The foldable smartphone market is a dynamic and rapidly evolving space, offering a glimpse into the future of mobile technology. In this exciting arena, two formidable contenders stand out: the newly released Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold (September 2024) and the highly acclaimed OnePlus Open (October 2023). While both aim to deliver the transformative experience of a smartphone that unfolds into a tablet, they approach this challenge with distinct philosophies, hardware choices, and software optimizations.
For tech enthusiasts and early adopters in Nairobi, Kenya, the choice between these two premium foldables is a significant one. This comprehensive comparison and review will delve into every aspect, from design and displays to performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and the nuanced software experiences, to help you determine which folding flagship truly deserves a place in your pocket.
The Vision Behind the Fold: Google’s AI-Centricity vs. OnePlus’s “Open Canvas”
At their core, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the OnePlus Open represent different visions for the foldable form factor.
Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the embodiment of Google’s AI-first strategy within a foldable design. Building upon the original Pixel Fold, the Pro Fold integrates Google’s latest Tensor G4 chip, leveraging its advanced AI capabilities for everything from computational photography to on-device language processing and smart assistant features. The design is likely optimized for a balanced user experience across both folded and unfolded states, with a strong emphasis on Google’s clean Android interface and seamless integration with its ecosystem. It’s about bringing the unique Pixel experience, renowned for its smart features and camera, to the foldable world.
The OnePlus Open, conversely, emphasizes an “Open Canvas” philosophy. It was designed to maximize productivity and entertainment on its expansive inner display, focusing on multi-app multitasking and a fluid user experience. OnePlus collaborated closely with Oppo on its foldable design, resulting in a device that prioritizes a minimal crease, a lightweight build, and fast charging. It aims to be a powerhouse of productivity and entertainment, offering a more traditional “flagship” performance profile with its Snapdragon chip and OnePlus’s OxygenOS.
These differing philosophies translate into distinct strengths and weaknesses for each device.
Design and Build Quality: Ergonomics vs. Sleek Durability
Both foldables are premium devices crafted from high-quality materials, but their design approaches result in different in-hand feels.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold (released September 2024) refines Google’s previous foldable design. It features a robust multi-alloy steel hinge with an aerospace-grade high-strength aluminum alloy cover. When folded, it measures approximately 155.2 mm×77.1 mm×10.5 mm and weighs around 257 grams. Reviewers often note the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s curvier, smoother edges, which contribute to a more comfortable in-hand feel when folded, making it less “prickly” than some competitors. Its broader cover screen offers more usable space. It boasts an IPX8 water resistance rating, meaning it can be submerged in water.
The OnePlus Open (released October 2023) immediately impressed critics with its slim profile and relatively light weight for a foldable. It measures 153.4 mm×73.3 mm×11.7 mm when folded (Emerald Dusk variant at 5.8mm unfolded, Voyager Black at 5.9mm unfolded) and weighs 239g (Voyager Black) or 245g (Emerald Dusk). Its design emphasizes a near-crease-free inner display and a robust yet lightweight aluminum frame, with either a glass or eco-leather back. While some users found its sharper edges less comfortable than the Pixel, its thinness when unfolded is a significant advantage. The OnePlus Open has an IPX4 splash resistance rating, which is good for splashes but not submersion.
Design and Build Takeaway: The OnePlus Open takes the lead in terms of overall thinness and weight, making it feel remarkably sleek for a foldable. Its hinge is also widely praised for being less noticeable. However, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers superior water resistance (IPX8 vs. IPX4) and a more ergonomic, curvier design that many find more comfortable to hold, especially when folded. The choice here hinges on whether you prioritize ultimate slimness and a nearly invisible crease (OnePlus Open) or robust water resistance and a more hand-friendly design (Pixel 9 Pro Fold).
Displays: Cover Screen Utility and Inner Display Immersion
The displays are, without a doubt, the most critical components of a foldable phone, dictating the user experience in both modes.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold features two impressive OLED displays.
- External Cover Display: A 6.3-inch Actua display with a resolution of 1080×2424 pixels (422 PPI) and a 20:9 aspect ratio. It supports a 60-120Hz refresh rate and reaches up to 1800 nits (HDR) and an incredible 2700 nits peak brightness for HDR content. It’s protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Its wider aspect ratio makes it feel more like a traditional smartphone screen when folded.
- Internal Folding Display: An 8-inch Super Actua Flex display (LTPO) with a resolution of 2076×2152 pixels (373 PPI) and a near 1:1 aspect ratio. It offers a variable refresh rate from 1Hz to 120Hz for fluid scrolling and power efficiency. It boasts up to 1600 nits (HDR) and 2700 nits peak brightness. It uses Ultra Thin Glass (UTG).
