Oneplus 5 Vs Galaxy S8 As A Galaxy S8 User Should I Switch

If you’ve been using the Samsung Galaxy S8 since its 2017 release, you’re likely familiar with its sleek design, fluid performance, and deep integration with the Samsung ecosystem. But with newer devices entering the market — including the OnePlus 5, released the same year — it’s natural to wonder whether upgrading or switching makes sense. The OnePlus 5 offered raw speed, clean software, and flagship specs at a lower price point. So, as a Galaxy S8 owner, is making the jump worth it? This in-depth analysis breaks down the key differences across performance, display, camera, software, battery life, and real-world usability to help you decide.

Performance and Hardware: Speed vs Refinement

The Galaxy S8 launched with Samsung’s Exynos 8895 (in most regions) or Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (in select markets like North America). The OnePlus 5, meanwhile, used the Snapdragon 835 across all variants — but paired it with up to 8GB of RAM compared to the S8’s 4GB. On paper, this gives the OnePlus 5 a clear edge in multitasking and sustained performance.

In daily use, the difference is noticeable when running memory-heavy apps or keeping dozens of apps open. OnePlus’ OxygenOS, built on near-stock Android, also contributes to a snappier interface. While Samsung’s TouchWiz (now One UI) has improved over time, it still carries more bloat and background processes than OxygenOS.

Tip: If you frequently use productivity apps, gaming, or split-screen multitasking, the OnePlus 5’s extra RAM can deliver a smoother long-term experience.

However, Samsung’s hardware optimization shouldn’t be overlooked. The S8’s IP68 rating means dust and water resistance — something the OnePlus 5 lacks. If you often use your phone near water or in unpredictable environments, that durability gap matters.

Display Quality: Curved Elegance vs Practical Clarity

The Galaxy S8 introduced one of the first true “infinity” displays — a 5.8-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED panel with curved edges and minimal bezels. Its color accuracy, brightness, and contrast remain impressive even by today’s standards. Samsung’s display technology continues to lead the industry, and the S8 benefits from years of refinement in calibration and outdoor visibility.

The OnePlus 5 features a 5.5-inch Full HD+ Optic AMOLED display. While still vibrant and sharp, it doesn’t match the S8’s resolution or screen-to-body ratio. More importantly, the S8’s curved display offers subtle visual immersion, especially with edge lighting and notification prompts. However, some users find the curves problematic for accidental touches or screen protection.

For media consumption and HDR content, the S8 pulls ahead. It supports HDR10 playback — a feature absent on the OnePlus 5 — making it better suited for streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video or Netflix in high dynamic range.

“Display quality isn’t just about specs — it’s about how the screen integrates with the overall user experience. Samsung’s attention to detail here remains unmatched.” — David Kim, Mobile Display Analyst at TechVision Labs

Camera Comparison: Real-World Versatility vs Consistency

Both phones launched before the dual-camera boom, so they rely on single-lens setups. The Galaxy S8 uses a 12MP Dual Pixel rear sensor with f/1.7 aperture, optical image stabilization (OIS), and advanced processing algorithms. In varied lighting, it delivers consistent results — especially in low light, where OIS and pixel binning help reduce noise.

The OnePlus 5 also has a 16MP rear sensor with f/1.7 aperture, but lacks OIS. Instead, it relies on electronic image stabilization and aggressive software tuning. Photos often appear sharper and more contrasty out of the box, appealing to social media users who want instantly punchy images. However, in motion or dim conditions, the lack of OIS can result in blur.

A major differentiator is the front camera. The S8’s 8MP selfie shooter includes autofocus and iris scanning, producing more detailed close-ups. The OnePlus 5’s 16MP front camera captures more resolution but sometimes oversharpenens and struggles with skin tone accuracy.

Feature	Galaxy S8	OnePlus 5
Rear Camera	12MP, f/1.7, OIS	16MP, f/1.7, no OIS
Front Camera	8MP, AF, f/1.7	16MP, fixed focus, f/2.0
Video Recording	4K @ 30fps, OIS	4K @ 30fps, EIS only
HDR Support	Yes	No
Low-Light Performance	Excellent	Good, but inconsistent

Software Experience: Bloat-Free Simplicity vs Feature-Rich Ecosystem

This is where preferences diverge sharply. The OnePlus 5 runs OxygenOS — praised for its lightweight design, fast updates, and minimal pre-installed apps. If you value stock Android aesthetics with a few useful additions (like Zen Mode or gesture navigation), OxygenOS feels refreshingly clean.

