Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Edge 30 Fusion and the OnePlus Nord 4. I'll break down the specs, highlight key differences, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison table that puts the specs side-by-side with real-world implications:
| Feature | Motorola Edge 30 Fusion | OnePlus Nord 4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Size | 158.5 × 72 × 7.5 mm | 162.6 × 75 × 8 mm | Nord 4 is slightly larger; the Fusion is more compact and potentially easier for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 168g | 199.5g | Fusion feels significantly lighter, making it comfortable for extended periods. Nord 4 might feel more substantial. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.74" | Nord 4 has a slightly bigger display, good for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1240x2772 | Nord 4 has noticeably sharper details with higher resolution and more pixels. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 402 | 450 | Nord 4 offers a slightly crisper image with higher PPI, though both look very good. |
| Technology | P-OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. P-OLED is a slightly different manufacturing process. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Fusion provides slightly smoother animations and scrolling, especially beneficial for gaming. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 2200 nits | Nord 4 is significantly brighter in sunlight, making it easier to view content outdoors. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888+ 5G (5nm) | Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 (4nm) | Nord 4 has a newer, more efficient chipset and a better architecture, leading to more fluid everyday use and gaming |
| AnTuTu Score | 904,900 | 1,366,982 | Nord 4 is considerably more powerful; expect faster app loading and smoother gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 732 | Nord 4 has a newer GPU, providing significantly better graphics performance for games and other visually demanding apps. |
| BATTERY | |||
| Capacity | 4400mAh | 5500mAh | Nord 4 has a substantially larger battery that could easily last a full day for most users. |
| Charging | 68W fast charging | 100W fast charging | Nord 4 charges significantly faster, getting you back to full power much quicker. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" OV50A | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2" Sony LYT-600 | Fusion’s larger sensor may capture a bit more light, while the Nord 4 uses a more modern sensor from Sony. |
| Front Camera | 32MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" Sony IMX471 | Fusion has a higher resolution front camera with a slightly wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Ultrawide Camera | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12 µm | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" 1.14 µm | Fusion has a higher-resolution ultrawide camera, potentially resulting in more detailed ultrawide shots. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" OV02B1B | Not available | Fusion has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots |
| Video | Up to 8K@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Fusion has an edge for those who need 8K video recording, but Nord 4 records at 4k@60fps which is also great. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 12 (max 13) | Android 14 (max 18) | Nord 4 has a much newer version of Android and is expected to get major updates for longer. |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support similar standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.4 | Nord 4 has the latest Bluetooth version, offering slightly better connections and audio codec support. |
| GPS | Comprehensive | More Comprehensive | Nord 4 has more satelite systems for better accuracy |
| STORAGE & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB, 256GB or 512GB | Nord 4 offers more internal storage options with its 512 GB max, but both do not support expandable storage. |
| RAM | 8GB or 12GB | 8GB, 12GB or 16GB | Nord 4 offers a 16 GB RAM option, better for heavy multitasking. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | Fusion offers Dolby Atmos for a more immersive audio experience, but both phones offer stereo speakers for good audio quality. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Security Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both offer standard security through a fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge 30 Fusion Strengths:
- Sleek & Light: It's lighter and more compact, great for people who value portability and comfort.
- Smoother Display: The 144Hz refresh rate gives a more fluid experience.
- 8K Video: Capable of capturing professional-grade video.
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: Provides better portrait shots with a dedicated depth sensor
- Dolby Atmos: Has better audio with more surround sound
OnePlus Nord 4 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 offers significantly better overall performance, for multitasking and gaming.
- Brighter Display: The 2200 nits of brightness is a game changer for outdoor visibility.
- Longer Battery Life: A larger battery and more efficient chipset give you much more usage time.
- Faster Charging: 100W charging gets you back in action quickly.
- Up-to-date Software: Comes with Android 14 and has longer major updates
- More Storage: Has the potential to have up to 512 GB of storage, allowing the storage of more content
- More RAM: Offers up to 16 GB of RAM.
Key Trade-offs:
- Edge 30 Fusion: You're sacrificing some performance, battery life, and display brightness for a lighter build and the potentially better camera system.
- OnePlus Nord 4: You give up 8K video recording and the convenience of a lighter device and a higher refresh rate, but gain a massive boost in other areas, like display brightness and performance.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge 30 Fusion: This phone is ideal for:
- Users who value a sleek and lightweight design over raw performance.
- Users who prioritize a smooth display, and great camera performance
- Casual mobile gamers who still want a smooth experience.
- People who appreciate the extra depth sensor and 8k recording.
OnePlus Nord 4: This phone is perfect for:
- Users who need top-tier performance for gaming and heavy multitasking.
- People who prioritize battery life and fast charging.
- Those who want a bright display that's easily viewable outdoors.
- Tech enthusiasts who like the latest software and a future-proof phone.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
Do you prioritize a lighter, more portable design, or raw performance?
- If you want the lightest option, the Edge 30 Fusion wins. If you value raw power, pick the Nord 4.
Is display brightness critical for your use?
- If you are frequently in bright outdoor settings, the Nord 4 is a clear winner.
Is battery life a major concern, or do you need 8k video recording?
- If you're constantly on the go and need all-day power and super fast charging, choose the Nord 4. If not, then you can consider the fusion for the 8k video.
My Choice
If it was me choosing, I would go with the OnePlus Nord 4. Here's why:
While the Motorola Edge 30 Fusion has its strengths, the OnePlus Nord 4's improvements in processing power, battery life, and display brightness are too significant to overlook. The Nord 4 isn't just incrementally better; it represents a leap forward in crucial areas that make a huge difference in daily use. The newer chipset and better display are game changers for me. The performance improvement is very noticeable, and I value the faster charging as well as the increased battery life. The longer software update cycle on the OnePlus Nord 4 also makes it a better choice for long term use.
For most users who demand a high-performing, reliable smartphone that keeps up with their lifestyle, the Nord 4 is simply the more well-rounded and future-proof choice.
