Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9R vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9R | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip4 offers a unique compact form when folded, fits in smaller pockets. 9R is a typical slab phone. |
| Dimensions | 161 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | 165.2 × 71.9 × 6.9 mm | Z Flip4 is slightly taller and thinner, 9R is wider. 9R has a larger overall volume, Z Flip4 is more pocketable when folded. |
| Weight | 189g | 187g | Virtually identical weights, both feel similar in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.7" | Z Flip4 has a slightly larger display providing slightly more screen real estate for content consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Z Flip4 has a moderately higher resolution, resulting in a slightly sharper display with more detail. |
| Pixel Density | 402 PPI | 426 PPI | Z Flip4 has slightly sharper text and images due to a higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | 9R has a display with deeper blacks, higher contrast, and vibrant colors, and better power efficiency for dark themes | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Z Flip4 has significantly higher brightness making it more usable outdoors in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 (7nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm) | Z Flip4's newer chip provides faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in demanding games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 821,600 | 1,050,371 | Z Flip4 benchmarks higher, translating to a more fluid and responsive user experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 730 | Z Flip4's GPU offers better gaming performance and smoother graphics in demanding applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 3700mAh | 9R likely provides longer battery life due to a larger capacity. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 9R charges significantly faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging, Wireless Charging | Z Flip4 offers more versatile charging options, including wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 12.2MP | 9R has a higher resolution main camera, allowing for more detailed photos in good lighting conditions. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.7 | f/1.8 | 9R's wider aperture should perform slightly better in low-light. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/2.55" | 9R has a larger sensor, generally resulting in better low-light performance and more detail. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.40 µm | Z Flip4 has larger pixel size, leading to better low light performance and dynamic range |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 16MP | 10MP | 9R captures higher resolution selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.13" | 1/3.2" | 9R has slightly larger selfie sensor, potentially slightly better low-light selfie performance. |
| Selfie Camera Pixel Size | 1.00 µm | 1.22 µm | Z Flip4 has larger pixel size in selfie camera, improving light capture and detail. |
| Wide Angle Camera Resolution | 16MP | 13MP | 9R captures slightly higher resolution wide angle images. |
| Wide Angle Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.09" | 1/3.06" | Z Flip4 has slightly smaller wide angle sensor. |
| Wide Angle Camera Pixel Size | 1.00 µm | 1.12 µm | Z Flip4 has larger pixel size in ultrawide camera, improving light capture and detail. |
| Additional Cameras | Portrait & Macro Lens | None | 9R has dedicated lenses for portrait and macro photography. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Similar video recording capabilities but Z Flip4 can record in 720p@960 fps slow motion, while the 9R is limited to 1080p@240 fps |
| DxoMark Score | N/A | 112 (Mobile) | Z Flip4 has been benchmarked to have a good camera performance. |
| Camera Features | OIS, EIS, PDAF | OIS, PDAF, Tracking AF | Z Flip4's Tracking AF is excellent for following moving subjects. 9R offers additional features like RAW capture and manual focus. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10, Max Version 13 | Android 12, Max Version 14 | Z Flip4 has a newer Android version, offering newer features and extended software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer the latest Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, aptX, LE | 5.1, aptX, LE, ANT+ | Z Flip4 supports more Bluetooth profiles for various uses. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Z Flip4 has more accurate location tracking due to support of GLONASS (L1) and other additional sensors. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Z Flip4 offers flexibility with a traditional SIM and eSIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB, 256GB or 512GB | Z Flip4 offers a higher storage option, accommodating more media and apps. |
| RAM | 8GB or 12GB | 8GB | 9R provides an option with more RAM, beneficial for multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | 9R offers better audio features due to Dolby Atmos and noise cancelling mic. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Z Flip4's side-mounted sensor is more convenient to use and often more responsive. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip4 offers better scratch and impact protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyro, Compass, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Gyro, Compass, Proximity, Fingerprint, Barometer | Z Flip4 has more environmental sensors and features a larger suite of sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 9R has a significantly larger battery (4500mAh vs 3700mAh), which usually translates to longer battery life.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is substantially faster than the 25W on the Z Flip4, reducing charging times considerably.
