Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9R vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
Feature | OnePlus 9R | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Fold3 offers a unique foldable design with a large inner screen, while 9R is a conventional slab phone. |
Dimensions | 161 x 74.1 x 8.4 mm | 158.2 x 128.1 x 6.4 mm (Unfolded) | 9R is taller, Z Fold3 is significantly wider when unfolded and thinner. Z Fold3 has a larger overall volume. |
Weight | 189g | 271g | 9R is much lighter and more comfortable for extended single-handed use; Z Fold3 will feel noticeably heavier. |
Display
Feature | OnePlus 9R | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
Size | 6.55" | 7.6" | Z Fold3 provides a significantly larger screen for immersive media consumption and multitasking; 9R is more pocketable and easier to use with one hand. |
Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1768x2208 | Z Fold3 offers much higher pixel density for sharper visuals and a better experience, especially for detailed content. |
PPI | 402 | 374 | 9R is slightly sharper for standard phone use; the difference is unlikely to be noticeable for most users at typical viewing distances. |
Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | 9R has superior display technology (AMOLED), offering richer colors, deeper blacks, and better energy efficiency for dark themes; information missing for the Fold3. |
Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations; 120Hz is beneficial for gamers and users who prefer fluid visuals. |
Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have similar peak brightness; brightness will be limited in very bright sunlight for both phones. |
Performance
Feature | OnePlus 9R | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
Chipset | Snapdragon 870 (7 nm) | Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Z Fold3's chipset is slightly newer and faster, resulting in marginally better performance, especially in demanding tasks. |
AnTuTu Score | 821,600 | 898,700 | Z Fold3 performs better in benchmarks; The difference is noticeable under heavy loads like gaming, though not drastically so. |
GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 660 | Z Fold3's GPU is more powerful, providing improved graphics performance for gaming and graphically intensive apps. |
Camera
Feature | OnePlus 9R | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.7, 1/2", 0.8µm | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.8µm | 9R offers higher resolution, while Z Fold3 has larger pixels for better low-light performance; Z Fold3 has a slightly larger sensor. Image processing will determine real world results. |
Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13", 1.0µm | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm | 9R has higher resolution, Z Fold3 has larger pixels; real world performance will be based on image processing and sensor quality. |
Telephoto Lens | N/A | 12MP, f/2.4 | Z Fold3 offers optical zoom, while 9R doesn't; Allows for closer shots without digital zoom artifacts. |
Wide Angle Lens | 16MP, f/2.2, 1/3.09", 1.0µm | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", 1.12µm | 9R has a higher resolution wide angle lens, while Fold3 has larger pixels; Real world results will depend on image processing. |
Depth Sensor | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | 9R has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode; Z Fold3 uses software based depth mapping. |
Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | N/A | 9R has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots; Z Fold3 does not. |
Video Recording | 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps, HDR, EIS | 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps, 720p@960fps, HDR, EIS | Both offer similar recording quality with 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps, the Fold3 also has 720p@960fps capabilities; HDR and EIS are offered on both phones for stable and vibrant videos. |
DxOMark | N/A | Mobile: 120, Selfie: 83 | Z Fold3 has better photo and video quality as tested by DxOMark. |
Camera Features | Quad camera, OIS, PDAF, 4K video, etc. | Triple camera, OIS, PDAF, Laser AF, 4K video, Under display camera, Night Mode, etc. | 9R offers a more general approach with a quad camera setup while the Fold3 has a Triple camera setup with unique features like a dedicated Telephoto Lens, Under display camera, Laser AF, and Night Mode. |
Battery
Feature | OnePlus 9R | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
Capacity | 4500mAh | 4400mAh | Both offer comparable battery life for typical usage, the difference of 100mAh is not significantly noticeable. |
Charging | 65W fast charging | 25W fast charging | 9R charges significantly faster, reducing time spent tethered to a wall socket, while Fold3 charges at a lower speed. |
Features | Non-removable | Non-removable, Wireless charging, Reverse charging, Bypass Charging, Reverse wireless charging | Z Fold3 offers more battery feature such as wireless charging, and reverse charging; Both have non removable battery. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Significantly lighter (82g less) and more compact, making it more comfortable for one-handed use and portability.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging is much faster than the Z Fold3's 25W, which will be very noticeable for users who need to quickly top-up.
- More Standard Camera System: Has more cameras, Macro and Depth camera with higher resolutions than Z Fold3.
