Nokia 9 vs OnePlus 5: Which Wins?
The Nokia 9 and OnePlus 5 are two very different phones from 2017, and the winner depends entirely on what you value most: the Nokia 9 offers a purer Android experience and better build quality, while the OnePlus 5 delivers significantly faster performance and a much better camera for the same price. If you prioritize speed, camera versatility, and software updates, the OnePlus 5 wins; if you prefer a clean, stock-like interface and a premium glass design, the Nokia 9 is the better choice.
Background: Two Flagship Approaches in 2017
Released in mid-2017, the OnePlus 5 was the company’s fifth flagship, known for its “never settle” philosophy—offering top-tier specs at a mid-range price. It featured a Snapdragon 835 processor, 6 or 8GB of RAM, and a dual-camera setup. The Nokia 9, announced in early 2018 but released later that year, was HMD Global’s attempt to bring a true flagship to the Nokia brand, with a Snapdragon 835, 4GB of RAM, and a unique five-camera array on the back. Both phones aimed at the premium segment but took different paths: OnePlus focused on raw performance and battery life, while Nokia emphasized design and a clean Android One experience.
Performance and Hardware
The OnePlus 5 is the clear winner in raw performance. It uses the same Snapdragon 835 as the Nokia 9, but with up to 8GB of RAM (vs. 4GB on the Nokia 9), and its software is heavily optimized for speed. In real-world usage, the OnePlus 5 launches apps faster, handles multitasking more smoothly, and has a more responsive touchscreen. The Nokia 9, while not slow, suffers from occasional lag due to its less optimized camera software and heavier UI. For gaming, the OnePlus 5 also edges ahead, with better thermal management and a higher refresh rate (though both are 60Hz). If you’re a power user, the OnePlus 5 is the obvious choice.
Camera: Five Lenses vs. Two
The Nokia 9’s headline feature is its five-camera setup (three monochrome and two RGB sensors), which captures more light and detail than most single-lens phones. However, the implementation was flawed at launch: the camera app was slow, processing took several seconds, and images often had soft edges. The OnePlus 5, with its dual 16MP + 20MP setup, produced sharper, more vibrant photos in most conditions, especially in good light. The OnePlus 5 also had a better portrait mode (using the telephoto lens) and superior video stabilization. In low light, the Nokia 9 could capture more detail in theory, but the OnePlus 5’s images were more usable. For most users, the OnePlus 5 takes the win.
Software and Updates
The Nokia 9 runs Android One, which is a stock Android experience with guaranteed updates for two years. It received Android 9 and 10 updates, but the rollout was slow and buggy. The OnePlus 5 initially ran OxygenOS, which is close to stock but with added features like gesture navigation and a gaming mode. OnePlus provided updates for three years, including Android 10, and the community support is strong, with custom ROMs available. In terms of long-term usability, the OnePlus 5 is better supported and more stable.
Design and Build Quality
The Nokia 9 has a more premium feel, with a glass back (Gorilla Glass 5) and an aluminum frame, similar to the iPhone X. It’s heavier and more substantial in the hand. The OnePlus 5 has a metal unibody design that is lighter and thinner, but it feels less premium and has a dated look. The Nokia 9 also has a better display: a 5.99-inch QHD OLED (vs. 5.5-inch Full HD AMOLED on the OnePlus 5), which is sharper and more color-accurate. If design and display matter to you, the Nokia 9 is the winner.
Battery Life and Charging
The OnePlus 5 has a 3300mAh battery, which, combined with its efficient software, easily lasts a full day with heavy use. It also supports Dash Charge (fast charging) that gives a day’s power in 30 minutes. The Nokia 9 has a 3320mAh battery, but it drains faster due to the five-camera system and less optimized software; it also supports fast charging but not as fast as OnePlus’s. In this category, the OnePlus 5 is the clear winner.
Price and Value
At launch, the OnePlus 5 started at $479, while the Nokia 9 was priced at $699. Today, both are available used for around $100-150, but the OnePlus 5 offers better value for money because it performs better and has a more capable camera. The Nokia 9’s unique camera is a novelty, but it doesn’t justify the higher price or the compromises.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
- Nokia 9 camera lag: Many users complain about slow shutter and processing. This is due to the five sensors needing to combine images, which is computationally heavy.
- OnePlus 5 screen issues: Some units had a jelly scrolling effect (a slight wobble when scrolling), which is a hardware quirk of the inverted display. It’s not a defect but can be annoying.
- Misconception: “More cameras = better photos”: The Nokia 9’s five cameras don’t automatically make it better; software and processing matter more.
- Misconception: “OnePlus 5 is fragile”: The metal build is actually quite durable, though it can scratch.
How to Choose Between Them
If you’re buying used today, consider your priorities:
- Choose the OnePlus 5 if you want a fast, reliable phone for daily use, gaming, and a camera that takes good photos without fuss.
- Choose the Nokia 9 if you’re a photography enthusiast who wants to experiment with monochrome and depth editing, and you prefer a stock Android interface.
- If you need long battery life, the OnePlus 5 is better.
- If you want a more modern display and premium feel, the Nokia 9 wins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has a better processor?
Both use the same Snapdragon 835, but the OnePlus 5 has more RAM (up to 8GB vs 4GB) and better thermal management, so it performs better in sustained tasks.
Does the Nokia 9 take better photos than the OnePlus 5?
In ideal conditions, the Nokia 9 can capture more detail and dynamic range, but its slow processing and soft edges make it less reliable. The OnePlus 5 takes consistently good photos with faster autofocus and better video.
Can I still use these phones in 2024?
Yes, but both are no longer supported with security updates. The OnePlus 5 has a larger community and more custom ROMs, so you can install a newer Android version. The Nokia 9 is stuck on Android 10 and has limited community development.
Which phone has better battery life?
The OnePlus 5 easily lasts a full day, while the Nokia 9 often needs a top-up by evening. The OnePlus 5’s charging is also faster.
Is the Nokia 9 worth buying for its camera?
Only if you’re willing to use a third-party camera app (like GCam) and accept slow processing. The five-camera setup is a gimmick for most users, and the OnePlus 5’s camera is more practical.
Final Verdict
In almost every measurable way, the OnePlus 5 outperforms the Nokia 9. It’s faster, has a better camera, longer battery life, and better software support. The Nokia 9’s only advantages are its premium glass design, sharper QHD display, and the unique five-camera system, which is more of a novelty than a practical tool. If you’re choosing between these two used phones, the OnePlus 5 is the smarter buy.
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