Is the upgrade worth it?

The question that everyone wants to know is the same one answered by Ben in his comparison between the Galaxy S20 and S21 smartphones. With changes that are discreet at first glance, is it worth upgrading to the new model?

In the case of the OnePlus 9, the main new features were prioritized in the Pro model, which seems to have increased the differences between the two models in relation to previous generations, with features in the most complete version such as IP68 certification, more sophisticated finish and fast wireless charging.

In the opposite direction, the brand's biannual releases mean that the ninth generation brings few differences compared to the OnePlus 8T, as Antoine highlighted in his review of the OnePlus 9, but we will focus here on the OnePlus 8 model, launched at the beginning of 2020.

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Point for the update: improved camera

As Antoine pointed out, the OnePlus 9 represents a noticeable advance in photography, although it is premature to assess the impact of the partnership with Hasselblad. Even with the most advanced technologies reserved for the OnePlus 9 Pro — such as the Sony IMX789 sensor, or simply the telephoto lens — the smartphone performs better than the 8 and 8T models.

Additionally, there is the possibility of further improvements arriving via algorithm and camera app updates, but this is not guaranteed and should not influence a purchasing decision.

What can be noticed now is the advancement in the components used in the OnePlus 9, with more modern (and larger) sensors in both the main and ultrawide cameras. In addition, the main sensor brings the option of recording files in RAW format, with 12-bit definition.

Flat screen divides opinions

The second point to consider when evaluating the exchange of the OnePlus 8 for the 9 is the flat screen on the new model. The (few?) remaining fans of curved/edge/waterfall screens will have to invest more in the OnePlus 9 Pro — which brings a number of advantages over the base model.

Flat-screen users have nothing to complain about, the OnePlus 9 — like many other “basic” high-end phones — has left aside the more immersive screen design of the previous generation, which could result in lower costs in the event of component replacement.

The discussion about the component brings us to the next topic…

Plus point: 120 hertz refresh rate

There's no doubt about it, the panel used in the OnePlus 9 is simply superior to the previous generation. Despite the same diagonal size — 6.55 inches — and the Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels), the refresh rate of the component in the OnePlus 9 is an upgrade over the OnePlus 8.

While the OP8 inherited the 90Hz Fluid AMOLED display from the OnePlus 7T, the ninth generation brings the same 120Hz rate of the display used in the OnePlus 8T. The result is more fluid and smooth animations on the screen, both in regular use with the OxygenOS interface, as well as in games.

For those concerned about higher power consumption, the component automatically adjusts the frame rate. OnePlus advertises updates at up to 1 Hz (one frame per second), but it reached 30 Hz in Antoine's review.

Upgrade point: wireless charging

At this point, OnePlus is fulfilling a long-standing request made by some fans of the brand. The option of wireless charging of the battery used to be exclusive to the Pro models, but the OnePlus 9 (finally) put an end to this tradition.

It's true that the new model doesn't have the 50W wireless charging system of the OnePlus 9 Pro — or even the 30W of the 8 Pro — but 15 watts should be enough for most users and the power can be found in many accessories on the market. For those who intend to import the model, be careful, wireless charging is only available in the European and North American versions of the smartphone.

Additionally, the OnePlus 9 is compatible with — and comes with — the Warp Charge 65T wired charger, with 65 watts of power. This is more than twice the 30 W of the OP8 and is capable of filling the 4,500 mAh battery in about half an hour.

Point to consider: overheating

All the performance offered by the Snapdragon 888 chip has a side effect highlighted in Antoine's review: thermal tuning (thermal throttlingin English). The protection feature reduces processing speed when the device detects excessive temperatures, or temperatures that may bother the user.

The problem is practically only found during prolonged use of heavier apps, such as theoretical benchmarks. However, it is possible that the heat influences performance during gaming sessions, with FPS below normal after a few minutes of gameplay.

Conclusion: OnePlus 9 is a good upgrade over OnePlus 8

Despite the title above, switching from one model to another basically depends on which features are interesting to you. If I were in this situation, I would consider switching smartphones simply for the inclusion of wireless charging, in addition to the 120Hz screen and the improved camera.

If these features are not important to you, all that remains is the superior performance of the Snapdragon 888, which in my case I would only notice in more advanced games, with the risk of thermal throttling.

For those who change smartphones every year, the OnePlus 9 is an interesting option for OnePlus 8 owners. For those who have the OnePlus 8T, or buy a new device every two years, it may be more advantageous to wait a little longer. Who knows, a supposed OnePlus 9T could bring even more fruits from OnePlus' partnership with Hasselblad…