Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9 vs. Samsung Galaxy A34
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy A34 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 160 × 74.2 × 8.7 mm | 161.3 × 78.1 × 8.2 mm | A34 is slightly taller and wider, OnePlus 9 is thicker, potentially affecting grip and pocketability. |
| Weight | 192g | 199g | OnePlus 9 is slightly lighter, which might be noticeable during extended use or one-handed operation. |
| Build | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 Screen Protection | Unknown screen protection | OnePlus 9 has confirmed superior screen protection which might make it more durable in daily use. A34 lacks information on its screen protection. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy A34 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.55" | 6.6" | Minimal difference, both offer a large screen experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Negligible difference in sharpness, both offer a very crisp display for daily use. |
| PPI | 402 | 390 | Practically identical pixel density, both offer sharp displays |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good contrast, ideal for multimedia consumption. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, leading to a more responsive and fluid user interface. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | OnePlus 9 has substantially higher peak brightness, offering significantly better visibility in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy A34 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 1080 (6 nm) | Snapdragon 888 offers significantly higher processing power, leading to faster app loading, multitasking, and smoother gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 880,900 | 532,300 | OnePlus 9 has a significantly higher score, suggesting it performs much better in demanding tasks and resource-intensive apps. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G68 MC4 | OnePlus 9's GPU offers superior graphics performance, leading to better gaming and video editing experience. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy A34 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/1.4" sensor | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/2" sensor | OnePlus 9's larger sensor and wider aperture likely result in better low-light performance, less noise, and potentially better dynamic range in photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" sensor | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" sensor | Galaxy A34 has a wider aperture which might help in low light selfies. OnePlus 9 has a higher resolution sensor for potentially more detailed images. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/1.56" sensor | 5MP, f/2.2 | OnePlus 9 captures much more detail with its wide angle lens, allowing for higher quality wide shots. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | N/A | 5MP, f/2.4 | A34 has a dedicated depth sensor for enhanced portrait mode with adjustable bokeh effect, while OnePlus 9 uses software for portrait mode. |
| Black & White | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | OnePlus 9 has a dedicated monochrome sensor, which can be used for artistic black and white photography and enhancing contrast in certain conditions. |
| Video | Up to 8K@30fps, HDR, EIS, Slo-mo: 480 fps | Up to 4K@30fps, EIS, Slo-mo: 480 fps | OnePlus 9 offers higher video resolution capabilities (8K vs 4K), better quality for higher end videos. Both offer good slow-motion capabilities. |
| OIS | No Optical Image Stabilization | Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) | Samsung A34 features Optical Image Stabilization, leading to sharper images and less shaky videos, particularly in low-light conditions. |
| DxOMark | Not Available | Mobile: 92, Photo: 99, Video: 78 | Galaxy A34 has been tested by DxOMark, providing independent validation of its camera quality for photos and videos. |
Battery
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy A34 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 5000 mAh | Galaxy A34's larger battery likely provides longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W fast charging, 15W Wireless | 25W fast charging | OnePlus 9 charges much faster, reducing downtime. However, A34 might last longer on a single charge. |
| Features | Non-removable, 15W Wireless Charging | Non-removable | OnePlus 9 can be charged wirelessly, which can be more convenient, but both are non-removable. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset provides significantly higher performance for gaming, multitasking, and overall speed.
- Higher Screen Brightness: The 1100 nits brightness makes it substantially more usable in direct sunlight.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging allows much faster battery replenishment.
- Advanced Camera System: Higher resolution wide-angle, monochrome sensor and better main camera sensor results in better image quality in different scenarios.
- 8K Video Recording: Offers high-resolution 8K video capabilities for professional-grade content.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient 15W wireless charging capability.
- Better Audio Quality: Additional noise cancellation mic and 3 microphones provide better voice capture and clear calls.
- More GPS Systems: Supports a greater number of satellite systems for better location accuracy.
- More RAM Available: Higher RAM configurations offer better multitasking and performance.
- Superior screen protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 provides superior protection.
Samsung Galaxy A34 Advantages:
- Longer Battery Life: The larger 5000 mAh battery provides extended usage time.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Delivers better image and video quality, especially in low light conditions, reduces camera shake.
- Newer Android version: The newer Android version means longer software support.
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: Facilitates enhanced portrait photography.
- Newer Bluetooth version: Allows for faster data transfer and more efficient connections with peripherals.
- Lower Price: It is generally priced lower than the OnePlus 9.
- DxOMark Camera Validation: Independent third-party verification that validates camera performance.
Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9 trades some battery life and Optical Image Stabilization for superior processing power and screen brightness.
- Samsung Galaxy A34 trades performance and screen brightness for a longer-lasting battery, OIS, and a lower price point.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9 Ideal Users:
- Gamers: Benefit from the high performance and superior graphics capabilities.
- Power Users: Need fast processing, quick app loading, and smooth multitasking.
- Content Creators: Require high-quality video recording and superior image processing.
- Outdoor Users: Appreciate high brightness display for clear visibility in sunlight.
- Users Who Value Fast Charging: Don't want to wait long for their phone to charge.
- Audiophiles: Benefit from the superior audio quality with better noise cancelling microphone and 3 microphones for enhanced spatial audio and clearer calls
Use Cases for OnePlus 9:
- Playing graphically intense mobile games.
- Editing 4K/8K videos on the go.
- Using resource-heavy apps such as CAD or video editing tools.
- Taking photos and videos in challenging lighting conditions.
- Navigation and location-based services due to the additional satellite support.
- Taking high quality and sharp photos due to the superior sensor and camera specs.
Samsung Galaxy A34 Ideal Users:
- Casual Users: Prioritize battery life and value.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Looking for reliable cameras with OIS, and portrait features.
- Users on a Budget: Want a good overall experience without breaking the bank.
- Users who prioritize longevity: Benefit from the newer OS version and therefore support.
- Users who need better image and video stabilization: Benefit from the inclusion of OIS.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy A34:
- Daily photography, capturing portraits and videos.
- Extended usage without needing frequent charging.
- Browsing social media and light gaming.
- Navigating, though with a slightly reduced accuracy.
- Reliable use in low-light scenarios with the help of the OIS.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your primary use case? Gaming/heavy multitasking vs. general use/photography?
- How important is battery life vs. charging speed? Do you prioritize all-day battery or faster top-ups?
- What is your budget? Are you willing to spend extra for performance?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Gaming & Performance Focus: If you prioritize performance, gaming, and outdoor visibility, the OnePlus 9 is the clear winner, despite its higher price.
- Photography, Camera Stabilization & Long Battery Life: If you are looking for better camera stabilization, longer battery life and portrait mode features, and a lower price point the Samsung Galaxy A34 is better for you.
- Budget-Conscious Buyer: If you are on a budget and need a well-rounded phone with good battery life and a good camera, choose the Samsung Galaxy A34.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would choose the OnePlus 9. While the Samsung Galaxy A34 has a newer software version and a longer battery life, the OnePlus 9 offers a significant advantage in raw performance, screen brightness, and camera capabilities, which are critical for my use case of gaming, media consumption, and content creation. The much faster charging and the superior quality main and ultrawide cameras, would make the OnePlus 9 the better phone for me.
