OnePlus vs. Huawei in the Smartphone Arena

author profile
Emma Chang
Last Updated: May 13, 2024

In the dynamic landscape of smartphones, two brands have emerged as formidable contenders, each striving for excellence in design, performance, and innovation. OnePlus, celebrated for its commitment to delivering flagship-level features at a competitive price point, and Huawei, renowned for pushing the boundaries of technology with its cutting-edge devices, stand at the forefront of this ever-evolving industry. As we embark on a journey to compare and contrast OnePlus and Huawei smartphones, we unravel the intricacies of their offerings, shedding light on the strengths and distinctions that set them apart in the fiercely competitive market.

Product Selection

3.9 out of 5 (3.9) Huawei
4.0 out of 5 (4.0) OnePlus

In terms of product assortment, both OnePlus and Huawei mobile devices present a diverse array of options tailored to various segments of the market. OnePlus, renowned for its "flagship killer" line, curates a more focused product lineup, prioritizing the delivery of premium functionalities at a price point situated between mid-range and high-end tiers. Their latest iterations, exemplified by the OnePlus 9 Pro, showcase attributes such as a 120Hz Fluid AMOLED screen, Snapdragon 888 processor, and collaboration with Hasselblad for camera enhancement, features typically associated with pricier flagship models. Nevertheless, the constrained range may not satisfy individuals seeking more economical or entry-level alternatives. Conversely, Huawei boasts a significantly broader product spectrum, encompassing everything from economical offerings to top-tier flagship devices. Their latest P series and Mate series are celebrated for their photographic prowess and groundbreaking functionalities. For instance, the Huawei P40 Pro flaunts a Leica quadruple-camera configuration and Kirin 990 5G chipset. However, owing to ongoing challenges with the U.S. government, recent Huawei releases lack access to Google services, presenting a notable disadvantage for numerous users. When juxtaposed with other brands, both OnePlus and Huawei proffer competitive attributes and cutting-edge technologies within their mobile devices. Nonetheless, the selection between the two would predominantly hinge on the user's financial constraints and specific requisites, such as the significance of Google services or a preference for a particular user interface.

Design/Look

4.0 out of 5 (4.0) Huawei
4.2 out of 5 (4.2) OnePlus

When it comes to product selection, both OnePlus and Huawei smartphones offer a range of devices that cater to different segments of the market. OnePlus, known for its "flagship killer" devices, has a more streamlined product selection, focusing on delivering high-end features at a mid-range price point. Their latest models, such as the OnePlus 9 Pro, come with features like a 120Hz Fluid AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888 processor, and Hasselblad partnership for camera development, which are usually found in more expensive flagship phones. However, the limited range may not appeal to those looking for more budget-friendly or entry-level options. On the other hand, Huawei has a much broader product selection, offering everything from budget devices to high-end flagships. Their latest P series and Mate series are renowned for their camera capabilities and innovative features. For instance, the Huawei P40 Pro boasts a Leica quad-camera setup and Kirin 990 5G chipset. However, due to the ongoing issues with the U.S. government, new Huawei devices lack Google services, which can be a significant disadvantage for many users. In comparison to other brands, both OnePlus and Huawei offer competitive features and technologies in their smartphones. However, the choice between the two would largely depend on the user's budget and specific needs, such as the importance of having Google services or a preference for a particular user interface.

Price

3.5 out of 5 (3.5) Huawei
3.6 out of 5 (3.6) OnePlus

OnePlus and Huawei are two major players in the smartphone industry. When it comes to the aspect of price, both brands offer a range of options to cater to different budget requirements. OnePlus smartphones, known for their high-quality features and superior performance, are usually priced in the mid to high-end range. For instance, the latest OnePlus 9 Pro is priced at around $969, which is reflective of its advanced features such as the Hasselblad camera system, 120Hz Fluid Display 2.0, and Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 888 with 5G. However, compared to other brands like Apple and Samsung, OnePlus offers similar features at a more affordable price. On the other hand, Huawei smartphones span a wide price range, from budget to high-end. The brand offers affordable models like the Huawei Y5p, priced at around $100, to premium models like the Huawei P40 Pro, which is priced at around $900. The latest Huawei Mate 40 Pro, equipped with the Kirin 9000 5G SoC, Ultra Vision Cine Camera, and Space Ring Design, is priced at around $1,200. While Huawei's high-end models are priced similarly to those of other premium brands, its budget and mid-range models are highly competitive in price, offering good value for money. However, the recent US sanctions on Huawei have affected its access to Google services, which may influence the perceived value of its smartphones.

