Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G (2022) and the Asus ROG Phone 8. I'm going to break down the specs, offer real-world insights, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the key specifications of each phone, along with an explanation of what these specs mean for everyday use.
| Feature | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Asus ROG Phone 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.4 × 75.8 × 9.4 mm | 163.8 × 76.8 × 8.9 mm | Moto G is slightly taller and thicker; ROG Phone 8 is a bit wider, but slimmer. The Moto G is less bulky in the hand. |
| Weight | 204g | 225g | Moto G is lighter, which makes it more comfortable for extended use, especially one handed; ROG Phone 8 has premium feel |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.78" | ROG Phone 8 offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | ROG Phone 8's higher resolution provides sharper, more detailed images and text. |
| PPI | 270 | 388 | The higher pixel density of the ROG Phone 8 results in a significantly crisper display. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | ROG Phone 8's AMOLED screen offers deeper blacks, richer colors, and better contrast ratios than the Moto G's LCD panel. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 165Hz | ROG Phone 8’s high refresh rate results in much smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2500 nits | ROG Phone 8’s screen has significantly better visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | ROG Phone 8 boasts a much more powerful processor, meaning faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and far superior gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 389,300 | 2,020,000 | ROG Phone 8 is in a whole different performance tier, offering a significantly faster user experience across the board. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 750 | ROG Phone 8's GPU is vastly superior for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5500mAh | ROG Phone 8 has a slightly larger battery, which will likely result in longer battery life. |
| Charging | 10W | 65W | ROG Phone 8 charges much faster, getting you back to full battery in less time. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Both are non-removable batteries |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | 50MP f/1.9, 1/1.56", 1.00µm | ROG Phone 8 has a larger sensor and pixel size, which should result in better image quality, especially in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP f/2.2, 1.12µm | 32MP | ROG Phone 8 has a significantly higher resolution selfie camera and should produce sharper images. |
| Portrait (Depth) | 2MP f/2.4, 1.75µm | None | Moto G includes a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4, 1.75µm | 5MP f/2.4 | ROG Phone 8 has a higher resolution macro lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 13MP f/2.2 | ROG Phone 8 offers a dedicated wide-angle camera for landscape shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, etc. | ROG Phone 8 offers much better video recording quality with more resolution and frame rate options. |
| Stabilization | No | Yes, with EIS | ROG Phone 8 has Electronic Image Stabilization for smoother videos. |
| Slow Motion | No | Yes, 480fps | ROG Phone 8 supports slow-motion video at a much higher frame rate. |
| Camera Features | PDAF, HDR, Basic modes | OIS, Gimbal, 4k/8k video | ROG Phone 8 has more advanced camera features, like OIS, Gimbal, 4K/8K recording, and laser autofocus. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | ROG Phone 8 offers a more up-to-date software experience with a longer update support cycle. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | WiFi 7 (802.11be) | ROG Phone 8 supports much faster WiFi standards offering superior speeds, lower latency, and better network efficiency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | ROG Phone 8 has a newer Bluetooth version which could result in improved audio and connection stability. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | A-GPS, GLONASS, etc. | ROG Phone 8 has more comprehensive GNSS support for better location accuracy, especially in challenging environments. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM | ROG Phone 8 supports two SIM cards for greater flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB | 256 GB | ROG Phone 8 provides much more internal storage space, useful for high quality photos and video. |
| RAM | 6 GB | 12/16 GB | ROG Phone 8 has a lot more RAM which will result in better multitasking and gaming performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers, 3 mics | ROG Phone 8 offers much superior audio, featuring stereo speakers, enhanced audio technologies, and better recording |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both provide fingerprint scanning technology, the Moto G has a more advanced side-mounted one. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | ROG Phone 8 offers superior scratch and drop resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Barometer, etc. | Gravity, etc. | Both have an impressive sensor array; The Moto G has Barometer and the ROG Phone 8 has Gravity. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G (2022): Strengths
- Affordability: The Moto G (2022) is clearly designed as a budget-friendly option.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Its lighter build makes it easier to handle for long periods, and the side-mounted fingerprint sensor is a nice touch.
- Good Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery should provide all-day endurance for most users.
- Decent Camera: The 50MP main camera, combined with 2MP depth and macro lenses, provides basic shooting capabilities, but won't win any awards for its image quality.
