The OnePlus 15R represents a new budget-friendly option that you might weigh against the Google Pixel 9a as an economical smartphone choice. Both devices are budget picks in their respective ranges that feature premium characteristics for Android users, inclusive of significant AI integration. They have both been launched relatively recently: the Google Pixel 9a debuted in March 2025, while the OnePlus 15R was released in December 2025. Choosing between them may seem daunting, but we’re here to assist.
OnePlus 15R vs. Google Pixel 9a: Core specifications
The OnePlus 15R boasts a 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen presenting a resolution of 2,800 x 1,272 and certified by TÜV Rheinland’s Intelligent Eye Care 5.0, along with a remarkable 165Hz refresh rate. Its peak brightness of 1,800 nits can reduce to 1 nit as needed. According to Android Central’s Harish Jonnalagadda, the display is gentle on the eyes. However, he notes that refresh rates of 144Hz or 165Hz are only available in six gaming titles; for all other applications, it defaults to a standard 120Hz.
Nonetheless, Nicholas Sutrich adds that in his hands-on review, he found it features the most flicker-free OLED display he has encountered, which is a significant advantage for individuals with sensitivities. He praised the brightness and outdoor visibility, which he characterized as exceptional, and he values the eye care capabilities, even claiming its display is among the finest in OLED technology.
Available in Charcoal Black or Mint Breeze with Velvet Glass technology, the OnePlus 15R exhibits rounded corners and a reimagined camera bump designed to lessen hand fatigue during prolonged use.
The substantial 7,400mAh battery is a notable highlight, guaranteeing the phone’s longevity and functionality in tough circumstances. It utilizes OnePlus’ Silicon NanoStack technology, consisting of 15% silicon for enhanced energy density. It also incorporates 55W SUPERVOOC quick charging with the provided charger but can reach up to 80W with the OnePlus SUPERVOOC 100W Dual Ports GaN Power Adapter Lite.
However, it lacks wireless charging, which is a drawback compared to the outstanding flagship OnePlus 15. It can maintain 80% of its capacity after four years, ensuring prolonged battery health. Jonnalagadda mentions that the device effortlessly lasts up to two days without complications, and even a day and a half under heavy usage.
Similar to the OnePlus 15, it is highly durable, achieving not only an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance but also IP66, IP69, and IP69K ratings. This assures the phone can endure submersion, high-pressure water jets at close range, and elevated temperatures. Thus, whether in the hot tub or at a backyard water fight, it’s capable of withstanding it all.
You can choose between 256GB or 512GB storage, with the latter option available solely in the Charcoal Black variant, and it can be complemented with the Sandstone or hole-pattern magnetic case. The device promises four years of software updates and six years of security updates.
In summary, Jonnalagadda perceives the design as a downgrade, aside from an Electric Violet finish exclusively available in India. He believes the Panda glass used isn’t as robust as Corning Gorilla Glass, despite the remarkable IP ratings.
The Google Pixel 9a is offered in Iris, Peony, Porcelain, or Obsidian, featuring a composite matte back along with a satin metal finish. It showcases a smaller 6.3-inch OLED display protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Actua and offers a resolution of 2,424 x 1,080, with an adaptive refresh rate spanning 60-120Hz. Its brightness peaks at 2,700 nits. Michael Hicks notes in his review that it’s comfortable for outdoor visibility with satisfactory color saturation. While viewing videos side by side with the upgraded Google Pixel 9, he observed no notable disparity in color accuracy or contrast.
With sharp edges and an IP68 water- and dust-resistance rating, it marks the first Pixel device devoid of the conventional camera housing, which allows for a larger battery and an ultra-sleek design. Hicks remarks that the subtlety of the camera housing is almost excessive, but he values that its thinness prevents wobbling and remarks on the phone’s remarkable lightness. He notes that the design modification was justified to accommodate a more expansive battery.
Its battery capacity is slightly above average at 5,100mAh, which comfortably lasts over a day according to Hicks, even under heavy usage, and can extend to two days with lighter use. However, this still pales in comparison to the OnePlus 15R. Nonetheless, you can count on a rated 30+ hours per charge, potentially extending to 100 hours, or just over 4 days, through Extreme.
