Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Motorola Edge 20 Pro and the Realme 12+. We'll break down the specs, discuss the real-world implications, and figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the key specs, designed to give you a clear understanding of what each phone brings to the table:
| Feature | Motorola Edge 20 Pro | Realme 12+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-08-16 | 2024-03-02 | The Realme 12+ is significantly newer, which generally means more up-to-date features and software support. |
| Dimensions | 163 × 76 × 8 mm, 190g | 163 × 75.5 × 7.9 mm, 190g | Both phones are similar in size and weight, making them comfortable to hold. |
| Build Quality | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 (Screen) | Unknown (Screen) | Motorola has a screen that will provide additional drop protection. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Negligible difference in screen size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical sharpness and clarity. |
| PPI | 385 | 395 | Almost Identical pixel density. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Minor differences in color reproduction and power efficiency, though both are excellent. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Motorola Edge 20 Pro offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2000 nits | Realme 12+ will be much easier to see outdoors in bright sunlight. Motorola Value of "0 nits" is likely a data error. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8250-AC Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7050 (6 nm) | Snapdragon 870 is generally more powerful, leading to snappier performance in demanding apps and games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 813,800 | 601,000 | Motorola Edge 20 Pro has a noticeable performance advantage in benchmarks. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Adreno 650 is generally stronger for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" sensor | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/2" sensor | Motorola Edge 20 Pro has higher resolution, which can translate to more detail in photos, especially in good lighting. Larger sensor size means more light and better low-light performance |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.3 | 16MP, f/2.45 | Motorola Edge 20 Pro offers higher resolution selfies and a slightly wider aperture for better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | 8MP, f/3.4 | N/A | Motorola Edge 20 Pro has dedicated zoom capabilities, which is great for capturing distant subjects. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 16MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Realme 12+ has a dedicated Wide Angle lens, to capture more in one photo |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | Realme 12+ can take close-up photos of small subjects. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Motorola Edge 20 Pro can record higher resolution video, beneficial for video enthusiasts and content creators. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme 12+ likely offers longer battery life, especially for heavy users. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | Realme 12+ charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Reverse Charging | Yes | No | Motorola Edge 20 Pro can charge other devices wirelessly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Realme 12+ has a more modern operating system with the latest features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | Wi-Fi 6 | Both have fast Wi-Fi, but Wi-Fi MiMO can improve signal strength and reliability. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | 5.2, EDR, HID | Realme 12+ has a slightly newer version, but Motorola has wider support for audio codecs which could be important if you use bluetooth headphones. |
| GPS | More satellite systems | Standard GPS | Motorola Edge 20 Pro offers more precise location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Realme 12+ offers a larger storage option for users with extensive media libraries. |
| RAM | 12 GB | 8/12 GB | Both offer ample RAM for smooth multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage, so choose the storage option that best fits your needs. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio features | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation mic, Stereo Speakers | Realme 12+ offers a superior audio experience with immersive sound and clearer calls. |
2. Key Insights
- Motorola Edge 20 Pro Strengths:
- More Powerful Performance: The Snapdragon 870 chipset offers better overall performance, particularly for gaming and demanding applications.
- Superior Camera: The 108MP main camera and telephoto lens give it an edge in image quality and zoom capabilities.
- Higher Refresh Rate Display: The 144Hz display provides smoother animations and scrolling.
- Reverse Charging: Can be used to wirelessly charge other devices.
- Realme 12+ Strengths:
- Newer Device with Longer Support: Being a newer device, it will likely receive software and security updates for a longer period.
- Brighter Display: The 2000 nits brightness makes it much easier to see in direct sunlight.
- Larger Battery and Faster Charging: The 5000mAh battery and 67W charging offer longer battery life and quicker charging times.
- Superior Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers offer a better audio experience.
Trade-offs:
- The Motorola Edge 20 Pro's older software (Android 11) is a significant drawback.
- The Realme 12+ sacrifices some performance and camera capabilities for a newer, more user-friendly experience.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Edge 20 Pro is best for:
- Gamers: The powerful processor and high refresh rate display make it a good choice for mobile gaming.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The higher resolution camera and telephoto lens offer more versatility.
- Users Who Need Reverse Wireless Charging: A convenient feature for charging accessories on the go.
- Realme 12+ is best for:
- Everyday Users: The balanced performance, longer battery life, and brighter display make it a great all-around phone.
- Multimedia Consumers: The Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers enhance the viewing and listening experience.
- Users Who Value Software Updates: The newer Android version ensures access to the latest features and security patches.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- How important is software support and longevity to you? If you want a phone that will receive updates for years to come, the Realme 12+ is the better choice.
- Are you a heavy gamer or photographer? If so, the Motorola Edge 20 Pro's stronger performance and camera might be more appealing.
- Do you prioritize battery life and screen visibility in bright sunlight? The Realme 12+ excels in these areas.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User: You primarily use your phone for browsing, social media, and occasional photos.
- Recommendation: Realme 12+ offers a better overall experience with its newer software, longer battery life, and brighter display.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Gamer: You play demanding games regularly and want the best possible performance.
- Recommendation: Motorola Edge 20 Pro provides more processing power and a higher refresh rate display for smoother gaming.
- Scenario 3: Photography Lover: You enjoy taking photos and want a versatile camera system.
- Recommendation: Motorola Edge 20 Pro's higher resolution camera and telephoto lens provide more flexibility.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Realme 12+. While the Motorola Edge 20 Pro has some compelling advantages like its stronger processor and telephoto lens, the newer software on the Realme 12+ is a critical factor for me. The brighter display and superior audio also make it a more enjoyable phone for everyday use. For my needs, a balanced device with long-term software support outweighs the raw performance gains of the older Motorola.
