Oneplus 6 vs Samsung S9 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Samsung Galaxy S9 & OnePlus 6 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Samsung Galaxy S9 rather than the OnePlus 6.

Why Do I Recommend The Samsung Galaxy S9?

  • The Samsung Galaxy S9 has a QHD+ Super AMOLED display for sharper text, finer image detail, and clearer VR and media viewing, whereas the OnePlus 6 uses a lower-resolution FHD+ Optic AMOLED display.
  • Samsung Galaxy S9 includes a variable-aperture 12 MP rear camera for improved low-light photography and better exposure control across different lighting conditions, while the OnePlus 6 uses a fixed-aperture main camera.
  • It supports wireless charging for more convenient cable-free power top-ups on compatible charging pads, whereas the OnePlus 6 supports wired charging only.
  • The Samsung Galaxy S9 features super slow-motion video recording at 960 fps for capturing dramatic high-speed moments with extreme detail, whereas the OnePlus 6 does not support super slow-motion capture.
  • Samsung Galaxy S9 includes a dedicated audio DAC and AKG-tuned stereo speakers for cleaner sound output and better wired headphone performance, while the OnePlus 6 uses a standard audio configuration.
  • It supports expandable storage via a microSD card for flexible capacity upgrades without replacing the device, whereas the OnePlus 6 relies only on fixed internal storage.
  • The Samsung Galaxy S9 includes iris scanning alongside fingerprint authentication for additional secure and fast biometric unlocking options, whereas the OnePlus 6 relies primarily on fingerprint and basic face unlock.
  • Samsung Galaxy S9 comes with IP68 water and dust resistance for greater protection against spills, rain, and accidental submersion, while the OnePlus 6 has no official water-resistance rating.

Maybe the OnePlus 6 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Samsung Galaxy S9. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureSamsung Galaxy S9OnePlus 6
Display Resolution2960×14402280×1080
Display PanelSuper AMOLEDOptic AMOLED
Pixel Density~570 ppi~402 ppi
HDR SupportHDR10None
Processor (Global)Exynos 9810Snapdragon 845
Expandable StoragemicroSDNone
Variable Aperturef/1.5–f/2.4Not supported
Super Slow Motion960 fps @ 720pNot supported
Wireless ChargingSupportedNot supported
Water ResistanceIP68None
Audio TuningAKG-tuned stereoStandard stereo
Dedicated Audio DACYesNo
Biometric OptionsIris + fingerprintFingerprint only
Weight163 g177 g
Dedicated Assistant ButtonBixby buttonNone
PriceCheck Samsung S9 PriceCheck OnePlus 6 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Launch Year: Both smartphones were released in 2018, placing them in the same generation of flagship Android devices. This means they were designed to compete directly with similar performance expectations and feature sets of that time.
  • Operating System at Launch: Each device launched with Android 8.x, ensuring access to modern Android features such as improved notifications, background app limits, and enhanced security controls. This provided a comparable software foundation for early users.
  • Processor Class: Both phones use processors from the Snapdragon 845 performance class, delivering flagship-level CPU and GPU capabilities. This allows smooth multitasking, gaming, and long-term usability across demanding applications.
  • Manufacturing Process: The 10 nm fabrication process used in both chipsets helps balance performance and power efficiency. This contributes to stable thermal behavior and consistent everyday performance.
  • Display Technology: Each device uses AMOLED display technology, enabling deep blacks, high contrast ratios, and vivid colors. This improves media consumption and overall visual clarity.
  • Display Refresh Rate: Both displays run at a 60 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and consistent animations across the user interface. This was the standard for flagship smartphones at the time.
  • Touchscreen Type: Capacitive touchscreens on both models provide accurate multi-touch input and responsive gesture control. This ensures reliable interaction for typing, navigation, and gaming.
  • Glass Protection: Gorilla Glass 5 is used on both phones, improving resistance to scratches and minor drops. This adds durability to daily use without compromising design.
  • Rear Camera OIS: Optical image stabilization is present on both rear cameras, helping reduce blur from hand movement. This improves photo sharpness and video stability, especially in low-light situations.
  • 4K Video Recording: Each phone supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second. This enables high-resolution, smooth video capture suitable for professional or enthusiast use.
  • Front Camera: Both devices include a front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. This supports modern communication and social media use cases.
  • Fingerprint Sensor: Fingerprint authentication is available on both phones, allowing fast and secure device unlocking. This improves convenience while maintaining user privacy.
  • USB Port: USB Type-C is used on both models, supporting faster data transfer and reversible plug orientation. This standard improves charging and accessory compatibility.
  • Fast Wired Charging: Each phone supports fast wired charging, reducing the time required to recharge the battery. This is particularly useful for users with heavy daily usage.
  • Stereo Speakers: Both devices feature stereo speaker setups, delivering louder and more immersive audio output. This enhances video playback, gaming, and speakerphone calls.
  • Headphone Jack: A 3.5 mm headphone jack is present on both phones, allowing direct use of wired headphones without adapters. This remains valuable for audio quality and compatibility.
  • Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.0 support on both devices improves wireless range, connection stability, and audio performance. This benefits wireless headphones and accessories.
  • Wi-Fi Standard: Both phones support dual-band 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connectivity. This enhances streaming, downloads, and online gaming.
  • NFC: NFC support is included on both models, enabling contactless payments and quick device pairing. This expands everyday convenience and functionality.
  • Glass Back Design: Both smartphones use a glass back panel, allowing for a premium feel and support for modern antenna design. This also contributes to a high-end aesthetic consistent with flagship devices.

