Okay, let's dive deep into a comparison of the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Realme 12+. Buckle up, tech enthusiasts, as we break down these devices feature-by-feature, focusing on what truly matters: how these specs translate to your daily usage.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison, highlighting not just the numbers but also what they mean for the user:
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Realme 12+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-22 | 2024-03-02 | Realme 12+ is newer, likely with updated features |
| Size | 160.9 × 74.2 × 8 mm | 163 × 75.5 × 7.9 mm | Realme 12+ slightly larger; Edge (2022) more compact. |
| Weight | 170g | 190g | Motorola Edge (2022) is noticeably lighter, better for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.67" | Minimal difference; both offer large viewing areas. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both provide sharp, detailed images. |
| PPI | 399 | 395 | Similar pixel density, both offer sharp display |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Motorola Edge (2022) screen is a bit smoother. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2000 nits | Realme 12+ offers significantly better outdoor visibility in bright conditions |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 (6nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 7050 (6nm) | Realme 12+ has a newer chipset which generally indicates better efficiency and power. |
| AnTuTu Score | 522,375 | 601,000 | Realme 12+ scores higher, suggesting slightly better overall performance. |
| GPU | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Different GPUs, both capable of smooth gaming; Realme 12+ is a slightly better overall GPU. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8 (1/1.55") | 50MP f/1.88 (1/2") | Motorola Edge (2022) has a larger sensor and wider aperture. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP f/2.45 | 16MP f/2.45 | Motorola Edge (2022) has a higher-resolution front camera. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP f/1.5 | 8MP f/2.2 | Motorola Edge (2022) has a higher-resolution and wider aperture. |
| Macro Lens | 20MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Motorola Edge (2022) has a significantly higher-resolution macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Both offer similar video recording capabilities. |
| Features | OIS, EIS, PDAF, etc. | OIS, EIS, PDAF, etc. | Both are equipped with similar features, with slight variations. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have similar battery capacity. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | Realme 12+ charges much faster. |
| Features | 15W Wireless, Reverse Charging | Non-removable | Motorola Edge (2022) offers wireless and reverse charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 13) | Android 14 (up to 16) | Realme 12+ ships with newer Android, longer support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both support the same standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE | Both are similar; Realme 12+ has extra bluetooth profiles. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | Motorola Edge (2022) supports more systems, better accuracy |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Motorola Edge (2022) offers eSIM flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | Realme 12+ offers 512GB option and more storage flexibility. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB/12GB | Realme 12+ offers more RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Realme 12+ offers Hi-Res Audio while Motorola Edge has one extra microphone |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both have standard fingerprint sensors |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Motorola Edge (2022) has superior screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Motorola Edge has an extra magnetomenter and barometer. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge (2022): Strengths
- Lighter Design: The 170g weight is significantly lighter, ideal for comfortable long-term use.
- Smoother Display: 144Hz refresh rate offers a slightly smoother visual experience.
- Better Main Camera: Larger sensor and wider aperture on the main camera for potentially superior low-light performance.
- Better Wide Angle Camera Higher resolution and wider aperture on wide angle.
- Higher Resolution Selfie and Macro Camera Superior resolution on both of these camera lenses.
- Wireless and Reverse Charging: 15W wireless charging and reverse charging adds convenience for users.
- eSIM Support: The inclusion of eSIM expands connectivity options for those who need it.
- Additional Sensors: Includes barometer and magnetometer which can be useful for some users.
Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for better screen protection. Realme 12+: Strengths
Newer Device: Launched over a year later, which often means newer features and updates.
- Higher Performance: A higher AnTuTu score indicates better general performance.
- Faster Charging: 67W charging is significantly faster, allowing for quick top-ups.
- Significantly Brighter Screen: 2000 nits of brightness is ideal for bright sunlight.
- More RAM: Up to 12GB of RAM enables smoother multitasking and demanding app usage.
- More Storage: The option for 512GB of internal storage, a significant advantage for users with large libraries.
- Better Software Support: Comes with Android 14 and slated to get Android 16 updates in the future.
- Better Audio: Offers Hi-Res Audio which offers a clearer, more detailed audio experience.
- Better GPU The Realme 12+ has a slightly more powerful GPU for gaming.
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Motorola Edge (2022): Older chipset, potentially slower performance; heavier; potentially less software support; weaker screen brightness.
- Realme 12+: Slightly larger and heavier, potentially less comfortable for long use; lacks wireless and reverse charging; Smaller camera sensors; lacks an eSIM.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge (2022) is ideal for:
- Users seeking a comfortable, lightweight phone: The lower weight makes it ideal for prolonged usage.
- Those who value a smoother visual experience: The 144Hz display is great for gamers and those who prefer fluid animations.
- Users who prefer wireless charging: Its wireless and reverse charging are convenient.
- Photography enthusiasts: Higher resolution selfie, macro, and wide-angle camera lens.
Realme 12+ is ideal for:
- Power users: The faster charging, more RAM, and larger storage are beneficial for heavy users.
- Users who want longevity: The newer device with updated Android versions offers extended support.
- Users who prioritize screen brightness: The 2000 nits of screen brightness is ideal for bright sunlight.
- Gamers and Multitaskers: With a faster chipset and greater RAM capacity the Realme 12+ will handle demanding gaming and multitasking scenarios better.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize a lightweight and very comfortable device with convenient wireless charging, or a faster, more powerful phone with longer software support?
- How important are camera specs? Do you value the higher resolution of the Motorola Edge or the better sensor of the Realme 12+?
- Is fast charging, more storage, and more RAM essential for your daily usage, or can you live without those features?
Scenario-based Recommendations:
- If you're always on the go: The Realme 12+ with its faster charging is the better option
- If you’re a casual user who values simplicity and screen smoothness: The Motorola Edge (2022) would be a comfortable option.
- If you need more storage and want a phone with a longer life cycle: The Realme 12+ is the better option.
- If you want the best screen brightness: The Realme 12+ is the better option.
Final Thoughts and My Choice
After weighing all the specs and practical implications, I would choose the Realme 12+.
Here's why: While the Motorola Edge (2022) has its strengths in design, display smoothness, and camera features, the Realme 12+ offers a more compelling package overall. The significant boost in charging speed, combined with more RAM, a newer OS and a better chipset, offers a much more future proofed and smoother user experience. Additionally, the significantly brighter screen of the Realme 12+ makes it the ideal option when out and about. The larger storage is also a significant benefit if you plan on storing a lot of music and video.
The Realme 12+ addresses some of the crucial shortcomings of the Motorola Edge (2022) like overall performance, brightness, and software support, making it the more practical choice for most users today. While the Motorola Edge is a very capable phone, the Realme 12+ addresses some of the key areas that matter to most users.
