Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Asus Zenfone 9 and the Motorola Moto G35. These two phones, while both aiming for the smartphone market, approach the challenge with very different philosophies and target audiences. Let's break down what makes each of them tick.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 9 | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-15 | 2024-09-25 | The Moto G35 is much newer, potentially offering more up-to-date software and features. |
| Dimensions | 146.5 x 68.1 x 9.1 mm | 166.3 x 76 x 7.8 mm | Zenfone 9 is significantly more compact, ideal for one-handed use, while Moto G35 is larger, which may suit users who prefer bigger screens. |
| Weight | 169g | 188g | Zenfone 9 is much lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and easier to carry. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.72" | Moto G35 offers a larger screen for media consumption and gaming, while Zenfone 9 is much more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer Full HD+ resolution, providing adequate sharpness for typical use. |
| Pixel Density | 445 ppi | 392 ppi | Zenfone 9 has a noticeably sharper display due to its higher pixel density, meaning text and images will appear clearer. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Zenfone 9's AMOLED panel offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. Moto G35's IPS LCD is decent but not as vivid. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations with 120Hz, though the visual impact is more noticeable on the Zenfone 9's superior AMOLED. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1000 nits | Zenfone 9 is slightly brighter, meaning better visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Unisoc T760 | Zenfone 9's flagship chipset provides significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and excellent gaming performance. Moto G35 is geared for basic tasks and light gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,232,500 | 423,297 | The Zenfone 9 has significantly higher performance, nearly 3 times faster, offering a smoother, faster overall user experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Mali-G57 | The Zenfone 9's GPU is significantly more powerful, ideal for demanding games and graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4300 mAh | 5000 mAh | Moto G35 has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life between charges, but real-world usage will vary due to different chipsets. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Zenfone 9 charges noticeably faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56", Sony IMX766, 1.0µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", Samsung S5KJN1, 0.64µm | Zenfone 9 has a larger sensor and pixel size, leading to better low-light performance and overall image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.45, 1/2.93", Sony IMX663, 1.22µm | 16MP, f/2.45 | Moto G35 has a higher resolution front camera, but sensor size is unknown, the Zenfone 9's is known, and uses bigger pixel size. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX363, 1.40µm | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | Zenfone 9’s additional ultrawide + macro lens enables detailed macro shots and a broader field of view. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Zenfone 9 supports higher resolution video recording for professional-grade footage with more advanced stabilization options |
| Video Stabilization | Yes (EIS) | No | Zenfone 9 supports better video stabilization for smoother footage, especially if handheld. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | Moto G35 ships with a newer version of Android, which may give it longer software support life, but Zenfone 9 is upgradable to the same version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6E, MIMO | WiFi 5 | Zenfone 9 has a newer WiFi standard for faster, more reliable connections and better performance in crowded networks, with the MIMO feature for enhanced speed and capacity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, Apt-X, LDAC | 5.0 | Zenfone 9 has a newer Bluetooth version and supports higher-quality audio codecs. |
| GPS | Enhanced GPS support | Basic GPS support | Zenfone 9 has more comprehensive GPS support for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual SIM, Nano + eSIM | Moto G35 supports the newer eSIM technology. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer similar storage options, but the Zenfone 9 might have faster storage speeds due to the chipset. |
| RAM | 8GB/16GB | 4GB/8GB | Zenfone 9 offers much higher RAM options, leading to much better multitasking capabilities. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither offers external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, 3 Mics | Dolby Atmos, 2 Mics | Zenfone 9 has high-res audio, 3 mics for better sound capture, and superior noise cancellation, while Moto G35 has Dolby Atmos for enhanced sound output. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Side fingerprint sensor | Side fingerprint sensor | Both devices offer basic fingerprint sensor security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Zenfone 9 has a more durable screen protection for better scratch and impact resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Comprehensive | Basic | Zenfone 9 has more sensors for better motion and environmental awareness. |
2. Key Insights
Asus Zenfone 9:
- Strengths: This phone is a powerhouse packed into a compact body. Its top-tier Snapdragon chipset, vibrant AMOLED display, excellent camera with gimbal stabilization, and premium audio make it a joy for anyone seeking high performance in a pocketable device.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Unmatched performance for its size.
