Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Motorola Edge 20 Pro and the Google Pixel 6 Pro. It's a classic showdown between a spec-heavy challenger and Google's AI-powered photography champ. I’ll break down the key differences, focusing on how they impact your real-world usage, and then help you decide which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the specs, focusing on how they translate to your everyday experience:
| Feature | Motorola Edge 20 Pro | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163 × 76 × 8 mm | 163.9 × 75.9 × 8.9 mm | Similar size, Pixel slightly thicker, Edge may feel more comfortable in hand. |
| Weight | 190g | 210g | Edge is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build Material | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 6 Pro offers superior screen protection against drops and scratches. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both offer the same large screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | Pixel 6 Pro screen is significantly sharper with higher pixel density. |
| PPI | 385 | 512 | Pixel 6 Pro provides notably clearer images and text. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Similar quality, both offer great contrast and vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Edge 20 Pro offers slightly smoother scrolling. |
| Peak Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have the same screen brightness, although that is missing for this comparison |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 (7nm) | Google Tensor (5nm) | Different approaches: Snapdragon provides raw power, while Tensor focuses on AI and machine learning. |
| AnTuTu Score | 813,800 | 721,000 | Edge 20 Pro edges out the Pixel 6 Pro in raw benchmark scores, indicating slightly better processing power. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G78 MP20 | Different GPU designs, each optimized for its respective chipset. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP (f/1.9, 1/1.52") | 50MP (f/1.85, 1/1.31") | Edge boasts higher resolution, while Pixel offers a larger sensor, generally better in low-light and overall image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (f/2.3) | 12MP (f/2.2, 1/2.93") | Edge with higher resolution selfies, Pixel with larger pixel size. |
| Telephoto Lens | 8MP (f/3.4) | 48MP (f/3.5, 1/2") | Pixel has a significantly higher resolution, but slightly smaller aperture. |
| Wide Angle | 16MP Macro | 12MP Wide | Pixel 6 Pro includes a dedicated wide angle lens while the Motorola has a Macro lens. |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps, up to 960fps slow motion | 4K@60fps, up to 240fps slow motion | Edge 20 Pro can capture 8K video; Pixel has OIS and more advanced stabilization. |
| DxOMark Score | N/A | 134 (Mobile), 138 (Selfie) | Pixel's camera performance has been thoroughly tested. |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, 8K Video, Optical zoom | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode, Google Lens | Motorola has 8k capabilities while Google has OIS, and many advanced autofocus capabilities. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Pixel 6 Pro's larger battery may provide longer usage. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charge | 30W Fast Charge, 23W Wireless Charging | Both support the same fast charging, while Pixel has wireless charging capabilities. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging | Reverse charging, Non-removable, Wireless charging | Pixel 6 Pro offers wireless charging, making it more versatile. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Pixel offers a newer OS and long-term software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Pixel offers a more modern Bluetooth version with ANT+. |
| WiFi | 802.11ax | 802.11ax | Both are comparable in Wi-Fi Capabilities. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Motorola Edge 20 Pro uses more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Pixel offers eSIM capabilities for better flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256/512GB | Pixel 6 Pro offers a 512GB option, while both offer 128GB and 256GB. |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB | Both offer similar RAM sizes. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither offer expandable storage |
| Audio | Basic Audio | Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Pixel provides better audio quality with stereo speakers, and better voice capture with 3 microphones. |
| Security | side-mounted fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | Both come with fingerprint readers |
| Other | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint; Proximity; Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint; Proximity; Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer; Barometer | Pixel includes a magnetometer and barometer for a more comprehensive sensor suite |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge 20 Pro Strengths:
- Raw Power: With its Snapdragon 870, it offers slightly better raw performance in benchmarks.
- Smoother Display: The 144Hz refresh rate offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations.
- 8K Video: Supports 8K video recording, catering to users who need the highest possible resolution.
- Lighter Build: More comfortable for extended use due to its lower weight.
- More satellite systems for GPS: Provides more accurate and consistent location data
Google Pixel 6 Pro Strengths:
- Superior Camera: The larger sensor and Google’s AI-powered image processing deliver exceptional photo quality, especially in low light.
- Sharper Display: The higher-resolution screen makes for a more vibrant and detailed viewing experience.
- Better Battery Life: Its larger battery can potentially offer longer usage between charges.
- Latest Software: Comes with a more recent Android version and longer support for future updates.
- Wireless Charging: Offers convenient wireless charging options, which the Motorola lacks.
- More Audio Features: Stereo speakers and 3 microphones provide higher audio quality.
- Broader Sensor Suite: Includes a magnetometer and barometer for more advanced features.
- More modern Bluetooth: Offers a more modern Bluetooth version with ANT+
Trade-Offs and Limitations:
- Motorola: Lacks the polish of Google’s software and camera processing, doesn't have wireless charging, basic audio features, and comes with older software.
- Google: Slightly bulkier, heavier, and doesn’t win in raw benchmark scores compared to the Motorola. Doesn't have as many satellite systems, and cannot record 8k videos
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge 20 Pro is ideal for:
- Gamers: The higher refresh rate and Snapdragon 870 chipset cater to gamers who prioritize smooth performance.
- Video Enthusiasts: Those who want the option of capturing 8K footage.
- Users valuing lightweight design: The lighter build makes it more comfortable to hold for long periods.
- Users needing precise GPS: The inclusion of more satellite systems is better for location tracking.
Google Pixel 6 Pro is ideal for:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize top-tier camera quality and Google's computational photography features.
- Users wanting a great multimedia experience: Those who value a vibrant, high-resolution display and high audio quality from stereo speakers
- Power Users: Those who appreciate the latest software and longer update support
- Users who appreciate convenience: Those who desire wireless charging and an eSIM.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you choose, ask yourself these questions:
- How important is camera quality to you? If you live and die by your phone's camera, the Pixel 6 Pro is the clear winner. If you just need decent photos, the Motorola Edge 20 Pro is adequate.
- Are you a mobile gamer? If the answer is yes, the smoother 144Hz refresh rate on the Edge 20 Pro might be more appealing.
- Do you prioritize software updates and future-proofing? If so, the Pixel 6 Pro is a better option with a newer OS and guaranteed software updates.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Photography Pro: If you want the best possible camera experience, the Pixel 6 Pro is the obvious choice. Its camera excels in almost every scenario.
- For the Performance Seeker: If you value raw speed and a high refresh rate display for gaming, the Motorola Edge 20 Pro is more suited to your needs.
- For the Average User: If you want a well-rounded phone with a great camera, the Google Pixel 6 Pro will offer better value with its superior software and overall experience.
- For the Budget Conscious: The Motorola Edge 20 Pro might be the more affordable of the two, if money is a primary concern.
My Choice
If I had to pick, I'd choose the Google Pixel 6 Pro. While I appreciate the raw power of the Motorola, the overall experience on the Pixel, particularly the camera and software, aligns better with my priorities. The Pixel's camera is consistently great, and the promise of a smooth, up-to-date Android experience is too compelling to pass up, making it the more versatile choice for my day to day life.
