A Comparative Review: OnePlus 5 vs Samsung Galaxy Note 8
In the world of smartphones, the OnePlus 5 and Samsung Galaxy Note 8 were two remarkable devices released in 2017. Both smartphones pushed the boundaries of what is possible in mobile technology. However, when it comes to choosing between the two, the debate is often heated.
Software and Performance
When considering software and performance, the OnePlus 5 often takes the lead. The Android operating system on the OnePlus offers a cleaner, more optimized user interface. Unlike some of its competitors, the OnePlus software runs smoothly without heavy applications weighing it down. Despite Samsung's continuous efforts with software updates, the current iteration of the Samsung OS performs well, but the OnePlus system still provides a few advantages, especially in terms of system efficiency and user experience.
Display and Design
Both smartphones were notable for their design and display features, but there is a clear difference in the user experience.
Note 8: The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 boasts a stunning 6.3-inch QHD display with an infinity display. This feature allowed for a near-glass-to-glass seamless design without the bezels, making the phone more visually appealing and convenient to use.
OnePlus 5: The OnePlus 5, with its 5.5-inch full HD display, is smaller and slightly less detailed compared to the Note 8. While it is a great phone, it does not match the large-screen viewing experience of the Note 8.
Physical buttons are another point of differentiation. The OnePlus 5 retains a physical home button, while the Note 8 opts for a more advanced and intuitive on-screen interface. This decision by OnePlus might be seen as a traditionalist choice, while the Note 8’s design eliminates any less than seamless touch experience.
Features and Accessories
While the OnePlus 5 and Note 8 both offer top-tier hardware, the Note 8 introduces some unique features that the OnePlus does not.
Note 8: The Note 8 comes equipped with a S Pen, a feature that allows for additional tasks such as handwritten notes and stylus-based drawing. This is a significant advantage over the OnePlus 5, which lacks this feature.
OnePlus 5: Despite the absence of the S Pen, the OnePlus 5 still boasts a good camera and overall decent performance without the hefty price tag. With future software updates, the camera quality could be significantly improved.
Price and Value for Money
The OnePlus 5 is a budget-breaker, offering premium performance at a fraction of the cost of the Note 8. The Note 8, while being equipped with advanced features, carries a higher price tag, especially in markets like India, where the pricing can be quite steep.
However, many consumers are choosing to purchase the Note 8 through financing options like the EMI Network Card, which allows for the purchase to be broken down into affordable monthly installments. This makes the Note 8 more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Conclusion
Both the OnePlus 5 and Samsung Galaxy Note 8 are remarkable smartphones, each with its unique set of strengths. If performance and efficiency are your top priorities, the OnePlus 5 might be the better choice, offering excellent value for money. However, if you want performance alongside advanced features and a visually striking design, the Note 8 offers more than the OnePlus 5 can provide.