Motorola Moto G (2022): Limitations
- Basic Display: The low resolution, standard LCD, and lack of brightness make the display look washed out and difficult to see in bright light.
- Slow Performance: The MediaTek Dimensity 700 is okay for basic tasks, but it will struggle with demanding apps or games.
- Slow Charging: 10W charging is very slow compared to modern fast charging solutions.
- Limited Storage: 64GB of storage is a bit tight in 2024, and it is not expandable.
- Basic Audio: The audio experience is rather basic with no advanced features.
- Outdated Software: The phone ships with Android 12, which is several generations behind the latest Android version.
Asus ROG Phone 8: Strengths
- Top-Tier Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset makes it a true powerhouse, perfect for intensive gaming, heavy multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Stunning Display: The vibrant AMOLED display with its high refresh rate, high resolution, and brightness is a joy to use.
- Advanced Camera System: The combination of the 50MP main sensor with the large sensor size, wide-angle, and high-resolution front camera makes for a versatile shooting experience. The 8K video recording is also a professional feature.
- Excellent Audio Quality: The stereo speakers and advanced DTS audio support provide an immersive audio experience.
- Fast Charging and Good Battery: 65W fast charging makes it easy to quickly top up the 5500mAh battery.
- Up-to-date software: Ships with Android 14 which is great!
- Comprehensive connectivity: WiFi 7 and the latest Bluetooth makes the phone more future-proof
Asus ROG Phone 8: Limitations
- Price: This phone is very expensive.
- Bulky: At 225g, it can feel heavy in the pocket.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G (2022):
- Ideal for:
- Budget-conscious users who need a basic smartphone for everyday tasks.
- Users who want a light and comfortable phone for calls, messaging, and browsing.
- Users who prioritize battery life over performance and want a phone that can last all day on a charge.
- Use Cases:
- Basic web browsing and social media use.
- Calling, texting, and basic app usage.
- Occasional photo taking and video viewing.
Asus ROG Phone 8:
- Ideal for:
- Gamers who need top-tier performance and immersive visuals.
- Users who need a powerful phone for demanding applications.
- Users who enjoy high-quality video recording and playback.
- Tech enthusiasts who want the latest and greatest technology.
- Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming.
- Running demanding apps and productivity tools.
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos.
- Immersive media consumption (videos, movies).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Before deciding, ask yourself these questions:
- What is your budget? If you are on a tight budget, the Moto G is the better choice. If not, then the ROG Phone 8 is the better option.
- What do you use your phone for the most? If you just want basic tasks done, and don't play many games, then the Moto G will do the job. If you want high-end gaming, then ROG Phone 8 is the clear choice.
- How important are display quality, performance, and advanced camera features? If those features aren't important to you, then the Moto G will be fine. If those features are critical to you, then the ROG Phone 8 is essential.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget User: If cost is your primary concern, go for the Motorola Moto G (2022). It's a functional, basic phone that will handle everyday tasks.
- Casual User: If you want a phone for basic tasks, but want a phone with better performance and features, then go for the ROG Phone 8. The additional cost is worth it.
- Gaming Enthusiast: If you are a mobile gamer or power user, go for the ROG Phone 8. It’s built for that type of user and it won't let you down.
- Multimedia Consumer: If you enjoy high-quality audio and video, the ROG Phone 8 will enhance that experience greatly.
Which One Would I Choose?
If I were making the decision, I'd choose the Asus ROG Phone 8 without hesitation. Here's why:
As someone who values both performance and technology, the ROG Phone 8 ticks all the boxes. I play a lot of mobile games, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 with the high refresh rate screen would provide a smooth and immersive gaming experience. I also appreciate having a high quality camera and having a modern Android OS. While I don't love the bulkiness of the ROG Phone 8, the added power, screen quality, and features easily outweigh that issue. The Moto G 2022 does not fit in my profile of phone usage since I care about performance and would be very unhappy with such a slow and basic phone.
Ultimately, the "best" phone depends on individual needs and priorities. The Moto G 2022 is a functional budget device, while the ROG Phone 8 is a powerful flagship aimed at enthusiasts. Each phone caters to different users, so understanding your own preferences is key to making the right decision.
