Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9R vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9R | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Galaxy Z Flip6 is more compact when folded, allowing for better pocketability, while OnePlus 9R has a standard design. |
| Dimensions | 161 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | 165.1 × 71.9 × 6.9 mm | Z Flip6 is taller but narrower and thinner, OnePlus 9R is slightly larger overall with a larger volume making it slightly more difficult to hold one handed. |
| Weight | 189g | 187g | Both phones have a very similar weight, which means neither feels significantly heavier than the other in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.7" | Z Flip6 has a slightly larger screen; better for media consumption and browsing, but only by a small margin |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Z Flip6 has slightly sharper images due to higher pixel count, which results in a marginally clearer visual experience. |
| Pixel Density | 402 PPI | 426 PPI | Z Flip6 offers a slightly clearer display, although the difference may not be noticeable to all users. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | OnePlus 9R typically offers better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colours compared to standard LCDs, especially in darker themes with better power efficiency, assuming Z Flip6 does not use AMOLED. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer very smooth scrolling and animations for responsive user interaction, especially in games and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have the same peak brightness, although the practical usability of this is unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 (7nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) | Z Flip6 offers significantly faster performance with better energy efficiency which results in faster app launching, better multitasking and better gaming experience. |
| Antutu Score | 821,600 | 2,250,000 | Z Flip6 offers a far more superior performance, capable of handling intensive tasks and graphically demanding games with ease compared to OnePlus 9R. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 750 | Z Flip6 has a far more superior GPU for graphically demanding applications and games than OnePlus 9R. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 4000 mAh | OnePlus 9R is likely to offer longer battery life, especially during intensive use, which means fewer recharge cycles. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | OnePlus 9R offers much faster charging speeds, allowing a quick battery top-up during the day, reducing charging times significantly compared to Z Flip6. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass, Reverse, Wireless Charging | Z Flip6 offers more flexible battery management with bypass charging for extended use while plugged in, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging for other devices. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.7 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Z Flip6 has a slightly higher resolution camera, however the OnePlus 9R's wider aperture (f/1.7) allows more light in, typically better for low-light photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4 | 10MP, f/2.2 | OnePlus 9R has a higher-resolution selfie camera, but the Z Flip6's wider aperture (f/2.2) means better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle | 16MP, f/2.2 | 12MP, f/2.2 | OnePlus 9R has a higher-resolution wide-angle camera, which can capture more detail and is better for wide landscapes or group photos. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | OnePlus 9R offers dedicated depth sensor to improve portrait mode, while Z Flip6 likely uses software to achieve bokeh effect, potentially with less precision. |
| Macro Camera | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | OnePlus 9R allows for close-up shots with a dedicated macro lens, while the Z Flip6 lacks this feature. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR and EIS | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR | Both phones support 4K recording, however, it's unclear if Z Flip6 has EIS available for each setting. |
| DXOMARK | Not Tested | 132 (Overall Score) | Z Flip6 has an excellent camera according to DxOMark, while the OnePlus 9R has no testing available so it's impossible to properly compare. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 | Z Flip6 offers a much more modern operating system with the latest features, security updates, and better app compatibility compared to an older version of Android. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer similar fast Wi-Fi connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.3 | Z Flip6 has a newer Bluetooth version with more supported profiles for improved audio and peripheral connections. |
| GPS | Dual-band GPS | Dual-band GPS | Both offer similar precision and faster location locking, however, Z Flip6 also supports GLONASS L1 for better accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM/eSIM + eSIM | Z Flip6 allows for more flexible SIM management via eSIMs, useful for multiple plans and traveling. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 256/512GB | Z Flip6 offers more internal storage, which allows for more apps, photos, videos, and other files without worrying about running out of space. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 12 GB | Both provide sufficient memory for smooth multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage so you can't increase memory with a microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise Cancellation | Stereo Speakers | OnePlus 9R offers enhanced audio with Dolby Atmos for better sound quality and spatial audio, and noise cancellation microphone for clear voice calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | The Z Flip6 has more advanced fingerprint reader which is faster and more accessible. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Z Flip6 offers much better screen protection against scratches and drops using Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Proximity, Gravity, Hall, Geomagnetic | Z Flip6 has more advanced sensor suite which provides a range of accurate readings, better user experiences and is better for fitness tracking. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is significantly faster than the 25W charging of the Z Flip6. This is crucial for users who need quick battery top-ups and don't have time to wait for long charging sessions.