Common Features

FeatureSamsung Galaxy S9OnePlus 6
Launch Year20182018
Operating System at LaunchAndroid 8.xAndroid 8.x
Processor ClassSnapdragon 845 classSnapdragon 845
Manufacturing Process10 nm10 nm
Display TechnologyAMOLEDAMOLED
Display Refresh Rate60 Hz60 Hz
Touchscreen TypeCapacitiveCapacitive
Glass ProtectionGorilla Glass 5Gorilla Glass 5
Rear Camera OISYesYes
4K Video Recording4K @ 60 fps4K @ 60 fps
Front CameraYesYes
Fingerprint SensorYesYes
USB PortUSB Type-CUSB Type-C
Fast Wired ChargingYesYes
Stereo SpeakersYesYes
Headphone JackYesYes
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 5.0
Wi-Fi Standard802.11 a/b/g/n/ac802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
NFCYesYes
Glass Back DesignYesYes
Price Check Samsung S9 Price
Check OnePlus 6 Price

FAQ

Is the Samsung Galaxy S9 still usable today compared to the OnePlus 6?
Both the Samsung Galaxy S9 and the OnePlus 6 remain usable for basic tasks such as calls, messaging, web browsing, and media playback. Performance is adequate for light to moderate apps, though neither device is ideal for modern heavy gaming or the latest Android features due to aging hardware and software support.

Which phone has better overall performance, the Samsung Galaxy S9 or the OnePlus 6?
The OnePlus 6 generally delivers more consistent performance because it uses the Snapdragon 845 globally and offers higher RAM options. The Samsung Galaxy S9 performance varies by region due to different chipsets and lower RAM capacity.

How do the displays compare between the Samsung Galaxy S9 and the OnePlus 6?
The Samsung Galaxy S9 has a smaller but sharper QHD+ display with higher pixel density, while the OnePlus 6 has a larger FHD+ display that favors screen size over sharpness. Both use AMOLED technology for strong contrast and color reproduction.

Which phone is better for photography, Samsung Galaxy S9 or OnePlus 6?
The Samsung Galaxy S9 excels in low-light photography due to its variable aperture camera and advanced video features like super slow motion. The OnePlus 6 focuses more on versatility with a dual-camera system and higher-resolution secondary sensor.

Do both phones support 4K video recording?
Yes, both the Samsung Galaxy S9 and the OnePlus 6 support 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second. This allows high-resolution video capture with smooth motion on both devices.

Which device has better battery life?
The OnePlus 6 generally provides better battery endurance because of its larger battery capacity and more power-efficient performance profile. The Samsung Galaxy S9 has a smaller battery and may require more frequent charging.

Is wireless charging available on both phones?
Wireless charging is supported on the Samsung Galaxy S9 but not on the OnePlus 6. This gives the Galaxy S9 more flexibility in charging methods.

How do the charging speeds compare between the two devices?
The OnePlus 6 supports faster wired charging than the Samsung Galaxy S9. This allows the OnePlus 6 to recharge more quickly during short charging sessions.

Do both phones support expandable storage?
Only the Samsung Galaxy S9 supports expandable storage via a microSD card. The OnePlus 6 relies solely on internal storage but offers higher maximum storage configurations.

Which phone has better audio features?
The Samsung Galaxy S9 provides a more advanced audio experience with AKG-tuned stereo speakers and a dedicated audio DAC. The OnePlus 6 offers stereo speakers but with a more standard audio setup.

Are both devices water resistant?
The Samsung Galaxy S9 includes official IP68 water and dust resistance. The OnePlus 6 does not carry an official water resistance rating.

How do biometric features differ between the Samsung Galaxy S9 and OnePlus 6?
The Samsung Galaxy S9 includes both a fingerprint sensor and an iris scanner for authentication. The OnePlus 6 relies on a fingerprint sensor and face unlock without iris scanning.

Which phone has better software experience?
The OnePlus 6 is known for its lightweight, near-stock Android experience that feels fast and clean. The Samsung Galaxy S9 uses a more feature-rich interface with deeper system customization.

Are both phones suitable for gaming?
Both devices can handle casual and moderately demanding games, but the OnePlus 6 performs better in sustained gaming due to higher RAM options and consistent chipset performance.

Which phone is the better choice overall today?
The OnePlus 6 is generally the better choice for performance consistency, faster charging, and cleaner software. The Samsung Galaxy S9 is better suited for users who value display sharpness, camera features, audio quality, and premium hardware extras.