1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9R | Huawei nova 12i | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | 163.3 × 74.7 × 8.4 mm | Huawei nova 12i is slightly taller, but both have similar width and thickness making them very similar in hand. |
| Weight | 189g | 199g | OnePlus 9R is 10g lighter, which might be noticeable during extended use or for users preferring lighter devices. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.7" | Huawei nova 12i has a slightly larger screen, which might be better for media consumption or multi-tasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2388 | Both have nearly identical resolutions; minimal practical difference in sharpness. |
| Pixel Density | 402 PPI | 391 PPI | Both have similar pixel density; very minimal difference in sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | OnePlus 9R's AMOLED offers superior blacks, contrast, and potentially better battery life with dark themes, making it preferable for viewing movies and other content. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | OnePlus 9R has smoother scrolling and animations, which can result in a more fluid user experience, especially in gaming and fast-paced interactions. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have identical peak brightness at 0 nits - Note: This is likely a data error or omission, and peak brightness is important for outdoor visibility. Without values we cannot compare this aspect. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8250-AC Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | OnePlus 9R's chipset is significantly more powerful, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. The 5G capability is also notable. |
| AnTuTu Score | 821,600 | 289,000 | OnePlus 9R has significantly higher benchmark scores, indicating superior performance across various tasks, particularly in graphically intensive applications. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 610 | OnePlus 9R's GPU is much more powerful, allowing it to handle demanding games and graphics-intensive apps more smoothly. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Huawei nova 12i has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life between charges. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 40W Fast Charging | OnePlus 9R charges significantly faster, meaning less time plugged into the wall. |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both have non-removable batteries, which is standard. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Standard | 48MP, f/1.7, 1/2" sensor, 0.8µm pixels | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.67" sensor, 0.64µm pixels | Huawei nova 12i has higher resolution and a slightly larger sensor which could translate to better image quality in some conditions, but the OnePlus 9R's wider aperture could be better for low light. |
| Front Selfie | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" sensor, 1.0µm pixels | 8MP, f/2.0 | OnePlus 9R has a higher resolution front camera, while the Huawei nova 12i has a wider aperture for slightly better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 16MP, f/2.2, 1/3.09" sensor, 1.0µm pixels | None | OnePlus 9R offers a dedicated wide-angle lens for capturing broader scenes, a feature missing on the Huawei nova 12i. |
| Portrait (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer similar depth sensing capabilities for portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | OnePlus 9R includes a macro lens for close-up shots, a feature absent on the Huawei nova 12i. |
| Video | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps with HDR, EIS | 1080p@30fps | OnePlus 9R is much more versatile in video recording, offering higher resolution 4K options, HDR, and slow-motion, which makes it better for content creators and social media. |
| Features | 4K Video, OIS, Quadruple camera, Digital Zoom, Autofocus, etc. | Dual camera, Digital Zoom, Autofocus, etc. | OnePlus 9R has advanced features like OIS (optical image stabilization) for smoother videos, and more versatile camera setups. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (upgradable to 13) | Android 13 | Huawei nova 12i comes with a more recent version of Android out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, Hotspot, MiMO, Display | a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, Hotspot, Display | OnePlus 9R supports the latest Wi-Fi standard for potentially faster speeds and better performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE, APT-x, LDAC, AAC | 5.0, A2DP, EDR, LE, LDAC, SBC, AAC | OnePlus 9R has a newer Bluetooth version and supports APT-x codec for better audio. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | OnePlus 9R supports additional satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Both phones support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both phones come with the same maximum internal storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 8 GB | OnePlus 9R offers a higher RAM option (12GB) for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, which might be a limiting factor for some users. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio Features | OnePlus 9R offers enhanced audio features for a better multimedia experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | The Huawei nova 12i has a more modern fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Screen protection is unknown for both phones. This makes it impossible to compare durability |
| Sensors | |||
| Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Gravity | OnePlus 9R has the Gyroscope sensor for better gaming experience while Huawei nova 12i has gravity and ultrasonic proximity virtual sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster processor and GPU, leading to a much smoother experience for all tasks including gaming and heavy applications.
- Better Display: AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers better colors, contrast, and fluidity.
- Advanced Camera System: More versatile camera setup with wide-angle, macro lenses, 4K video, and optical image stabilization, making it better for photography and videography.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging significantly reduces charging time.
- More Advanced Audio: Offers features like Dolby Atmos, noise cancellation microphone, and stereo speakers.
- More Modern WiFi: Supports the newer Wifi 6 standard.
- Better Bluetooth: Comes with a newer version of bluetooth and offers APT-x codec.
