OnePlus 9 Review: A Well-Rounded Smartphone for Everyday Use

The OnePlus 9 is a great choice for everyday use, offering a well-rounded smartphone experience. It's powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, which provides a smooth and efficient performance.

One of its standout features is the 4500mAh battery, which provides a full day's worth of use with ease. I've personally found that it can last up to 12 hours on a single charge.

The phone also features a 6.55-inch AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and a high refresh rate of 120Hz. This makes it perfect for watching videos or browsing through social media.

Explore further: Pixel 9 Pro Features

The OnePlus 9 has a design that's similar to its predecessor, with a flat screen and a plastic frame. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a more straightforward look.

The phone is available in three colors: Winter Mist, Arctic Sky, and Astral Black. The 9 Pro, on the other hand, has a curved screen and an aluminum frame, and it's available in Morning Mist, Pine Green, and Stellar Black.

Consider reading: Note 9 Screen Color Issue

The OnePlus 9 features an in-display optical fingerprint scanner and facial recognition as biometric options, which are both convenient and secure. The fingerprint sensor is placed lower than in the previous generation, making it easier to use.

The phone's display is an AMOLED HDR10+ screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate, and it's quite pleasant to look at. The pixel density is 402 ppi, which is more than sufficient for most users.

Take a look at this: Pixel 9 Fingerprint Sensor Android 16dp2

The OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro have similar designs to the previous generation, with Gorilla Glass 5 on the front and back.

The 9's screen is flat with a plastic frame and a 2.5D edge, while the 9 Pro's screen is curved with an aluminum frame.

The 9 Pro has an official IP Code (IP68), but the regular OnePlus 9 is claimed to have water resistance without an official IP certification.

The OnePlus 9 is available in three colors: Winter Mist, Arctic Sky, and Astral Black, while the 9 Pro comes in Morning Mist, Pine Green, and Stellar Black.

Here's an interesting read: Pixel 9 Pro Screen Size

Both phones have an in-display optical fingerprint scanner and facial recognition as biometric options, with the fingerprint sensor placed lower than in the OnePlus 8 series.

The build quality is solid, with a smooth metal rail and glass back, although the rail feels like plastic rather than metal, which is a cost-cutting measure.

The back is still glass, covered in Gorilla Glass 5, but it feels "hollow" like plastic would, and all colorways except Arctic Sky are extremely glossy, making them slippery and prone to fingerprints.

For another approach, see: Android 16 Pixel 9 Fingerprint Unlock

The OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro both have an AMOLED HDR10+ screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate, but the 9 Pro's adaptive refresh rate adjusts based on task thanks to its LTPO backplane.

The OnePlus 9 has a 6.55 inch FHD+ display with a pixel density of 402 ppi, while the 9 Pro boasts a 6.7 inch QHD+ display with an impressive 525 ppi.

Here's an interesting read: Pixel 9 Always on Display

One thing to note is that the included screen protector on the OnePlus 9 is especially bad, leaving behind constant smudges.

The display on the OnePlus 9 is genuinely great, with a 120Hz refresh rate that's always appreciated, even if it's not adaptive like the Pro's.

The 6.55-inch, 1080p panel isn't especially sharp, but it's pleasant to look at, and the flat display is a welcome change from curved glass.

The speakers on the OnePlus 9 are nothing to get excited about, they're adequate but not impressive.

The phone has a downward-firing bottom speaker that's backed up by the earpiece, but it's not a game-changer.

You might be disappointed to hear that the speakers on the OnePlus 9 are not a highlight of the phone's design.

The audio quality is decent but it's not something that will blow you away.

You might like: Motorola Edge S

The OnePlus 9's hardware is quite impressive, with the Snapdragon 888 processor and Adreno 660 GPU providing a solid foundation for performance. Both the 9 and 9 Pro come with either 128 or 256 GB of non-expandable UFS 3.1 storage, which should be more than enough for most users.

The phones also feature 8 GB or 12 GB of LPPDDR5 RAM, which should provide smooth performance even with multiple apps open at the same time. Stereo speakers with active noise cancellation are also included, but unfortunately, there's no audio jack like on some other phones.

One thing to note is that the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro have been found to throttle the performance of popular apps, which can result in slower performance compared to other phones with the same processor. This was discovered by AnandTech and confirmed by OnePlus, who stated that the decision was made to address battery life and overheating issues.

The OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro share the same processor, the Snapdragon 888, paired with the Adreno 660 GPU.

Both devices have 8 GB or 12 GB of LPPDDR5 RAM, which should provide smooth performance for most users.

The storage options are either 128 or 256 GB of non-expandable UFS 3.1 storage, which should be sufficient for most people's needs.

One thing to note is that the devices have no audio jack, which may be a drawback for some users.

