Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Google Pixel 9. I'm here to break down these technical specs and translate them into what really matters for you: your daily use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Google Pixel 9 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-22 | 2024-08-22 | Pixel 9 is much newer, likely better software support and updated tech. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, not foldable phones. |
| Dimensions | 160.9 × 74.2 × 8 mm | 152.8 × 72 × 8.5 mm | Edge is taller and wider, while Pixel 9 is a bit thicker. Edge will feel more substantial and Pixel 9 more compact |
| Weight | 170g | 198g | Motorola Edge (2022) is significantly lighter, may be more comfortable for long-term use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.3" | Motorola Edge offers a larger screen for better media consumption. Pixel 9 is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2424 | Both are sharp; differences are negligible. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 399 | 422 | Pixel 9 has a slightly sharper display. |
| Technology | OLED | OLED | Both have great color and contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Edge offers a slightly smoother experience in scrolling/gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness data is missing; both are expected to be vibrant, but testing will reveal real difference. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) | Pixel 9's chip is newer and more powerful; Expect better performance overall. |
| AnTuTu Score | 522,375 | 1,071,616 | Pixel 9 is significantly faster: better for gaming and heavy apps. |
| GPU | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Mali-G715 MC7 | Pixel 9 has a more powerful GPU: better graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.3" | Pixel 9 has a brighter lens and larger sensor which is expected to provide better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45 | 10.5MP, f/2.2 | Edge has higher resolution for detailed selfies, but the Pixel has a brighter lens that helps in low light. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/1.5 | N/A | Edge has a dedicated wide lens for diverse shots; Pixel has a combined Wide Angle + Macro lens |
| Macro Lens | 20MP, f/2.4, 1/2.83" | N/A | Edge offers a dedicated macro for close ups. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | N/A | 48MP, f/1.7 | Pixel 9 has combined functionality, not just a wide lens, and high MP which will have more detail, but the f stop of the Edge will be better in low light |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps with EIS | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS, 1080p@240fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Pixel 9 has better video with HDR, OIS and EIS for smoother, more vibrant capture. Pixel 9 also has a higher FPS slow-mo |
| Camera DxOMark | N/A | 154 (overall), 161 (photo), 150 (video) | Pixel 9’s camera has been tested and scores higher than what would be expected from the Edge's camera. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4700mAh | Edge has a slightly bigger battery, which might translate to longer battery life. |
| Charging | 30W fast charging | 27W fast charging | Edge charges slightly faster with the 30W charger. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W, 5W reverse | 15W | Both have wireless charging; Edge has reverse wireless at 5W. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 13) | Android 14 (up to 21) | Pixel 9 has a newer OS with likely better features and long term updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | Pixel 9 has Wi-Fi MiMO for more reliable connection. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Pixel 9 has a newer Bluetooth version with support for higher quality codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, etc. | GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, NavIC, GNSS | Pixel 9 supports more global systems for better positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Both offer dual sim functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both come in similar storage options. |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 12GB | Pixel 9 has more RAM: better for heavy multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, stereo speakers | stereo speakers | Edge has Dolby Atmos for a more immersive sound experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both use fingerprint sensor for security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Pixel 9 has better screen protection with Victus 2. |
| Sensors | Compass, Magnetometer | N/A | Motorola has additional sensors |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge (2022) Strengths:
- Larger Display: The 6.6" screen is great for media consumption, offering a more immersive experience.
- Higher Refresh Rate: The 144Hz display is smoother, especially noticeable in gaming and scrolling.
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery may provide longer battery life compared to the Pixel 9's 4700mAh.
- Dedicated Macro and Wide Angle lenses: Having a dedicated lens for each enhances flexibility in photography.
- Dolby Atmos: The inclusion of Dolby Atmos offers a richer audio experience
- Slightly faster charging at 30W.
- Lower weight making it more comfortable to carry around for extended periods.
Google Pixel 9 Strengths:
- Newer and More Powerful Chipset: Google's Tensor G4 chip offers significantly better performance in benchmarks, for faster apps and gaming.
- Superior Camera System: The larger sensor, brighter lens, and computational photography prowess of the Pixel result in better low-light performance and overall image quality. The added video features and higher FPS slow-mo are also very appealing for social media and capturing moments.
- More RAM: 12GB of RAM provides a smoother multitasking and gaming experience.
- Newer OS and software: The most recent android version that is expected to get longer software updates.
- Superior Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides much better scratch and shatter protection.
- Better Connectivity: Newer Bluetooth and WiFi, which ensures a more reliable connection and better audio quality with wireless headphones.
- Advanced Features The added features of the Pixel 9 camera such as, Flicker sensor, Noise reduction, Pro Video Mode, 4K Video, Dual camera, Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Laser autofocus (LAF), NPU AI Engine, RAW, Night Mode will provide additional options for content creators.
- Higher pixel density: The sharper display will provide a more detailed image
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Motorola Edge (2022): The MediaTek chipset is less powerful than the Google Tensor G4, and it has a lower quality screen protection. The older OS may also lack some of the latest features and updates. Camera hardware is less advanced than the Google Pixel 9.
- Google Pixel 9: It is a slightly heavier phone and the battery is slightly smaller than the Motorola Edge (2022), which may mean less battery life, the lack of a dedicated macro lens is a trade-off, and its price will be expected to be higher due to the superior specs.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge (2022) is best for:
- Budget-conscious users who want a large, smooth display for media consumption and general use.
- Users who need long battery life and appreciate the larger capacity battery.
- Those who want a lower weight phone
- Users who enjoy macro and wide angle lens photography.
- Users who appreciate immersive audio.
Google Pixel 9 is best for:
- Photography enthusiasts who want the best camera quality on a smartphone.
- Power users who need strong performance for gaming, multitasking, and heavy app use.
- Users who value a smooth user experience and want the latest software updates.
- Those who prioritize a more compact phone
- Those who appreciate a more detailed display
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- What do you use your phone for the most? If it’s primarily for media consumption and general use on a budget, the Edge is a strong contender. If you’re a mobile photographer, gamer, or need top-tier performance, the Pixel 9 is better.
- How much do you value camera quality? If you want the best smartphone camera experience, the Pixel 9's superior hardware and processing will make a significant difference. If you prioritize a more flexible camera setup with macro and wide angle, the Edge is the better choice.
- Do you prefer a lighter phone with a bigger display or a smaller phone with more power? The Motorola Edge is lighter and bigger, making it more convenient to carry and consume media. The Google Pixel is more compact and performs better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The "Social Media Creator": The Google Pixel 9. The superior video capabilities (HDR, OIS, EIS, higher slow motion) and overall camera quality make it ideal for capturing and sharing high-quality content.
- The "On-the-Go Gamer": The Google Pixel 9. The more powerful chipset and more RAM offer a smoother, higher performance in demanding games.
- The "Average User": The Motorola Edge (2022). It strikes a good balance between features, performance, and price, with a smooth display and long battery life that will suit most users.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Google Pixel 9. As a tech journalist, I value the latest software, superior performance, and top-tier camera capabilities. The Pixel 9's Tensor G4 chip, advanced camera system, and the promise of long-term software support make it a more compelling device. While the Edge's bigger display and Dolby Atmos are attractive, the Pixel 9's overall package is better suited to my needs as a power user who values image quality and performance. I’m also more drawn to the design and build quality that the Pixel offers. I would be willing to trade off the longer battery life for a better experience in every other aspect of the phone.