- Larger Battery: The 4500mAh battery offers more capacity than the Z Flip6's 4000mAh, resulting in potentially longer battery life between charges and less "range anxiety" throughout the day.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and noise cancellation microphone offer a superior audio experience during music playback and calls.
- Camera Versatility: Dedicated macro and depth lenses give more flexibility in photography, whereas Z Flip6 does not have these.
- Potentially Lower Price: The OnePlus 9R is an older model and will likely be much cheaper, offering a more budget-friendly option, especially if you are not looking for all of the flagship features.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Its unique foldable form factor offers a more compact profile when closed, providing both style and pocketability.
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset offers significantly faster performance for demanding apps and gaming.
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 14, providing the latest features, security updates and improved application compatibility.
- Better Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3 offers more supported profiles, enhancing audio and connectivity.
- Superior Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 offers much better scratch and impact resistance.
- More Flexible SIM Options: eSIM support offers more flexible SIM card management, especially useful for travel.
- Wireless Charging: Supports both wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- Better Camera: The DxOMark scores indicate superior camera quality, especially when compared to the unknown capabilities of the 9R.
- Advanced Sensor Suite: The additional sensors allows for more accurate readings and better functionality for gaming.
- Significantly Higher Antutu Score: The device has a much faster CPU performance, better for intensive apps and demanding games.
Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9R sacrifices performance and some advanced features for a lower cost and faster charging and longer battery life.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 sacrifices some battery capacity and charging speeds for superior processing power, innovative design, wireless charging and cutting-edge features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9R Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users: Seeking a mid-range phone with good performance and battery life at a lower price point than a flagship.
- Users who prioritize battery life and fast charging: Individuals who need their phone to last all day and can't afford to be tethered to a charger for too long.
- Multimedia Consumers: Appreciates enhanced audio and good video playback experience.
- Users who want more camera flexibility: People who like to experiment with macro shots and take portraits using a dedicated depth sensor.
Specific Use Cases for OnePlus 9R:
- Daily driver for social media, web browsing, and streaming with good audio.
- Casual gaming and everyday tasks without pushing the phone to its performance limits.
- Long days away from power outlets, needing reliable battery life and fast charging.
- Users looking for a good phone for media consumption with a decent display.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 Ideal User:
- Tech enthusiasts: Who appreciate innovative design and cutting-edge technology.
- Users who want high performance: Gamers and users who need a phone that can handle demanding tasks.
- Users who prioritize photography: Individuals who want to capture high-quality images and video.
- Users who value style and portability: Those who want a stylish, compact phone that easily fits in a pocket.
- Frequent Travelers: Those who need flexible SIM card options and the ability to switch between carriers easily.
Specific Use Cases for Galaxy Z Flip6:
- Demanding mobile games with high graphics settings and smooth gameplay.
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos for social media or professional purposes.
- Travelers who require dual-SIM functionality through eSIM.
- Power users who juggle multiple tasks and require the latest features.
- Users who like to be stylish with a unique looking phone and want to benefit from its compact form factor.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a smartphone? The OnePlus 9R should be significantly cheaper, so this will likely be the biggest influence.
- Performance Needs: Do you need the absolute best performance for heavy gaming or demanding apps, or are you okay with a more moderate performance level?
- Battery Life & Charging: Do you prioritize long battery life and fast charging, or are you fine with standard charging speeds?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Budget): If you're on a budget and need a phone with good battery life and fast charging, the OnePlus 9R is the better choice.
- Scenario 2 (Performance): If you prioritize peak performance, the latest features and innovative design, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 is the better option, even with a higher cost.
- Scenario 3 (Photography): If you want a versatile camera with more modes and additional features the OnePlus 9R would be a better option, however if you want a flagship experience, and superior image processing, the Samsung Z Flip6 would be the better choice.
- Scenario 4 (Portability and Style): If you want something that is compact and stylish, the Galaxy Z Flip6 is the clear choice.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6. Despite the higher price point and slightly slower charging, the advantages are far too important. The superior performance offered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, coupled with a more modern operating system and an innovative foldable design, makes it an overall more appealing device. The significantly higher Antutu score and enhanced gaming performance also align better with my needs for a device that can handle demanding apps and games without lagging. The wireless charging is also an important addition as I am also considering to purchase other wireless charging devices. I am less concerned about the battery capacity, as I am usually within range of a power source. Although the 9R has excellent features, the 65W charging and enhanced audio is not enough to justify picking it over a flagship, premium phone.
