Alright, let's break down the Motorola Edge 20 and Huawei nova 9, and see which one comes out on top for different types of users. I'll try to cut through the tech jargon and focus on what really matters in day-to-day use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a side-by-side comparison, focusing on the real-world implications of each spec:
| Feature | Motorola Edge 20 | Huawei nova 9 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163 × 76 × 7 mm | 160 × 73.7 × 7.8 mm | Edge 20 is slightly taller and wider. Nova 9 is a bit thicker. Feel matters! |
| Weight | 163g | 175g | Nova 9 is slightly heavier, which might be noticeable during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.57" | Edge 20 offers a slightly larger viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both are sharp enough for most users. |
| Pixel Density | 385 PPI | 392 PPI | Practically identical sharpness. |
| Technology | OLED | OLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Edge 20 offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Without brightness, both are unusable, assume it is a mistake! |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 778G 5G | Snapdragon 778G 4G | Edge 20 has 5G connectivity; Nova 9 is limited to 4G. |
| AnTuTu Score | 589,200 | 578,555 | Nearly identical performance in everyday tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 642L | Adreno 642L | Same graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.9 | 50MP, f/1.9 | Edge 20 captures more detail in good lighting. |
| Sensor Size (Main) | 1/1.52" | 1/1.56" | Edge 20 slightly better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.3 | 32MP, f/2.0 | Nova 9’s wider aperture captures slightly more light. |
| Telephoto Lens | 8MP | None | Edge 20 offers optical zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP | Nova 9 offers wider field of view for group shots/landscapes. |
| Other Cameras | Wide Angle + Macro | Portrait, Macro | Different creative shooting options. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 720p@960fps | Edge 20 can record videos with higher quality. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4020mAh | 4300mAh | Nova 9 may offer slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 30W | 66W | Nova 9 charges much faster. |
| Reverse Charging | Yes | No | Edge 20 can charge other devices wirelessly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Unknown (Assuming based on release date EMUI 12 / HarmonyOS) | Android vs EMUI/HarmonyOS – personal preference. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6, MiMO | WiFi 6 | Similar performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, APT-x, LDAC, AAC | 5.2, EDR | Edge 20 has better audio codec support for wireless headphones. |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS | Nova 9 has slightly better GPS coverage. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Micro SIM + Nano SIM | Huawei nova 9 isn't able to use two SIMs simultaneously |
| Storage/Memory | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Same storage options. |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 8GB | Nova 9 offers consistent multitasking experience. |
| Expandable | No | No | No option to add more storage to either phone. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Side-mounted | Basic | Motorola's side mounted sensor is more convenient. |
| Build Quality | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Edge 20 has more durable screen. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge 20:
- Strengths:
- 5G Connectivity: Future-proof for faster data speeds.
- 144Hz Display: Noticeably smoother scrolling and gaming experience.
- Telephoto Lens: Offers optical zoom for better close-up shots without digital degradation.
- Reverse Charging: Convenient for topping up other devices.
- Better Audio Codec: Support for wireless audio
- Trade-offs:
- Smaller Battery: May need more frequent charging.
- No Ultra-Wide Camera: Limits versatility in photography.
- Strengths:
Huawei nova 9:
- Strengths:
- Faster Charging: Gets you back to full power quickly.
- Larger Battery: Potentially longer battery life.
- Ultra-Wide Camera: Wider field of view for landscape and group photos.
- Slightly smaller and easier to hold.
- Trade-offs:
- 4G Only: No 5G support.
- No Telephoto Lens: Relies on digital zoom which can reduce image quality.
- Unclear OS: Lack of software version information and Google services integration could be a drawback for some users.
- Strengths:
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge 20:
- Best For:
- Users who want future-proof connectivity (5G).
- Gamers and those who appreciate smoother scrolling (144Hz display).
- Photography enthusiasts who need optical zoom.
- People who use wireless headphones.
- Use Cases:
- Streaming high-resolution content on the go.
- Playing graphics-intensive mobile games.
- Capturing detailed photos from a distance.
- Best For:
Huawei nova 9:
- Best For:
- Users who prioritize battery life and fast charging.
- Photography enthusiasts who want an ultra-wide lens.
- Those who prefer smaller, more pocketable phones.
- Use Cases:
- All-day use without needing to charge frequently.
- Capturing wide landscapes and group photos.
- Users looking for a more budget-friendly option
- Best For:
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is 5G to you? If you need the latest connectivity, the Edge 20 is the clear choice. If you live in an area without 5G, or don't care about it, it might be a less important factor.
- What kind of photography do you prefer? The Edge 20 offers better zoom capabilities, while the Nova 9 provides an ultra-wide lens for broader perspectives.
- Do you value fast charging and long battery life, or smoother scrolling and animations? If you are always on the go and need a quick charge, the Nova 9 might be better for you. If you prioritize smooth and fast display, the Edge 20 is superior.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The "Always on the Go" User: Huawei nova 9 - You'll appreciate the faster charging and longer battery life.
- The "Photography Enthusiast": Motorola Edge 20 - Offers more versatility with its telephoto lens and higher resolution sensor.
- The "Tech Enthusiast": Motorola Edge 20 - Has 5G, a smoother display, and more robust audio codec support.
My Choice
If I were personally choosing between these two phones, I'd lean towards the Motorola Edge 20. While the faster charging and larger battery of the Huawei nova 9 are definitely appealing, the 5G connectivity is a must-have for me as I want a phone that will last for several years. Also, the smoother 144Hz display and telephoto lens are significant advantages for my usage patterns. As I consume a lot of content on my phone, I would want the most optimized and clearest image, not to mention that I am a huge fan of wireless headsets. As a result, the edge 20 would be the way to go!
