1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy M52 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160 × 74.2 × 8.7 mm | 164.2 × 76.4 × 7.4 mm | The M52 is taller and wider, while the OnePlus 9 is thicker. The M52 feels more streamlined, the OnePlus 9 feels more compact in the hand. |
| Weight | 192g | 173g | The M52 is significantly lighter, which is better for extended use. The OnePlus 9 will feel more substantial. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.7" | The M52 has a slightly larger screen, providing a slightly more immersive experience for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same sharpness, meaning equally clear images and text. |
| Pixel Density | 402 PPI | 393 PPI | Both offer similar sharpness; the difference is not noticeable to the human eye. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both displays offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 800 nits | The OnePlus 9 has significantly better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) | The OnePlus 9’s chip is significantly faster for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. |
| Antutu Score | 880,900 | 589,200 | OnePlus 9 is much faster overall, leading to quicker app launches and smoother multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 642L | The OnePlus 9’s GPU is significantly more powerful, leading to better gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 64MP | The M52’s main camera theoretically captures more detail in ideal lighting conditions. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.8 | The OnePlus 9’s slightly wider aperture allows more light in, enhancing low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.4" | 1/1.97" | The OnePlus 9's larger sensor captures more light, improving image quality, especially in low light. |
| Main Camera Sensor Model | Sony IMX689 | Samsung GW3 | Different sensors that have their specific performance characteristics in various scenarios. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 1.12 µm | 0.80 µm | The OnePlus 9’s larger pixels capture more light, which is better for low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 16MP | 32MP | The M52’s selfie camera theoretically captures more detail. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.4 | f/2.2 | The M52’s wider aperture allows more light for better low-light selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.13" | 1/2.8" | The M52’s larger sensor captures more light in low light. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Model | Sony IMX471 Exmor RS | Sony IMX616 | Different sensors that have their specific performance characteristics in various scenarios. |
| Selfie Camera Pixel Size | 1.00 µm | 0.80 µm | The OnePlus 9’s larger pixels capture more light in low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP | None | The OnePlus 9 offers ultra-wide shots, expanding creative possibilities. |
| Portrait Mode Lens | None | 5MP | The M52 offers depth sensing for portrait shots with a bokeh effect. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | None | 13MP | The M52 captures wide angle and close up images. |
| Black and White Lens | 2MP | None | The OnePlus 9 allows dedicated black and white photography. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@30fps | Up to 4K@30fps | The OnePlus 9 can record professional quality 8K videos, while M52 is limited to 4K. |
| Video Stabilization | Yes (EIS) | Yes | Both offer video stabilization for smooth video capture. |
| Slow-motion | Up to 480 fps | Up to 240 fps | The OnePlus 9 has better slow-motion video capturing capabilities. |
| Camera Features | 8K Video, Ultra stable video, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF), Night Mode, RAW 12 bits | 4K Video, Digital zoom | The OnePlus 9 offers more advanced photography and videography features. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | The M52 will likely last longer on a single charge. |
| Charging | 65W fast charging | 25W fast charging | The OnePlus 9 charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W Wireless | No | The OnePlus 9 can be charged wirelessly, offering added convenience. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, max 13 | Android 11, max 13 | Both offer similar Android experience, both can be upgraded to Android 13. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, MIMO | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer similar Wi-Fi standards, but OnePlus 9 offers MIMO for better speeds. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2, LE, AptX, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Bluetooth 5.0, A2DP, AVRCP, DIP, HFP, HID, HSP, MAP, PAN, OPP, PBAP/PAB, HOGP | The OnePlus 9 has a newer Bluetooth version with more advanced codecs and features. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1, B2), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | The OnePlus 9 offers more accurate location tracking due to advanced GPS. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB | The OnePlus 9 offers more storage, especially with the 256GB option. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | The OnePlus 9, with up to 12GB RAM, handles multitasking and demanding apps more smoothly. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for expanded storage via microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Dolby Atmos, 2 microphones | The OnePlus 9 offers better audio quality with stereo speakers, noise cancellation and an extra microphone. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Samsung Galaxy M52 5G offers a more modern and ergonomic fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Both offer similar level of protection against scratches and minor drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Geomagnetic | Both have similar sensor suites, but have their special sensors like Compass and Geomagnetic. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Advantages:
- Significantly Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset and Adreno 660 GPU offer substantially better performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Better Display Brightness: The 1100 nits brightness makes it much more usable outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Advanced Camera System: Includes a higher quality main sensor, ultra-wide lens, 8K video recording, more advanced features, making it better for photography enthusiasts.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging quickly tops up the battery, and wireless charging is a convenient extra.
