OnePlus 9R vs Samsung Galaxy A03 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification
OnePlus 9R
OnePlus 9R
Oneplus

General

Launch Date April 14, 2021 January 21, 2022
Release Year 2021 2022

Physical

Volume 100.21 cm³ 113.41 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.47 "/g 3.32 "/g
Weight 189 g 196 g
Height 161 mm 164.2 mm
Width 74.1 mm 75.9 mm
Thickness 8.4 mm 9.1 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Carbon Black
  • Lake Blue
  • Black
  • Red
  • Blue

Display

Screen Size 6.55 " 6.5 "
Resolution 1080 x 2400 720 x 1600
Aspect Ratio 20:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 86.8 % 81.8 %
Pixel Density 402 PPI 270 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz N/A
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A N/A
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 104.89 mAh/in² 118.34 mAh/in²
Battery Density 44.9 mAh/cm³ 44.09 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4500 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes No
Chipset Qualcomm SM8250-AC Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) Unisoc T606 (12 nm)
CPU Octa-core (1x3.2 GHz Kryo 585 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 585 & 4x1.80 GHz Kryo 585) Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Adreno 650 Mali-G57 MP1

Connectivity

USB Version 3.1 2.0
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 3.1, OTG microUSB 2.0

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 10 11
Maximum OS Version 13 13

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureOnePlus 9RSamsung Galaxy A03Practical Impact
Design
Dimensions161 x 74.1 x 8.4 mm164.2 x 75.9 x 9.1 mmOnePlus 9R is smaller and thinner, potentially more comfortable for one-handed use. The A03 is larger and might feel more bulky in hand or pocket.
Weight189g196gOnePlus 9R is lighter, which is noticeable during extended use. The A03 is slightly heavier.
Display
Size6.55"6.5"Negligible difference in size, both offer large screens for media consumption.
Resolution1080 x 2400720 x 1600OnePlus 9R has a much sharper and clearer display. Text and images will appear more crisp.
PPI402270OnePlus 9R's higher pixel density results in noticeably sharper images, less pixelation, making the screen much more pleasant to look at.
TechnologyAMOLEDPLS LCDOnePlus 9R's AMOLED display will have more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast, and is more power-efficient for dark-themed apps.
Refresh Rate120Hz60HzOnePlus 9R offers significantly smoother animations and scrolling. The A03 will have standard refresh rate and potentially slower navigation..
Brightness0 nits (missing)0 nits (missing)Brightness details are missing, which makes analysis difficult.
Performance
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm)Unisoc T606 (12 nm)OnePlus 9R has a vastly more powerful chipset, leading to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
AnTuTu Score821,600174,932OnePlus 9R demonstrates substantially superior performance in daily tasks and gaming.
GPUAdreno 650Mali-G57 MP1OnePlus 9R has a much more powerful GPU, resulting in a significantly better gaming experience and smoother graphics.
Battery
Capacity4500 mAh5000 mAhSamsung Galaxy A03 has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life between charges.
Charging65W Fast Charging7.5W Fast ChargingOnePlus 9R charges significantly faster, reducing charging times drastically.
Camera
Main Camera48MP, f/1.7, 1/2", Sony IMX586, 0.8µm48MP, f/1.8, 0.8µmOnePlus 9R has a slightly wider aperture and detailed sensor information which might lead to better low-light performance.
Selfie Camera16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13", Sony IMX471, 1.0µm5MP, f/2.2OnePlus 9R's selfie camera has much higher resolution, resulting in clearer and more detailed selfies.
Wide Angle16MP, f/2.2, 1/3.09", Sony IMX481, 1.0µmN/AOnePlus 9R has a dedicated ultrawide lens allowing for a broader perspective.
Portrait Mode2MP, f/2.42MP, f/2.4Similar depth sensors for portrait mode.
Macro Lens5MP, f/2.4N/AOnePlus 9R has a macro lens for close-up shots.
VideoUp to 4K@60fps, HDR, EIS1080p@30fpsOnePlus 9R records higher resolution videos with better stabilization. The A03 is limited to 1080p.
Software
OSAndroid 10, upgradeable to 13Android 11, upgradeable to 13Both can upgrade to Android 13.
Connectivity
WiFiWi-Fi 6, Dual Band, MiMOWi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi DirectOnePlus 9R supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi, particularly beneficial in crowded networks.
Bluetooth5.1, aptX, LDAC5.0OnePlus 9R supports better audio codecs for higher-quality wireless audio.
GPSDual-band GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, GalileoGPS, A-GPS, GLONASSOnePlus 9R has more comprehensive GPS systems, offering better location accuracy, especially in urban areas and when navigating.
Storage
Internal128GB or 256GB32GB, 64GB or 128GBOnePlus 9R offers higher storage options, which may be essential for media and apps.
RAM8GB or 12GB3GB or 4GBOnePlus 9R's higher RAM allows for better multitasking and smoother performance when switching between apps.
ExpandableNoNoNeither phone offers expandable storage; this needs to be taken into consideration during purchase.
Audio
QualityDolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancelling MicDolby AtmosOnePlus 9R provides superior sound quality with stereo speakers, more immersive audio experience.
Security
FeaturesFingerprint SensorBasic Security FeaturesOnePlus 9R offers additional biometric security, convenient and fast way to unlock the phone.
Build
ProtectionUnknownUnknownBoth devices have unknown screen protection.
Sensors
FeaturesFingerprint, Compass, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, ProximityAccelerometer, ProximityOnePlus 9R offers a complete set of sensors for features such as advanced gaming, AR and VR.