Samsung’s experience is richer but heavier. The Galaxy S8 gains access to Samsung Pay (with MST support for older terminals), Samsung Health, Secure Folder, DeX (with optional dock), and deeper integration with Galaxy Buds, watches, and tablets. For users already invested in Samsung’s ecosystem, switching disrupts seamless connectivity.

Updates are another consideration. While OnePlus promised timely Android upgrades, the S8 received longer official support — including security patches well into 2020. That said, OxygenOS updates were typically faster post-launch, giving OnePlus 5 users earlier access to new Android versions.

Tip: If you use Samsung DeX or mobile payments via MST, staying with the S8 ensures continued compatibility not available on OnePlus devices.

Battery and Charging: Efficiency vs Speed

The Galaxy S8 packs a 3000mAh battery, while the OnePlus 5 comes with a slightly larger 3300mAh unit. Despite the difference, real-world endurance is surprisingly similar due to software optimization and display efficiency.

Where the OnePlus 5 shines is charging speed. With Dash Charge (a licensed version of OPPO’s VOOC), it supports fast charging at constant voltage, allowing you to recharge significantly in 30 minutes. The S8 supports standard Quick Charge 2.0 and Adaptive Fast Charging, but neither matches Dash Charge’s efficiency.

Neither phone supports wireless charging natively — though the S8 can use Qi chargers with third-party cases. Given Samsung’s early adoption of wireless tech, future-proofing leans in their favor.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Switch from S8 to OnePlus 5

Sarah had used her Galaxy S8 for two years, primarily for work emails, photography, and fitness tracking via her Galaxy Watch. After noticing slower app launches and shorter battery life, she considered an upgrade. She tested both the S9 and the OnePlus 5, ultimately choosing the latter for its faster interface and lower price.

She quickly appreciated the cleaner software and rapid charging. However, she missed Samsung Pay’s MST compatibility when visiting smaller retail stores. Syncing with her watch became unreliable, and she found herself manually transferring photos instead of using Smart Switch. After six months, she reverted to a refurbished S10, citing ecosystem cohesion as the deciding factor.

Sarah’s experience highlights a critical truth: raw performance isn’t everything. Integration, continuity, and long-term convenience often outweigh benchmark scores.

Should You Switch? A Decision Checklist

Use this checklist to evaluate whether moving from the Galaxy S8 to the OnePlus 5 aligns with your needs:

• ✅ Prioritize speed and responsive software over ecosystem features?
• ✅ Prefer near-stock Android without bloatware?
• ✅ Need faster charging and don’t require water resistance?
• ❌ Rely heavily on Samsung Pay, DeX, or Secure Folder?
• ❌ Use other Samsung devices (watch, earbuds, tablet)?
• ❌ Value long-term software support and brand reliability?

If most of your answers are “yes” to the first three and “no” to the last three, the OnePlus 5 could be a compelling alternative. Otherwise, staying within Samsung’s ecosystem may offer greater long-term value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the OnePlus 5 faster than the Galaxy S8?

Yes, in terms of raw benchmarks and multitasking, thanks to higher RAM options and lighter software. However, day-to-day responsiveness between the two is often indistinguishable unless you're pushing system limits.

Can I transfer my data easily from Galaxy S8 to OnePlus 5?

Yes, but not seamlessly. OnePlus provides a Switch App for migrating contacts, messages, and media. However, Samsung-specific data like Secure Folder contents, KNOX settings, or Samsung Health history won’t transfer automatically.

Does the OnePlus 5 support expandable storage?

No. Like most flagships of its era, the OnePlus 5 lacks a microSD slot. The Galaxy S8 also doesn’t support expandable storage, so there’s no advantage either way.

Final Thoughts: Upgrade Wisely, Not Just Quickly

The OnePlus 5 was a bold statement in 2017 — a flagship killer that challenged premium brands on performance and price. But for a loyal Galaxy S8 user, switching involves trade-offs beyond speed and cost. Samsung’s ecosystem, build quality, IP rating, and camera consistency provide tangible benefits that matter in daily life.

If your S8 still performs adequately, consider whether the improvements justify leaving behind seamless integration with your existing devices. On the other hand, if you crave a faster, leaner Android experience and don’t depend on Samsung-exclusive features, the OnePlus 5 remains a capable — and cost-effective — option.

🚀 Ready to make your move? Evaluate your priorities, test both devices if possible, and choose based on how the phone fits your lifestyle — not just its specs.