1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9R | Google Pixel 6 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | 158.6 × 74.8 × 8.9 mm | OnePlus 9R is taller but thinner, Pixel 6 is shorter but thicker. Pixel 6 has larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 189g | 207g | OnePlus 9R is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for long use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.4" | OnePlus 9R offers a slightly larger viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same sharpness. |
| PPI | 402 | 411 | Very similar sharpness, practically indistinguishable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | OnePlus 9R has smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness is unknown |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Google Tensor (5 nm) | Different processors. Snapdragon 870 is known for good performance, Tensor for AI and Google-specific features. |
| AnTuTu Score | 821,600 | 721,000 | OnePlus 9R shows higher benchmark performance in AnTuTu |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G78 MP20 | Different graphics processors, both capable of smooth gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | Pixel 6 has a slightly higher resolution, potentially capturing more detail. |
| Standard Camera Aperture | f/1.7 | f/1.85 | OnePlus 9R has wider aperture for better low-light performance. |
| Standard Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/1.31" | Pixel 6 has a larger sensor for better light gathering and image quality. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 16MP | 8MP | OnePlus 9R has higher resolution for sharper selfies |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.4 | f/2.0 | Pixel 6 has a wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.13" | 1/2.8" | Pixel 6 has a slightly larger sensor for better light capture. |
| Wide Angle Camera Resolution | 16MP | 12MP | OnePlus 9R has a higher resolution for more detailed wide shots. |
| Wide Angle Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.2 | Both have the same aperture |
| Wide Angle Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.09" | 1/2.9" | Pixel 6 has a larger sensor |
| Portrait Mode Camera | 2MP | None | OnePlus 9R has a dedicated depth sensor. |
| Macro Camera | 5MP | None | OnePlus 9R has a dedicated macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Both offer high-quality video recording with stabilization; Google Pixel 6 offers OIS in all recording modes. |
| DXOMark Mobile Score | N/A | 126 | Google Pixel 6 has a high rating indicating good camera quality. |
| DXOMark Selfie Score | N/A | 129 | Google Pixel 6 indicates a high rating for selfies. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, OIS | Dual camera, OIS, Laser AF, Night Mode | OnePlus 9R has more lens options; Pixel 6 has laser autofocus and dedicated night mode. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4600mAh | Similar capacity, likely similar battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 23W Fast Charging | OnePlus 9R charges much faster. |
| Wireless Charging | No | 21W Wireless | Pixel 6 offers convenient wireless charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (Upgradable to 13) | Android 12 (Upgradable to 14) | Pixel 6 offers a more updated software out of the box, better software support is likely |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | WiFi 6 | Both support modern WiFi standards, OnePlus 9R has WiFi MIMO. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Pixel 6 has a newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Similar capabilities, both offering accurate navigation. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Pixel 6 offers eSIM for flexible carrier options. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both have the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 8 GB | OnePlus 9R offers higher RAM option for better multitasking and performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation mic, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | OnePlus 9R offers Dolby Atmos and a noise-cancelling mic. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both have similar fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 6 offers superior screen protection against damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | Pixel 6 has more environmental sensors and magnetometer. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is significantly faster than the 23W on the Pixel 6, reducing downtime.
- Higher Refresh Rate: 120Hz display provides a smoother visual experience.
- Better Performance: Higher AnTuTu score indicates stronger processing capabilities.
- More RAM: Option for 12GB of RAM for improved multitasking
- Dolby Atmos and Noise Cancellation: Better audio and call quality.
- More Camera Options: Offers dedicated macro and depth sensors.
- Lighter Design: More comfortable for extended use.
- Wi-Fi MiMO: Better Wi-Fi performance
- Lower Price: Generally more affordable.
Practical Implications:
* Users who need fast charging and smooth gaming will benefit from this device
* Users who take lots of macro or portrait shots might prefer this.
* Users who care about audio, or like to watch videos/movies on their device will benefit.
Google Pixel 6 Advantages:
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 12 (upgradable to 14) for the latest features and updates.
