Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Edge 20 Pro and the Google Pixel 7 Pro. I'm putting on my tech journalist hat and getting ready to break down these devices from an engineering and user-experience perspective.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specs, organized into relevant categories with real-world implications:
| Feature | Motorola Edge 20 Pro | Google Pixel 7 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163 × 76 × 8 mm | 162.9 × 76.6 × 8.9 mm | Edge 20 Pro is slightly thinner and more compact, while Pixel 7 Pro has more volume. |
| Weight | 190g | 212g | Edge 20 Pro is significantly lighter and easier to handle for longer periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both have large, immersive displays, great for media and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | Pixel 7 Pro offers much sharper and clearer visuals, especially for text and detailed images. |
| PPI | 385 | 512 | Pixel 7 Pro has noticeably higher pixel density, resulting in a sharper display. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, but AMOLED is slightly more advanced. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Edge 20 Pro has a slightly smoother scrolling experience; both provide buttery visuals. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1500 nits | Pixel 7 Pro is significantly more visible in bright sunlight and outdoor conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 5G | Google Tensor G2 | Different architectures, but performance is nearly identical for most tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 813,800 | 831,716 | Both are flagship-level, able to handle demanding apps and games with ease. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G710 MP7 | Both provide great graphics performance, suitable for mobile gaming. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Pixel 7 Pro has a larger battery, potentially offering better battery life. |
| Charging | 30W fast charging | 23W fast, 23W wireless | Edge 20 Pro charges slightly faster; Pixel 7 Pro supports convenient wireless charging. |
| Features | Reverse charging | Reverse, Wireless charging, No charger in box | Pixel 7 Pro supports wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res | 108MP | 50MP | Edge 20 Pro has higher resolution sensor; Pixel 7 Pro has larger pixel size. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.9 | f/1.85 | Pixel 7 Pro captures slightly more light with a wider aperture. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.52" | 1/1.31" | Pixel 7 Pro has a larger sensor, improving low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Res | 32MP | 10.8MP | Edge 20 Pro has higher resolution selfies; Pixel 7 Pro has larger pixel size. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.3 | f/2.2 | Pixel 7 Pro captures slightly more light for selfies. |
| Telephoto Camera Res | 8MP | 48MP | Pixel 7 Pro has significantly better telephoto zoom capabilities. |
| Telephoto Camera Aperture | f/3.4 | f/3.5 | Edge 20 Pro has slightly wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | Yes (12MP) | Pixel 7 Pro has dedicated ultra-wide camera, enhancing versatility. |
| Wide + Macro Camera | Yes (16MP) | No | Edge 20 Pro has a macro camera for close-up shots. |
| Video Resolution | 8K@24fps | 4K@60fps | Edge 20 Pro supports higher 8K video recording. |
| Video Stabilization | EIS | OIS, EIS | Pixel 7 Pro has better stabilization with Optical Image Stabilization. |
| DxOMark Score | N/A | Mobile: 147, Selfie: 142 | Pixel 7 Pro has excellent camera scores, demonstrating better photo quality. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13 (up to 14) | Pixel 7 Pro has a newer OS with longer software support. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support fast Wi-Fi, but Motorola has Wi-Fi MIMO. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE | Pixel 7 Pro has a slightly newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | Advanced GPS | GPS, QZSS | Edge 20 Pro supports more satellite systems for better location. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Pixel 7 Pro supports an eSIM for extra flexibility. |
| Storage & Audio | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | Pixel 7 Pro offers more storage options. |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB | Both have ample RAM for smooth performance. |
| Audio Quality | Basic | Stereo Speakers, 3 Mics, Noise Cancellation | Pixel 7 Pro has better audio quality with enhanced features. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic | Motorola has more convenient fingerprint placement. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 7 Pro has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Standard | Standard + Barometer, Magnetometer | Pixel 7 Pro has more sensors for greater functionality. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge 20 Pro:
- Strengths: The Motorola Edge 20 Pro shines with its incredibly smooth 144Hz display, a comfortable lightweight design, and faster 30W charging. It also boasts an impressive 108MP main camera and support for 8K video recording. The inclusion of a wide angle macro is a nice to have. Its side mounted fingerprint sensor is generally more convenient to use, and it also has a more advanced GPS for satellite positioning.
