Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison between the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Samsung Galaxy S23+. Both are solid contenders in the smartphone arena, but they target slightly different needs and priorities. I'll be your guide, translating the tech jargon into real-world usability.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown comparing the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Samsung Galaxy S23+, focusing on what these specs mean for you.
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Samsung Galaxy S23+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.9 x 74.2 x 8 mm | 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm | The Edge is taller and slightly thicker, the S23+ is wider. S23+ is more compact. |
| Weight | 170g | 196g | Edge feels noticeably lighter in hand; S23+ has a more substantial feel. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.6" | Both provide ample screen real estate for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both offer sharp visuals, S23+ slightly less tall, minor difference. |
| PPI | 399 | 393 | Both are sharp enough, minor difference in pixel density, not noticeable for most users. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer excellent color vibrancy and deep blacks, AMOLED a slight edge in color accuracy. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Edge offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations, S23+ still very smooth. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1750 nits | S23+ is significantly brighter, much better outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | S23+ boasts much higher performance, superior app loading and multitasking. |
| Antutu Score | 522,375 | 1,508,732 | S23+ is about three times more powerful, best for gaming and intense tasks. |
| GPU | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Adreno 740 | S23+’s GPU is significantly faster, handling graphics-intensive tasks with ease. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" sensor | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" sensor | Both capture detailed images, Edge has slightly larger sensor for better light sensitivity. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45 | 12MP, f/2.2 | Edge takes higher-resolution selfies, S23+ has a wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 10MP, f/2.4 | S23+ offers optical zoom for better long-range photos, not available on the Edge. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 13MP, f/1.5 | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensor | Edge has a wider aperture for better low-light, S23+ with bigger pixels |
| Macro Lens | 20MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Edge offers dedicated macro photography, not available on the S23+. |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 8K@30fps | S23+ records higher resolution videos, superior stabilization. |
| DXOMark Score | N/A | 133 (Mobile) | S23+ has been thoroughly tested, giving a benchmark for image quality. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4700mAh | Edge has a slightly larger battery, potentially better longevity. |
| Charging | 30W | 45W | S23+ charges much faster, less downtime. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 10W | Edge charges slightly faster wirelessly. |
| Reverse Charging | 5W | 4.5W | Both can charge other devices wirelessly, similar output. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 13) | Android 13 (up to 17) | S23+ starts with newer version and has a better support of future updates. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 256/512 GB | S23+ offers more storage out of the box. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device has SD card support. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 8 GB | Both provide smooth multitasking, S23+ has a fixed higher RAM configuration.. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) with Wi-Fi MiMO | Both support WiFi 6, S23+ features MiMO for more reliable and stable connections |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.3 | S23+ features a newer bluetooth standard for higher transmission speeds and better power efficiency |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1 + L5) | S23+ has dual-band GPS for better precision, more reliable location tracking |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Both phones supports Dual SIMs and eSIM |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, 3 mics | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | Both offer great audio, S23+ with Hi-Res support, Edge has better mic system for call clarity. |
| Security | |||
| Sensor | Basic fingerprint | Basic fingerprint | Both phones have a fingerprint sensor for basic security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S23+ uses a much more durable screen protection |
| Sensors | Magnetometer, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Proximity, Fingerprint, Geomagnetic, Hall | S23+ has additional Geomagnetic and Hall sensors |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge (2022) Strengths:
- Lightweight Design: Its lighter build makes it more comfortable for extended use.
- Smoother Display: 144Hz refresh rate offers a slight edge in animation smoothness.
- Larger Battery: Potentially longer battery life due to the larger 5000mAh battery.
- Macro Photography: Dedicated macro lens is great for close-up photography.
- Microphone System: 3 microphones and Noise cancellation technology results in great voice call quality.
Samsung Galaxy S23+ Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is significantly more powerful for all tasks.
- Much Brighter Display: 1750 nits brightness makes it far more readable outdoors.
- Better Camera System: Offers a telephoto lens for optical zoom, vastly improved video recording, and a proven track record for image quality.
- Faster Charging: 45W charging gets you back up and running faster.
- Software Support: Starts with newer Android and has better update support.
- Screen Protection: Better and more durable screen protection.
- Connectivity: Newer Bluetooth and GPS standard.
- Storage: Larger storage options out of the box.
Trade-offs:
- The Motorola Edge (2022) sacrifices raw performance and display brightness for a lighter build and slightly better refresh rate and battery.
- The Samsung Galaxy S23+ is heavier and pricier but offers a more powerful and versatile overall experience.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge (2022) is ideal for:
- Users who prioritize a lightweight and comfortable phone.
- Those who prefer a slightly smoother refresh rate and a long-lasting battery.
- Enthusiasts who enjoy macro photography.
- Budget-conscious users seeking a solid all-around performer without breaking the bank.
Samsung Galaxy S23+ is ideal for:
- Power users who demand top-tier performance for gaming and intensive tasks.
- Photography enthusiasts who need versatile camera capabilities, including optical zoom.
- Users who often use their phone outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Individuals looking for the latest technology and software support.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three crucial questions to help you decide:
- Do you need top-tier performance and a superior camera system? If yes, the Galaxy S23+ is the clear winner.
- Is display brightness a major concern for you? If yes, the Galaxy S23+’s 1750-nit display is a game-changer.
- Do you want the most comfortable phone and prioritize battery? If yes, the lighter build and larger battery of the Edge might be your pick.
Scenario-based Recommendations:
- For a student on a budget: Motorola Edge (2022) balances price, performance, and comfort well.
- For a professional photographer: Samsung Galaxy S23+ offers superior cameras and processing.
- For a mobile gamer: Samsung Galaxy S23+ has far superior graphics performance.
- For an outdoors enthusiast: Samsung Galaxy S23+’s brighter display is much better under sunlight.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S23+. While the Motorola Edge (2022) offers some advantages like a lighter design and smoother screen, I find the superior performance, camera capabilities, and screen quality of the S23+ to be more compelling. As someone who uses their phone for a mix of demanding tasks, high-quality content consumption, and photography, the S23+ simply checks more of my boxes. The brighter display is also a must-have for someone like me who is often out and about, and that alone is worth the tradeoff in weight. While it comes with a higher price tag, the investment seems justified by the technology and experience it provides. The S23+ offers an overall well-rounded and premium experience.