Quality/Durability

4.2 out of 5 (4.2) Huawei
4.2 out of 5 (4.2) OnePlus

OnePlus smartphones are known for their build quality and durability. They use premium materials such as aluminum and glass in their construction, which not only gives them a high-end look but also contributes to their durability. The latest models, such as the OnePlus 9 Pro, come with Corning Gorilla Glass on both the front and back, which provides excellent resistance to scratches and minor drops. However, like most smartphones, they are not immune to damage from significant impacts or water damage, although some models do come with official IP ratings for water and dust resistance. On the other hand, Huawei smartphones also offer impressive build quality and durability. They utilize high-quality materials such as ceramic and glass in their construction, giving them a premium feel. The latest models, such as the Huawei P40 Pro, come with an aluminum frame and ceramic back, which is more resistant to scratches and damage than glass. Additionally, most high-end Huawei smartphones come with official IP ratings for water and dust resistance, providing an extra layer of protection. However, Huawei's durability may be compromised due to the ongoing issues with the US government, which has led to a lack of Google services, potentially affecting the longevity of the device's software support.

Reputation

4.1 out of 5 (4.1) Huawei
4.4 out of 5 (4.4) OnePlus

OnePlus and Huawei stand as illustrious players in the smartphone arena, each boasting a distinct standing within the market. OnePlus, a distinguished Chinese smartphone manufacturer, has earned accolades for delivering superior-grade mobile devices with cutting-edge specifications. The brand has garnered renown for its "flagship killer" offerings, exemplified by the OnePlus 9 Pro, which showcases a 120Hz Fluid Display 2.0, Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 chipset, and the integration of Hasselblad Camera for Mobile technology. OnePlus is frequently commended for its uncluttered and bloatware-free OxygenOS, regular software enhancements, and robust community involvement. Nonetheless, it has faced reproval for its assertive pricing tactics in recent times, resulting in a perceived erosion of its reputation for providing excellent value. Conversely, Huawei, another prominent Chinese technological powerhouse, enjoys a reputation for innovation and pushing the boundaries of smartphone advancement. Its mobile devices, such as the Huawei P40 Pro, are revered for their outstanding camera capabilities, developed in collaboration with Leica, and sophisticated artificial intelligence functionalities. However, Huawei's stature has been notably impacted by the ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China, culminating in restrictions that preclude the inclusion of Google Mobile Services (GMS) on its devices. This has exerted a detrimental effect on the brand's global allure, as numerous essential applications remain unavailable on Huawei's proprietary AppGallery. When juxtaposed with OnePlus, Huawei's standing elicits a more mixed response, with commendation for its hardware ingenuity counterbalanced by criticism regarding its software constraints.

Warranty

3.8 out of 5 (3.8) Huawei
3.5 out of 5 (3.5) OnePlus

OnePlus and Huawei, both prominent players in the smartphone market, offer different warranty policies for their devices. OnePlus provides a standard one-year warranty for its smartphones, covering manufacturing defects and software issues. The warranty does not cover accidental damage or issues arising from unauthorized repairs or modifications. OnePlus also offers an extended warranty plan, OnePlus Protect, which provides additional coverage for accidental damage and liquid damage. This plan, however, is only available in certain regions. On the other hand, Huawei offers a two-year warranty for its smartphones, which is a significant advantage over OnePlus. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and software issues but, like OnePlus, does not cover accidental damage or issues from unauthorized repairs or modifications. Huawei also offers an extended warranty plan, HiCare, which provides additional coverage for accidental damage, liquid damage, and even door-to-door repair services. However, the availability of HiCare varies by region and device. In comparison to other brands, both OnePlus and Huawei offer competitive warranty policies, although Huawei's standard two-year warranty gives it an edge over OnePlus.

Customer Support

3.8 out of 5 (3.8) Huawei
4.0 out of 5 (4.0) OnePlus

OnePlus and Huawei are two prominent smartphone brands in the market today, each with their own unique approach to customer support. OnePlus has a reputation for providing excellent customer service, with a dedicated team available 24/7 to assist with any issues or queries. They offer a variety of contact methods including live chat, email, and phone support. They also have a comprehensive online support center with FAQs and troubleshooting guides. Furthermore, OnePlus has recently introduced the OnePlus Care app, which provides a direct line to customer support and offers benefits like extended warranty and free home repair service. On the other hand, Huawei also provides a robust customer support system. They have service centers in multiple countries and offer phone, email, and live chat support. Huawei's HiCare app is a one-stop solution for after-sales services, allowing users to quickly access services, find service centers, and get solutions for common problems. However, Huawei has faced criticism for its customer service in some regions due to delayed response times and language barriers. Comparatively, OnePlus has a more consistent global reputation for customer support. Both brands, however, are striving to improve their customer service and offer the best possible support to their users.

