The comparison between the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the OnePlus Open highlights the strengths of both foldable smartphones, priced at €1899 and €1849 respectively. The Pixel excels in display quality and software support, while the OnePlus offers better battery life and rapid charging capabilities. In photography, the Pixel produces warmer, more consistent images, whereas the OnePlus features superior specifications. Ultimately, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold emerges as the more balanced choice for users seeking a foldable device.
The folding smartphone market is gaining momentum! In this exciting comparison, we delve into the offerings of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the OnePlus Open, both of which present strong cases in the world of foldable devices. With prices starting at €1899 for the Pixel and €1849 for the OnePlus, the question arises: which of these innovative smartphones reigns supreme? Let’s explore the details.
Technical Specifications of Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and OnePlus Open
Both the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and OnePlus Open are inspired by Samsung’s popular Galaxy Fold, providing users with a traditional smartphone experience that unfolds into a tablet-sized display.
However, the dimensions of these two devices differ. The OnePlus Open is slightly shorter and narrower than the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which boasts a thinner profile at just 5.1 mm when unfolded and 10.5 mm when closed. In contrast, the OnePlus Open measures nearly 6 mm and 12 mm, respectively.
In terms of weight, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a bit heftier at 257 grams compared to the OnePlus Open’s 239 grams, which is still lighter than an iPhone 14 Pro Max.
Both smartphones feature a near-square aspect ratio that enhances usability, and the external screen remains practical on both models. During our tests, the crease in the display was not a significant issue for our reviewers. However, the Pixel’s hinge stands out, allowing for a broader range of screen positioning. The OnePlus, however, can only open to 90° or 180°, limiting its adjustability.
When it comes to durability, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold shines with an IPX8 rating, ensuring protection against accidental immersion. In contrast, the OnePlus Open only offers splash resistance with an IPX4 rating.
A Superior Display Experience
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold boasts a larger 8-inch display when unfolded, while the OnePlus Open offers a higher resolution at 426 ppi compared to the Pixel’s 373 ppi.
Nonetheless, Google’s device excels in brightness, reaching a peak of over 2700 nits, while the OnePlus Open maxes out at 1250 nits. This makes the Pixel 9 Pro Fold the clear winner in screen quality.
In terms of color accuracy, both devices are fairly comparable, although the Pixel has a slight edge with broader coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut. The front display of the Pixel also outshines the OnePlus in brightness and calibration, though the OnePlus Open offers better responsiveness with a refresh rate that can dip to 10 Hz, while the Pixel’s display is capped at 60 Hz.
Both smartphones provide a satisfying software experience, with Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold featuring advanced AI capabilities integrated into its ecosystem, thanks to the Gemini assistant. While OnePlus is expected to improve its AI features over time, Google currently holds a significant advantage.
In terms of interface, both devices are well-optimized for foldable displays, with the OnePlus Open offering robust multitasking options. When it comes to software updates, Google promises an impressive seven years of support for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, compared to the four years offered by OnePlus.
Under the hood, the OnePlus Open is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, showcasing the latest technology. However, the performance of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, equipped with the Tensor G4 chip, remains competitive. Google prioritizes a smooth user experience over raw performance, making both devices capable of handling various tasks, although the OnePlus may edge ahead in GPU-intensive activities.
Camera Capabilities
When it comes to photography, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is renowned for its versatility. However, the OnePlus Open is no slouch, featuring a solid main sensor that provides excellent performance across different scenarios. The Pixel tends to produce warmer, more character-rich photos, particularly excelling in low-light conditions.
OnePlus benefits from superior specifications, with its ultra-wide-angle lens offering four times the resolution of the Pixel’s counterpart, delivering detailed images, albeit with slightly exaggerated colors. The Pixel, on the other hand, provides a more consistent photographic experience.
In terms of zoom capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s periscope lens outperforms the OnePlus Open’s 64 MP sensor, thanks to its impressive 120 mm focal length compared to the 70 mm of its rival. Both devices produce excellent shots, but the Pixel consistently shines in more challenging lighting situations.
Battery Performance and Charging
Our testing of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s battery life was inconclusive due to the testing protocol, but early indications suggest it can last a full day, especially with moderate usage of the internal display.
Conversely, the OnePlus Open impressed us with a battery life of 12 hours and 29 minutes from 100% down to 10%, allowing for two days of mixed usage—a remarkable feat for a foldable smartphone.
Additionally, the OnePlus Open supports rapid charging with a 67W charger that can fully recharge the battery in just 35 minutes, whereas the Pixel takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes for a complete charge.
In conclusion, both the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the OnePlus Open are outstanding foldable smartphones for those looking to explore alternatives to Samsung. However, at a comparable price point, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold boasts a superior screen and excellent software support. While both excel in photography, the Pixel’s warmer photo processing holds a slight advantage.
Ultimately, for battery life and rapid charging, the OnePlus Open presents a compelling case, but the Pixel 9 Pro Fold remains the more well-rounded option for most users.