- Superior Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus offers much better protection against damage.
- Better Camera Performance: Larger main camera sensor and higher DXOMark score indicate superior image quality.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient for charging on the go.
- eSIM Support: Allows for easy switching between carriers.
- Better Sensor Suite: Includes a barometer and magnetometer for more functionality.
- Better Low Light Selfies: Wider aperture and bigger sensor on selfie camera
- OIS in all video modes: Better stabilization in video recording.
Practical Implications:
* Users who prioritize camera quality and future-proof software will benefit from this phone
* Users who want the convenience of wireless charging will find this useful.
* Users who need advanced sensor capabilities or travel/outdoors will find this beneficial
Significant Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9R: Loses in screen protection, and camera quality, particularly in low light, but gains in charging speeds and performance for gaming.
- Google Pixel 6: Loses fast charging capabilities and has a heavier design, but has better camera quality and software.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for OnePlus 9R:
- Gamers: The high refresh rate display, powerful processor, and 12GB RAM option make it ideal for gaming.
- Users Needing Fast Charging: Those who hate waiting for their phone to charge and need fast power-ups.
- Audiophiles: Who like great audio experience and clarity for calls
- Users on a Budget: Who want a balance of power and features without breaking the bank.
- Users who take macro shots: Who frequently capture small details.
Use Cases:
- Playing graphically intense games with smooth animations.
- Quickly charging the phone before leaving home.
- Recording videos while on the go.
- Enjoying high-quality audio through built-in speakers.
Ideal User for Google Pixel 6:
- Photography Enthusiasts: The excellent camera system and computational photography capabilities cater to those who want high-quality photos.
- Android Purists: The clean software and timely updates appeal to users who want the latest Android experience.
- Users Needing Wireless Charging: Users who value convenience and wireless charging technology.
- Users wanting the latest software Users who prioritize keeping their phone secure and updated.
- Travelers/Outdoorsy: Users who utilize GPS or altimeter for activities.
Use Cases:
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos in various lighting conditions.
- Utilizing Google's AI and machine learning features.
- Seamlessly switching between multiple carriers using eSIM.
- Relying on superior screen protection for outdoor use.
- Taking stable videos while on the go
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- OnePlus 9R offers good performance and fast charging at a generally lower price point, making it a great value option.
- Google Pixel 6 has higher-quality camera and more updated software, but at a higher price, which may be worth it for users who value these features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, photography, everyday use, travel)
- How important is fast charging vs. wireless charging to you?
- Do you prioritize software updates and the latest features over performance and other features?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Gamer: Choose the OnePlus 9R for its 120Hz display, faster charging, higher benchmark score, and additional RAM.
- Scenario 2: Photography Enthusiast: Choose the Google Pixel 6 for its larger main camera sensor, better low light performance and computational photography capabilities.
- Scenario 3: Casual User Prioritizing Convenience: Choose the Google Pixel 6 for its wireless charging, eSIM support, and superior screen protection.
- Scenario 4: Budget-Conscious User: Choose the OnePlus 9R for its good balance of features and performance at a generally lower price.
- Scenario 5: User that prioritizes good software support: Choose the Google Pixel 6 for its later software version with a longer software support.
What would I choose and why?
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally go for the Google Pixel 6. My primary needs revolve around having a fantastic camera experience and a reliable software experience. The Pixel 6's superior main camera sensor, combined with its higher DXOMark scores, indicates its capacity for better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The latest version of Android (12 upgradable to 14) is also a key factor for me, ensuring I receive the newest software features, updates, and security patches.
While the OnePlus 9R has the advantage of faster charging and a smoother 120Hz refresh rate, the improvements in those areas don't outweigh the benefits of a superior camera and a more up-to-date software ecosystem, from my perspective. The wireless charging is a plus for convenience, and even though the Pixel 6 is slightly heavier, the premium design and the enhanced screen protection offered by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus is a worthwhile trade off. The addition of the barometer and magnetometer could prove useful, too.
