Alright, let's dive deep into the Motorola Edge 30 Ultra and the Moto G Stylus 5G (2024). I'm excited to unpack these two very different smartphones, focusing on what each brings to the table for everyday users.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison table, highlighting the technical specifications and their real-world implications:
| Feature | Motorola Edge 30 Ultra | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.8 × 73.5 × 8.4 mm | 162.6 × 74.8 × 8.3 mm | Very similar in size; the G Stylus 5G is slightly wider but a tad thinner. |
| Weight | 198.5g | 190g | Edge 30 Ultra is slightly heavier; G Stylus 5G is marginally more comfortable for longer use. |
| Build Quality | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 (screen) | Unknown | Edge 30 Ultra screen is more scratch/shatter resistant. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.7" | Practically identical display sizes, both provide immersive experiences. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp visuals; details will look crisp and clear. |
| Pixel Density | 395 PPI | 395 PPI | Identical clarity, sharp text and image detail. |
| Technology | P-OLED | P-OLED | Vivid colors, deep blacks, good viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Edge 30 Ultra offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1250 nits | 1200 nits | Both screens are bright for outdoor visibility; edge 30 ultra has the edge. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 | Edge 30 Ultra handles demanding tasks effortlessly (gaming, video editing). |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,231,300 | 514,000 | Huge performance difference; Edge 30 Ultra is significantly faster and smoother. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 710 | Edge 30 Ultra provides a superior gaming and graphic-intensive experience. |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 8GB | Edge 30 Ultra has an edge for heavy multitasking, especially with 12GB option. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 200MP (f/1.95, 1/1.22") | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/1.56") | Edge 30 Ultra captures more detail. G Stylus 5G has slightly better low light performance due to larger pixel size. |
| Selfie Camera | 60MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8") | 32MP (f/2.45) | Edge 30 Ultra takes detailed selfies with a wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP (f/1.6) | Not available | Edge 30 Ultra has optical zoom capabilities, offering better photos at a distance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP (f/2.2, 1/2.76") | Not available | Edge 30 Ultra can capture more of the scene in a single shot. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | Not available | 13MP (f/2.2, 1.12µm pixel size) | G Stylus 5G is versatile for close up photography. |
| Video Recording | 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@960fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | Edge 30 Ultra offers higher video quality and frame rate for professional videos. |
| Camera Features | Triple Camera, OIS, RAW | Dual Camera, OIS, Time-Lapse, Dual Capture, Continuous AF | Edge 30 Ultra excels in diverse shooting scenarios. G Stylus excels in specific use cases |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4610mAh | 5000mAh | G Stylus 5G has a slightly larger battery for potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 125W wired, 50W wireless | 30W wired, 15W wireless | Edge 30 Ultra charges far faster, much less time tethered to the wall. |
| Additional Battery Features | 10W reverse wireless charging | Reverse charging | Motorola Edge 30 Ultra has more wireless features, while the G stylus can charge other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 (upgradable to 15) | G Stylus 5G offers a more modern OS out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 6E (802.11ax) | G Stylus 5G supports newer WiFi for better wireless performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 + APT-x, LDAC, SBC | G Stylus 5G provides more advanced audio codecs for enhanced audio experience. |
| GPS | L1+L5, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, etc | L1+L5, Galileo, NavIC System | Edge 30 Ultra has broader satellite support for better GPS accuracy in more places. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | G Stylus 5G can use an eSIM for flexibility when switching carriers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB or 256GB | 256GB | Both phones provide ample storage for most users, with the G stylus being only available in 256 GB. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both phones lack expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Both provide good audio experiences. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Standard security, fingerprint sensor is basic in both. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Edge 30 Ultra offers additional gravity sensor, which might be needed for certain applications and games |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge 30 Ultra: Powerhouse Performer
- Strengths:
- Performance: The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset paired with up to 12GB of RAM makes this a true flagship, handling demanding tasks and games without breaking a sweat. The AnTuTu score speaks for itself: this phone is significantly more powerful.
