Alright, let's dive deep into the tech specs of the Motorola Moto G (2022) and the Moto G35. As a tech journalist, I'm all about making sense of these numbers and figuring out what they mean for you, the user. Let's get started!
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of how these two Motorola devices stack up, focusing on the practical impact of each feature:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.4 × 75.8 × 9.4 mm | 166.3 × 76 × 7.8 mm | G35 is slightly taller and thinner; G (2022) has a larger volume. G35 feels sleeker and might be easier to handle. |
| Weight | 204g | 188g | G35 is significantly lighter, better for long usage without fatigue. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.72" | G35 offers a slightly larger viewing area, great for immersive media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | G35 has much sharper details and clearer text, making it more comfortable for reading and viewing media. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 392 | G35 has a noticeably sharper display and finer details, resulting in a better visual experience. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both have the same display tech, so similar color reproduction and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | G35 has smoother scrolling and animations, great for gaming and social media. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1000 nits | G35 is far better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight, making it easy to use on the go. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Unisoc T760 (6 nm) | G35's chipset offers marginally better performance. Both are good for daily tasks, with slight improvements in responsiveness for G35. |
| AnTuTu Score | 389,300 | 423,297 | G35 has a bit better performance based on benchmark scores, potentially better for multitasking and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | ARM Mali-G57 MP4 | Slightly different GPU configurations, the G35 might have a slight advantage in graphically intensive applications and games. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar capacity means similar battery life throughout the day, sufficient for most users with a single charge. |
| Charging | 10W fast charging, Li-Ion | 18W fast charging, Li-Polymer | G35 charges faster, reducing downtime when the battery is low; also features a more modern battery chemistry. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | Both feature the same main camera sensor, so similar image quality should be expected. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.45 | G35 offers a higher resolution selfie for more detailed shots, but G(2022) has a wider aperture for potentially better low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle Camera | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2 | G35 has the advantage of a wide-angle lens for landscape and group shots, allowing more flexibility for your photography. |
| Portrait (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | G(2022) includes a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode which may be more natural-looking. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | G(2022) includes a dedicated macro lens for close up photography. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps | G35 captures higher-resolution videos and also has slow-motion capabilities. |
| Features | Triple Camera, PDAF | Dual Camera, Digital image stabilization | G(2022) has additional features: Triple camera, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF). G35 has additional features: 4K Video, Dual camera, Digital image stabilization, Panorama |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | G35 ships with a more recent Android version, which means you get the latest features and security updates, and probably an extended software lifecycle. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac, Dual band | Both support similar WiFi standards, G35 additionally supports dual-band Wi-Fi, potentially more stable and faster connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.0 LE | G(2022) has the newer Bluetooth version, which might result in faster and more efficient connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | G35 supports more satellite systems and provides more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM, eSIM, Dual Standby | G35 offers more flexibility with dual SIM support and eSIM, useful for managing multiple lines or traveling. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB | 128GB or 256GB | G35 offers significantly more built-in storage, useful for more apps, photos, videos, and files. |
| RAM | 6GB | 4GB or 8GB | G35 has a better RAM configuration, meaning that it will be better for multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | Not supported | Not supported | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic Features | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 Microphones | G35 offers a superior audio experience with enhanced surround sound, louder playback, and better voice capture. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both offer standard side-mounted fingerprint sensor for biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | G35 offers better screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | G (2022) has a Barometer which might be useful for some specific users. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G (2022) Strengths:
- Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Includes a barometer in addition to standard sensors.
- Depth and Macro Lenses: It has an additional 2MP lens for depth and macro images.
- Slightly Wider Selfie Aperture: The selfie camera's wider aperture (f/2.2) could mean better low-light selfies than G35's f/2.45 aperture.
Motorola Moto G35 Strengths:
- Modern OS: Running Android 14 with the newest feature set.
- Higher Resolution Display: Sharper and clearer visuals with the 1080x2400 resolution and a higher 392 PPI.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate for more fluid animations.
- Brighter Screen: 1000 nits of brightness makes it usable in bright outdoor environments.
- Improved Performance: Higher AnTuTu score and a newer chipset should lead to a snappier experience.
- 4K Video Recording: The capability to capture high-resolution videos.
- Better Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos for superior audio output and dual microphones for better recording quality.
- Faster Charging: 18W charging compared to the G (2022)'s 10W.
- More Storage: Available in 128GB and 256GB options, giving more room for files and applications.
- eSIM and Dual SIM: Dual SIM and eSIM support provides greater flexibility for different carriers or international use.
- Wide-Angle Camera: Allows for more versatile photography options.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- G (2022) loses in display quality: Its 720p resolution and lower brightness make it less appealing than the G35.
- G (2022) has older software: This means the G35 is likely to get more updates in the long term.
- G35 lacks macro and depth sensor: May limit some users' photography flexibility.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G (2022) is Best For:
- Casual users on a strict budget: Those who prioritize basic features and don’t need the bells and whistles of higher-end models.
- Users who prioritize depth and macro photography: If you value the ability to take portrait photos or close-up macro shots, then the G(2022) has the additional lenses for those options.
Motorola Moto G35 is Best For:
- Media Consumption Enthusiasts: Larger, higher-resolution display with a 120Hz refresh rate is fantastic for videos and gaming.
- Power Users: The faster processor, 8GB of RAM (in the upgraded version) and more storage are better for multitasking and demanding applications.
- Users wanting better photo and video quality: The 4K video recording and wide-angle lens is great for creative content.
- Frequent Travelers or Multi-Line Users: Dual SIM and eSIM functionality is a must for managing multiple lines or when traveling internationally.
- Those who value better screen protection: Corning Gorilla Glass will keep your phone protected from minor damages.
- Anyone who enjoys listening to music or videos: The stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos will be a treat!
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- How important is screen quality and brightness to you? If you prioritize a bright, sharp screen for outdoor use and media consumption, the Moto G35 is the clear winner.
- Do you need higher performance and more storage for daily use? The Moto G35’s chipset, RAM options and storage capabilities ensure a smoother experience, especially with multitasking and gaming.
- Which camera features do you need most? If you want the extra flexibility of a wide-angle camera lens, the Moto G35 is a good choice. The G(2022) has a macro lens and a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photos.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Basic User on a Budget: If you mainly browse the web, make calls, and use basic apps, the Motorola Moto G (2022) can be enough while saving a few bucks.
- Scenario 2: Multimedia Lover: If you want to enjoy movies, games, and social media on the go, the G35's superior display, audio quality, and more powerful processing makes it the best choice.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: The Motorola Moto G35’s 4K video recording, wide-angle lens, and improved selfie capabilities offer a more versatile experience. If you prefer depth and macro, the G(2022) is a better choice.
- Scenario 4: Frequent Traveler: The Dual SIM and eSIM functionality, along with a better battery life, makes the G35 the clear choice here.
Which one would I choose?
I would pick the Motorola Moto G35, hands down. The higher-resolution display, 120Hz refresh rate, improved brightness, superior audio, better processing power, faster charging, more storage, and the flexibility of dual SIM/eSIM are compelling. Even though I appreciate the macro and depth lenses on the G(2022), the G35 delivers an all-round much better experience. The combination of modern software, a more responsive system, and a better display makes it the more sensible choice for anyone who wants the most out of their smartphone. Plus, the improved screen protection and audio quality make this phone a better companion for daily use.
While the Moto G (2022) is a decent budget option, it lacks several key features that modern users would appreciate. The Moto G35 offers better overall value and future-proofing, which makes it a more sensible choice for me.