The OnePlus Open also boasts two high-quality LTPO AMOLED displays.
- External Cover Display: A 6.31-inch LTPO3 Super Fluid OLED with a resolution of 1116×2484 pixels (431 PPI) and a 20:9 aspect ratio. It supports a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and achieves a peak brightness of 2800 nits. It’s protected by Ceramic Guard. Many find this display’s aspect ratio very usable.
- Internal Folding Display: A 7.82-inch LTPO3 Flexi-fluid AMOLED with a resolution of 2268×2440 pixels (426 PPI) and a more tablet-like aspect ratio. It features a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and also reaches an impressive 2800 nits peak brightness. Its crease is notably less visible than many competitors, including the original Pixel Fold.
Display Takeaway: Both phones offer exceptional displays with high brightness and smooth 120Hz refresh rates. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a slightly larger main screen and an arguably more comfortable aspect ratio on its cover screen, making it more akin to a regular phone when closed. Its peak brightness for HDR content is also slightly higher. However, the OnePlus Open is renowned for its nearly invisible crease on the inner display, which is a significant psychological advantage for many users. The OnePlus Open’s inner display also has a higher pixel density. For a less distracting folding experience, the Open has an edge, but the Pixel’s overall display quality and cover screen usability are very strong.
Performance: Tensor’s AI vs. Snapdragon’s Raw Power
The engine under the hood determines how smoothly apps run, how quickly tasks are completed, and how capable the phone is for demanding activities like gaming.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by Google’s latest Tensor G4 chipset, built on a 4nm process. This octa-core processor is heavily optimized for AI and machine learning, enabling many of the Pixel’s signature “smart” features. While synthetic benchmarks may place it slightly behind the absolute top-tier Snapdragon chips in pure raw power, the Tensor G4 excels in real-world performance for Google’s ecosystem, handling complex computational photography, real-time translations, and on-device AI tasks with remarkable efficiency. It comes with a generous 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and storage options up to 512GB (UFS 3.1).
The OnePlus Open utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform, a 4nm octa-core chip that was the flagship processor of 2023. It features a powerful Adreno 740 GPU. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is a proven performer, delivering exceptional raw power, excellent sustained performance for gaming, and efficient power management. The Open is equipped with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, providing a highly fluid user experience and incredibly fast app loading times.
Performance Takeaway: For raw computing power, especially in demanding gaming and multi-application scenarios, the OnePlus Open with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 will likely outperform the Pixel 9 Pro Fold in benchmarks. The UFS 4.0 storage on the Open is also faster than the Pixel’s UFS 3.1. However, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold with its Tensor G4 is meticulously optimized for Google’s AI-centric features and general daily use, ensuring a remarkably smooth and intelligent experience within the Google ecosystem. For the average user, both phones will feel incredibly fast and capable. For hardcore gamers or those running highly intensive specialized applications, the OnePlus Open might offer a slight edge.
Camera Systems: Computational Artistry vs. Hasselblad Versatility
The camera is a crucial aspect for many, and both these foldables aim to deliver top-tier imaging, albeit with different approaches.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Camera System: The Pixel’s prowess lies in its computational photography, powered by the Tensor G4. It features a triple-camera setup:
- 48MP Wide Camera: f/1.7 aperture, 1/2″ sensor, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS. This is the workhorse, excelling in challenging light and capturing Google’s signature natural look.
- 10.5MP Ultrawide Camera: f/2.2 aperture, 127˚ field of view, autofocus with Macro Focus. Offers expansive shots and surprisingly good macro capabilities.
- 10.8MP Telephoto Camera: f/3.1 aperture, 5x optical zoom, 1/3.2″ sensor, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS, Super Res Zoom up to 20x.
- Front Camera (Cover): 10MP Dual PD selfie camera, f/2.2 aperture, 87° field of view.
- Inner Camera (Foldable Display): 10MP Dual PD selfie camera, f/2.2 aperture, 87° field of view.
Pixel Camera Strengths: Exceptional low-light performance (Night Sight), “Real Tone” for accurate skin tones, and a suite of powerful AI editing tools like Magic Editor, Best Take, Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and Zoom Enhance. Video capabilities include 4K at 60fps on all cameras (including front) and features like Video Boost and Audio Magic Eraser.
OnePlus Open Camera System: OnePlus partnered with Hasselblad for color calibration and offers a versatile triple-camera setup:
- 48MP Main Camera: f/1.7 aperture, Sony LYT-T808 “Pixel Stacked” sensor (1/1.43″ size), multi-directional PDAF, OIS. This is a very capable sensor.