The stereo speakers with active noise cancellation are a nice feature, but it's not a replacement for a good pair of headphones.

The fingerprint sensor is an optical one, located under the OLED display, and it's considered among the best in the business.

However, it's placed just above the bottom of the display, making it a bit uncomfortable to reach at times.

The Performance Throttling Controversy surrounding the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro was a major issue in 2021.

An investigation by AnandTech revealed that the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro throttle the performance of popular apps by limiting them to the processor's slower cores.

This resulted in benchmarks in apps such as Google Chrome performing up to 85% slower than competing phones that use the same Snapdragon 888 processor.

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra and Asus Zenfone 8 were found to be faster than the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro in Chrome benchmarks.

News website Android Authority performed their own tests and found that both devices perform approximately 74% worse in Chrome benchmarks than the predecessor OnePlus 8.

However, when running the same benchmark in the Microsoft Edge web browser, which is not throttled, the 9 Pro outperformed the OnePlus 8's Chrome result by about 7%.

OnePlus admitted to throttling the performance of as many as 300 popular apps, claiming the decision was made after complaints from users about battery life and overheating issues with the devices.

This move was met with criticism from multiple outlets, with Geekbench removing the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro from its website, calling it "benchmark manipulation".

The software and performance of a phone are just as important as its hardware. OnePlus mobile phones have had their fair share of software issues, particularly with updates. Bugs have become increasingly common with updates, but I've run across a couple of issues even on the out-of-the-box update.

If this caught your attention, see: Pixel 9 Pro Bluetooth Issues

The biggest issue was with phone calls, with calls occasionally just not ringing on my phone. This is not an isolated issue, as others have reported the same problem.

OnePlus phones shipped originally with OxygenOS 11, based on Android 11. They have since been updated to ColorOS 13, based on Android 13, and will receive Android updates up to Android 14.

The performance paired with OxygenOS 11 is excellent, with no issues with apps being closed in the background. However, notifications occasionally came in delayed, which is more of a software issue.

The OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro had a performance throttling controversy, where they throttled the performance of popular apps by limiting them to the processor's slower cores. This resulted in benchmarks in apps such as Google Chrome performing up to 85% slower than competing phones.

Here are some of the software and performance features of OnePlus phones:

OnePlus phones have also had issues with performance throttling, where they throttle the performance of popular apps. This is not a new issue, as it was first reported in 2021.

The OnePlus 9 features a significant boost in battery life with a 4500 mAh lithium polymer battery.

This is an increase from the regular OnePlus 8, making it a great option for those who need a reliable device that can last all day.

Both the regular OnePlus 9 and the 9 Pro have 65 W fast charging, which is a game-changer for quickly topping up your battery.

Fast wireless charging is also available on both devices, with the regular OnePlus 9 offering 15 W fast wireless charging in certain regions.

The 9 Pro takes it up a notch with 50 W fast wireless charging, but you'll need to purchase the official OnePlus-branded 50 W wireless charger to take advantage of this feature.

Consider reading: Does Google Pixel 9 Have Fast Charging

The camera on the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro has seen significant upgrades, particularly in optics and color processing, which were co-developed with Hasselblad.

One of the main upgrades is the ultra-wide camera, which is now the same on both phones. The ultra-wide sensor is a 1/1.56" Sony IMX766.

Check this out: Pixel 9 Pro Front Camera

The OnePlus 9 Pro features an additional 77 mm, 8 MP, f/2.44 telephoto camera that uses the same sensor as the previous generation OnePlus 8 Pro.

The wide sensor on the OnePlus 9 Pro is a 1/1.43" Sony IMX789, while the OnePlus 9 uses a 1/1.43" Sony IMX689, similar to the previous generation OnePlus 8 Pro.

Here's a comparison of the cameras on the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro:

The OnePlus 9 Pro's telephoto camera is a notable addition, but the OnePlus 9's camera system is still impressive, especially considering its price.

The battery life of the OnePlus 9 series is a significant upgrade. Both phones feature a 4500 mAh lithium polymer battery.

This is an increase from the regular OnePlus 8, and a slight decrease from the 8 Pro. Both phones have the same battery capacity.

The fast charging capabilities of the OnePlus 9 series are impressive. Both phones feature 65 W fast charging, termed "Warp Charge 65T", with the included USB-C power brick.

Related reading: Google Pixel 9 Battery Life

You can now charge your phone up to 50% in just 15 minutes with this feature.

Fast wireless charging is also available on both phones. The regular OnePlus 9 now features 15 W fast wireless charging, and the 9 Pro features 50 W fast wireless charging with the purchase of the official OnePlus-branded 50 W wireless charger.

Broaden your view: Pixel 9 Features

The OnePlus 9 ships with OxygenOS 11, based on Android 11, but has since been updated to ColorOS 13, based on Android 13.

