Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9R vs. Google Pixel 6 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9R | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | 163.9 × 75.9 × 8.9 mm | Pixel 6 Pro is larger, may be less comfortable for smaller hands, OnePlus 9R is more pocketable. |
| Weight | 189g | 210g | OnePlus 9R is lighter, easier to hold for longer periods. |
| Build | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection | Pixel 6 Pro has superior screen protection, reducing chances of scratches and cracks. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.7" | Pixel 6 Pro offers a slightly larger viewing area, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | Pixel 6 Pro provides a much sharper image, noticeably clearer text and visuals. |
| PPI | 402 | 512 | Pixel 6 Pro has a higher pixel density resulting in crisper images and improved detail. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Cannot determine real-world brightness difference due to missing data. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Google Tensor (5 nm) | OnePlus 9R scores higher in benchmarks, potentially for gaming, Pixel 6 Pro is optimized for Google's AI features. |
| Antutu Score | 821,600 | 721,000 | OnePlus 9R has slightly better raw processing power, noticeable in high-intensity tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G78 MP20 | Different GPUs, performance varies based on application, but both are capable for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.7, 1/2" sensor | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31" sensor | Pixel 6 Pro has a larger sensor, leading to better low-light performance and detail. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" sensor | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.93" sensor | Pixel 6 Pro's larger sensor may offer better low-light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | Not Available | 48MP, f/3.5, 1/2" sensor | Pixel 6 Pro offers optical zoom for better zoomed-in shots; a feature absent on the OnePlus 9R. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 16MP, f/2.2, 1/3.09" sensor | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.9" sensor | Pixel 6 Pro has a slightly larger sensor and may offer slightly better wide-angle shots. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4, sensor | Not Available | OnePlus 9R has a dedicated depth sensor for more realistic bokeh in portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, sensor | Not Available | OnePlus 9R has a dedicated macro lens for capturing tiny objects in detail. |
| Video | 4K@60fps with HDR, EIS | 4K@60fps with OIS, EIS | Both phones offer similar capabilities but the Google Pixel 6 Pro offers optical image stabilization (OIS) for more steady footage |
| DxOMark Mobile Score | Not Available | 134 | Pixel 6 Pro's main camera has significantly higher mobile score compared to the unknown score for OnePlus 9R |
| DxOMark Selfie Score | Not Available | 138 | Pixel 6 Pro's selfie camera has significantly higher mobile score compared to the unknown score for OnePlus 9R |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Pixel 6 Pro has a larger battery, likely to last longer on a single charge. |
| Charging | 65W fast charging | 30W fast charging | OnePlus 9R charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, 23W Wireless charging, Non-removable | Pixel 6 Pro offers wireless charging and reverse charging, adding to convenience. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10, upgradable to 13 | Android 12, upgradable to 14 | Pixel 6 Pro is newer and starts with a more recent Android version with longer official update support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Both support latest WiFi standards for fast and reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 LE | Bluetooth 5.2 LE | Pixel 6 Pro has a newer Bluetooth version with some new audio profiles |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, Galileo | OnePlus 9R supports more satellite systems for potentially improved location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Pixel 6 Pro offers eSIM support for easier carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Pixel 6 Pro offers a larger 512 GB storage option for users who require maximum space. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 12 GB | Both offer ample RAM for smooth multitasking; Google Pixel 6 Pro always offer the higher 12GB of RAM. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers, Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone | Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | OnePlus 9R has more advanced audio features such as Dolby Atmos and noise cancelling microphone |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both phones have similar fingerprint sensors. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Google Pixel 6 Pro has more sensors for enhanced functionality and gaming experiences; additionally features Magnetometer, Barometer |
| ## 2. Key Differences Analysis |
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 65W charging significantly reduces charging time, more convenient for those on the go.
- Slightly Higher Benchmark Performance: The Snapdragon 870 offers slightly more raw power.
- Dedicated Macro and Portrait Lenses: Useful for photography enthusiasts who like to explore various close-up shots.
- Dolby Atmos Audio: Provides enhanced spatial audio.
- Lighter Design: More comfortable for extended use and easier to carry.
- More GPS systems support: Better GPS accuracy due to supporting more satellite systems.
Google Pixel 6 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Camera System: Larger sensors, telephoto lens, and Google's image processing offer better image quality, especially in low light and with zoom.
- Larger Battery: 5000mAh offers longer battery life, important for heavy users.
- Higher Resolution Display: Sharper visuals with better detail.
- Wireless and Reverse Charging: Added convenience for users with wireless charging accessories.
- Newer Android OS and longer updates: More recent Android version.
- More Storage Options: Users can opt for up to 512 GB of internal storage.
- Better screen protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides better scratch and impact resistance.
- eSIM Support: Enables easier carrier switching without physical SIM cards.
- Better Camera Score: DxOMark indicates the Google Pixel 6 Pro has a superior camera experience.
- More sensors: Enhanced functionality and gaming with Barometer and Magnetometer.
Significant Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9R: Slower charging, lacks some camera features like telephoto zoom, lacks superior screen protection and wireless charging, older OS.
- Google Pixel 6 Pro: Slower charging speed, heavier and bulkier design, and slightly lower benchmark performance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9R:
- Ideal User: Gamers, users who prioritize fast charging, those who like a lighter phone, users who prefer a lower price.
- Use Cases: Fast-paced gaming, quick charging between meetings, everyday usage with focus on performance and macro, portrait photography.
- Price-to-Value: Offers excellent value for performance-oriented users on a mid-range budget.
Google Pixel 6 Pro:
- Ideal User: Photography enthusiasts, users who prioritize camera quality and battery life, users who prefer Google’s ecosystem, users who prioritize screen quality.
- Use Cases: Taking high-quality photos and videos, all day usage without worrying about battery, media consumption, business users who want to benefit from the newest Android.
- Price-to-Value: Justified for users who want a top-tier camera and are willing to pay a premium.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Camera Priority: How important is top-tier camera quality, especially zoom and low-light performance?
- Battery vs. Charging Speed: Do you prefer a longer battery life or faster charging times?
- Size and Comfort: Do you prefer a lighter, more pocketable device, or a larger screen for media consumption?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Travel Photographer: Google Pixel 6 Pro is the clear choice due to its superior camera system and optical zoom.
- Mobile Gamer: OnePlus 9R might offer a more balanced package due to faster charging and slightly better benchmark scores.
- Casual User: OnePlus 9R provides a strong user experience at a lower price, focusing on essential features like everyday performance and quick charging.
- Power User: The Google Pixel 6 Pro with a bigger battery and more storage options would be the better choice.
My Choice and Why
If I had to choose, I would pick the Google Pixel 6 Pro. My reasoning is as follows:
While the OnePlus 9R offers faster charging and is lighter, the Google Pixel 6 Pro is the superior phone overall. The camera on the Pixel 6 Pro is significantly better with its larger sensor, telephoto lens, and Google's excellent image processing capabilities. Additionally, the Pixel 6 Pro boasts a higher resolution screen, a larger battery, wireless charging, and newer software with longer update support.
For me, the photography improvements, longer battery life, and better screen quality of the Google Pixel 6 Pro outweigh the slightly faster charging and lighter design of the OnePlus 9R. The better camera and the overall more modern software experience make it the better all-around device for my usage. While it comes at a higher price point, I am willing to invest more for these improvements.