- Competitive Advantages: It is the lighter phone with better GPS functionality. The higher refresh rate and slightly faster charging will also be attractive to many.
- Trade-offs: The Edge 20 Pro has lower display resolution than the Pixel, and the camera doesn’t have optical image stabilization which can be significant for video and low light. The display's brightness is also far behind that of the Pixel 7 Pro, which can be a hassle in direct sunlight.
Google Pixel 7 Pro:
- Strengths: The Pixel 7 Pro excels with its superior display (higher resolution, better brightness), a more versatile camera system (telephoto zoom and ultra-wide lens), and the benefits of Google’s software ecosystem. Its optimized Tensor G2 chip provides excellent AI-driven features. The improved audio quality due to noise cancellation and the presence of stereo speakers are also significant. The much more advanced screen protection of the Gorilla Glass Victus also offers much needed peace of mind.
- Competitive Advantages: This device boasts a phenomenal camera system with excellent software features. The Pixel 7 Pro also offers superior display brightness, wireless charging, and a newer Android version with extended software support.
- Trade-offs: It is heavier and thicker, has a slightly lower display refresh rate (120Hz) and slower wired charging. Also, it does not come with a charging brick.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Edge 20 Pro Users:
- Gamers: Benefit from the 144Hz display for smoother gameplay and the lighter form factor during long gaming sessions.
- Budget-Conscious Users: Prefer value over bleeding-edge specs, appreciating the strong performance and smoother display without the Pixel’s premium price tag.
- Users who value physical attributes: Those who prefer a lighter phone will appreciate the difference in weight.
- Google Pixel 7 Pro Users:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Will appreciate the versatile camera system, the fantastic image processing, and unique camera modes.
- Power Users: Want the latest Android OS, reliable performance, and a high-quality display for media consumption and productivity.
- Those who want Google’s ecosystem: The integration with Google services and software, along with faster android updates is a major draw for many users.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your decision:
- How important is display quality to you? If you prioritize a high resolution, bright, and vibrant display, the Pixel 7 Pro is the clear winner. If you prefer a smoother scrolling experience over resolution, the Motorola might be good enough.
- How much do you rely on your phone's camera system? If you need top-tier versatility, excellent image quality, and software tricks, the Pixel 7 Pro is your best bet. If you just need high resolution shots, the Motorola may be good enough.
- How much do you care about weight and convenience? If the ergonomics of the phone are important for you, the weight difference between the two devices may be a determining factor.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Casual User: The Motorola Edge 20 Pro is a great option if you want a smooth display, decent performance, and a lighter phone on a budget.
- For the Photography Buff: The Google Pixel 7 Pro is the obvious choice with its top-tier camera features, image processing, and versatility, offering the best imaging experience.
- For the Mobile Gamer: The Motorola Edge 20 Pro’s 144Hz display is great for smoother gaming, and can be a better fit for those who prioritize that over display quality.
- For the Tech Enthusiast: The Google Pixel 7 Pro is the preferred option with its up-to-date Android OS, enhanced features, and newer hardware.
My Choice
Personally, I'd choose the Google Pixel 7 Pro. While I appreciate the Motorola's lighter build and smoother display refresh rate, the Pixel 7 Pro's overall package is more compelling. The significantly brighter display, coupled with its superior camera system, and the promise of software updates over a longer period, makes it the more future-proof device. As a photographer at heart, the Pixel's photo prowess alone would sway me. I also enjoy being on the cutting edge of Google's software ecosystem and enjoy taking advantage of all the tools Google provides. The wireless charging, and better speakers are also great additions. Although the Pixel 7 Pro is heavier, I'm willing to compromise there for the other benefits it offers.