- More RAM Options: The 9R offers a 12GB RAM option for heavy multitasking users.
- Dolby Atmos and Noise Cancellation: Enhanced audio experience with Dolby Atmos and a noise cancelling microphone.
- Additional Camera Lenses: Includes a dedicated macro lens and portrait mode.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Unique foldable form factor for better portability and a novelty.
- Superior Display Brightness: Much higher brightness (1200 nits) for outdoor visibility.
- Newer Chipset: More powerful Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset offering better performance.
- Superior Main Camera Pixel Size Larger pixel size on the main camera allows for better light gathering and low light performance.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: Versatile charging options adding convenience.
- eSIM Support: Allows for using a digital SIM alongside a physical one.
- Newer Android OS: Ships with a newer version of Android for better software support.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides stronger screen protection.
- Advanced Features: Tracking AF for camera and Side mounted finger print sensor.
- Environmental sensors: Barometer provides additional functionalities like altitude measurement.
Trade-offs:
- 9R: Larger battery and faster charging are traded for a standard design, lower chipset, lack of wireless charging, and a less durable display.
- Z Flip4: Better performance, foldable design, and more robust build quality come at the cost of a smaller battery, slower charging, and a higher price point.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for OnePlus 9R:
- Gamers: Benefit from the large battery, 12GB RAM option and faster charging.
- Heavy Multitaskers: The option of 12 GB of RAM supports intensive use.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life and Charging Speed: Ideal for those who hate running out of battery.
- Users wanting additional camera lenses: Macro and portrait lenses provide more creative photography options.
Use Cases for OnePlus 9R:
- Extended gaming sessions without the need for frequent charging.
- Long days away from power outlets without worrying about battery life.
- Multi-tasking between many applications seamlessly.
- Creative photography with a macro and portrait lens.
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4:
- Users Wanting Portability: The compact foldable design is ideal for those who have small pockets and want easy carrying of a large screen phone.
- Outdoor Users: The higher display brightness is essential for use in bright conditions.
- Performance Enthusiasts: The newer chipset provides better overall responsiveness.
- Fashion-Conscious Users: A stylish, unique device that stands out from the crowd.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who want the newest tech and features.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4:
- Taking and making calls with the phone folded in half.
- Using the cover screen for quick notifications.
- Enjoying media on a large, bright screen.
- Unique photography perspectives using Flex Mode.
- Using wireless charging at home or on the go.
- Utilizing the newest Android features.
Price-to-Value:
- The OnePlus 9R is typically more budget-friendly, offering a good balance of battery, performance, and speed at a lower price.
- The Samsung Z Flip4 is more expensive, but offers a unique folding design, more performance, better display and more features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your top priority: Battery life/charging speed or portability/unique design?
- Do you value the novelty of a folding phone, or prefer a more traditional form factor?
- What is your budget, and how much are you willing to pay for advanced features and better build quality?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If you are on a budget, need long battery life and quick charging, the OnePlus 9R is better.
- Scenario 2: Tech Enthusiast: If you want the latest tech with a unique design and premium features, and are willing to pay more, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the clear choice.
- Scenario 3: Outdoor User: If you frequently use your phone outdoors in bright sunlight, the Z Flip4's superior brightness is essential.
- Scenario 4: Gaming Enthusiast: While both devices can handle gaming, the 9R offers a better battery for longer gaming sessions. However, the Z Flip4 has a better performing chipset.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally pick the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. My rationale is as follows:
- Unique Form Factor: I find the foldable design very appealing and practical, especially for someone who often needs a compact phone but still desires a large screen for content consumption.
- Premium Experience: The Z Flip4 feels like a more premium device with its advanced features, newer chipset, and stronger build quality.
- Better Display: The higher brightness is a significant advantage for my use case.
- Newer Software: The newer Android version is important to me, as it ensures better software support and newer features.
- Better Camera: Despite the lower resolution, I prefer the better low light performance.
- Advanced Features: I enjoy the advanced features like wireless charging and tracking AF for the camera.
While the OnePlus 9R is a strong phone, the benefits of the foldable design, better display, and more performance with the Z Flip4 outweigh the advantages of a larger battery and faster charging in my case. The higher price is a trade-off, but the overall experience justifies the cost for me personally.
