Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip4 offers a unique, compact form factor when folded, while OnePlus 9 has a traditional design. |
| Dimensions | 160 × 74.2 × 8.7 mm | 165.2 × 71.9 × 6.9 mm | Z Flip4 is taller and thinner but less wide, OnePlus 9 has a larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 192g | 187g | Z Flip4 is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.7" | Z Flip4 has a slightly larger display, offering a bit more screen real estate for viewing content. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Z Flip4 has a slightly sharper screen due to higher pixel count, resulting in better detail. |
| PPI | 402 | 426 | Z Flip4 has moderately higher pixel density, potentially resulting in slightly sharper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OnePlus 9's AMOLED display offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and vibrant colors, but Samsung is not specified. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1200 nits | Z Flip4 offers slightly better outdoor visibility due to higher brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | Z Flip4's newer chip offers improved performance and efficiency compared to the OnePlus 9. |
| Antutu Score | 880,900 | 1,050,371 | Z Flip4 demonstrates significantly better performance in benchmarks, indicating faster overall performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 730 | Z Flip4's GPU offers better graphics processing for gaming and demanding applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 3700mAh | OnePlus 9 has a significantly larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | OnePlus 9 charges much faster, allowing for quick top-ups. |
| Charging Features | 15W Wireless Charging, Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, 50% in 30 min, Fast wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | Z Flip4 has a more versatile charging system including bypass, reverse, and fast wireless. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/1.4" | 12.2MP, f/1.8, 1/2.55" | OnePlus 9 has a higher resolution and larger sensor, but Z Flip4 has larger pixels for better light capture; OnePlus 9 has a wider aperture. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.2" | OnePlus 9 has a higher resolution selfie camera and a slightly larger sensor. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/1.56" | 13MP, 1/3.06" | OnePlus 9's wide-angle lens offers much higher resolution and a larger sensor for higher-quality ultrawide images. |
| Black & White | 2MP | None | OnePlus 9 has a dedicated black and white sensor for artistic shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps | OnePlus 9 can record in higher 8K resolution; Z Flip4 has OIS, but not specified on OnePlus. |
| DXOMARK | Not Tested | Mobile (112) | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has a more thoroughly reviewed camera with higher results. |
| Camera Features | Triple Camera, Digital image stabilization, Ultra stable video, Manual focus, Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF), Night Mode, RAW 12 bits | Dual Camera, Tracking AF, Optical Stabilization (OIS) | OnePlus 9 has more advanced manual video features, while Z Flip4 has OIS for improved stability. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Max 13 | Android 12, Max 14 | Z Flip4 has a newer version of Android and will be updated to a newer version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards for fast internet speeds. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.1 | OnePlus 9 has a slightly newer Bluetooth version, but both are capable of low-energy connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B2) | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1) | Both have dual-band GPS for more accurate location data; differences may be relevant for niche applications. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Z Flip4 offers more flexibility with an eSIM for digital carrier switching in addition to a physical SIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB or 512 GB | Z Flip4 offers a higher maximum storage capacity for users with large media libraries. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 8 GB | OnePlus 9 offers more RAM for better multitasking capabilities, though base amount is the same. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Stereo Speakers | OnePlus 9 offers a more immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos and noise cancellation for calls. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | Samsung's side mounted is usually more convienent |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip4 has superior scratch and drop resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Gravity, Hall, Geomagnetic, Proximity, Fingerprint | Z Flip4 offers a broader range of sensors, which might be useful in specific apps or contexts. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: Offers significantly longer battery life due to its larger 4500mAh battery, which means less frequent charging.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging allows for much quicker top-ups, essential for users with busy schedules.
- Superior Main and Wide Camera Sensors: The higher megapixel count, larger sensors and wider aperture of the main and wide angle lens on the OnePlus 9 may produce better image quality and more flexibility for editing, especially in low light.
- More RAM: Up to 12GB, better for heavy users
- Dolby Atmos: Provides more immersive audio quality with support for Dolby Atmos, and a noise cancellation microphone for calls.
- Manual Video Controls: With features such as manual focus and RAW 12 bits, the OnePlus 9 gives users more control for professional video.
- Black and white lens: Additional lens that gives a different type of photo.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Offers a unique, compact form factor when folded, making it more pocketable.
- Newer Chipset: The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 provides improved performance and efficiency, making it smoother for daily use.
- Better Screen Protection: Uses Gorilla Glass Victus, which provides superior protection against scratches and drops.
- More Storage Options: It is available in up to 512GB, providing more space for media.
- Bypass Charging, and Reverse Wireless: These features enhance charging and power options.
- More Comprehensive Sensor Suite: It includes a barometer and a geomagnetic sensor, which could be used for specialized apps.
- eSIM support: Offers more flexibility for carrier options.
- OIS: The camera comes with optical image stabilization
- Up to date OS: The software will be updated to a newer version.
- Better Camera Performance: While the sensors are smaller, the Z Flip4's camera received a score from DXOMark, indicating higher performance.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The OnePlus 9 prioritizes battery life and charging speed at the expense of a foldable design and a more advanced processor.
- The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 offers a premium, foldable experience with improved performance but has a smaller battery, slower charging, and more limited camera.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9 Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who require long battery life, faster charging, and smooth performance for day to day tasks.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want more flexibility in image capture, more detailed images with larger sensors, and manual video control.
- Value Seekers: Users who prioritize performance and camera quality over cutting-edge design and features.
- Audio Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize audio quality and want an immersive sound experience.
Use Cases:
- Long days of work or travel where frequent charging is not possible.
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos.
- Gaming and heavy multitasking.
- Listening to music with enhanced audio.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Ideal Users:
- Fashion-Conscious Users: Those who prioritize a unique, stylish design and a compact form factor.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who enjoy exploring cutting-edge technology and foldable devices.
- Performance Seekers: Those who prioritize faster, smoother performance with the latest chipset.
- Users Prioritizing Durability: Those who want enhanced durability with more advanced screen protection.
Use Cases:
- A phone that can fit easily into small pockets or bags.
- Quick photos and videos with stabilization.
- Using modern features such as bypass and reverse wireless charging.
- Using the latest android version.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is more important, battery life/charging speed or a cutting-edge foldable design?
- Do you need the best camera hardware on a traditional smartphone or prioritize a newer chipset, and versatility?
- Do you value a unique foldable design and pocketability or a traditional smartphone experience?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the power user who needs all-day battery: The OnePlus 9 is the better choice with its larger battery and faster charging.
- For the fashion-forward user who values unique design: The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the better pick with its foldable form factor and compact design.
- For users who need the best possible performance: The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4, which comes with a newer chipset, is the best option.
- For the photography enthusiasts who want the best possible camera hardware: The OnePlus 9 is likely better due to its larger sensors, though the Samsung offers OIS.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would lean towards the OnePlus 9. My priority is a long-lasting battery and fast charging capabilities as I often find myself away from a power source for extended periods. I also value the camera specifications of the OnePlus 9 more as I would prefer to take the more detailed photos that larger sensors provide, with manual control features for more professional video. Additionally, I enjoy better audio quality, and the OnePlus 9 with Dolby Atmos, noise cancelling and 3 microphones edges it out in that regard. While the foldable design of the Z Flip4 is intriguing and a better screen protector is nice, these factors do not outweigh the practical benefits of a larger battery, faster charging, and better camera hardware for my usage.
