Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9 vs. Motorola Moto G85
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Motorola Moto G85 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160 × 74.2 × 8.7 mm | 161.9 × 73.1 × 7.6 mm | OnePlus 9 is wider and thicker, Moto G85 is taller; Moto G85 is generally slimmer and may feel more comfortable. |
| Weight | 192g | 171g | Moto G85 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use and easier to carry. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.67" | Moto G85 has a slightly larger screen, offering a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same sharpness, so the difference is negligible in daily usage. |
| PPI | 402 | 395 | Very similar sharpness, no practical difference. |
| Technology | AMOLED | P-OLED | Both provide vibrant colors and deep blacks; minor technology difference unlikely to be noticeable for most users. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1600 nits | Moto G85 is significantly brighter, providing better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 (6 nm) | OnePlus 9 has a significantly more powerful chip, offering better performance in demanding tasks, gaming and overall responsiveness. |
| AnTuTu Score | 880,900 | 475,000 | OnePlus 9 is much faster, suitable for heavy gaming, video editing and more intense multitasking. Moto G85 is adequate for everyday tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 619 | OnePlus 9 provides significantly better graphics performance suitable for gaming and graphically intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Moto G85 has a larger battery, likely offering longer battery life on a single charge. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | OnePlus 9 charges much faster, reducing waiting time. |
| Features | 15W Wireless Charging, Non-removable | Non-removable | OnePlus 9 offers wireless charging for added convenience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/1.4", 1.12µm | 50MP, f/1.79, 1/2", 1.00µm | OnePlus 9 has a larger sensor that can capture more light, potentially better low-light images; Moto G85 has a slightly higher resolution. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13", 1.00µm | 32MP, f/2.4, 0.70µm | Moto G85 has a higher resolution front camera for potentially sharper selfies. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/1.56", 1.00µm | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | OnePlus 9 has significantly higher resolution wide angle camera for more detailed landscape and group photos. |
| Black & White Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | OnePlus 9 has a dedicated black and white camera for unique photography options. |
| Video Recording | 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps | 1080p@60fps | OnePlus 9 supports much higher video resolution and frame rates for more professional video capture. |
| DxOMark Mobile | Not Tested | 88 | Motorola Moto G85 has a tested camera quality which is very good and can provide an insight on overall camera performance |
| Camera Features | 4K/8K Video, Triple Camera, RAW 12bits, Night Mode | Dual Camera, OIS, Laser AF, RAW | OnePlus 9 offers a more advanced camera setup, while the Moto G85 offers OIS for better stability |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 | Moto G85 ships with a newer version of Android. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer high-speed WiFi, OnePlus 9 offers Wi-Fi MIMO for potentially more stable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, AptX, LDAC | 5.1 | OnePlus 9 has a newer version of Bluetooth with more codec support for higher quality audio. |
| GPS | Advanced Multi-Band GPS | Standard GPS | OnePlus 9 has more advanced GPS capabilities for enhanced location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM / eSIM | Motorola Moto G85 offers an additional eSIM option for more flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 8GB/12GB | Both offer ample RAM for smooth multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 3 mics with Noise Cancellation | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 mics | OnePlus 9 has a slight edge in audio features offering enhanced spatial audio, clearer calls, better audio separation and immersion, better voice capture. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both phones have basic fingerprint sensors for security. |
| Build | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass 5 | Both have the same level of screen protection against damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Both phones come equipped with a comprehensive sensor suite suitable for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers significantly higher processing power, ideal for gaming, video editing, and heavy multitasking.
- Advanced Camera System: Higher resolution wide-angle lens, 8K video recording, more camera features, and larger primary sensor for better low-light performance.
- Faster Charging and Wireless Charging: 65W wired charging is much faster and the added bonus of 15W wireless charging.
- Enhanced Audio: Better audio capture, call quality and noise cancellation features for a more immersive and high quality experience.
- Superior Bluetooth Codec Support: Includes AptX, LDAC for higher quality audio streaming.
Practical Implications: The OnePlus 9 excels in tasks requiring raw processing power and advanced photography. It is better suited for users who want a flagship-level experience, including gaming, content creation, and heavy app usage. The faster charging and wireless option are also a huge plus.