Battery Life

4.2 out of 5 (4.2) Huawei
4.3 out of 5 (4.3) OnePlus

OnePlus smartphones and Huawei smartphones are both renowned for their impressive battery life, but there are some notable differences between the two. OnePlus smartphones, particularly the OnePlus 8T and OnePlus 9 Pro, come with a 4500mAh battery, which can comfortably last a day of moderate use. Additionally, OnePlus has incorporated the Warp Charge 65 technology, which allows the phone to charge up to 60% in just 15 minutes, a significant advantage for users who need a quick power boost. On the other hand, Huawei smartphones, such as the Huawei P40 Pro and Mate 40 Pro, are equipped with larger batteries, 4200mAh and 4400mAh respectively, and have an AI power-saving technology that optimizes battery usage based on user habits, thereby extending the battery life. However, despite the larger battery, Huawei's SuperCharge technology is slightly slower than OnePlus's Warp Charge, taking about 30 minutes to reach 70% charge. Both brands offer impressive battery life, but OnePlus edges out Huawei in terms of fast charging technology, while Huawei offers a more personalized power optimization feature.
 

Sound Quality

3.9 out of 5 (3.9) Huawei
4.1 out of 5 (4.1) OnePlus

OnePlus smartphones are renowned for their sound quality, which is significantly enhanced by the company's partnership with Dolby Atmos. The OnePlus 9 Pro, for instance, features stereo speakers that provide an immersive audio experience, whether you're watching a movie, playing a game, or listening to music. However, some users have reported that the audio quality during calls can be a bit inconsistent, which could be a potential drawback. On the other hand, Huawei smartphones also offer commendable sound quality. The Huawei P40 Pro, for example, features an Acoustic Display Technology, which uses the screen as a speaker, providing a more immersive audio experience. The sound from Huawei phones is generally clear and loud, with a good balance of bass and treble. However, some users have noted that the sound can be a bit tinny at higher volumes. Compared to other brands, both OnePlus and Huawei smartphones provide superior sound quality, although the audio experience can vary depending on the specific model and personal preferences.

Display

4.2 out of 5 (4.2) Huawei
4.4 out of 5 (4.4) OnePlus

OnePlus and Huawei smartphones are both renowned for their high-quality displays, but they each have their unique strengths and weaknesses. OnePlus smartphones, such as the OnePlus 9 Pro, feature Fluid AMOLED displays with a 120Hz refresh rate, which ensures smooth scrolling and more responsive touch input. The display also supports HDR10+ for better color accuracy and contrast, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. However, OnePlus displays are typically less bright compared to other flagship smartphones, which can make outdoor visibility a bit challenging. On the other hand, Huawei smartphones, such as the Huawei P40 Pro, feature OLED displays with a 90Hz refresh rate. While this is lower than the OnePlus 9 Pro, it's still more than sufficient for most users. Huawei's displays are known for their excellent brightness, which greatly enhances outdoor visibility. They also support HDR10, ensuring good color accuracy and contrast. However, Huawei's displays are not as color-accurate as OnePlus's, which might be a concern for users who require more accurate color reproduction. In terms of display technology, both brands are on par with other top brands in the market, offering high-resolution, vibrant, and responsive screens.

Performance

4.3 out of 5 (4.3) Huawei
4.6 out of 5 (4.6) OnePlus

OnePlus smartphones are renowned for their high performance, largely due to their use of the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon processors and ample RAM. For instance, the OnePlus 9 Pro features the Snapdragon 888, which is currently one of the fastest mobile processors available. It also boasts 8GB or 12GB of RAM, which allows for smooth multitasking and efficient operation of demanding apps and games. However, OnePlus phones tend to heat up under heavy usage, which can impact performance over time. On the other hand, Huawei smartphones use their own in-house Kirin chipsets. For example, the Huawei P40 Pro uses the Kirin 990 5G, which, while not as powerful as the Snapdragon 888, still offers impressive performance. Huawei also tends to include generous amounts of RAM in their devices, with the P40 Pro offering 8GB. However, Huawei's performance can be hampered by its lack of access to Google services due to ongoing disputes, which means users may not be able to use certain apps or services. Despite this, Huawei phones are known for their excellent power management and rarely heat up, even under heavy usage. In comparison to other brands, both OnePlus and Huawei offer superior performance, though they may fall slightly short of industry leaders like Apple and Samsung.

