Okay, let's dive deep into the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Motorola Moto G (2022). Both are solid contenders in the mid-range market, but they cater to slightly different needs. I'll break down the specifications and give you my take on which one might be right for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 165.4 x 75.8 x 9.4 mm | Infinix is slightly shorter, same width, and noticeably thinner. Moto G is bulkier. |
| Weight | 185g | 204g | Infinix feels lighter and more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-foldable designs. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | Infinix offers a slightly larger viewing area, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 720 x 1600 | Infinix display is much sharper and clearer with 125% more pixels. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 393 | 270 | Infinix’s higher PPI means crisper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Infinix has superior contrast and color depth. Deeper blacks and better power efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Moto G provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations, but at a cost of lower resolution. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 0 nits (Error) | Infinix is significantly brighter outdoors and easily visible under sunlight; Moto G brightness data seems erroneous. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G96 (12nm) | Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Moto G's processor is more energy-efficient and has better performance in benchmarks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 389,300 | Moto G performs better overall, offering a smoother user experience, and loading apps faster. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Both phones have the same graphics processing unit, offering the same capabilities. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both should provide similar battery life under typical usage. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | Infinix charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.6 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Infinix has slightly wider aperture, potentially better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.2 | Infinix has higher resolution and wider aperture for selfies. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Comparable depth cameras, though Moto G has slightly larger pixel size. |
| Macro Camera | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Moto G offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Infinix can record in higher resolution, Moto G only reaches 1080p. |
| Stabilisation | Digital Image Stabilisation | None | Infinix is able to keep videos stable and reduce shaky shots |
| Additional Features | Night Mode, Manual Focus, Panorama | PDAF, Continuous Shooting | Infinix has more camera modes and manual control. Moto G offers better autofocus. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 | Both offer the same Android version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | a/b/g/n/n5 | a/b/g/n/n5/ac | Moto G has better support for WiFi 5 standards, which will increase internet speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.1 LE, extensive suite | Moto G supports a larger array of audio and connection profiles. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | Moto G is more accurate in positioning with support for more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Single Nano SIM | Infinix supports using two SIMs at once. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 64GB | Infinix offers double the storage option. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 6GB | Infinix has higher RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows external storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo speakers | Basic audio features | Infinix has better quality audio via its stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Both offer a convenient fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Moto G has a more comprehensive set of sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96 Strengths:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED display with higher resolution and brightness is a significant advantage for media consumption and outdoor visibility.
- Faster Charging: The 33W charging will get you back up and running much quicker than the Moto G's 10W.
- Better Audio: The stereo speakers and DTS audio will be better when listening to music, or videos.
- Dual SIM Support: Useful for users who need to manage multiple phone numbers.
- Higher Camera Specs: The better front camera will enhance the quality of your selfies, and the higher video resolution will give better looking videos.
Motorola Moto G (2022) Strengths:
- Better Performance: The Dimensity 700 chipset offers a smoother, faster experience in day-to-day tasks and benchmarks.
- Smoother Animations: The 90Hz refresh rate is more fluid, but the display resolution is lower.
- More Satellite Systems The GPS has support for more satellites leading to more accurate positioning.
- Macro Camera: The inclusion of a macro lens adds versatility to the camera system.
- More Bluetooth Profiles: Has a plethora of bluetooth profiles allowing for connectivity with the largest amount of devices.
- Barometer: This extra sensor is not often seen, and this will increase the amount of data available to you.
Trade-offs:
- Infinix: The G96 prioritizes display quality and audio experience but lags slightly behind in raw processing power and smooth animations.
- Motorola: The Moto G provides better performance and more complete suite of sensors, but has a lower resolution display, and lacks the same audio prowess.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Best for: Media enthusiasts, casual gamers, users who prioritize display quality and camera features. Good for people who need a great screen and camera system.
- Use Cases: Watching videos, browsing social media, taking photos in different scenarios, long gaming sessions, and frequent use in sunlight.
Motorola Moto G (2022):
- Best for: Power users, people who want a well rounded phone with good performance. Best for people who want a solid phone.
- Use Cases: General daily use, demanding apps, GPS navigation, users who desire a smooth and responsive experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three questions to ask yourself:
- Do you prioritize a superior display and camera quality, or raw performance and smooth scrolling? The Infinix excels in display clarity and camera, while the Moto G has better performance.
- Do you need Dual SIM capability? The Infinix can manage two SIM cards at the same time, whereas the Moto G only has single SIM.
- Is faster charging essential for your lifestyle? The Infinix has faster charging at 33W compared to the Moto G's 10W.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (The Media Junkie): If you love watching videos, the Infinix’s AMOLED screen is the winner due to its significantly better contrast and vibrant colors.
- Scenario 2 (The Casual Gamer): The Infinix is better for longer gaming sessions as it has a bigger battery, and a better screen, which would allow for a better immersion when gaming.
- Scenario 3 (The On-the-Go Professional): If you need a reliable phone for work, the Moto G has the edge, with better performance and accuracy when using GPS.
- Scenario 4 (The Photography Lover): If you like to take selfies or videos, the Infinix is the clear choice as it comes with a better front camera, higher video resolution, and image stabilization.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Infinix Note 12 G96. While the Moto G has a more powerful chipset, the advantages of the Infinix's superior display, faster charging and higher resolution videos are more relevant to my daily usage. As a tech journalist, I spend a lot of time consuming media, and the improved screen quality would be a big plus. I also greatly value the better audio and front camera, making it the more well rounded choice for me. While I might miss the additional performance of the Moto G, I think the Infinix better balances what I need in a phone.
