OnePlus Open Review: The Cure For The Common Foldable

In the highly competitive foldable smartphone market, OnePlus has finally introduced a device that takes a bold step forward, offering something truly different from the typical foldable options currently available. The OnePlus Open is being touted as a solution to the common shortcomings of other foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Google Pixel Fold. With its sleek design, multitasking capabilities, and a camera system that finally meets expectations, the OnePlus Open is set to change the foldable landscape. Let’s dive into the details and explore why this phone is worth your attention.

A Fresh Take on Design and Multitasking

The OnePlus Open offers a refreshing design approach. The phone features a soft pleather back that gives it a luxurious feel, which is a nice alternative to the conventional glass backs found in most smartphones. While the phone is also available in Emerald Dusk with a more traditional glass back, the pleather option offers better durability and evokes the feel of a classic Moleskine notebook. It also provides a practical advantage by reducing the need for a case, although a case and fast charger are included in the box.

When closed, the OnePlus Open resembles a regular phone, making it feel more natural to carry. Despite its large form factor, it’s surprisingly lightweight, even lighter than both the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and the Pixel Fold. The compact size allows it to slide comfortably into a pocket without feeling like you’re carrying around a bulky device. When unfolded, the device becomes a tablet, and the hinge action is smooth, with enough friction to hold it in place in various positions. The crease is visible, but it’s significantly less noticeable compared to other foldables, and the screen feels much flatter.

Water Resistance and Durability

Although the OnePlus Open lacks the high water resistance rating of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold (IPX8) or the Pixel Fold (IPX8), it still manages to offer an IPX4 rating. This is enough to withstand splashes of water and occasional rain, making it practical for everyday use. The device’s overall build quality, with symmetrical bezels and durable materials, contributes to its longevity.

Software and Multitasking Experience

One of the most impressive aspects of the OnePlus Open is its software experience. OnePlus has integrated Oxygen OS into the foldable format, which works seamlessly on both the cover screen and the main display. The multitasking experience is intuitive, with a swipe-up gesture on the cover screen giving you quick access to apps, and a swipe on the main screen revealing a smart, two-column display of apps.

The device takes multitasking to the next level with the Open Canvas feature, which allows you to run multiple apps side by side. You can even stack up to three apps on the screen, making it ideal for handling tasks like social media management or content creation. The multitasking layout is highly customizable, offering a desktop-like experience with an optional taskbar that lets you drag and drop files into supported apps.

Camera Performance: A Pleasant Surprise

The camera system on the OnePlus Open is a major highlight. With a pixel-stacked Sony sensor, the camera is capable of capturing stunning photos, especially when using the telephoto lens. The 3x optical zoom, combined with the large half-inch sensor, delivers excellent low-light performance and clear details even at higher zoom levels. The differences in image quality, particularly at night, are dramatic, with the OnePlus Open outshining many of its competitors in terms of camera performance.

While it doesn’t have the same software features as Google’s Pixel series or Samsung’s Galaxy line, such as Magic Eraser or the Samsung Full Feature Set, the OnePlus Open still offers an enjoyable photography experience with great results in various lighting conditions.

Battery Life and Charging

The OnePlus Open offers impressive battery life that can last a full day with regular use, which is an essential feature for any flagship device. However, one notable drawback is the lack of wireless charging, a feature that almost every other flagship device supports. Despite this, the OnePlus Open boasts fast charging capabilities, which compensates for the absence of wireless charging to some extent.

It’s worth noting that while fast charging is a priority for OnePlus, the decision to skip wireless charging is somewhat puzzling, especially given that the CH2 charging standard is expected to bring wireless charging to Android devices, including Apple’s MagSafe-style charging.

Performance and Connectivity

Under the hood, the OnePlus Open is a powerhouse, equipped with top-of-the-line specs that make it one of the most powerful foldables available today. The phone handles demanding tasks with ease, from gaming to multitasking, without any noticeable slowdowns. The device also offers excellent reception on networks like T-Mobile, and it pairs smoothly with OnePlus Buds for seamless audio performance.

Price and Availability

The OnePlus Open is priced at $1,700, which is competitive in the foldable market, especially considering its performance and features. OnePlus is also offering a trade-in program that can save you at least $200 if you trade in any phone, making the OnePlus Open a more affordable option compared to other foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold or Pixel Fold.

However, the OnePlus Open will not be available through carrier stores in the United States, which is a bit of a downside. Instead, it will be sold through Best Buy and Amazon, and purchasing directly from OnePlus.com offers additional trade-in incentives.

Conclusion: A Strong Contender in the Foldable Market

The OnePlus Open represents a major step forward in the foldable phone category. With its sleek design, solid multitasking software, and impressive camera performance, the OnePlus Open stands out as one of the best foldable devices available today. While it may not have all the features of its competitors, such as wireless charging or a more polished software experience, it offers a unique combination of performance, design, and value that makes it a strong contender.

If OnePlus continues to refine and expand its foldable lineup, it could become the device that challenges the dominance of Samsung and Google in the foldable market. For now, the OnePlus Open is a device that proves OnePlus is more than capable of creating a compelling and competitive foldable phone.