- More RAM and Storage Options: Offers a 12GB RAM option and a 256GB storage option.
- Superior Audio: Stereo speakers, noise cancellation mic and 3 mics enhances audio experience.
- Advanced Connectivity: Newer Bluetooth version and GPS with more satellite systems.
Practical Implications: The OnePlus 9 is ideal for users who prioritize performance, display quality and camera capabilities and can take advantage of fast charging and better connectivity options.
Samsung Galaxy M52 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and Thinner Design: More comfortable for extended use and feels more portable.
- Larger Battery: Offers longer battery life on a single charge.
- Portrait and Macro Lenses: Dedicated lenses for better creative options in portrait and close up photography.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More ergonomic and easier to use.
- Lower Price Point: Usually available at a more affordable price point making it more accessible to a wider market.
Practical Implications: The M52 is ideal for users who value battery life, a lightweight design, and decent camera performance for everyday use at a more budget friendly price point.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The OnePlus 9 sacrifices some battery life and a more lightweight design for superior performance, a better display, and advanced cameras.
- The M52 sacrifices performance, camera quality and higher display brightness for better battery life, a thinner design and more affordable price point.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9 Ideal User:
- Gamers: The powerful chipset and GPU provide a smooth gaming experience.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The superior camera system and features enable more creative options.
- Power Users: Those who frequently multitask, use demanding apps, and need fast charging.
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a bright display that is easily viewable in bright conditions.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who appreciate advanced features and top-tier performance.
Use Cases:
- Gaming with demanding titles.
- Shooting high-quality photos and videos in diverse conditions.
- Editing photos and videos on-the-go.
- Consuming media in bright daylight.
- Quickly charging the phone before a busy day.
Samsung Galaxy M52 5G Ideal User:
- Casual Users: Those who use their phone for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and messaging.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Seeking a good phone with long battery life at a reasonable price.
- Users Who Prioritize Battery Life: Those who need their phone to last all day without recharging.
- Users Who Prefer Lightweight Design: Users who prefer a thinner and lighter phone.
- Users Who Value Side Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Users who prefer the more ergonomic side mounted fingerprint sensor.
Use Cases:
- Daily social media and web browsing.
- All-day usage without worrying about battery drain.
- Taking occasional photos and videos.
- Casual gaming.
- General purpose use for calls, messages and emails.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The OnePlus 9 offers higher value for users who prioritize performance and camera quality, but at a higher price point.
- The Samsung Galaxy M52 5G offers better value for budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life and a thinner design, at a lower price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming/photography vs. general use/battery life)
- How important is performance for you? (Top-tier performance vs. adequate performance)
- What is your budget? (Are you willing to pay more for higher-end features?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Mobile Gamer: Choose the OnePlus 9 for superior gaming performance, display quality and fast charging.
- Scenario 2: All-Day User: Choose the Samsung Galaxy M52 5G for its longer battery life and lightweight design.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: Choose the OnePlus 9 for advanced camera features and better image quality.
- Scenario 4: Budget-Conscious User: Choose the Samsung Galaxy M52 5G for decent all-around performance at a more affordable price.
- Scenario 5: Outdoor Use: Choose the OnePlus 9 for better visibility in bright daylight.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally pick the OnePlus 9. While the Samsung Galaxy M52 5G offers a more lightweight design, a larger battery, and a lower price tag, my primary needs revolve around performance and camera capabilities, which is where the OnePlus 9 shines. I play mobile games frequently and appreciate fast loading times and smooth gameplay. Additionally, I like to take photos and videos on my phone and the advanced features and superior image quality on the OnePlus 9 is very appealing. The bright display and fast charging are also important for my use case. Even though the battery life on the M52 would be convenient, it is not as high of a priority for me as performance and advanced camera features. The trade-off in size and weight for the better performance, camera and display is one that I am willing to take.