- More advanced GPS: supports more satellite systems.
- More RAM: Offers a 12GB Ram Option
Practical Implications: The OnePlus 9R is better for power users, gamers, and those who prioritize a high-quality display, and a versatile camera. The improved charging speed and enhanced audio are also big advantages.
Huawei nova 12i Advantages:
- Larger Battery: Slightly larger battery capacity potentially results in longer battery life.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More modern and ergonomic fingerprint scanner.
- More Modern OS: Comes with a more modern OS out of the box.
- Higher Resolution Main Camera: A 108MP sensor can capture higher resolution images, although the practical benefits depend on lighting conditions and processing.
Practical Implications: The Huawei nova 12i is better for users who prioritize longer battery life and a more modern fingerprint sensor.
Significant Trade-Offs:
- Performance vs Battery: The OnePlus 9R sacrifices some battery capacity for significantly better performance, while the Huawei nova 12i prioritizes battery life over processing power.
- Display Quality vs. Battery: The OnePlus 9R's AMOLED display is superior but can be more power-hungry than the IPS LCD in the Huawei nova 12i.
- Camera Versatility vs. Resolution: The OnePlus 9R has a more versatile camera system, but the Huawei nova 12i has a higher resolution main sensor.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9R Ideal Users:
- Gamers: The superior processor, GPU, and 120Hz refresh rate are ideal for mobile gaming.
- Content Creators: The 4K video, OIS, wide-angle, and macro lenses make it a good option for capturing photos and videos.
- Power Users: Those who frequently multitask, use demanding applications, and value smooth performance will benefit from the more powerful internals and the better display
- Media Consumption: The AMOLED display makes the OnePlus 9R more appealing to media consumers who watch a lot of movies and shows on their phones.
Huawei nova 12i Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: If the phone has a lower price-point, it is appealing to those who prioritize battery life, a more modern fingerprint sensor, and are willing to sacrifice performance.
- Users Prioritizing Battery: Users who require their phone to last as long as possible without needing to recharge will benefit from its larger battery capacity.
- Casual Users: Those who primarily use their phones for social media, browsing, and basic tasks may find the nova 12i sufficient.
- Users who want the most modern OS out of the box: The nova 12i has android 13 out of the box.
Use Cases:
- OnePlus 9R:
- High-end mobile gaming with demanding titles.
- Shooting high-quality 4K videos and photos.
- Smooth and responsive performance for multitasking and heavy applications.
- Enjoying vibrant and immersive media consumption.
- Huawei nova 12i:
- All-day battery usage for extended use without charging.
- Casual social media browsing and light gaming.
- Users that simply want a phone that can get the job done without issues.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, content creation, everyday use)
- How important is battery life compared to performance?
- What are your camera priorities? (Versatility, resolution, low-light performance)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming and Performance: If you are a gamer or prioritize overall performance and smooth display, choose the OnePlus 9R.
- Scenario 2: Battery Life and Basic Use: If you want long battery life for everyday use and need a modern fingerprint sensor, choose the Huawei nova 12i.
- Scenario 3: Media Consumption If you prioritize a better display, stereo speakers, and a better media consumption experience, the OnePlus 9R is the better choice.
- Scenario 4: Value-Oriented: If value for money is the main criteria, and the Huawei is cheaper, then the Huawei may be the better choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would opt for the OnePlus 9R. Here's why:
- Performance: The significantly better performance of the Snapdragon 870 is a crucial factor for me. As someone who uses a phone for various tasks, including occasional gaming and running demanding apps, the OnePlus 9R's chipset ensures a much smoother, more responsive experience that the Huawei nova 12i simply cannot match.
- Display Quality: The AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate is a clear win for me. The vibrant colors and smooth scrolling enhance the overall user experience, making it more enjoyable to use daily. I watch a lot of videos and prefer the superior blacks and contrast of the AMOLED over an IPS LCD screen.
- Camera Versatility: While the Huawei nova 12i boasts a higher resolution main camera, the OnePlus 9R's versatility with its wide-angle, and macro lenses, along with OIS and 4K video recording, better suits my needs. I value a well-rounded camera experience over a single high-resolution sensor.
- Audio: The enhanced audio from the stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos integration is an added plus for multimedia consumption.
- Latest Technology: The newer WiFi and bluetooth standards are desirable for better performance.
The only downside is the slightly smaller battery and the need to charge it more often, but the fast charging of the OnePlus 9R mitigates that. For me, the overall performance and user experience are worth more than a slightly larger battery, which I believe is the biggest differentiator between these phones. The performance difference between the Snapdragon 870 and the 680 is huge, and the faster display makes the difference even bigger.
