Alright, let's dive deep into the Motorola Edge 30 and Motorola Edge (2022). I've got my engineering hat on, and I'm ready to break down what these specs really mean for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison of the key specs, focusing on their real-world impact:
| Feature | Motorola Edge 30 | Motorola Edge (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.4 x 74.2 x 6.8 mm | 160.9 x 74.2 x 8 mm | Edge 30 is noticeably slimmer and lighter, making it more pocket-friendly and comfortable for long use. |
| Weight | 155g | 170g | Edge 30 feels lighter in hand; Edge (2022) is more substantial. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Marginal size difference; both offer ample screen space for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp and clear visuals on both, good for reading, videos, and games. |
| PPI | 405 | 399 | Practically identical pixel density; both have very crisp displays. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 144Hz | Super smooth scrolling and animations, especially great for gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness appears to be missing, but should be bright enough for outdoor use |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 778G+ 5G (6nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 (6nm) | Edge 30 has a slight performance edge according to AnTuTu scores, better for gaming and intensive tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 609,900 | 522,375 | Edge 30 has a 17% performance lead; noticeable during demanding apps and games |
| GPU | Adreno 642L | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Different graphics processors, Edge 30’s might give a slight advantage in gaming. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4020mAh | 5000mAh | Edge (2022) will likely last longer on a single charge; better for users who need all-day battery. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Edge 30 charges slightly faster; both offer relatively quick charging. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, 15W Wireless, 5W Reverse | Edge (2022) has additional charging convenience, very useful for on-the-go charging of accessories |
| Camera | |||
| Standard | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55", 1.0µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55", 1.0µm | Comparable main cameras; both capture good quality images in various conditions. |
| Selfie | 32MP, f/2.25, 1/3.14", 0.7µm | 32MP, f/2.45, 0.7µm | Edge 30 has a wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | 13MP, f/1.5, 1.12µm | Edge 30 has a dedicated wide angle/macro lens combo, while the Edge 2022 has a dedicated macro lens. |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 20MP, f/2.4, 1/2.83", 0.9µm | Edge (2022) has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | N/A | Edge 30 has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | N/A | Edge 30 includes a wide-angle/macro lens for added versatility |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps, EIS | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps, EIS | Similar video recording capabilities; both offer stabilization but Edge 30 includes HDR for video. |
| Features | 4K Video, Manual, RAW, Night | Digital Zoom, OIS | Edge 30 has additional manual controls and advanced image processing options for photography enthusiasts. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12, upgradeable to 13 | Android 12, upgradeable to 13 | Both are very similar in software, will get the same feature updates |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ax (WiFi 6), MIMO | 802.11ax (WiFi 6) | Both support fast Wi-Fi speeds; Edge 30 has additional MIMO functionality for faster data transfers when supported. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, Apt-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | 5.2 | Edge 30 has more advanced audio codec support for better wireless audio quality. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Edge (2022) supports eSIM for flexibility; Edge 30 can use 2 physical SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both have plenty of storage for apps, photos, and videos. |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 6/8GB | Enough RAM for smooth multitasking on both devices. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo, 2 mics | Dolby Atmos, Stereo, 3 mics | Edge (2022) has noise cancellation and an additional microphone for better audio capture. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Standard biometric security on both. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass 3 | Both offer basic screen protection from scratches and light drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | Edge (2022) includes more sensors for greater use in various applications. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge 30 Strengths:
- Slimmer and Lighter Design: More comfortable for prolonged use and easier to pocket.
- Slightly Better Performance: The Snapdragon 778G+ chipset provides a small edge in benchmarks.
- Better Selfie Camera: Wider aperture on the selfie camera for low-light performance.
- More Camera Features: Additional manual controls, RAW capture, and Night Mode cater to photographers.
- Superior Audio Codecs: Features APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC codecs for improved wireless audio quality.
- MIMO Wi-Fi: Allows for faster data transfers over compatible networks.
Motorola Edge (2022) Strengths:
- Larger Battery: Significantly better battery life for those who need all-day power.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient wireless charging adds a level of freedom and versatility.
- Reverse Charging: Can charge accessories and other devices wirelessly, a versatile capability.
- Dedicated Macro Lens: Provides better detail for close-up shots.
- eSIM Support: More flexible for frequent travelers needing carrier switching.
- Additional Sensors: Barometer and magnetometer for increased utility in various applications.
- Enhanced Audio: Noise cancellation and an additional microphone.
Trade-offs:
- The Edge 30 sacrifices battery life and wireless charging for a slimmer design and slightly better performance.
- The Edge (2022) trades performance and camera features for better battery life, charging convenience, and additional sensors.
- Neither offers expandable storage, which may be an issue for some users.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge 30 is best for:
- Power Users: Those who prioritize performance for gaming, streaming, and multitasking, who enjoy the camera.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who like to tweak settings and want more manual camera control.
- Design-Conscious Buyers: People who prefer a slim and lightweight device.
- Audiophiles: Those who value high-quality wireless audio codecs.
Motorola Edge (2022) is best for:
- Heavy Users: Individuals who need an all-day battery life and don't want to worry about charging.
- Frequent Travelers: Those who need the flexibility of an eSIM.
- Convenience Seekers: Users who appreciate the ease of wireless charging.
- Macro Photographers: Those who enjoy taking close-up photos with a dedicated macro lens.
- Audio Focused Users: Those who value clear calls and better audio capture.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Battery or Performance? Do you prioritize all-day battery life or slightly better performance?
- Charging Convenience? Do you value wireless charging and reverse charging features?
- Camera Preference? Do you prefer more manual controls and advanced image processing or having a dedicated Macro camera?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Mobile Gamer: Choose the Edge 30 for the Snapdragon chipset and higher AnTuTu score.
- The On-the-Go Professional: Opt for the Edge (2022) with its larger battery and wireless charging.
- The Content Creator: The Edge 30 has better camera features, while the Edge (2022) excels in battery life.
- The Frequent Traveler: The Edge (2022) with its eSIM support is the more flexible choice.
Final Thoughts
Which one would I choose?
After carefully considering all the specs and real-world implications, I'd personally lean towards the Motorola Edge (2022). The primary reason is the significantly larger battery. For me, having a device that can comfortably last through a full day of heavy use without needing a top-up is crucial. The added convenience of wireless and reverse charging is also a big plus, allowing me to keep my accessories powered up on the go. While the Edge 30's slightly better performance and camera features are appealing, they don't outweigh the practicality of extended battery life for my lifestyle. I value longevity and convenience in my day to day, so for me the Edge (2022) is the clear winner.
