1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9R | OnePlus Nord 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | 162 × 75.1 × 8.2 mm | OnePlus Nord 3 is slightly taller and wider, while the 9R is a hair thicker. Minimal difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 189g | 193.5g | Both phones are lightweight, with only a minor weight difference. Practically the same. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.74" | Nord 3 has a slightly larger display which offers a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1240x2772 | Nord 3 offers sharper visuals due to higher resolution, text and images are more crisp and clear. |
| PPI | 402 | 451 | Nord 3 has a slightly higher pixel density, resulting in a sharper image. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. No practical difference here. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1450 nits | Nord 3 is significantly better for outdoor use with much higher brightness for better visibility in sunlight. The OnePlus 9R's brightness is not listed. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 9000 (4 nm) | Nord 3 has a newer and more powerful chipset offering faster processing, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 821,600 | 1,103,441 | Nord 3 demonstrates significantly higher benchmark scores, resulting in snappier performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G710 MC10 | Nord 3's GPU offers better graphics processing, providing a smoother gaming experience. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Nord 3 has a larger battery, likely offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 80W Fast Charging | Nord 3 charges faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | Nord 3's main camera has slightly higher resolution, potentially capturing slightly more detail. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.7 | f/1.8 | OnePlus 9R has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light performance, but the difference is minor. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/1.56" | Nord 3 has a larger sensor, which may capture more light, resulting in better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Main Camera Sensor Model | Sony IMX586 | Sony IMX890 | Nord 3 has a newer sensor, which can be expected to offer better image quality. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.00 µm | Nord 3's larger pixel size captures more light, resulting in improved low-light performance and detail. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13", 1.00µm | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13", 1.00µm | Selfie camera quality is comparable on both devices. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 16MP, f/2.2, 1/3.09", 1.00µm | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", 1.12µm | OnePlus 9R has a higher resolution wide-angle camera, while Nord 3 has a larger sensor for the wide angle. |
| Portrait mode (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | OnePlus 9R has a dedicated portrait lens, while the Nord 3 does not. |
| Macro Camera | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75 µm | OnePlus 9R has a higher resolution macro camera, but macro cameras are generally not used a lot. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps, HDR, EIS | Up to 4K@60fps, EIS | Both offer high-quality video recording with stabilization, though the OnePlus 9R specifies HDR recording for all resolutions. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10, upgradable to 13 | Android 13, upgradable to 16 | Nord 3 runs on a newer Android version and will likely receive longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 LE | Nord 3 has a newer Bluetooth version for better connectivity and efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A-GPS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | OnePlus 9R supports more satellite systems, which may provide more accurate location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| RAM | 8GB or 12GB | 8GB or 16GB | Nord 3 offers a higher maximum RAM option, improving multitasking and app performance. |
| Other | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both offer good audio quality; Nord 3 offers Hi-Res audio, while the OnePlus 9R offers noise cancellation microphone. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Screen protection is unkown for both devices. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Gravity, Geomagnetic, SensorCore | Nord 3 has more sensors that may improve overall functionality. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Wider Main Camera Aperture: f/1.7 allows slightly more light in low-light conditions (minimal impact).
- Dedicated Portrait Lens: Provides a dedicated lens for portrait photography, which might offer slightly better depth effects.
- Higher Resolution Wide-Angle Camera: 16MP wide-angle compared to Nord 3's 8MP.
- Compass Sensor: For navigation and better orientation.
OnePlus Nord 3 Advantages:
- Newer, More Powerful Chipset: Dimensity 9000 (4nm) offers significantly better performance than Snapdragon 870 (7nm).
- Significantly Higher AnTuTu Score: 1,103,441 vs 821,600 means faster app loading and smoother performance in all tasks.
- Larger Display with Higher Resolution: More immersive viewing experience with sharper visuals.
- Much Higher Brightness: 1450 nits vs 0 nits ensures better outdoor visibility.
- Larger Battery: 5000mAh compared to 4500mAh, likely resulting in longer battery life.
- Faster Charging: 80W vs 65W, resulting in shorter charging times.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: 5.3 vs 5.1 for better connectivity and efficiency.
- More RAM: Up to 16GB for smoother multitasking.
- Hi-Res Audio Support: Better music listening experience with supported headphones.
- More Sensors: Better gaming experience with additional sensors.
Trade-offs:
- The OnePlus 9R has a dedicated depth sensor for portraits, which the Nord 3 lacks.
- The OnePlus 9R has a higher resolution wide angle camera and macro camera, though this may not be a deciding factor for most users.
- The OnePlus 9R has a compass sensor which the Nord 3 doesn't have.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9R Ideal User:
- Users on a budget: Given its age, the OnePlus 9R is likely available for less than the Nord 3, offering good value if you can find it at a low price point.
- Photography Enthusiasts (slightly): Those who appreciate a dedicated depth sensor, and higher resolution wide angle and macro cameras.
- Users who like a slightly smaller phone: The OnePlus 9R is smaller and may be easier to handle in the hands.
OnePlus 9R Use Cases:
- Casual photography with portrait mode capabilities.
- Everyday tasks and gaming, though less smoothly than the Nord 3.
- Budget-conscious users who don't need the absolute latest specs.
OnePlus Nord 3 Ideal User:
- Power users: Users who need top-tier performance for gaming and demanding applications.
- Users who prioritize screen visibility: Those who frequently use their phone outdoors.
- Multitaskers: Users who often switch between multiple apps.
- Users who want more future-proof device: Will receive 3 more android updates than the OnePlus 9R.
OnePlus Nord 3 Use Cases:
- High-end gaming and graphic-intensive applications.
- Outdoor use in bright sunlight.
- Smooth multitasking and fast app switching.
- Users that want a better music experience.
- Users that want the latest software features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Performance Needs: Do I need top-of-the-line performance for gaming and demanding tasks, or will everyday performance be sufficient?
- Display and Outdoor Visibility: Do I use my phone primarily indoors, or do I need excellent visibility in bright sunlight?
- Budget: What is my price sensitivity, and what is the best value given that?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: If you are on a tight budget and can find a used OnePlus 9R at a good price point, it may be a worthwhile option.
- Performance-Focused User: If you prioritize performance, smooth operation, and a better display, the OnePlus Nord 3 is the better choice, provided it's within your budget.
- Outdoor User: If you need maximum screen brightness for comfortable viewing in sunlight, the OnePlus Nord 3 is the only viable option between the two.
My Choice
I would choose the OnePlus Nord 3. The main reason for this is the significant performance leap provided by the Dimensity 9000 chipset. This translates to a much smoother and more responsive user experience in all areas from day-to-day tasks to gaming. The brighter display and larger battery are also important, as I tend to use my phone outdoors and appreciate longer battery life. Although the OnePlus 9R has a dedicated portrait lens, the improved camera sensor and overall performance of the Nord 3 are more compelling to me. The software upgradeability also makes the Nord 3 a more future-proof device. Therefore, the Nord 3 offers a more premium experience with a better balance between specs and usability.
