1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9R | Samsung Galaxy S23+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161 x 74.1 x 8.4 mm | 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm | OnePlus 9R is taller and thicker, might feel less compact in hand. S23+ is wider, potentially impacting one-handed use for some. |
| Weight | 189g | 196g | OnePlus 9R is slightly lighter, which can be noticeable during long use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.6" | Negligible difference; both offer a large, immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2340 | Very similar sharpness; differences are not easily discernible. |
| Pixel Density | 402 PPI | 393 PPI | Both displays are very sharp; no practical difference in clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both devices. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1750 nits | S23+ display will be significantly more visible in bright outdoor conditions. OnePlus 9R display brightness is unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 (7nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm) | S23+ offers significantly faster performance for demanding apps, multitasking, and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 821,600 | 1,508,732 | S23+ will feel much snappier, with faster loading times. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 740 | S23+ offers better graphics performance for gaming and GPU intensive applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res | 48MP | 50MP | S23+ offers slightly higher detail in photos. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.7 | f/1.8 | OnePlus 9R has wider aperture, which can result in better low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/1.57" | S23+ main sensor captures more light, offering better performance, especially in low light. |
| Selfie Camera Res | 16MP | 12MP | OnePlus 9R may capture slightly more detailed selfies, in good lighting conditions. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.4 | f/2.2 | S23+ selfie camera performs better in low light. |
| Telephoto Lens | No | 10MP | S23+ offers optical zoom capabilities, ideal for portraits and distant subjects. |
| Wide Angle Lens Res | 16MP | 12.2MP | OnePlus 9R captures slightly more detailed wide-angle shots in good lighting conditions. |
| Wide Angle Sensor Size | 1/3.09" | 1/2.55" | S23+ wide angle sensor captures more light, offering better performance, especially in low light. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | 2MP | No | OnePlus 9R has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode, though S23+ could achieve similar results with software processing. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP | No | OnePlus 9R can take close-up shots with its macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K 60fps | Up to 8K 30fps | S23+ offers higher resolution video recording and more advanced features like stereo sound recording. |
| DXOMark | Not Available | 133 (Mobile) | S23+ has a tested and certified camera quality. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 4700 mAh | S23+ has slightly higher battery capacity which can translate to slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | OnePlus 9R charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, 10W wireless (Qi/PMA), 4.5W reverse wireless | S23+ has wireless charging and reverse charging features, making it more versatile. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10, upgradable to 13 | Android 13, upgradable to 17 | S23+ offers a more modern version of Android and longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support similar high-speed Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | S23+ has a newer version of Bluetooth, may offer better stability and range. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1 + L5) | S23+ offers more accurate GPS tracking with support for more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | S23+ supports eSIM, providing more flexibility in managing multiple carriers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB or 256GB | 256GB or 512GB | S23+ offers larger base storage and larger maximum storage. |
| RAM | 8GB or 12GB | 8GB | OnePlus 9R with 12GB of RAM offers better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | S23+ offers Hi-Res Audio, while OnePlus 9R has noise cancellation for microphone during calls. |
| Security | |||
| Biometric | Fingerprint Sensor | Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer basic fingerprint biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S23+ has superior screen protection for everyday use and accidental drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | S23+ has more advanced sensors, adding barometer which is used in weather applications and for tracking elevation. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Faster Charging: The 65W charging allows the phone to charge faster, minimizing downtime.
- More RAM Option: Up to 12GB RAM offers smoother multitasking, especially for users who heavily use their phone for demanding applications and gaming.
- Dedicated Macro and Depth Sensors: Dedicated depth and macro lens offer more flexibility in camera and photography.
- Slightly Lighter: The phone is lighter than S23+, which is better for extended use.
Samsung Galaxy S23+ Advantages:
- Significantly Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip offers a massive performance boost. This is important for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks.
- Superior Display Brightness: The S23+ screen has a higher brightness, making it much easier to see in bright sunlight.
- More Advanced Camera System: The Samsung S23+ offers a more capable camera system, with a telephoto lens, larger sensor on the main and ultrawide camera and better low light performance.
- Wireless and Reverse Charging: Convenient charging options provide versatility.
- eSIM Support: This is useful for frequent travelers who need to switch between carriers.
- Hi-Res Audio: Improves the audio experience for music listeners.
