Editor’s note, Jan. 12: The OnePlus 10 Pro just released in China, and we’re still learning about OnePlus‘ 2022 phone line. But if …
Editor’s note, Jan.12: The OnePlus 10 Pro just released in China, and we’re still learning about OnePlus‘ 2022 phone line. But if you are considering the OnePlus 9, know that even though it’s not the highest-performing phone in the lineup, it’s still got great specs all round and comes at a price that makes it a solid option for anyone shopping on a budget. And despite a delay in its Android 12 rollout in December, the OnePlus 9 is now receiving OxygenOS 12, which is based on Google’s newest operating system. That balance of features and price has earned it a CNET Editors‘ Choice Award. Our updated review follows. When I reviewed the OnePlus 9 last year, I said it was one of the best and more affordable phones you can buy. Its excellent performance, superb battery life, decent camera and super fast charging meant it was a better value than its pricier OnePlus 9 Pro sibling. That’s why it earned that coveted CNET Editors‘ Choice Award. But since then we’ve seen the launch of phones like the Google Pixel 6, which also earned a glowing review thanks to its great camera, slick Android 12 interface and good overall performance. And at $599, the Pixel 6 is exactly the same price as the OnePlus 9. Undoubtedly the OnePlus 9’s biggest competition today, the Pixel is the better choice if you want the neat features of Android 12 and a superior main camera. Sure, Google’s Tensor processor promises improvements to AI, but we haven’t seen much of that yet. The OnePlus 9’s top-end Qualcomm chip makes it an absolute powerhouse, while its stronger battery life and stellar fast charging makes it excel if power is an issue. That said, The Pixel 6’s aluminum and glass design feels markedly more premium than the OnePlus 9’s. Plus, the Pixel comes with an IP68 rating for waterproofing — something not found on the OnePlus 9. Then there’s the newly-launched Samsung Galaxy S21 FE, which also performed well in our review and offers a lot of high-end features at a more reasonable price than the flagship S21. But it still costs $700, making the OnePlus 9 the more economical choice for cash-strapped buyers. And let’s not forget the upcoming Galaxy S22, which is expected in February.