- 48MP Ultrawide Camera: f/2.2 aperture, 114˚ field of view, 1/2″ sensor, PDAF.
- 64MP Periscope Telephoto Camera: f/2.6 aperture, 3x optical zoom, 6x in-sensor zoom, 1/2″ sensor, PDAF, OIS. Offers impressive zoom range.
- Front Camera (Cover): 32MP ultrawide selfie camera, f/2.4 aperture.
- Inner Camera (Foldable Display): 20MP ultrawide selfie camera, f/2.2 aperture.
OnePlus Camera Strengths: Hasselblad color science for natural-looking images, excellent detail from the main sensor, and versatile zoom options. Video recording up to 4K at 60fps (main camera) with gyro-EIS, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support.
Camera Takeaway: This is a closely contested battle. The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold often wins for overall “point-and-shoot” consistency, especially in challenging low light or with complex subjects, thanks to Google’s unparalleled AI processing and the best-in-class selfie cameras. Its 5x optical zoom is also a strong point. However, the OnePlus Open offers a more versatile hardware setup, particularly with its 3x optical and 6x in-sensor zoom, and some prefer its more natural color science thanks to Hasselblad. While the Pixel’s computational magic can sometimes overcome hardware differences, the Open’s raw sensor performance and larger pixel counts on its ultrawide and telephoto might appeal to those seeking maximum detail. The Pixel generally excels at video too, particularly with its front camera 4K 60fps capability.
Battery Life and Charging: Endurance and Speed
Battery life and charging speeds are crucial for any high-end device, and foldables, with their larger displays, require substantial power.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is equipped with a 4650 mAh battery. It supports 21W wired fast charging (though compatible with Google’s 45W charger, which is sold separately) and 7.5W wireless charging. While the battery capacity is slightly smaller than the Open, Google’s Tensor G4 and software optimizations often lead to efficient power management. Reviews indicate it provides a full day of moderate to heavy use, with some tests showing around 16 hours of web Browse.
The OnePlus Open packs a larger 4805 mAh (typical) battery. Its standout feature is its blazing-fast 67W SUPERVOOC wired charging, which can fully charge the device in approximately 43 minutes. This is a significant advantage for users who need quick top-ups. The OnePlus Open does not support wireless charging, which is a notable omission for a premium foldable. Battery endurance is excellent, often achieving 13-14 hours of web Browse or more in daily use.
Battery Life and Charging Takeaway: The OnePlus Open wins hands down on charging speed, offering significantly faster wired charging. It also has a slightly larger battery capacity. However, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold provides the convenience of wireless charging, which the Open lacks. In terms of overall battery life, both devices offer solid all-day endurance, though some tests suggest the Pixel’s power management can be very competitive despite its smaller battery. The choice here is between ultra-fast wired charging (OnePlus) and the versatility of wireless charging (Pixel).
Software Experience: Pure Android x AI vs. OxygenOS’s Multitasking Prowess
The software is arguably where these two foldables diverge the most, offering distinct user experiences.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold runs on the latest Android 15 (out of the box) with Google’s signature “Pixel experience.” This means a clean, bloatware-free interface, quick access to Google’s cutting-edge AI features (like Gemini integration, Call Screen, Magic Editor, Real Tone), and priority for software updates. Google has committed to an industry-leading 7 years of major Android OS upgrades and security updates for its Pixel 9 series, ensuring exceptional longevity. The software is designed to intelligently adapt to the folding form factor, with features like “Dual Screen Preview” for the camera and optimized app layouts.
The OnePlus Open runs on OxygenOS 14 (based on Android 14) and focuses heavily on multitasking and productivity for its large inner display. Key features include:
- Open Canvas: A highly flexible multitasking system that allows users to easily resize, stack, and quickly switch between up to three apps on the inner display.
- Smart Sidebar: Quick access to frequently used apps and documents.
- Desktop Mode (similar to DeX): Providing a desktop-like experience when connected to an external monitor.
- Hasselblad Color Calibration: Integrated into the camera app for a unique visual signature.
- Software Updates: OnePlus promises 4 major Android OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates, which is good, but falls short of Google’s commitment.
Software Experience Takeaway: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers the purest, most AI-integrated Android experience with unparalleled long-term software support. It’s for users who value Google’s smart features, clean UI, and guaranteed updates. The OnePlus Open excels in its optimized multitasking experience on the large inner display, providing a powerful productivity tool. Its OxygenOS is fluid and customizable, but its update policy is not as long as Google’s. If seamless AI and long-term updates are paramount, go Pixel. If advanced multitasking and a feature-rich, optimized foldable UI are your priority, the OnePlus Open is compelling.
