Foldable smartphones are still a relatively new concept in the world of mobile technology, and major players like Samsung have been leading the charge. However, OnePlus has recently thrown its hat into the ring with the OnePlus Open, a foldable device that’s making waves in the industry. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the OnePlus Open, comparing it to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, discussing its design, specifications, and the overall impact it’s making in the foldable smartphone market.
The Foldable Dilemma
Samsung has been a dominant force in the foldable smartphone market, with devices like the Galaxy Z Fold series gaining popularity. However, some users have voiced concerns about Samsung’s approach, suggesting that they might be getting complacent. The lack of competition in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, where options for foldable smartphones are limited to the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Google Pixel Fold, has been a point of frustration for many tech enthusiasts.
OnePlus Open: A Breath of Fresh Air
Enter the OnePlus Open, the company’s first foray into the foldable smartphone arena. What sets it apart and makes it a compelling option for users who were eagerly waiting for innovation in this space? Let’s break down the key features and aspects of the OnePlus Open:
Display Innovation
One of the standout features of the OnePlus Open is its display design. Unlike some competitors, OnePlus has made sure that both the cover screen and the larger inner display are optimized for practical use. Here’s how it compares to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5:
| Specification | OnePlus Open | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Cover Screen Size | 6.3 inches | 6.2 inches |
| Peak Brightness (Cover Screen) | 2400 nits | 1750 nits |
| Foldable Display Size | 7.82 inches | 7.6 inches |
| Peak Brightness (Inner Screen) | 2800 nits | 1750 nits |
| Anti-Reflective Coating | Yes (Matte-Like) | Yes (Glossy) |
| Crease Visibility | Minimal | Noticeable |
OnePlus has nailed the balance between practicality and aesthetics. The OnePlus Open’s cover screen is slightly larger than that of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, which can make a significant difference in usability. Additionally, OnePlus’s use of an anti-reflective coating on the inner screen reduces glare and enhances outdoor visibility.
Display Technology
The OnePlus Open boasts impressive display technology, including support for LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology, which enables dynamic adjustment of the display’s refresh rate between 1 and 120 Hz. The Galaxy Z Fold 5, while having a 120 Hz refresh rate, doesn’t match the OnePlus Open’s peak brightness on both the cover and inner screens.
Design and Build
OnePlus has paid meticulous attention to the design and build of the OnePlus Open. It features a frosted back that not only looks stylish but also resists fingerprint smudges, providing a better grip. Despite housing a larger battery, the OnePlus Open manages to be lighter than the Galaxy Z Fold 5, contributing to a more comfortable user experience.
Audio Experience
The OnePlus Open takes a leap in audio quality by offering triple speakers, providing an immersive and vibrant sound experience. In contrast, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 features two speakers. This enhancement enhances media consumption and gaming on the OnePlus Open.
Cameras
While OnePlus Open’s camera setup seems impressive on paper, featuring a 48-megapixel wide lens, a 64-megapixel three-times optical telephoto lens, and a 48-megapixel ultra-wide lens, real-world results have shown that it doesn’t necessarily outperform the Galaxy Z Fold 5. OnePlus’s camera tuning might require further refinement to match the competition’s consistency and image quality.
Battery Life
Battery life is another area where the OnePlus Open shines. It houses a 4800 milliampere-hour (mAh) battery, surpassing the Galaxy Z Fold 5’s 4400 mAh battery. OnePlus has managed to offer a longer-lasting device while maintaining a slim profile, a commendable achievement.
Water Resistance
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 holds an advantage in terms of water resistance, being rated at IPX8, indicating it can handle immersion in water. The OnePlus Open, while not offering the same level of water resistance, is rated at IPX4, which makes it splash-resistant.
Pricing and Trade-In
OnePlus has adopted an enticing pricing strategy for the OnePlus Open. The device’s price tag of $1699 might appear steep, but OnePlus sweetens the deal by offering a trade-in program where you can exchange virtually any old phone for an instant $200 credit. This effectively lowers the cost of the OnePlus Open to $499, making it a competitive proposition.
A Rival Worth Considering
In the world of foldable smartphones, the OnePlus Open emerges as a serious contender that challenges Samsung’s dominance. It addresses some of the common complaints users had about foldable devices
, such as the size of the cover screen and outdoor visibility. It also introduces innovations like the anti-reflective coating that enhances usability in various lighting conditions.
While the OnePlus Open showcases remarkable advancements, it’s important to note that the software experience, especially in terms of foldable-specific features, is an area where Samsung has more experience. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5 offers a more mature foldable software experience, with distinct setups for the cover and inner screens, as well as support for features like DeX.
Moreover, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 also supports the use of an S Pen, which can be a game-changer for users who prefer stylus input. OnePlus, for now, doesn’t offer a stylus option for the OnePlus Open.
When it comes to camera performance, OnePlus still has some ground to cover to match the image consistency and quality delivered by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5.
Real-World Usage
It’s important to remember that while specifications and features are crucial, real-world usage often hinges on factors beyond the spec sheet. Factors like software optimization, app compatibility, and ecosystem integration play a significant role in the overall user experience.
The Software Story
Samsung’s experience in the foldable market has allowed it to develop a more polished software experience for its foldable devices. The ability to seamlessly transition between the cover screen and the inner display, along with app continuity, is well-refined in the Galaxy Z Fold 5.
OnePlus, being relatively new to the foldable scene, may need some time to catch up in terms of software optimization. While the OnePlus Open offers a smooth experience, there might be occasional hiccups when transitioning between screens or using certain apps. However, OnePlus has been known for its prompt software updates, so improvements can be expected over time.
Ecosystem Considerations
Ecosystem integration is another aspect to consider. Samsung has a well-established ecosystem of products, including smartwatches, earbuds, and home appliances, that seamlessly work together with its smartphones. Users who are already invested in the Samsung ecosystem might find it more convenient to stick with a Samsung foldable.
On the other hand, OnePlus is part of the larger BBK Electronics conglomerate, which includes brands like Oppo and Vivo. While OnePlus is building its ecosystem, it may not have the same breadth and depth of products and services as Samsung.
The Verdict
The OnePlus Open is a breath of fresh air in the foldable smartphone market, offering a compelling alternative to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5. With innovations like a well-sized cover screen, impressive display technology, and a competitive price, OnePlus has made a strong entry into the foldable arena.
However, Samsung’s experience in the foldable space shines through with a more mature software experience, stylus support, and ecosystem integration. Users who prioritize these aspects might still lean towards the Galaxy Z Fold 5.
In the end, the choice between the OnePlus Open and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 will come down to individual preferences and priorities. Both devices have their strengths and weaknesses, and competition in the foldable market is only set to intensify, benefiting consumers with more choices and innovations.
As the foldable smartphone landscape continues to evolve, it’s an exciting time for tech enthusiasts, with each new release pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of mobile technology. Whether you opt for the OnePlus Open or the Galaxy Z Fold 5, you’ll be part of this transformative journey.