Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4
1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the OnePlus 9 and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4, focusing on practical implications:
Design
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Foldable design offers a larger screen in a more compact form, but adds bulk; Standard design provides a more familiar and often more durable experience |
| Dimensions | 160 x 74.2 x 8.7 mm | 155.1 x 130.1 x 6.3 mm (Unfolded) | OnePlus 9 is taller and thicker, but significantly narrower; Z Fold4 is shorter, much wider unfolded, and thinner when unfolded (but thicker when folded), impacting pocketability and one-handed use |
| Weight | 192g | 263g | OnePlus 9 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.55" | 7.6" | Z Fold4 offers a significantly larger screen, providing a more immersive experience for media consumption, multitasking, and gaming |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1812 x 2176 | Z Fold4 has a higher resolution for sharper images and text |
| Pixel Density | 402 PPI | 373 PPI | OnePlus 9 has a slightly sharper display, but the difference is likely not noticeable in most use cases |
| Technology | AMOLED | Not specified | OnePlus 9's AMOLED panel provides superior blacks, contrast, color vibrancy, and power efficiency for dark themes |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | OnePlus 9 has drastically higher brightness, making it significantly better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | Z Fold4's newer chipset offers improved performance and power efficiency |
| AnTuTu Score | 880,900 | 1,232,800 | Z Fold4 has significantly better performance in benchmarks for smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and superior gaming |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 730 | Z Fold4's newer GPU handles graphics-intensive tasks like gaming better |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/1.4" sensor | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" sensor | Z Fold4 has slightly higher resolution, while the OnePlus 9 has a larger sensor and wider aperture, potentially better low-light performance and shallower depth of field |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" sensor | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" sensor | OnePlus 9 has higher resolution, but the Z Fold4 has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light selfies; Practical impact depends on user's selfie needs |
| Telephoto Lens | Not present | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9" sensor | Z Fold4 offers optical zoom capabilities for better image clarity at a distance; OnePlus 9 lacks optical zoom |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/1.56" sensor | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" sensor | OnePlus 9 offers much higher resolution and a larger sensor for wider, detailed shots |
| Black & White Camera | 2MP | Not present | OnePlus 9 offers a dedicated sensor for monochromatic photos, but it's a niche feature |
| Video | Up to 8K@30fps | Up to 8K@24fps | Both offer high-resolution video, with slightly different frame rates. The Samsung has better stabilization; Practical impact depends on users video recording needs |
| DXOMark | Not available | Mobile: 124; Photo: 131; Video: 122 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 has been tested with decent results. The OnePlus 9's camera has not been tested |
Battery
| Feature | OnePlus 9 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4400mAh | Both offer similar battery capacity, suggesting similar battery life; Actual endurance varies based on usage and screen size |
| Charging | 65W fast charging | 25W fast charging | OnePlus 9 charges significantly faster, minimizing downtime |
| Charging Features | 15W Wireless Charging | 15W Wireless, 9W Reverse Wireless, Bypass Charging | Z Fold4 has additional features such as reverse wireless charging, allowing to charge other devices, as well as bypass charging |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Advantages:
- Significantly Lighter: Easier to handle for long periods.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is much quicker than the Z Fold4's 25W.
- Higher Display Brightness: Better visibility in direct sunlight.
- Potentially Better Low-Light Photography: Larger main camera sensor and wider aperture.
- Wider Ultra Wide camera: Better quality photos.
- Lower Price: Typically more affordable than the Z Fold4.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Offers a large tablet-like display in a relatively compact form.
- Larger Display: Superior for media consumption, multitasking, and gaming.
- More Powerful Processor: Better overall performance and gaming capabilities.
- Telephoto Lens: Provides optical zoom for capturing distant subjects.
- Versatile Battery: Has additional features such as reverse wireless charging.
- More Storage: Available with up to 1TB of internal storage.
Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9: Lacks the large screen and versatility of a foldable, slower processor, no telephoto lens, and a less feature rich battery.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4: Heavier and bulkier, slower charging speed, significantly more expensive, lower display brightness in comparison with the OnePlus 9.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users, general smartphone users, those who prioritize a lighter phone with fast charging and excellent screen visibility.
- Use Cases: Daily communication, social media, media consumption (with good screen), mobile gaming (on moderate settings), and users who prioritize speed and outdoor visibility.
- Price-to-Value: Offers excellent performance and features for its price range.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4:
- Ideal User: Power users, multitaskers, media enthusiasts, and those who value a large screen in a foldable form factor.
- Use Cases: Heavy multitasking, media creation/editing, gaming (high-end graphics), reading, and content consumption on a large screen.
- Price-to-Value: Premium price reflects the innovative foldable design and high-end specs.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Form Factor Preference: Do you prioritize portability and a traditional form or the large screen versatility of a foldable?
- Performance Needs: Do you need top-tier performance or will the OnePlus 9 suffice for everyday use?
- Budget: Is a premium price for advanced features and a foldable design justifiable or a better price value is needed?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: The OnePlus 9 is a more affordable option with good performance, faster charging, and better screen brightness.
- Power User/Multitasker: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 offers a unique large-screen experience, top-tier performance, and versatile features.
- Media Enthusiast: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 excels in media consumption thanks to the large and immersive display, but the OnePlus 9 is also a solid choice.
- Outdoor User: The OnePlus 9 has better outdoor visibility due to its high brightness display.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4.
While the OnePlus 9 offers excellent value and faster charging, my preference leans towards the innovative and versatile experience of the Z Fold4's foldable design. The larger display is a game-changer for multitasking, content consumption, and productivity. Even with its higher price and slower charging, the enhanced performance, telephoto lens, and larger screen for multitasking, media, and productivity make it a better choice, in my opinion. I would be willing to sacrifice the brightness of the screen and fast charging, considering the large screen and other features the device has.
