly wider (2.9mm) but thinner (0.9mm). 9 Pro is a bit more compact, M55 may feel more modern due to thinness |
| Weight | 197g | 180g | M55 is significantly lighter (17g), making it more comfortable for extended one-hand use and less tiring to hold. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Identical screen size for both. |
| Resolution | 1440x3216 | 1080x2400 | 9 Pro has significantly sharper display with more detail (78.7% more pixels), which makes text and images noticeably clearer |
| PPI | 525 | 393 | 9 Pro provides sharper images and crisper text. Beneficial for reading and viewing high-resolution media. |
| Technology | AMOLED | M55 will have deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors, making for a more immersive viewing experience | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both phones offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | 9 Pro offers significantly better visibility in bright sunlight. M55 brightness is not specified and thus its performance is unknown. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm SM7450-AB Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 (4 nm) | 9 Pro has the more powerful chip from its time, leading to faster app loading and smoother multitasking. M55 is newer, but performance is lower, albeit with better power efficiency. |
| Antutu Score | 877,600 | 698,000 | 9 Pro offers noticeably better performance for heavy gaming and demanding apps, while the M55 is suitable for daily tasks and moderate gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 644 | 9 Pro will handle graphically intensive games and applications better due to the more powerful GPU. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/1.43", Sony IMX789 | 50MP, f/1.8 | M55 has slightly higher resolution, but 9 Pro has the Sony sensor that is widely regarded for higher quality images. The large sensor size of 9 Pro implies better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13", Sony IMX471 | 50MP, f/2.2 | M55 has a significantly higher resolution front-facing camera. M55 is better for low-light selfies due to the wider aperture, but pixel size is not specified which affects the low light performance |
| Telephoto Lens | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", Omnivision OV08A10 | Not Available | 9 Pro has dedicated zoom lens, good for taking photos of distant objects. M55 lacks optical zoom. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/1.56", Sony IMX766 | 8MP, f/2.2 | 9 Pro has a significantly better wide-angle camera for capturing more detail in group photos and landscapes. |
| Macro Lens | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4 | M55 can take close-up shots, which the 9 Pro cannot. |
| Black & White Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | Not Available | 9 Pro offers black and white shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@30fps with HDR, EIS, 4K@120fps | Up to 4K@30fps with OIS, EIS | 9 Pro offers professional video features with higher resolution and frame rates, while M55 offers Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for smoother videos. |
| DXOMark Score | 122 (Mobile), 124 (Photo), 118 (Video) | Not Available | 9 Pro's camera performance has been independently validated, and scored well, especially in photos. |
| Camera Features | Extensive: 8K Video, Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), RAW, Night Mode, RAW 12 bits | Limited: 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF) | 9 Pro has a more robust camera system with more flexibility and advanced features, whereas M55 is more basic. |
Battery
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 5000 mAh | M55 has a larger battery, likely giving it longer battery life for daily use. |
| Charging | 65W fast charging, Li-Polymer | 45W fast charging, Li-Ion | 9 Pro charges faster with 65W technology, likely filling the battery quicker. |
| Features | Reverse Charging, 50W wireless, Reverse Wireless Charging, Non-Removable | Non-Removable | 9 Pro offers additional charging flexibility including Wireless and Reverse charging which the M55 is lacking |
Other
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 (Upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | M55 comes with a newer Android version out-of-the-box. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 8 GB | 9 Pro has the option for 12 GB of RAM for better multitasking and performance on demanding applications. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage, limiting the total amount of data you can store. |
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise Cancellation Mic, Stereo Speakers, 3 Microphones | Dolby Atmos | 9 Pro has better audio quality, more immersive audio, clearer voice calls |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Pro Advantages
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and pixel density display provides crisper text and images with much higher brightness for outdoor usage.
- Higher Performance: A more powerful chipset and GPU provide better performance in gaming and demanding apps.
- Advanced Camera System: Features a more versatile camera system with a telephoto lens, a superior wide angle lens, and more advanced video recording capabilities, along with features such as Laser Auto Focus, Night Mode, and RAW 12 bit.
- Faster Charging & More Charging Options: Supports 65W fast charging and includes wireless and reverse charging.
- Better Audio Quality: Has stereo speakers, multiple microphones with noise cancellation, providing a richer audio experience and clearer voice quality.
- More RAM Option: 12 GB of RAM for improved multitasking.
Samsung Galaxy M55 Advantages
- Newer Device: Launched almost a year later, it has more up-to-date software (Android 14).
- Lighter and Thinner Design: More comfortable for prolonged use and feels more modern.
- Larger Battery: Potentially offers longer battery life.
- Higher Resolution Front Camera: Improved selfie quality.
- Macro Lens: Can take close up shots
- AMOLED Display: For better contrast and color
Trade-offs
- OnePlus 9 Pro: Sacrifices a bit of battery life and has slightly larger build than the M55 for a more premium build, enhanced performance, and advanced camera system. The older chipset is less power-efficient.
- Samsung Galaxy M55: Compromises on performance, camera capabilities, advanced features (like telephoto lens and wireless charging), and display quality to achieve a lower price point and longer battery life.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9 Pro
- Ideal User: Power users, gamers, photography enthusiasts, and video creators who need top-tier performance and advanced camera features.
- Use Cases:
- Gaming at high graphic settings
- Professional photography and videography
- Heavy multitasking and resource-intensive apps
- Demanding mobile workflows
- Outdoor use due to the brighter screen
- Price-to-Value: Older flagship, may offer good value on the used market for performance and display, if it has had proper support for updates, but the battery life will probably be diminished.
Samsung Galaxy M55
- Ideal User: Casual users, social media enthusiasts, and people who prioritize battery life and a modern device feel.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday social media and communication
- Extended usage away from power outlets
- Taking selfies and casual pictures
- Watching videos and browsing the web
- Light gaming
- Price-to-Value: Newer mid-range device, offering good value for a modern device with long battery life, but may be more expensive due to it being new.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers
- What is my primary use case? (Gaming, photography, social media, basic tasks)
- How important is battery life vs. performance?
- What's my budget?
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1: Performance & Camera are Top Priorities: If you are a gamer or a photography enthusiast who needs the best camera, performance and display and aren't too bothered about battery and the overall build, the OnePlus 9 Pro is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: Battery Life & Modern Feel are Top Priorities: If you prefer a longer battery life, a lighter design, and a newer device, and you are okay with compromising on performance and some advanced features, the Samsung Galaxy M55 is a better option.
- Scenario 3: Balancing Value and Features: If you want a balance of features and price, consider looking at the used market for the OnePlus 9 Pro. If you want the latest software and a more modern device, the Samsung Galaxy M55 is a good choice.
My Choice and Explanation
I would choose the OnePlus 9 Pro for several reasons, even though it is the older device. My primary use cases involve heavy multitasking, mobile development, and occasional gaming. The superior display, the stronger chipset, better GPU and the more advanced camera system are all important for these workflows. Although the battery is smaller, the faster charging and wireless options offer enough flexibility. The enhanced audio capabilities are also something I value. While the Samsung Galaxy M55 is newer and lighter, and its battery is larger, these advantages don't outweigh the significant performance and camera advantages of the OnePlus 9 Pro for my specific needs. The superior display, the brighter screen and the additional camera features and performance are things that I value more than a longer battery and a lighter feel. I would be comfortable carrying a portable battery and the phone is still reasonably portable, and it provides a premium feel.
