The OnePlus 9RT, the latest addition to OnePlus’ 9 series, might not have generated the same level of excitement as some of its predecessors. Typically, the ‘T’ models bring minor enhancements to design and performance, with exceptions like the OnePlus 7T. The OnePlus 9RT follows this tradition, focusing on design, the SoC (System on Chip), and the primary rear camera. If you’re already a OnePlus 9R owner, the 9RT might not offer a significant leap. However, for those with older OnePlus models looking to make a switch, is the 9RT worth considering? Let’s delve into the details.
OnePlus 9RT Price in India:
The OnePlus 9RT is competitively priced in India, falling between the 9R and the standard OnePlus 9. It starts at Rs. 42,999 for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant and Rs. 46,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage version. Even if you don’t need 12GB of RAM, the latter option offers double the storage and lacks a microSD card slot. Moreover, various cashback offers are available at launch, potentially providing a decent discount.
Design:
The OnePlus 9RT showcases a refreshed design with a sleek Hacker Black variant featuring a sandstone-like finish. Its glass back is both stylish and durable, although it can attract minor marks that are easily removable. The redesigned camera module seamlessly blends into the phone’s aesthetic, reminiscent of the 8 Pro. With a comfortable grip, aluminum frame, and a 6.62-inch AMOLED display boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, the 9RT offers a premium experience. While it lacks the LTPO-type panel of the 9 Pro, the display is top-notch with Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection. Despite a subtle off-axis hue shift on white backgrounds, it’s hardly noticeable in daily use. OnePlus continues its tradition of including accessories like a case, USB cable, and a rapid 65W charger in the box.
Specifications and Software:
The OnePlus 9RT features a significant performance boost, thanks to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 SoC, on par with the OnePlus 9. Notably, it supports eight 5G bands, making it more future-proof. Additionally, the phone incorporates three Wi-Fi antennas for enhanced gaming stability and a larger vapor chamber cooling system for improved heat dissipation. The touch response has been optimized for certain games, reaching up to 600Hz. However, it still lacks an IP rating and wireless charging, which may disappoint some users. The OnePlus 9RT runs on OxygenOS 11.3 based on Android 11, with an Android 12-based update in the pipeline. The user interface is clean with minimal bloatware, offering customization options for accent colors, fonts, and wallpapers.
Performance and Battery Life:
The OnePlus 9RT excels as a daily driver, providing a dependable and speedy experience. The in-display fingerprint sensor is swift, and multitasking is smooth. Multimedia playback, including HDR content, is impressive, and gaming performance is stellar, handling titles like Fortnite and Call of Duty: Mobile with ease. The display’s touch response is excellent, and the phone manages heat well even during extended gaming sessions. Battery life is commendable, with the 4,500mAh battery lasting over 20 hours in a looped video test and easily offering a full day’s usage in real-world scenarios. The included Warp Charge 65T charger replenishes the battery in under 30 minutes.
Cameras:
The OnePlus 9RT upgrades its primary camera to a 50-megapixel Sony IMX766 sensor, also used in the 9 and 9 Pro as an ultra-wide camera. This sensor supports DOL-HDR, enabling high dynamic range video capture when shooting against bright light. Low-light photography has also improved. While the primary camera gets an upgrade, the other sensors remain similar to the OnePlus 9R, including a 16-megapixel ultra-wide camera, a 2-megapixel macro camera, and a 16-megapixel selfie camera. The camera app borrows elements from Oppo’s ColorOS, offering AI scene enhancement, dual-view video recording, and a Hi-Res mode for capturing 108-megapixel photos.
The OnePlus 9RT caters to users seeking enhanced performance and camera capabilities in a well-designed package. While it may not be a substantial leap for existing OnePlus 9R owners, it presents an attractive option for those looking to upgrade from older OnePlus devices. With its competitive pricing and impressive battery life, the OnePlus 9RT offers a compelling choice in the OnePlus lineup.