Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Motorola Moto G (2023). We'll dissect the specs, uncover real-world implications, and figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of the key specifications, coupled with a look at how these specs translate into everyday usage.
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Motorola Moto G (2023) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-16 | 2023-05-25 | Moto G (2023) is newer tech, may have longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 164 x 75 x 8.4 mm | Infinix is a tad wider, Moto G is slightly thicker. Minimal real-world difference. |
| Weight | 185g | 189g | Negligible difference; both phones feel similar in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | Infinix offers a marginally bigger screen for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (FHD+) | 720x1600 (HD+) | Infinix screen will be noticeably sharper, better for text and details. |
| Pixel Density | 393 ppi | 270 ppi | Sharper visuals on the Infinix for reading, browsing, and viewing images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Infinix has richer colors, deeper blacks and better contrast for more immersive viewing. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Motorola's display is significantly smoother for scrolling, gaming, and animations. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 0 nits | Infinix screen will be significantly easier to view in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8 nm) | Motorola generally offers smoother performance, especially in daily use. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 380,000 | Motorola has a slightly higher AnTuTu score, which means snappier performance generally. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 619 | Adreno 619 typically handles graphics-intensive tasks more efficiently. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.6 | 48MP f/1.7 | Infinix's main camera excels in low light, but images are generally similar |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.0 | 8MP f/2.0 | Infinix's selfie camera captures more detail. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP f/2.4 | Not available | Infinix offers depth information in portrait photography, which produces better bokeh. |
| Macro Lens | Not available | 2MP f/2.4 | Motorola gets you close to the subject for macro photography. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Infinix can capture higher quality videos for recording memories. |
| Slow Motion | 120 fps | 30 fps | Infinix lets you capture slower shots. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones should offer similar all-day battery life. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | Infinix charges considerably faster, reducing downtime. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | Moto G has a newer Android OS, which is more secure and has more functionality. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/n5GHz | 802.11a/b/g/n/n5GHz/ac | Motorola supports newer WiFi Standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.1 LE | Minimal difference in daily use. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | Motorola has more accurate GPS tracking, especially in dense areas. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Motorola has more versatile SIM support with the addition of eSIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128 GB | Both come with 128GB of storage. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 4 GB | Infinix comes with more ram making it better for multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Both come with no expandable storage. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Strengths: The AMOLED display is the star of the show here, offering vivid colors and a truly immersive visual experience. The faster charging is also a significant advantage for users who need to top up quickly. A higher resolution selfie camera, a triple camera setup, and a dedicated depth sensor give it an edge in photography for those who enjoy more creative options. The higher RAM also gives it the edge in performance.
- Competitive Advantages: Superior display technology and faster charging. It also comes with higher RAM.
- Trade-offs: The refresh rate is only 60Hz, which is lower compared to the Moto G, and it has an older Android OS.
Motorola Moto G (2023):
- Strengths: The 120Hz refresh rate is a big deal for those who value smooth scrolling and animations. The newer Snapdragon processor delivers great daily performance, and 5G connectivity is a plus. The inclusion of an eSIM and more accurate GPS also gives it the edge in connectivity.
- Competitive Advantages: Smoother display, more versatile SIM options with eSIM, and slightly better processing power. Newer Android OS.
- Trade-offs: The LCD display isn't as vibrant, and charging is significantly slower. The camera setup is not as versatile as the Infinix, with a lower resolution selfie camera, and no depth sensor.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96 is best for:
- Media Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize screen quality for watching movies, videos, and playing games.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who like experimenting with different camera features and options.
- Users who value faster charging: People who don't have a lot of time to charge their phones.
- Users who need more RAM: People who multitask often and play games.
Motorola Moto G (2023) is best for:
- Casual Gamers: People who enjoy smooth gameplay and scrolling.
- Everyday Users: Those who need a reliable phone with good battery life and solid performance for daily tasks.
- Travelers: Users who want the extra satellite support for accurate navigation.
- Users who want the latest OS: Users who prefer to have the newest software.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- How much do I value screen quality? If you're all about vibrant colors and deep blacks, the Infinix Note 12 G96 is the way to go. If you prefer smooth scrolling above all, the Moto G may be your pick.
- How often do I need to recharge my phone? If you're always on the go and need a quick charge, the Infinix has you covered. If you're fine with overnight charging, the Moto G would be fine.
- What type of photography do I do most often? If you want more versatility and better selfies, the Infinix is better. If you tend to take more regular photos, the Moto G would be fine.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: You mostly use your phone for social media, YouTube, and emails: The Motorola Moto G (2023) will deliver a smoother experience and an OS that will be supported longer.
Scenario 2: You love watching movies on your phone and want great image quality: The Infinix Note 12 G96's superior display technology is a clear win.
Scenario 3: You frequently need to quickly top up your phone while on the go: The Infinix Note 12 G96's faster charging is a major time-saver.
Scenario 4: You do a lot of multitasking and playing games: The Infinix Note 12 G96 has a clear advantage with it's higher RAM.
Personal Choice
If I had to choose between the two, I would lean towards the Motorola Moto G (2023). While the AMOLED display on the Infinix is enticing, the smoother experience, slightly faster processor, and the newer OS on the Moto G make it the more practical choice for me as a daily driver. I appreciate the 120Hz refresh rate, as the fluidity does have an impact on daily use and I'd rather have that over slightly better color accuracy. I find the versatility of having an eSIM invaluable for travelling.
I know that others may appreciate the higher quality screen on the Infinix over anything else though, and it certainly does look great in the hands-on experience. It comes down to your personal preferences, and which aspect of the phone you value more.
