Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Google Pixel 7 Pro. As a tech journalist with a fondness for the nitty-gritty, I'm excited to break down these devices beyond the marketing jargon, focusing on what really matters for day-to-day use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, focusing on real-world implications:
Design
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Google Pixel 7 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 160.9 x 74.2 x 8 mm | 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9 mm | The Pixel 7 Pro is noticeably larger and thicker, impacting single-handed use and pocketability. |
| Weight | 170g | 212g | The Motorola Edge is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
Display
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Google Pixel 7 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.6" | 6.7" | Both have large, immersive displays; the Pixel 7 Pro is slightly larger. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1440 x 3120 | Pixel 7 Pro's higher resolution means sharper text, more detailed images, and clearer videos. |
| PPI | 399 | 512 | Pixel 7 Pro's higher pixel density leads to a crisper, more refined visual experience. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer excellent contrast, deep blacks, and vibrant colors; negligible real-world difference. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Motorola Edge offers slightly smoother animations. For most users, both are very smooth. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1500 nits | Pixel 7 Pro has a significantly brighter display, offering superior visibility in sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Google Pixel 7 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) | Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) | Google Tensor G2 is more powerful, providing faster app launches and smoother multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 522,375 | 831,716 | Pixel 7 Pro is significantly faster, handling demanding apps and games with more ease. |
| GPU | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Mali-G710 MP7 | Pixel 7 Pro's more powerful GPU is better suited for graphically intensive tasks and gaming. |
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Google Pixel 7 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/1.55", 1.0µm) | 50MP (f/1.85, 1/1.31", 1.2µm) | Pixel 7 Pro's larger sensor and larger pixel size will likely capture more light, offering better performance in low light situations and better dynamic range |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (f/2.45, 0.7µm) | 10.8MP (f/2.2, 1/2.65", 1.22µm) | Motorola Edge offers much higher resolution but Pixel's larger pixels and wider aperture will provide better dynamic range and better low light performance |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 48MP (f/3.5, 1/2", 0.8µm) | Pixel 7 Pro offers optical zoom, enabling higher quality zoomed images which is lacking on Motorola Edge. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP (f/1.5, 1.12µm) | 12MP (f/2.2, 1/2.3", 1.55µm) | Motorola Edge has a wider aperture which will help with low light but Pixel 7 Pro has the larger sensor |
| Macro Lens | 20MP (f/2.4, 1/2.83", 0.9µm) | None | Motorola Edge offers a dedicated macro lens for detailed close-up shots; Pixel 7 Pro doesn't have dedicated macro camera. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p up to 120fps | 4K@60fps, 1080p up to 240fps | Pixel 7 Pro offers more video recording options with HDR across all resolutions with higher frame rates for slow motion recording. |
| Camera Features | Basic features | Enhanced features incl. optical zoom, manual focus, laser autofocus (LAF), RAW, and Night Mode | Pixel 7 Pro offers a more comprehensive set of features for advanced photography and videography. |
Battery Life
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Google Pixel 7 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery capacity, suggesting similar battery life for typical usage. |
| Charging | 30W fast charging | 23W fast charging, 23W wireless charging | Motorola Edge has faster wired charging; Pixel 7 Pro offers wireless charging convenience. |
| Other Features | 15W wireless, 5W reverse charging | 23W wireless, Reverse wireless | Pixel 7 Pro has a faster wireless charging; Both phones offer reverse charging but Pixel supports wireless charging |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge (2022) Strengths:
- Lightweight Design: The lighter build is more comfortable for extended use.
- Smoother Display: The 144Hz refresh rate offers a marginally more fluid visual experience.
- Faster Wired Charging: 30W charging will juice up the phone faster than Pixel's 23W
- Dedicated Macro Lens: The Macro lens offers dedicated close up shots, a capability lacking on the Pixel
- Price: Usually comes at a lower price point compared to the Pixel 7 Pro.
Google Pixel 7 Pro Strengths:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and brightness offer a much better visual experience in all conditions.
- More Powerful Performance: Google's Tensor G2 chip ensures smooth performance, better multitasking and gaming capabilities.
- Advanced Camera System: Telephoto lens and advanced features provide more versatility in photography.
- Better Camera Performance: Superior sensor and pixel size leads to better images in all conditions with the help of Google's image processing software.
- Faster Wireless Charging: 23W wireless charging is significantly faster than the 15W provided by the Motorola.
- Software: Latest Android OS and fast updates, provides a smoother and more feature rich experience.
- Better Sound: Supports higher quality Bluetooth audio codecs.
Trade-offs:
- Motorola Edge (2022): sacrifices performance, display quality, and camera versatility for a lighter build and lower price.
- Google Pixel 7 Pro: Comes with a heavier body and higher price, in exchange for better display, camera and performance.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge (2022): Ideal for users who prioritize a lightweight device, a smooth display for everyday scrolling, and a more affordable price point. This phone is good for those who want a decent phone at a lower price.
Google Pixel 7 Pro: Best for users who want top-tier performance, a fantastic camera system for photography and videography, and a brilliant display for media consumption. This phone is aimed at users who want the best smartphone experience and don't mind spending more.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your choice:
- How important is display quality to you? If you prioritize a bright, high-resolution screen for detailed visuals, the Pixel 7 Pro is the clear choice.
- How much do you value camera versatility? If you want an all-round camera system with the ability to capture great telephoto images then the Pixel 7 Pro is the better option. If you need a macro lens, then the Motorola could be a better option.
- What's your priority for price and comfort? If you are on a budget and prefer a lightweight phone, the Motorola Edge is the way to go.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Content Creator: Pixel 7 Pro, due to its video capabilities and advanced camera options, including telephoto lens.
- Casual User: Motorola Edge is better suited for those who value a lighter, more pocketable device and don't need all the bells and whistles.
- Heavy Gamer/Multitasker: Pixel 7 Pro, thanks to its powerful processor and graphics.
- Budget-Conscious Buyer: Motorola Edge would be a good fit thanks to its lower price point.
Final Thoughts
Both phones are very capable and offer great user experiences. The Motorola Edge (2022) offers a lighter body, a smooth display and a good camera at a more affordable price. The Pixel 7 Pro is the better overall phone, offering a more premium build quality with a superior camera system, better performance, a brighter and crisper display, and faster wireless charging.
Which one would I choose and why?
If I were to choose between the two phones, I'd pick the Google Pixel 7 Pro. Here's why:
As someone who appreciates a superior display, I find the higher resolution and significantly brighter panel of the Pixel 7 Pro to be very appealing. The added versatility of the telephoto lens for photography is also a major plus for me, and the ability to record videos at 4K 60fps with HDR seals the deal.
While the lighter build of the Motorola Edge is appealing, I value the overall performance and features offered by the Pixel more. The Tensor G2 processor provides a snappier experience and I like to make use of the additional functionality that comes with the pixel software experience.
Yes, the Pixel 7 Pro is more expensive and heavier, but in my opinion the benefits in screen quality, performance, camera capabilities, and software experience more than justify the higher price and slightly heavier build. It's the kind of phone I'd confidently rely on for all my photography needs.
I hope this breakdown is helpful. Happy phone hunting!
