OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ – Full Comparison
Comparing a smartphone and a tablet is unusual, but these two devices serve different core purposes. The OnePlus Nord CE 5G is a mid-range smartphone with strong performance and camera capabilities, while the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is a large-screen tablet optimized for productivity and media consumption.
Here's a structured breakdown to help you decide which fits your needs.
📊 Specifications Breakdown
1. Design & Portability
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 285.4 × 185.4 × 6.5 mm | The Nord CE 5G is pocketable and easy to use one-handed, while the Tab S9 FE+ requires two hands or a stand. |
| Weight | 170g | 627g | The Nord is 457g lighter, making it much better for carrying around all day. |
| Build Quality | Standard plastic build | Premium aluminum frame | The Tab S9 FE+ feels more premium but is much bulkier. |
Verdict: The Nord CE 5G wins for mobility, while the Tab S9 FE+ is a better stationary device for desk or couch use.
2. Display & Media Experience
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 12.4" IPS LCD | The Tab S9 FE+ is nearly twice as large, great for movies & multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1600x2560 (243 PPI) | The Nord CE 5G is sharper, but the Tab’s size makes up for lower PPI. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | No official rating | The Nord CE 5G is far better in sunlight—critical for outdoor use. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both are smooth, but AMOLED on the Nord means better contrast & colors. |
Verdict: The Tab S9 FE+ is a superior media & productivity device due to its size, but the Nord CE 5G offers a better display tech and outdoor visibility.
3. Performance & Software
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G 5G (8nm) | Exynos 1380 (5nm) | The Exynos 1380 is newer and more efficient, with 32% higher benchmark scores. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 8/12GB | The Tab S9 FE+ has better multitasking potential, especially with DeX. |
| Storage | 128/256GB (no expansion) | 128/256GB (no expansion) | Neither has expandable storage—go for the 256GB model if you need space. |
| Software | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 13 (up to 17) | The Tab S9 FE+ has longer software support, crucial for security updates. |
Verdict: The Tab S9 FE+ is more powerful and future-proof, but the Nord CE 5G is still capable for daily smartphone tasks.
4. Cameras
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79) | 12MP (f/2.0) | The Nord CE 5G has a much better sensor—sharper, better in low light. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Similar, but the Nord’s slightly wider aperture helps in dimmer conditions. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | 8MP | The Nord CE 5G is significantly better for selfies & video calls. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps (EIS) | 4K@30fps | Both support 4K, but the Nord has better stabilization and slow-motion (240fps vs. 60fps). |
Verdict: The Nord CE 5G is the clear winner for photography—tablets are rarely good for serious photography.
5. Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 10,090mAh | The Tab S9 FE+ lasts much longer—ideal for all-day work or travel. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 45W | The Tab S9 FE+ charges faster despite the larger battery. |
| Bypass Charging | No | Yes | Useful for gaming without battery degradation. |
Verdict: The Tab S9 FE+ dominates in battery life, while the Nord CE 5G is decent for a phone but not exceptional.
🔍 Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✅ Better camera system (64MP main, 16MP selfie, better video)
✅ More portable & comfortable to hold (170g vs. 627g)
✅ Superior display for brightness & sharpness (AMOLED, 700 nits)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ Strengths
✅ Massive 12.4" screen—great for multitasking & media
✅ Much better battery life (10,090mAh + 45W charging)
✅ Superior performance (Exynos 1380 vs. Snapdragon 750G)
✅ Longer software support (up to Android 17)
👥 User Profiles & Recommendations
Choose the OnePlus Nord CE 5G if you:
- Need a portable daily driver with a great camera.
- Prefer a sharper, brighter display for outdoor use.
- Don’t need a tablet-sized device.
Choose the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ if you:
- Want a large-screen tablet for movies, gaming, or productivity.
- Need better battery life and faster charging.
- Plan to use Samsung DeX for laptop-like productivity.
❓ Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I need a smartphone or a tablet? (The biggest factor—they serve different purposes!)
- How important is camera quality? (Nord CE 5G wins easily.)
- Will I use it for media/work on the go? (Tab S9 FE+ is better for long sessions.)
🏆 Final Choice: What Would I Pick?
If I needed a phone: OnePlus Nord CE 5G—better camera, portability, and display.
If I needed a tablet: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+—better battery, performance, and productivity features.
💡 Since these devices serve different roles, the best choice depends on your primary use case. If I had to pick one, I’d go with the Nord CE 5G as a daily driver and consider the Tab S9 FE+ as a secondary device for media/work.