- Lower Price: Typically more affordable than the foldable Z Fold3, providing good value for the price.
- Slightly Higher PPI: Sharper display at usual viewing distances.
- Noise Cancellation Microphone: Better audio experience.
- More GPS systems: For better location accuracy.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G Advantages:
- Unique Foldable Design: Offers a large 7.6" inner display for immersive media consumption and multitasking, making it unique and versatile.
- Better Performance: The Snapdragon 888 and Adreno 660 provide better performance, especially in graphically demanding games and applications.
- Superior Display Tech: Unknown display tech but typically, Samsung leads in display quality, which may exceed that of the 9R's AMOLED.
- Telephoto Lens: Enables optical zoom, which is ideal for photographers who want better image quality.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: Offers convenient ways to charge the phone and other devices.
- More Storage: 256GB base storage and option for 512GB.
- More Software Updates: The Z Fold3 can be updated to Android 15.
- More Advanced Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2 with more profile support.
- eSIM Support: Digital carrier switching.
- Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.
- Barometer: Additional sensor.
- Better Photo and Video Scores: As tested by DxOMark.
- Additional Camera Features: Under display camera, and laser autofocus.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Weight: The Z Fold3 is significantly heavier, which could be a drawback for some users.
- Price: The Z Fold3 is considerably more expensive than the 9R, making it a premium device.
- Charging Speed: Slower charging speed on the Z Fold3 compared to the 9R.
- Portability: The Z Fold3 is less pocketable due to its large folded form factor.
- Depth and Macro Cameras: Z Fold3 lacks a depth and macro camera which the 9R has.
- Missing Display Technology: Missing technology on the Z Fold3 can't be compared to AMOLED on the 9R.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for OnePlus 9R:
- Price-Conscious Users: Those who want a high-performing phone without breaking the bank.
- Everyday Users: People who want a reliable, fast phone for daily tasks like browsing, social media, and multimedia consumption.
- Mobile Gamers: Casual and moderate gamers who appreciate fast performance, high refresh rates and fast charging.
- Users Prioritizing Portability: Those who prefer a lighter and more compact phone for comfortable handling.
- Users who want a Macro and Depth Camera: Those who require those specific cameras.
Use Cases:
- Daily communication and social media
- Casual gaming and streaming videos
- General productivity on the go
- Photography with good lighting conditions
- Fast charging on the go
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G:
- Power Users: Professionals and tech enthusiasts who need a versatile device for multitasking, productivity, and media consumption.
- Multimedia Lovers: Those who want an immersive experience for watching videos, reading books, and browsing the web.
- Users who want the latest tech: Those who want a premium, cutting-edge device with unique features like a foldable screen.
- Users who value top-tier image quality: Professionals that need good photo and video capabilities.
- Users who prioritize wireless charging: Those who want convenient charging features.
Use Cases:
- Multitasking with multiple apps on the large screen
- Immersive video streaming and gaming
- Professional tasks and productivity on the go
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos
- Taking advantage of wireless charging and reverse charging
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- Budget: Are you willing to invest in a high-end foldable phone, or are you looking for a good value smartphone?
- Form Factor: Do you prefer a standard, lighter phone, or are you interested in the unique advantages of a foldable design?
- Primary Use: Will you mostly be using the phone for daily tasks, or do you require features for more demanding applications, like high-end gaming and pro-level photography?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious, Everyday User: If you're on a budget and need a reliable phone for daily use, the OnePlus 9R is the better choice, offering fast charging and decent performance at a lower price point.
- Scenario 2: Productivity and Multimedia Enthusiast: If you want a versatile device for multitasking and immersive media consumption, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is the better option, despite its higher price and heavier form factor.
- Scenario 3: Mobile Gamer: If gaming is a priority, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G will offer slightly better performance, while the OnePlus 9R provides a better price-to-performance ratio if money is a concern.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G if price isn't a major concern. While the OnePlus 9R is an excellent phone, the Z Fold3's unique foldable design and large inner display are incredibly appealing for my use cases of multi-tasking and media consumption. The better performance and the more advanced camera system are also factors that put it slightly ahead. The wireless charging is also a nice extra that would fit into my use case.
However, the weight of the Z Fold3 is a concern, and if I needed something lighter and cheaper, the OnePlus 9R would be the more sensible option. In such a case I would value the 65W charging and lower price more. In the end, it comes down to use case, but the Z Fold3 is the better phone for my preference.