Other Notable Features and Connectivity
- Security: Both devices feature fast and reliable fingerprint sensors. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold uses an in-display ultrasonic sensor, while the OnePlus Open utilizes a side-mounted capacitive sensor, often preferred for its speed. Both offer robust facial recognition.
- Audio: Both phones feature stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience. Neither has a 3.5mm headphone jack. The OnePlus Open boasts “Reality” speakers with Dolby Atmos support, which are highly praised.
- Connectivity: Both support the latest Wi-Fi 6E/7 standards, Bluetooth 5.3 (or newer), NFC, and a wide range of 5G bands (Sub6 and mmWave).
- Stylus Support: Neither device explicitly mentions stylus support (like the S Pen on Samsung’s Fold), which remains a niche feature for foldables.
- Durability (Crease): The OnePlus Open is often praised for having one of the least noticeable display creases in the foldable market, a significant engineering feat. While the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has improved on its predecessor, the Open still holds an edge here according to some reviewers.
Pricing and Availability in Kenya (and Mobihub Electronics)
Foldable smartphones represent the cutting edge, and their pricing reflects that. In Nairobi, Kenya, these devices are available from various electronics retailers, including Mobihub Electronics. Pricing can fluctuate based on market demand, exchange rates, and storage configurations.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Price in Kenya: As of July 2025, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a relatively new release.
- The base model (16GB RAM / 256GB storage) is typically priced from around KSh 169,000 to KSh 191,000.
- Higher storage options (e.g., 512GB) will command a higher price, potentially exceeding KSh 200,000.
- Mobihub Electronics lists the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold with prices ranging from KSh 169,000 up to KSh 249,000 depending on storage (256GB/512GB).
OnePlus Open Price in Kenya: The OnePlus Open was released earlier, which might lead to more competitive pricing now.
- The 16GB RAM / 512GB storage model (often the only configuration available) is generally priced from KSh 144,000 to KSh 190,000.
- Mobihub Electronics and other local retailers list the OnePlus Open from approximately KSh 144,000 to KSh 184,800.
Pricing Takeaway: The OnePlus Open generally offers a better price point, especially considering its impressive hardware and the often-available 512GB storage as a base. The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is newer and often commands a higher premium, though its long-term software support adds significant value. Buyers in Kenya should always compare current prices at Mobihub Electronics and other trusted local vendors for the most accurate and up-to-date deals.
The Ultimate Verdict: Which Foldable Reigns Supreme?
Choosing between the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the OnePlus Open is less about which is objectively “better” and more about which aligns with your specific priorities in a premium foldable. Both are exceptional devices, pushing the boundaries of what a smartphone can be.
Choose the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold if:
- You are deeply invested in the Google ecosystem and its AI features. You want the latest Google AI at your fingertips, from advanced photography edits to smart assistant capabilities.
- You prioritize a pristine, bloatware-free Android experience with the longest possible software support. The promise of 7 years of updates is unparalleled.
- You desire superior water resistance (IPX8).
- You prefer a cover screen with a more traditional smartphone aspect ratio for comfortable one-handed use when folded.
- You value Google’s computational photography for consistent, natural-looking photos and videos, especially with its excellent selfie cameras.
- Wireless charging is a must-have feature for you.
Choose the OnePlus Open if:
- You prioritize raw performance and blazing-fast charging speeds. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and 67W charging are top-tier.
- You demand the absolute least noticeable crease on the inner display. This is a significant comfort factor for many foldable users.
- You are a multitasking maestro and will fully utilize OxygenOS’s “Open Canvas” and other productivity features.
- You prefer a lighter and thinner foldable for a more sleek in-hand feel.
- You appreciate a versatile camera system with Hasselblad color science and strong zoom capabilities, even if the AI processing isn’t as dominant as Pixel’s.
- Price is a key consideration, as it generally offers better value for its hardware.
Final Thoughts:
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents Google’s refined vision for a smart, AI-driven foldable, prioritizing software longevity, computational photography, and an excellent, ergonomic design with strong water resistance. It’s a testament to Google’s commitment to the foldable form factor.
The OnePlus Open stands as a triumph of hardware engineering, offering an incredibly thin and light design, a remarkably minimal crease, blistering performance, and market-leading charging speeds. It’s a productivity powerhouse designed for seamless multitasking.
In essence, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold leans into Google’s software strengths and AI integration, while the OnePlus Open emphasizes raw hardware prowess and a superior physical folding experience. Both are fantastic choices, and either will provide a premium foldable experience. For those in Kenya considering these top-tier devices, be sure to check Mobihub Electronics for their current stock and competitive pricing to help make your final decision.