Motorola Moto G85 Advantages:
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 14, offering the latest software and security features, this may receive longer software support.
- Better Battery Life: Larger battery capacity allows for potentially longer usage times between charges.
- Lighter Build: More comfortable to hold for longer periods due to its lower weight.
- Brighter Display: Significantly better outdoor visibility due to the 1600 nits brightness.
- eSIM support: Greater flexibility for choosing mobile carrier.
- Tested Camera Quality: Having a DxoMark score gives more insight into camera quality.
Practical Implications: The Moto G85 is better for users who prioritize battery life, comfort, and a more modern operating system. The brighter display makes it suitable for outdoor use. It provides a solid all-around experience for day-to-day tasks and multimedia consumption.
Trade-offs:
- Performance vs. Battery: OnePlus 9 offers high-end performance, at the cost of potentially lower battery life. While Moto G85 prioritizes battery life and comfort, it does so with less processing power and a less capable camera.
- Camera Capabilities vs. Simplicity: The OnePlus 9 has a more versatile and high-performance camera system, but the Moto G85 may be easier to use with less clutter and more simplicity.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9 Ideal User:
- Power User: Gamers, mobile content creators, and individuals who frequently run demanding apps and require fast performance.
- Photography Enthusiast: Those who prioritize a versatile camera system with higher quality image capture and professional video capabilities.
- Tech Enthusiast: Someone who appreciates cutting-edge features, including fast charging and high-end components.
Use Cases:
- Playing graphics-intensive mobile games at high frame rates.
- Recording 4K/8K videos for professional content creation.
- Editing photos and videos on-the-go.
- Seamless multitasking across multiple apps.
Motorola Moto G85 Ideal User:
- Everyday User: Individuals who primarily use their phone for social media, web browsing, media consumption, and basic photography.
- Travelers: Users who need long battery life and a display that is easily visible outdoors.
- Budget-Conscious User: Those who prefer a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features and a modern user experience.
Use Cases:
- Extended web browsing and social media use without frequent charging.
- Taking photos and videos in well-lit conditions.
- Watching videos and streaming content.
- Making calls, sending messages and other basic tasks.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The OnePlus 9 is typically priced higher due to its flagship specifications. However, it could offer a better price-to-value ratio for users who will fully utilize its power and premium features.
- The Motorola Moto G85 offers great value for the price, especially for those looking for a reliable phone for daily use with good battery life.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your primary use case for a smartphone? (Gaming, photography, everyday usage, etc.)
- How important are performance and speed for you? (Do you frequently run heavy apps or play demanding games?)
- How much do you value battery life and comfort? (Are you frequently away from a charger, or do you value a lightweight phone?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming and Performance: If your priority is gaming and speed, the OnePlus 9 is the clear winner due to its superior chipset and GPU.
- Scenario 2: Everyday Use and Battery Life: If you prioritize battery life, a lighter build, and a modern OS, the Motorola Moto G85 is a better fit.
- Scenario 3: Photography & Videography: If you care deeply about camera capabilities, the OnePlus 9 offers a more versatile system, higher resolution and video features.
- Scenario 4: Outdoor Use and Visibility: If you are often in bright sunlight, the Motorola Moto G85's brighter display will be more useful.
My Choice and Why
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the OnePlus 9. Despite being an older phone and with it's shortcomings in the battery and display brightness, my primary use case includes mobile gaming, some photo editing and taking pictures and videos of my life.
The significantly superior performance of the Snapdragon 888 chipset is a necessity for running demanding mobile games smoothly and the camera system offers more versatility, better low-light performance, and 8K video recording. Even though the Motorola has a better DxOMark score for the camera system I still value the versatility and control offered by the OnePlus, and I value the quality of the pictures provided by it's bigger sensor.
I also like the faster charging capability and wireless charging, which provide a more seamless user experience. I am also willing to compromise on battery life in order to get a better experience overall with the phone, I value a high quality experience over convenience and the OnePlus provides just that. While the Moto G85 is a good phone, especially for day-to-day use, the lack of power and a weaker camera system put it below the OnePlus 9 for my specific needs.
