Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. I’ll be looking at this from both a technical and a real-world usage standpoint, aiming to give you the clearest possible picture of what each phone brings to the table.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.9 × 74.2 × 8 mm | 164 × 76.1 × 8.9 mm | Edge is more compact and thinner; Poco is larger and may feel bulkier |
| Weight | 170g | 200g | Edge is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.58" | Minimal size difference, negligible in daily use |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2408 | Both are sharp enough for clear visuals, very similar pixel density |
| Panel Technology | OLED | IPS LCD | OLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast, making for a more vibrant viewing experience |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 90Hz | Edge has much smoother scrolling and animations, better for gaming and visual fluidity |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Dimensity 1050 (6nm) | Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Edge has a newer, more powerful chip leading to faster apps, smoother operation, and potentially better efficiency |
| AnTuTu Score | 522,375 | 381,300 | Edge is significantly faster in benchmarks, translating to quicker responsiveness and better performance in demanding tasks |
| GPU | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Edge has a more powerful GPU for better gaming and graphics performance |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8, 1/1.55", 1.0µm | 13MP f/2.2 | Edge will capture much more detailed and brighter images with better low-light performance |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP f/2.45, 0.7µm | 5MP f/2.2 | Edge will capture higher resolution and more detailed selfies |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP f/1.5, 1.12µm | Not available | Edge offers more versatile shooting with its ultra-wide lens. |
| Macro Lens | 20MP f/2.4, 1/2.83", 0.9µm | Not available | Edge is able to take detailed close up photos |
| Depth Sensor | Not available | 2MP f/2.4 | Poco can take Portrait photos, but this does not mean they are better. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps, EIS | Up to 1080p@30fps | Edge records higher quality, stabilized video |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery endurance for a full day of use |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Edge charges significantly faster, less time plugged in |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | Not available | Edge has wireless charging which offers increased convenience |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 | Edge offers the possibility to upgrade to Android 13, providing more modern features |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | Edge supports newer Wi-Fi, offering faster speeds and lower latency |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 | Edge offers newer Bluetooth |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Edge supports eSIM for digital carrier switching |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 64 GB or 128 GB | Edge offers more internal storage space |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 4 GB or 6 GB | Edge offers more RAM for better multitasking capabilities |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither of the phones have expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation, Stereo Speakers | Basic | Edge offers high quality, immersive sound experience |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | basic | Side-mounted | Poco offers a more advanced fingerprint sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Both offer similar screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Edge offers more sensors for enhanced functionality |
2. Key Insights
- Motorola Edge (2022) Strengths:
- Superior Display: The OLED screen with a 144Hz refresh rate provides a much smoother and more vibrant visual experience compared to the Poco's LCD.
- Performance Boost: The Dimensity 1050 chipset paired with the Mali-G610 GPU gives the Edge a significant edge in processing power and graphics.
- Enhanced Camera System: The 50MP main camera with a larger sensor, and added Macro and Wide Angle lenses, combined with 4K video capabilities, will provide significantly higher quality photos and videos.
- Faster Charging and Wireless Charging: The 30W fast charging and 15W wireless charging capabilities enhance convenience compared to the Poco's 18W.
- Premium Audio: Dolby Atmos, noise cancellation and stereo speakers provide a more immersive audio experience.
- More RAM and Storage Options Edge comes with more RAM and a larger storage option (256GB), resulting in better multitasking capabilities
- More Connectivity Options Edge has newer WiFi and Bluetooth options.
- eSIM Support Edge supports eSIM for digital carrier switching.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 5G Strengths:
- Price: The Poco M4 5G likely comes at a lower price point, making it more accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Decent Battery Life: Both phones share a similar battery capacity, but the Poco's more efficient processor may result in slightly longer battery life.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Slightly more convenient access to phone.
- Trade-offs and Limitations
- Motorola Edge (2022): No expandable storage, premium price point.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 5G: Inferior display, slower charging, weaker camera and performance, lack of an ultrawide lens, and no wireless charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Edge (2022):
- Ideal for: Tech enthusiasts, gamers, and media consumers who prioritize a superior visual experience, fast performance, high-quality cameras, and premium features.
- Use Cases: Gaming, streaming high-definition videos, capturing high-quality photos and videos, content creation.
- Value Proposition: Premium features and performance justify a higher price point for users who want the best experience.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 5G:
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious users who want basic smartphone functionality and solid 5G connectivity.
- Use Cases: Basic social media, web browsing, casual photography, and everyday use.
- Value Proposition: Affordable 5G experience for users who don't need cutting-edge features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions that will help you decide between the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G:
- Do you prioritize display quality and performance? If the answer is YES, the Motorola Edge (2022) is the clear choice with its OLED display and Dimensity 1050 chipset.
- Are you a heavy photographer or videographer? If the answer is YES, the Motorola Edge (2022)'s superior camera system with multiple lenses, 4K recording, and improved low-light performance makes it ideal.
- Is budget your primary concern? If the answer is YES, and you're looking for a simple 5G phone, the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G is the more affordable option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming and Media:
- Recommendation: Motorola Edge (2022). The 144Hz OLED display, powerful processor, and enhanced audio will provide the best gaming and streaming experience.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious User:
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. It offers essential features at a lower price, with basic 5G connectivity and battery life.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast:
- Recommendation: Motorola Edge (2022). The versatile camera system with multiple lenses, better video capabilities, and improved sensor technology will offer superior photo and video quality.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would go with the Motorola Edge (2022). Yes, it's likely more expensive, but the overall package it offers is far superior to the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. The OLED display with 144Hz, significantly faster processor and graphics, vastly superior camera system and premium features make the Motorola Edge a clear winner for me. The vastly improved screen will be a joy for everyday use, the cameras will let me capture the best pictures and the improved performance will offer a more seamless experience. The addition of wireless charging and premium audio features are the icing on the cake. While both phones have their target audience, if I am making the decision based on overall value, the Motorola Edge is the clear winner.
