Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9R vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9R | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | 163.4 × 78.1 × 8.9 mm | S23 Ultra is larger and may be less comfortable for one-handed use; 9R is more compact and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 189g | 234g | 9R is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use; S23 Ultra may feel bulky. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.8" | S23 Ultra has a slightly larger screen, providing a more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3088 | S23 Ultra's higher resolution results in a sharper, more detailed image. Text will be clearer, and images will have more fine detail. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 402 | 500 | S23 Ultra's higher PPI means a crisper display with sharper text and images. Difference will be noticeable to most users. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use excellent AMOLED technology for vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1750 nits | S23 Ultra is significantly brighter, offering excellent outdoor visibility, even under direct sunlight, which is extremely important for outdoor users. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | S23 Ultra's newer, more powerful chip results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in demanding games. Significant performance difference. |
| AnTuTu Score | 821,600 | 1,521,862 | S23 Ultra has much higher benchmark score, indicating a significantly faster device overall. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 740 | S23 Ultra's Adreno 740 is more powerful, providing better graphics performance for gaming and other demanding graphical tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | S23 Ultra has a larger battery, likely providing longer battery life per charge. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | 9R charges faster, minimizing downtime spent plugged in. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | S23 Ultra's bypass charging can help reduce battery degradation during prolonged gaming sessions. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.7, 1/2", Sony IMX586 | 200MP, f/1.7, 1/1.3", Samsung ISOCELL HP2 | S23 Ultra's primary camera offers vastly superior resolution and a larger sensor, enabling much better image quality, especially in low light. |
| Telephoto Camera | None | 12MP, f/2.4, 1/3.52", Sony IMX754 | S23 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13", Sony IMX471 | 12MP, f/2.2, Samsung S5K3LU | 9R has higher resolution on front camera, but S23 Ultra has wider aperture, potentially better low light performance. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 16MP, f/2.2, 1/3.09", Sony IMX481 | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX564 | S23 Ultra has a larger sensor for wide angle shots with better low-light capabilities. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | 9R has a dedicated portrait depth sensor. |
| Macro Camera | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | 9R has a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 8K@30fps | S23 Ultra records in higher resolution 8K video for professional-grade filming. |
| DxOMark | No data | Mobile: 140 | S23 Ultra has been thoroughly tested by DxOMark and has a good score, suggesting high-quality images and videos. |
| Camera Features | Numerous including OIS, PDAF, HDR | Numerous including OIS, PDAF, LAF, Night Mode, 8K | S23 Ultra has advanced features such as tracking AF, laser autofocus, and a dedicated night mode. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10, upgradable to 13 | Android 13, upgradable to 17 | S23 Ultra has a newer OS with guaranteed future updates; OnePlus 9R might not receive further major updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support Wi-Fi 6 for fast wireless connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 LE | S23 Ultra has newer Bluetooth, potentially for more stable and efficient connections with newer accessories. |
| GPS | Multiple standards | Multiple standards + QZSS | S23 Ultra has more GPS support for more accurate positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | S23 Ultra has eSIM for digital carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 256 GB, 512 GB or 1024 GB | S23 Ultra offers much higher storage options, useful for users storing large media libraries or who need to load large apps and games. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | Both offer the same RAM options for seamless multitasking, but the S23's CPU and RAM are more recent/powerful. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, Dual Microphones | S23 Ultra is better for higher fidelity audio playback and clearer calls because of its high-quality audio and dual microphone setup; 9R uses Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Basic | Both phones have standard fingerprint sensors. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | S23 Ultra screen is protected by a superior Gorilla Glass which provides better scratch and drop protection; the 9R doesn't list its protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Multiple sensors | Multiple sensors + Barometer | S23 Ultra features additional environmental sensors such as barometer, gravity, Hall, geomagnetic sensor for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Lighter and more compact: More comfortable for one-handed use and easier to carry around.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging is significantly quicker, reducing downtime.
- Dedicated Macro and Depth sensors: This is good for certain types of photography but doesn't give overall better camera performance compared to the S23U.
- Lower price point: The OnePlus 9R will be significantly cheaper than the S23 Ultra.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, higher pixel density, and drastically higher brightness provide a much better viewing experience.
- Much More Powerful Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is significantly faster, making it smoother and more responsive for all tasks.
- Significantly Better Camera System: Offers far higher resolution photos with its 200MP primary camera, dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom, and superior image processing.
- Larger Battery Capacity: Likely provides longer battery life.
- Advanced Features: Includes features like bypass charging, an S Pen, and more comprehensive connectivity.
- Superior Screen Protection The S23U has Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.
- Software Support: The S23 Ultra has a much longer software support commitment and is expected to receive more updates.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The S23 Ultra is significantly heavier and bulkier than the OnePlus 9R.
- The OnePlus 9R has much faster charging.
- The OnePlus 9R will be much cheaper than the S23 Ultra.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9R Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize a more compact and lightweight design.
- Users who need rapid charging.
- Users on a budget seeking a smooth experience.
- Users who want dedicated depth and macro lenses.
- Users who value a clean software experience over a feature-rich one.
Use Cases for OnePlus 9R:
- Everyday tasks, web browsing, social media.
- Casual gaming.
- Users who want a good phone for basic photography/videography without breaking the bank.
- Ideal for users who are frequently on the go and need quick charging capabilities.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Ideal User:
- Users who demand the absolute best display quality.
- Users who require the most powerful performance.
- Users who need a professional-grade camera system.
- Users who want extended battery life for heavy usage.
- Users who value advanced features and longer software support.
- Users who need additional security or business tools like the S-Pen.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra:
- Professional photography and videography.
- Demanding mobile gaming.
- Heavy multitasking with multiple apps.
- Business users who require advanced productivity tools.
- Users who want the best possible experience regardless of cost.
- Anyone who values high-end media consumption
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The S23 Ultra is a much more expensive option.
- How important is camera quality and performance? The S23 Ultra offers dramatically superior cameras and performance.
- Do you prioritize compact design, weight, and faster charging? The 9R is better for these aspects.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-conscious, everyday user: If your budget is limited and your needs are met with good performance in day-to-day tasks, web browsing, social media and some gaming, the OnePlus 9R is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: Performance enthusiast: If you need the best possible performance for gaming, video editing, or other demanding tasks, the S23 Ultra is the clear choice.
- Scenario 3: Photography enthusiast: If photography is your passion, the S23 Ultra's advanced camera system, versatile zoom capabilities, and higher-quality sensors make it the preferred option.
- Scenario 4: Professional User: If you need additional features such as e-SIM, an S-Pen, high-fidelity audio, or a longer software commitment the S23 Ultra is the better option.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. While it is much more expensive than the OnePlus 9R, and I would lose the faster charging, the S23 Ultra provides a far better user experience for my needs. I value the superior display, the higher performance for gaming and multitasking, and the far more versatile camera system. I also want a device that will be future-proof and supported for a longer time. The significantly better camera quality and performance are essential to my use case.
While I acknowledge the value of the OnePlus 9R as a great mid-range option, for my specific requirements, the S23 Ultra’s capabilities justify the higher price tag, providing a top-of-the-line experience.
