Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G (2022) and the Samsung Galaxy A04s. As a tech journalist, I'm always keen to see how different phones stack up in real-world scenarios, not just on paper.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-19 | 2022-09-22 | The A04s is newer by about 4 months, meaning slightly more up-to-date software potential. |
| Dimensions | 165.4 x 75.8 x 9.4 mm | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 mm | The Moto G is a tad thicker (0.3mm), while A04s is marginally wider (0.9 mm), likely negligible in the hand. |
| Weight | 204g | 195g | The A04s is 9g lighter, potentially making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are traditional slab-style phones. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.5" | Identical screen sizes; both are well-suited for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 | 720 x 1600 | Both offer the same HD+ resolution; decent, but not the sharpest. |
| PPI | 270 | 270 | Both have the same pixel density; expect similar sharpness levels. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | PLS LCD | IPS LCD on Moto G generally offers better color accuracy and wider viewing angles compared to PLS LCD. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both have a 90Hz refresh rate, making scrolling and animations smoother. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have same brightness levels |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Exynos 850 (8nm) | Dimensity 700 is a more powerful, efficient chipset based on its 7nm architecture vs. 8nm of the Exynos 850. |
| Antutu Score | 389,300 | 117,300 | The Moto G's score is significantly higher, indicating faster performance, smoother multitasking, and better gaming capability. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G52 | The Moto G's GPU is generally more capable, reinforcing its superior performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer the same generous battery capacity, which should last a full day. |
| Charging | 10W | 15W | The A04s charges slightly faster at 15W. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both have non-removable batteries, which is typical for modern smartphones. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8 (1/2.76", 0.64µm) | 50MP f/1.8 | Both have 50MP main cameras; the Moto G has detailed sensor information. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP f/2.2 (1.12µm) | 5MP f/2.2 | Moto G has a higher-resolution selfie camera. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP f/2.4 (1.75µm) | 2MP f/2.4 | Both have identical depth cameras for portrait mode. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP f/2.4 (1.75µm) | 2MP f/2.4 | Both phones offer macro cameras with identical specs for close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both record video at the same resolution; A04s supports slow motion, unlike the G (2022). |
| Camera Features | More details | Some details | The Moto G offers more shooting features, including Continuous shooting, White balance, and ISO settings. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 | Both come with Android 12. The Samsung A04s will get Android 14. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Both phones support identical Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.0 LE | The Moto G has a newer Bluetooth version and offers more codec support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | The A04s supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM | The A04s supports two SIM cards simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64 GB | 32/64/128 GB | The A04s offers more storage options. |
| RAM | 6 GB | 3/4 GB | The Moto G has more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic Audio | Basic Audio | Both have basic audio features. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both have side-mounted fingerprint scanners. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Both screen protections are unknown. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Comprehensive | Basic | The Moto G has more sensors including gyroscope, compass and barometer. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G (2022) Strengths:
- Performance Prowess: The Dimensity 700 chipset provides significantly better performance compared to the Exynos 850, making the Moto G (2022) much smoother and faster for daily tasks, gaming, and app loading.
- Superior Display: The IPS LCD is often preferred for better color accuracy and viewing angles than PLS LCD technology.
- Enhanced Selfie Camera: With a 13MP front camera, the Moto G (2022) is clearly better for selfies and video calls.
- More RAM: 6GB of RAM for smoother multitasking than the Samsung A04s offering of up to 4GB.
- Advanced Bluetooth: It offers Bluetooth 5.1 LE with more audio codec options.
- Better Sensor Suite: The Moto G (2022) includes extra sensors like a gyroscope, compass, and barometer, making it better for advanced apps and gaming.
Samsung Galaxy A04s Strengths:
- More Storage Options: The A04s has 32, 64 and 128GB storage versions, with the 128 GB option doubling the Moto G's 64GB.
- Slightly Faster Charging: The 15W charging capability is somewhat faster than the 10W of the Moto G.
- Dual SIM: The A04s supports dual SIM functionality, which is great for people who want to use two numbers or SIM cards on one device.
- Updated OS: Guaranteed Android 14.
- Better Location Tracking: It supports multiple satellite systems for better location accuracy.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Performance Gap: The biggest trade-off is that the Samsung Galaxy A04s struggles with performance compared to the Motorola Moto G (2022).
- Single SIM vs Dual SIM: If you need dual SIM functionality, the Moto G doesn't offer it, while the A04s is dual SIM.
- Battery Charge Speed vs Performance: You are choosing between 15W charging for the Samsung or better performance from the Motorola.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G (2022) is Ideal For:
- Performance-Focused Users: Gamers and users who require smooth multitasking will greatly appreciate the improved performance.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who take selfies and enjoy social media content will love its superior front camera and various camera features.
- Tech-Savvy Individuals: Users who want a more robust sensor suite.
- Value-Seekers: Those looking for the best performance for their money.
Samsung Galaxy A04s is Ideal For:
- Dual SIM Users: People who need to use two SIM cards on one device.
- Media Storage Needs: Users needing more storage (128GB option).
- Basic Smartphone Needs: Those who primarily use their phone for calls, messages, social media, and some light browsing.
- Users Requiring Up-to-Date OS: Those who want the latest Android version.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are some key questions to ask yourself to decide between these two phones:
How Important is Performance?
- If you need a phone that is fast, smooth and capable for everyday tasks and gaming, the Moto G (2022) is the better choice.
- If basic usage is your main concern, the A04s might suffice, but may sometimes feel slow.
Do You Need Dual SIM or Expandable Storage?
- If dual SIM support is crucial, the Samsung A04s is the only option, as the Moto G (2022) only supports single SIM.
- Neither supports expandable storage.
What is Your Camera Priority?
- For higher-quality selfies and more photography control, the Moto G (2022) is better.
- For basic photography the Samsung is adequate.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Mobile Gamer: Choose the Motorola Moto G (2022) for its enhanced performance, superior GPU, and better sensors.
- Scenario 2: Daily User Needing Dual SIM: Go with the Samsung Galaxy A04s to use two SIM cards simultaneously.
- Scenario 3: Social Media Enthusiast: The Motorola Moto G (2022) offers a better selfie camera and more control over your photos.
- Scenario 4: Basic Phone User: The Samsung Galaxy A04s is a budget-friendly option but consider the performance implications.
My Choice
Personally, given the specifications and my needs as a heavy user, I would choose the Motorola Moto G (2022). The significant performance advantage, coupled with the better selfie camera, more advanced sensors, and better display technology, makes it a more compelling choice for me. I prioritize smooth performance, responsiveness, and a device that doesn't struggle with multitasking. While the lack of dual SIM and slightly slower charging is a trade-off, the core performance of the Moto G is far more aligned with my daily needs, offering a noticeably superior user experience. The 6GB of RAM and the Dimensity 700 chipset make it much more capable for my usage.