- Superior display technology, brightness, and pixel density.
- Advanced camera system with excellent video stabilization, and multiple modes.
- Better audio quality with Hi-Res support.
- Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Smaller screen, which might not be ideal for heavy media consumption or gaming, but very much suitable for one-handed usage.
- Smaller battery capacity, potentially leading to shorter battery life for heavy users.
- No expandable storage is a bummer for some.
Motorola Moto G35:
- Strengths: The Moto G35 offers a budget-friendly option with a large screen and a decent battery. It's perfect for users who prioritize screen size and long battery life over raw performance and features.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Lower price point.
- Larger screen size for better media consumption.
- Larger battery for extended usage.
- Ships with a more recent Android version out of the box and eSIM capabilities.
- Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Significantly less powerful chipset, which might result in a sluggish experience for demanding tasks.
- Display quality is not as good, and the pixel density is lower.
- Camera performance is acceptable but not on par with more expensive phones, no advanced stabilization.
- Lacks advanced connectivity and audio features.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 9:
- Best Suited For: Tech enthusiasts, gamers, and anyone who values top-tier performance, a high-quality display, and excellent camera capabilities in a compact form factor.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming at high settings without lag.
- High-quality photography and videography.
- Smooth multitasking and running demanding apps.
- Users that prefer smaller phones that fit in the pockets easily.
- Recommendation: This is a great phone for those who want a powerful, pocketable flagship without compromise on performance. The premium features justify the higher price.
Motorola Moto G35:
- Best Suited For: Budget-conscious users who prioritize a larger screen and longer battery life for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and streaming.
- Use Cases:
- Casual media consumption and video streaming.
- Everyday browsing and social media.
- Users who want a phone that can last through a full day of use with ease.
- Recommendation: This is a reliable budget phone for basic users who want a large screen and long battery life. It’s perfect for those who don't need high-end performance and prefer a larger device.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide between these phones:
- What is your primary use case? Is it mobile gaming and creative content creation, or is it casual browsing, media consumption, and basic tasks?
- How much emphasis do you place on display quality and raw performance? Are you willing to sacrifice performance and display quality for a larger screen and lower price?
- How important is portability? Do you prefer a compact phone that is easy to use in one hand, or do you prioritize a large screen size for more screen real estate?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Power User: If you want to run demanding apps, game at high settings, and need excellent video stabilization, the Asus Zenfone 9 is the clear choice.
- The Casual User: If your needs are basic and you want a large screen and long battery life on a budget, then the Motorola Moto G35 is suitable.
- The Hybrid User: If you prefer good performance in a compact size, and dont mind a small screen, Asus Zenfone 9 is great. If you prefer a large screen and accept basic performance, Motorola Moto G35 is ideal.
Final Thoughts
The Asus Zenfone 9 and the Motorola Moto G35 are very different phones catering to different needs. The Zenfone 9 excels in performance, display quality, and camera capabilities but at a higher price point. The Moto G35, on the other hand, offers great value for budget-conscious users who prioritize a large screen and extended battery life, but its performance is notably less powerful. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences.
What I would Choose and Why!
If I were to choose between these two devices, I would go with the Asus Zenfone 9. As someone who appreciates top-tier performance and a compact design, the Zenfone 9 fits my needs perfectly. I often find myself multitasking, playing demanding games, and needing to take high-quality photos or videos on the go. The Zenfone 9’s powerful Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip, paired with its vibrant AMOLED display, superior camera capabilities, and excellent audio, make it a more compelling choice for me. While the battery is smaller than the Moto G35, I find that the fast charging capabilities mitigate most of that. I also prefer smaller, more pocketable phones. For me, the trade-off of a slightly smaller battery for top-tier performance and display quality is well worth it.