- Higher Base Storage: The base storage option starts at 256GB, which is double that of the base 9R.
- 8K Video Recording: Offers professional video recording capabilities.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides better protection against damage.
- More Advanced Sensors: Barometer is used in weather applications, tracking elevation during hiking and fitness activities.
- Longer Software Support: S23+ will receive software updates for longer.
Significant Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9R: Loses out on performance, display brightness, camera capabilities, wireless charging, and advanced sensors compared to the S23+.
- Samsung Galaxy S23+: Loses out on faster wired charging and dedicated macro and depth sensors compared to OnePlus 9R and is heavier.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9R - Ideal Users:
- Users on a budget: The OnePlus 9R may be more affordable while still offering a fast charging, smooth display, and adequate performance.
- Users who value fast charging: The faster charging speed is a major advantage for those who need to quickly top up their battery.
- Users who do not need cutting-edge performance: Users who primarily use their phones for social media, browsing and basic tasks will find the OnePlus 9R adequate.
- Users who prioritize having dedicated macro and depth cameras: Macro and depth sensors, may improve flexibility in photography.
Use Cases:
- Everyday tasks: Browsing, social media, media consumption
- Gaming with slightly lower graphic settings.
- Users who value battery life and fast charging over display quality or camera performance.
Samsung Galaxy S23+ - Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Users who need the best performance for gaming, video editing, and multitasking will greatly benefit from the S23+.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The more advanced camera system and features will appeal to those who want better quality photos and videos.
- Users who prioritize display quality: The higher brightness screen is essential for outdoor use and provides a better viewing experience.
- Users who value software support: The S23+ will receive longer software updates.
- Users who use wireless charging: Users who appreciate the convenience of wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- Users who value build quality and sensors: Users who appreciate the better build quality with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and advanced sensors like barometer.
Use Cases:
- Gaming at high settings, high-definition video capture and editing
- Frequent outdoor use where display brightness is critical
- Professional photographers who need superior camera performance
- Users who need all the latest features and high-end performance
- Users who want future-proof performance and long-term software updates
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your primary use case for a smartphone? (Gaming, photography, everyday tasks, etc.)
- How important is performance to you? (Are you a power user or do you use the phone mostly for basic tasks?)
- What is your budget and how much do you value future-proofing? (Are you comfortable spending more for top-tier performance and features?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If budget is a primary concern and you only need a phone for basic tasks, the OnePlus 9R will be adequate. Its faster charging is an added benefit.
- Scenario 2: Performance-Oriented User: If you need the best performance for gaming and other demanding tasks, the S23+ is the clear choice, offering significantly better chipset, GPU, and benchmark results.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: If camera performance is a priority, the S23+ offers a better camera system, with a telephoto lens and 8K video recording.
- Scenario 4: Long-term Use: If long term support, future proofing, and updates are a concern, the S23+ is the clear choice with its newer OS and future update guarantees.
- Scenario 5: Outdoor Use: If you are often in bright sunlight, the S23+ will provide a significantly better viewing experience thanks to its much brighter display.
- Scenario 6: Users who value fast charging, dedicated macro lens, and have no need for wireless charging The OnePlus 9R would be a good fit.
- Scenario 7: Users who require advanced sensors for environmental measurement (e.g., elevation). The Samsung S23+ would be a better option.
My Choice
If I had to choose between the two, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S23+.
Here's why:
- Future-Proof Performance: The significantly superior Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip in the S23+ makes it a much more future-proof device. I tend to keep my phones for several years and the S23+ will remain relevant much longer due to its enhanced performance.
- Better Camera Experience: While the OnePlus 9R has a decent camera, the S23+'s telephoto lens, larger sensors, and 8K video recording offer more flexibility and potential. I value a good camera system, even if I am not a professional photographer, and the S23+ provides a more versatile photography experience.
- Display Quality: The higher brightness of the S23+ display is very important for me. I often use my phone outdoors and the added brightness will be really helpful in sunny conditions.
- Software Support: The promise of longer software support on the S23+ means my phone will stay secure and up to date for a longer time period.
- Added Features: Wireless charging, better build quality, and more advanced sensors are features that I value and am willing to pay for.
While the OnePlus 9R has the advantage of faster charging, the overall package of the S23+ is better suited for my needs.
