Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Motorola Moto G (2022) and the Moto G73. 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 breakdown of the specifications, focusing on what they mean for you in the real world:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Motorola Moto G73 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.4 × 75.8 × 9.4 mm | 161.4 × 73.8 × 8.3 mm | G73 is more compact and slightly thinner, easier to handle. |
| Weight | 204g | 181g | G73 is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for long use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.5" | Both have the same screen size. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | G73 offers a much sharper and clearer viewing experience. |
| PPI | 270 | 405 | G73 has significantly higher pixel density, resulting in better detail. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use IPS LCD, similar color and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | G73 provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have identical peak brightness at 0 nits. This is a bit weird; I'll have to assume that this just wasn't tested. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 930 (6 nm) | G73 has a newer, more efficient chip for better performance and slightly better battery life. |
| AnTuTu Score | 389,300 | 497,466 | G73 is significantly faster in benchmarks, translating to smoother operation. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | IMG BXM-8-256 | G73 has a better GPU, better for graphics-intensive tasks and games. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery capacity, similar battery life potential. |
| Charging | 10W fast charging | 30W fast charging | G73 charges significantly faster. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer batteries generally have longer lifespans. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 0.64µm pixels | 50MP, f/1.8, 1.00µm pixels | G73 has slightly larger pixels, potentially better low-light. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixels | 16MP, f/2.4, 1.00µm pixels | G73 has higher resolution, but G (2022) has wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Camera | None | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixels | G73 has a dedicated wide-angle lens for more versatile shots. |
| Portrait (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm pixels | None | Moto G (2022) has a dedicated sensor for depth. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm pixels | None | Moto G (2022) has a dedicated sensor for macro shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps | G73 offers additional frame rate for smoother video. |
| Slow Motion | No | Yes, 240 fps | G73 offers slow-motion recording capabilities. |
| Camera Features | PDAF, Triple cam | 4K Video, Dual Cam, OIS | G73 provides more advanced video capabilities and OIS, while G (2022) offers Phase Detection autofocus and has a triple camera system. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | G73 ships with a newer version of Android. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | G73 supports a newer standard, for faster and more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | G73 supports a newer version of Bluetooth with faster connections. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), NavIC System | G73 supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM | G73 supports two SIMs simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB | 128/256 GB | G73 offers more storage. |
| RAM | 6 GB | 8 GB | G73 has more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports microSD card expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 mics | G73 offers better audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Security features | Side Fingerprint | Side Fingerprint | Both feature side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Accelerometer, Compass | G (2022) has a more complete sensor suite, good for sensor-dependent gaming. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G (2022): Strengths
- Triple Camera System: The inclusion of dedicated macro and depth sensors offers some creative shooting options.
- Comprehensive Sensors: A more complete sensor suite including a barometer, making it better for advanced gaming.
Motorola Moto G73: Strengths
- Superior Display: The higher resolution and refresh rate make for a much more pleasant visual experience, whether you're browsing the web or gaming.
- Faster Performance: The newer chipset and GPU deliver noticeably better performance, making everything smoother and more responsive.
- Improved Camera: The larger main camera pixels and the inclusion of an ultrawide lens, along with better video features, offers more versatility.
- Faster Charging: 30W charging is a huge step up from 10W, and that means faster charging.
- Newer Android version: Ships with a newer version of android.
- Dual Sim: Dual sim functionality.
- Enhanced Audio: Better audio experience with Dolby Atmos and Stereo speakers.
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Moto G (2022): The biggest weakness is the lower display resolution. The processor is also slower. It also lacks an ultrawide camera, and has slower charging.
- Moto G73: The G73 lacks a dedicated depth and macro lens. It also features a less complete sensor suite.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Moto G (2022):
- Budget-Conscious Users: If you're on a tight budget, the G (2022) is a reasonable option as a basic smartphone, although the value proposition isn't great compared to the G73.
- Users focused on niche cameras: If you are interested in a dedicated macro and depth lens then this phone might work.
- Motorola Moto G73:
- General Purpose Users: This phone is a solid all-rounder for everyday tasks, media consumption, and social media.
- Users Who Value Display Quality: If a good display is important for you, the G73 is the clear winner.
- Users Who Value Performance: If you're into gaming or heavy application use, the G73 will provide much better performance.
- Users Who Value Convenience: The fast charging, better audio experience, and dual SIM capabilities are a plus.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The wide-angle lens and better video features will appeal to photography enthusiasts.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- How important is display quality to you? If you prioritize a sharp, clear display, the Moto G73 is the better choice.
- Do you need a phone with good performance for gaming or heavier tasks? If so, the Moto G73's faster chip and GPU make it a better option.
- What is your budget? If you are on a very tight budget, the G (2022) could be an option, but the G73 offers significantly better value for only a small price increase.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User: If you are just browsing the web and checking social media, both will suffice, although the G73 will make the experience smoother.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Gamer: The Moto G73 is the clear choice, offering better performance and a smoother display.
- Scenario 3: Budget Buyer: If you're on a tight budget, the Moto G (2022) is an option, but only if the G73 is out of reach.
- Scenario 4: Photography: The G73 is more versatile with its ultrawide lens.
My Pick
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Motorola Moto G73. While the Moto G (2022) does have some niche features like the macro and depth cameras, the G73 offers significant improvements in areas that matter the most to the average user: display quality, performance, charging speeds and audio quality. The G73 also includes a wide-angle lens, as well as faster and more versatile video capabilities, as well as a better operating system out of the box.
The difference in display resolution and refresh rate alone would be enough to sway my decision, as a phone's display is where you spend all of your time. Add to that the enhanced performance, fast charging, better audio, and more storage, and the Moto G73 is simply the superior device in virtually every aspect of daily use. While it does come at a slightly higher price point, the improvement in usability and experience that you get is well worth it.
