Okay, let's break down the Motorola Edge (2022) and Realme 12 Pro+ and see which one comes out on top for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison table focusing on practical implications for the user:
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Realme 12 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-22 | 2024-01-29 | Realme 12 Pro+ is significantly newer, benefiting from more recent tech. |
| Dimensions | 160.9 × 74.2 × 8 mm | 161.5 × 74 × 8.8 mm | Motorola Edge is slightly thinner. Realme is a bit bulkier. |
| Weight | 170g | 196g | Motorola Edge is noticeably lighter, better for one-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.7" | Realme 12 Pro+ has a marginally larger screen. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2412 | Both offer sharp displays. |
| Pixel Density | 399 PPI | 394 PPI | Both have very similar sharpness. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Motorola Edge offers a slightly smoother visual experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Identical peak brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4 nm) | Realme 12 Pro+ has a newer, more efficient chip; leading to better day-to-day performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 522,375 | 603,400 | Realme 12 Pro+ benchmarks higher, better for intensive tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Adreno 710 | Adreno 710 tends to offer better gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard | 50MP (1/1.55") | 50MP (1/1.56") | Motorola Edge has a slightly larger sensor for capturing more light. |
| Selfie | 32MP (0.70 µm) | 32MP (0.80 µm) | Realme 12 Pro+ has a larger pixel size, potentially better in low light. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 64MP | Realme 12 Pro+ offers optical zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP | None | Motorola has a wider field of view for group shots and landscapes. |
| Macro Lens | 20MP | None | Motorola can take close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | None | 8MP | Realme 12 Pro+ has a dedicated wide angle plus macro lens |
| Video | 4K@30fps EIS | 4K@30fps EIS | Both capable of 4K video recording, with digital stabilization |
| Slow-Motion | 120fps | 240fps | Realme 12 Pro+ offers higher slow-motion framerate. |
| Features | OIS, PDAF, EIS, etc. | OIS, PDAF, EIS, RAW, etc. | Realme 12 Pro+ offers RAW capture and optical zoom. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both should offer all-day battery life for typical use. |
| Charging | 30W fast charging | 67W fast charging | Realme 12 Pro+ charges much faster. |
| Features | 15W wireless charging, 5W reverse charging | None | Motorola Edge has more charging options, including wireless charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 | Realme 12 Pro+ offers a newer version of Android out-of-the-box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer fast wireless connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE (Apt-x, LDAC, etc.) | Realme 12 Pro+ offers better audio codec support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, etc | GPS, A-GPS, etc | Realme 12 Pro+ has slightly more comprehensive location systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | Motorola Edge offers eSIM flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Realme 12 Pro+ offers a larger 512 GB option. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 8/12 GB | Realme 12 Pro+ has more RAM, better for multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo speakers, 3 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo speakers, 2 microphones | Both offer decent audio quality but Realme has slightly more audio enhancements, and has Hi-Res audio. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both offer basic biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Motorola Edge screen is more resistant to scratches. |
| Sensors | |||
| List | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer, Fingerprint | Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Geomagnetic, Fingerprint | Motorola Edge has additional environmental sensors, Realme has geomagnetic sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge (2022) Strengths:
- Lighter and Thinner: More comfortable for extended use and better one-handed handling.
- Higher Refresh Rate: Smoother scrolling and animations.
- Versatile Camera Setup: Includes a wide-angle and macro camera, offering more creative options.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: A unique advantage for added convenience.
- eSIM support: Offers more flexibility for carrier switching.
- More comprehensive sensor suite: Better for use with advanced applications, especially in gaming.
Realme 12 Pro+ Strengths:
- Newer Chipset: Better performance and efficiency, leading to faster app loading and better multitasking.
- Higher Benchmark Score: Marginally better performance in intensive tasks.
- Telephoto Lens: Offers optical zoom for better subject capture from a distance.
- Faster Charging: Charges significantly faster, meaning less time plugged into the wall.
- More RAM: Better multitasking and ability to run multiple apps at the same time.
- More storage options: Offers up to 512 GB for users who need the extra space.
- Hi-Res audio: Enhanced audio playback.
- Newer Android Version: Up-to-date software for better features and security.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Motorola Edge (2022): Older chipset and software, heavier compared to the Realme.
- Realme 12 Pro+: Bulkier, lacks a dedicated macro lens, no wireless charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge (2022) is ideal for:
- Users who prefer lightweight devices: Its light build makes it a great choice for comfortable all-day usage.
- Those who prioritize display smoothness: The 144Hz refresh rate is noticeable, especially for gamers and content viewers.
- Users who need versatile charging: Wireless charging and reverse charging are excellent for convenience.
- Photography enthusiasts who like taking wide angle and macro photos: Wide and Macro lens offers creative freedom.
Realme 12 Pro+ is ideal for:
- Users who prioritize performance: The newer chipset ensures smooth, lag-free operation.
- Users who prioritize telephoto zoom: The telephoto lens is great for capturing details from afar.
- Users who want fast charging: The 67W charging is a big convenience.
- Users who need more RAM for multitasking and storage: The 12GB RAM and 512GB storage options cater to power users.
- Those looking for the latest software: Android 14 is a plus.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- What matters more – a lighter build with wireless charging, or a snappier performance with a telephoto lens?
- Do you prioritize the smoothest display experience, or the latest Android version and faster charging speeds?
- How important is having a macro lens versus having optical zoom?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Casual User – If you primarily use your phone for browsing, social media, and light gaming, the Realme 12 Pro+ offers better everyday performance.
- Scenario 2: The Mobile Photographer – The Realme 12 Pro+ offers optical zoom, which is great for some shots. But the wide angle and macro lens on the Motorola Edge offer a different kind of versatility. Depending on what kind of photography you prefer, either phone could work!
- Scenario 3: The Gamer/Power User – The Realme 12 Pro+ is the better bet due to better processing power and RAM.
- Scenario 4: The Commuter/Traveler – The Motorola Edge (2022) with wireless charging, a lighter build and the option for eSIM would come in handy while traveling.
My Choice and Why
Given my preferences and the criteria I generally apply when recommending phones, I would personally lean towards the Realme 12 Pro+.
Here's why:
Performance Matters: For me, having the latest chipset, and a higher RAM option translates to a more fluid and future-proof experience, which I prioritize.
Telephoto Lens: I like having that ability to capture zoomed-in shots without the digital artifacts.
Fast Charging: The 67W charging is a real time saver. Being able to quickly top up the battery is a big plus for me.
While I appreciate the lighter build and wireless charging of the Motorola Edge (2022), the faster performance and better camera system of the Realme 12 Pro+ outweigh those advantages for my personal use case.
Ultimately, both are decent phones with their own strengths. But for my tech-focused workflow, the Realme edges it out.