- Camera: Its 200MP main sensor, telephoto lens, and wide-angle lens offer unmatched versatility and quality, making it a great choice for photography enthusiasts.
- Charging: The 125W wired and 50W wireless charging speeds are incredibly fast, minimizing downtime.
- Display: The 144Hz refresh rate P-OLED display provides a fluid and immersive viewing experience.
- Screen protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5
- Limitations:
- Older OS: Ships with Android 12 (upgradeable to 13).
- Heavier: Slightly heavier, which could be a minor drawback for some users.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024): Balanced with Modern Features
- Strengths:
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 14 (upgradeable to 15), ensuring you're on the latest software.
- Battery: A slightly larger battery provides potentially longer usage.
- Connectivity: Supports newer WiFi 6E standards and offers more audio codecs, which is great for future-proofing and audiophiles.
- Price-to-value: Likely a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers, making it great value for a mid-range device.
- Wide Angle + Macro lens: Very useful if you like close up photography.
- eSIM support: Allows flexibility to switch carriers without using a physical SIM card.
- Limitations:
- Performance: The Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 is a midrange chipset, meaning it's not nearly as powerful as the Edge 30 Ultra.
- Camera: While the 50MP main camera is good, it lacks the high-end features and versatility of the Edge 30 Ultra.
- Unknown screen protection: There are no details on screen protection.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge 30 Ultra:
- Ideal for:
- Power users: Individuals who demand top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and multitasking.
- Photography enthusiasts: Those who need versatile camera options and high-quality images in all situations.
- Tech enthusiasts: People who want the latest features and cutting-edge technology.
- People that need fast charging speeds: Those that hate being tethered to a cable for long.
- Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming, professional photography, and videography, content creation, demanding applications.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024):
- Ideal for:
- Everyday users: People looking for a reliable and balanced smartphone with a modern OS.
- Budget-conscious buyers: Those who prioritize value and essential features over top-tier performance.
- Users who appreciate modern software and audio: Those who appreciate the latest software and enhanced audio options.
- Users who like versatility: The macro lens provides versatility.
- Users that like flexibility with carrier switching: With its eSIM, this phone can make switching carriers fast and easy.
- Use Cases:
- Social media, browsing, casual gaming, daily use, note-taking.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize top-tier performance and camera quality? If yes, the Motorola Edge 30 Ultra is the clear choice. If no, the Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) should be adequate for day-to-day use.
- Are you on a budget, or do you need the latest software? If yes, the G Stylus 5G (2024) will be the way to go as it gives you a newer OS and modern connectivity options. If not, the Edge 30 Ultra's higher price may still be acceptable given its advanced features.
- How important is fast charging and advanced camera versatility to you? The Edge 30 Ultra excels in both these areas, meaning that if they are important to you, the G Stylus will disappoint.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Power User – Choose the Motorola Edge 30 Ultra. Its performance will handle heavy tasks, gaming and professional photography effortlessly.
- Scenario 2: Budget Buyer – Choose the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024). It provides a balanced experience with the newest OS, enhanced audio, and a good battery at a reasonable cost.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast – Choose the Motorola Edge 30 Ultra. Its versatile cameras, telephoto lens, and high resolution mean it is a superior choice for photo enthusiasts.
- Scenario 4: Modern Features and Latest OS – Choose the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024). It is the only option here with the newer operating system and enhanced audio features.
My Choice and Why
If I were choosing between these two, I would choose the Motorola Edge 30 Ultra. Here's why:
As a tech journalist, I frequently need a phone that can handle a variety of tasks quickly and reliably. The Edge 30 Ultra's superior performance means I can efficiently manage large data files, demanding applications and edit videos. Plus, its camera system is top-tier, which is crucial for taking high-quality photos during my coverage. While the G Stylus 5G (2024) offers a more recent operating system, that would not justify missing out on the vast improvements in performance, photography and battery charging that I need. Additionally, fast charging is a game-changer for someone constantly on the go. It is a superior choice overall and more closely aligns with my needs.