Storage

4.1 out of 5 (4.1) Huawei
4.1 out of 5 (4.1) OnePlus

OnePlus smartphones are known for their generous storage capacities, with the latest models such as the OnePlus 9 Pro offering up to 256GB of internal storage. This is a considerable amount of space that can accommodate a large number of apps, photos, videos, and other files. However, it's worth noting that OnePlus phones do not support expandable storage via microSD cards, which can be a limitation for users who need more than the available internal storage. The brand's OxygenOS also takes up a portion of the storage, but it's generally efficient and doesn't consume too much space. On the other hand, Huawei smartphones also offer substantial storage options. The Huawei P40 Pro, for instance, comes with 256GB of internal storage. What sets Huawei apart is the support for expandable storage. Users can increase their storage capacity using Huawei's proprietary Nano Memory cards, although these are relatively more expensive than standard microSD cards. However, due to the ongoing issues with the US government, new Huawei phones do not have access to Google Mobile Services, which means apps like Google Photos aren't available for additional cloud storage. This can potentially make the expandable storage feature more crucial for Huawei users.

Camera Quality

4.5 out of 5 (4.5) Huawei
4.3 out of 5 (4.3) OnePlus

OnePlus and Huawei smartphones are both renowned for their camera quality, but they each have their unique strengths and weaknesses. OnePlus smartphones, particularly the OnePlus 9 Pro, feature a Hasselblad camera system, which is a result of a strategic partnership between OnePlus and Hasselblad. The camera system includes a 48 MP main sensor, a 50 MP ultra-wide sensor, and an 8 MP telephoto sensor. This offers excellent color accuracy, sharpness, and low-light performance, making it a strong contender in the smartphone photography market. However, the lack of a periscope lens for long-range zoom is a noticeable downside. On the other hand, Huawei smartphones, especially the Huawei P40 Pro, have also made significant strides in camera technology. The P40 Pro features a 50 MP primary sensor, a 40 MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 12 MP periscope telephoto sensor, which provides 5x optical zoom. This is a significant advantage over OnePlus smartphones, as it allows for better quality photos at long distances. Moreover, the P40 Pro's camera system is praised for its excellent dynamic range and detail preservation. However, the color accuracy can sometimes be inconsistent, which is where OnePlus smartphones have an edge. Both brands offer competitive camera quality, but the choice between them may come down to specific user needs and preferences.

Processor

4.3 out of 5 (4.3) Huawei
4.7 out of 5 (4.7) OnePlus

OnePlus smartphones are renowned for their use of high-performance processors. The latest OnePlus 9 Pro, for instance, is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888, which is currently one of the most powerful processors in the market. This chipset is built on a 5nm process technology and features an octa-core setup, which includes a 2.84 GHz Kryo 680 Prime core, three 2.42 GHz Kryo 680 Gold cores, and four 1.80 GHz Kryo 680 Silver cores. The Snapdragon 888 also integrates a powerful Adreno 660 GPU, which provides excellent graphics performance. However, a downside to the Snapdragon processors used in OnePlus phones is that they tend to consume more power, which can lead to shorter battery life. On the other hand, Huawei smartphones use their own in-house Kirin processors. The latest Huawei Mate 40 Pro, for example, is powered by the Kirin 9000 5G chipset. This processor is also built on a 5nm process technology and features an octa-core setup, which includes a 3.13 GHz Cortex-A77 Prime core, three 2.54 GHz Cortex-A77 Gold cores, and four 2.05 GHz Cortex-A55 Silver cores. The Kirin 9000 also integrates a powerful Mali-G78 MP24 GPU. One advantage of the Kirin processors is that they are more power-efficient, which can lead to longer battery life. However, a disadvantage is that they may not perform as well as Snapdragon processors in terms of raw processing power and graphics performance.

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of OnePlus and Huawei smartphones, it's clear that both brands excel in their own right, offering unique strengths and innovations to cater to the diverse needs of consumers. Whether you're drawn to the sleek design and smooth performance of OnePlus devices or the bold aesthetics and cutting-edge technology of Huawei smartphones, there's no shortage of options to suit every preference and lifestyle. In the ever-evolving landscape of smartphones, OnePlus and Huawei continue to push the boundaries of innovation and redefine the standards of excellence, paving the way for a future filled with endless possibilities.