2. Key Differences Analysis

OnePlus 9R Advantages:

  • Superior Display: AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate, high resolution and pixel density.
    • Practical Impact: Significantly better visual experience with vibrant colors, smooth animations and crisp text.
  • Significantly Higher Performance: Powerful Snapdragon 870 chipset, large RAM, much faster AnTuTu score.
    • Practical Impact: Smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and much better gaming experience.
  • Advanced Camera System: More versatile camera setup with additional sensors and video recording capabilities
    • Practical Impact: Higher quality images and video with greater detail, better low-light performance, wide-angle lens, and macro mode.
  • Faster Charging: 65W fast charging.
    • Practical Impact: Significantly reduced charging times, a major convenience for busy users.
  • Better Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX and LDAC, comprehensive GPS.
    • Practical Impact: Faster and more stable Wi-Fi speeds, better wireless audio quality, and more precise location tracking.
  • Enhanced Audio: Stereo speakers and noise cancellation microphone.
    • Practical Impact: Immersive and clear sound experience for media consumption and calls.

Samsung Galaxy A03 Advantages:

  • Larger Battery: 5000 mAh battery.
    • Practical Impact: Potentially longer battery life between charges for less frequent charging, beneficial for people away from power outlets.
  • Potentially lower Price: Typically, the A series Samsung devices are more affordable than the mid range OnePlus phones, but this needs confirmation with specific prices at the time of purchase.
    • Practical Impact: Easier on the budget for users looking for basic smartphone functionality.

Significant Trade-offs:

  • The OnePlus 9R has much better performance and display quality but a slightly smaller battery capacity compared to Samsung Galaxy A03.
  • The Samsung Galaxy A03 has a larger battery and likely lower price but sacrifices performance, display quality, camera features and connectivity options compared to OnePlus 9R.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

OnePlus 9R - Ideal User:

  • Gamers: Demands high performance and smooth graphics.
  • Media Consumers: Appreciates high-quality display for videos and movies.
  • Photographers/Videographers: Needs a versatile camera with advanced features and good video quality.
  • Power Users: Multitasks frequently, needs fast app loading, and appreciates a fast charging phone.
  • Tech Enthusiasts: Wants the latest technology, including superior display, connectivity, and performance.

  • Use Cases:

    • Playing graphically intensive games.
    • Streaming high-resolution video content.
    • Capturing high-quality photos and videos.
    • Using multiple apps simultaneously without lag.

Samsung Galaxy A03 - Ideal User:

  • Budget-Conscious Users: Prioritizes affordability over advanced features.
  • Casual Users: Needs a reliable device for basic tasks like calling, texting, and browsing.
  • Light Media Consumers: Uses the phone primarily for social media, light video watching, and browsing.
  • Users Prioritizing Battery Life: Needs a device with long battery life.
  • First Time Smartphone Users: Looking for a simple and straightforward phone.

  • Use Cases:

    • Basic communication and social media use.
    • Long battery life for traveling or extended use.
    • Web browsing and checking emails.
    • Taking occasional photos and videos.

Price-to-Value Ratio:

  • The OnePlus 9R provides a much higher price to value ratio due to the number of features it provides for its price, however the A03 caters to a different demographic who may be more budget conscious.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions for Buyers:

  1. What is my primary use case for a smartphone? (Gaming, media, social media, or basic communication).
  2. How important is display quality and performance to me? (Do I value vibrant visuals and speed, or is basic functionality sufficient?).
  3. What is my budget? (Am I willing to pay more for advanced features and performance?).

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Scenario 1: Performance & Visual Experience are Key: If you are a gamer, a heavy media consumer, or value a premium display, the OnePlus 9R is the superior choice. It offers a much better visual experience, smoother performance, and a more versatile camera system.
  • Scenario 2: Budget & Battery Life are Priorities: If you are budget-conscious, and need long battery life for basic smartphone functions, the Samsung Galaxy A03 could be a more suitable choice.
  • Scenario 3: Balanced Needs on a Mid Range Budget: If you are looking for a good phone in the mid-range price point, the OnePlus 9R is a better option due to the number of features and technology it provides for its price point, though this should be considered against current market pricing.

Personal Choice

If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the OnePlus 9R.

While the Samsung Galaxy A03 offers the advantage of a slightly larger battery and a potential lower price point, the OnePlus 9R provides a vastly superior experience across almost every other category.

For me, a smoother user interface, much better visual experience, faster performance, a more versatile camera system, and faster charging are all worth more than a slightly larger battery. I value having a phone that can handle demanding tasks, offer a quality viewing experience, and capture great photos. The OnePlus 9R provides all of this, along with stereo speakers and a superior connectivity suite.

In essence, the OnePlus 9R provides a more future-proofed and premium experience that aligns better with my priorities. Even for general usage, the added smoothness in the user interface and screen quality is something I would definitely value.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Digital media communication
  • Technical storytelling
  • User-centric technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.