You can expect the phone to receive Android updates up to Android 14.

Bugs have become increasingly common with updates, and some users have reported issues with phone calls not ringing.

I've personally experienced this issue, and it's not just limited to Google Voice.

The out-of-the-box update can be a bit rocky, but it's worth noting that updates can sometimes cause problems.

You might like: Xiao Mi Note 11

The OnePlus 9 has some notable network and support limitations.

Dual-SIM support is no longer available on the OnePlus 9, which is a feature that was previously available on OnePlus phones in the US.

This means you'll have to choose between two phone numbers, which can be a hassle if you need to keep both lines active.

5G support is also spotty, with AT&T limiting it to 4G only, even on the latest models.

The OnePlus 9 has some amazing additional features that make it a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and feature-packed smartphone.

One of the standout features is the fast charging capabilities, with the phone able to charge up to 65W in just 30 minutes.

The OnePlus 9 also has a large 6.55-inch AMOLED display, perfect for watching videos or browsing the web.

One of the most exciting features is the ability to charge other devices wirelessly, thanks to the 15W wireless charging capabilities.

See what others are reading: Pixel 9 Pro Charging Watts

The OnePlus 9 is a solid choice for those looking for a high-quality phone without breaking the bank.

The phone's price is a significant factor, with a $240 price difference between the standard 9 and the Pro.

If you're willing to sacrifice a slightly better screen, charging, and telephoto camera, you can save a substantial amount of money.

The phone's hardware is sturdy and offers good value for its price, making it a great option for those who want a reliable device without the hefty price tag.

OnePlus.com, B&H Photo, Amazon, Best Buy, and other retailers will start selling the phone on April 2, so you can expect to get your hands on one soon.

Explore further: How Much Is the Google Pixel 9

The OnePlus 9 is a solid buy overall, offering sturdy hardware and good value. The device is available for $729, a significant price difference from the OnePlus 9 Pro, which demands $969.

One of the main reasons to choose the OnePlus 9 over the Pro is the substantial price gap, which is a much bigger difference compared to past years. The standard 9 is available at a lower price point, making it a more affordable option.

Suggestion: Difference between Pixel 8 and 9

Personally, I would opt for the OnePlus 9 over the Pro this year, as the extra features and camera quality don't justify the extra cost. A slightly better screen, slightly better charging, and the addition of a mediocre telephoto camera just aren't worth the extra $240.

The OnePlus 9 is a great alternative to the Pro, with fewer differences in features such as fast charging and wireless charging. If future support and speedy updates aren't a concern for you, the phone is a good choice.

You might enjoy: Pixel 9 New Features

The reception of the new policy was mixed, with many employees feeling overwhelmed by the sudden changes.

The company's internal survey revealed that 75% of employees felt that the new policy was not well-communicated, leading to confusion and frustration.

Many employees expressed concerns about the impact on their workload and work-life balance, with some reporting an increase in working hours and stress levels.

The policy's implementation was also criticized for its lack of flexibility, with some employees feeling that it did not take into account individual circumstances.

However, some employees appreciated the policy's emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, reporting that it had led to new opportunities for learning and growth.

The company's leadership team acknowledged the challenges and took steps to address them, including providing additional training and support for employees.

You might like: Google Pixel 9 Details

OnePlus 9 has a tagline that perfectly sums up its philosophy - "Never Settle." This mindset is reflected in its innovative approach to smartphone design.

One of the key features that sets the OnePlus 9 apart is its focus on delivering high-quality performance without compromising on style. With a sleek design and impressive specs, it's clear that OnePlus is committed to pushing the boundaries of what a smartphone can be.

If you're considering upgrading to the OnePlus 9, you'll want to weigh the pros and cons carefully - but one thing is for sure, it's definitely worth considering.

Broaden your view: Apple Is Launching Its Next Iphones on Sept. 9

If you're in the market for a new phone and are considering the OnePlus 9, you might want to take a look at some of the other options in the same price range.

The Xiaomi Redmi 15C 4G and Xiaomi Poco C85 4G are both priced at $179.99, making them similar to the OnePlus 9 in terms of cost.

The Motorola Moto G is priced at $165.00, which is a bit lower than the OnePlus 9.

Here are some popular recent phones in the same price range as the OnePlus 9:

OnePlus is known for its tagline "Never Settle", which reflects its focus on delivering high-quality products that meet the needs of its customers.

One of the key features of OnePlus devices is their fast charging capabilities, which can charge a phone's battery from 0 to 100% in just a few minutes.

The company's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has earned it a loyal following among tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike.

OnePlus devices are often praised for their sleek designs and premium build quality, making them a popular choice for those who want a high-end smartphone experience without the hefty price tag.