Okay, let's dive deep into the Motorola Moto G (2022) and the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. I'll break down these phones with the level of detail you'd expect from a tech journalist who's spent more time than is probably healthy dissecting smartphone specs. My goal here is not just to list numbers, but to explain what they mean for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these phones stack up, with a focus on what these specs mean for your day-to-day experience:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.4 × 75.8 × 9.4 mm | 162 × 77.3 × 8 mm | The Moto G is slightly taller and thicker, potentially feeling a bit bulkier. The S24 FE is wider but slimmer, which can impact in-hand comfort. |
| Weight | 204g | 213g | The Moto G is lighter, which can be noticeable during prolonged use. The S24 FE’s extra weight hints at a more premium build. |
| Build | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | The S24 FE offers far superior screen protection, reducing the risk of scratches and cracks. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | The S24 FE has a slightly larger screen, making it more immersive for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2340 | The S24 FE offers a significantly sharper display, which translates to crisper text and images. The Moto G's lower resolution will look fuzzier. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 385 | The higher PPI on the S24 FE results in a noticeably clearer picture, especially for reading and detailed visuals. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | The S24 FE’s AMOLED offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and better power efficiency, especially for dark themes. IPS LCD on Moto G is more basic. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | The S24 FE will provide slightly smoother animations and scrolling, enhancing the perceived responsiveness of the device. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1900 nits | The S24 FE's significantly higher brightness makes it much more usable outdoors in bright sunlight. The Moto G is not usable in sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Exynos 2400e (4nm) | The S24 FE's newer chipset is vastly more powerful, offering faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 389,300 | 1,600,000 | The S24 FE delivers a dramatically superior performance, making it future-proof for demanding apps and games. The Moto G lags far behind. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Xclipse 940 | The S24 FE’s GPU is far more powerful, providing much smoother and higher-fidelity graphics for gaming and graphically intensive apps. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4700mAh | The Moto G has a slightly larger battery, but the S24 FE's efficient chipset might equalize overall battery life. |
| Charging | 10W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | The S24 FE will recharge significantly faster, getting you back in action quicker. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, 15W Wireless, Reverse Charging, Non-Removable | The S24 FE adds features like bypass charging (powering the phone directly from charger), reverse charging (charging other devices) and wireless charging for convenience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", 1.00µm | The S24 FE has a larger sensor and pixel size, allowing for better low-light performance and overall image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1.22µm | Both are decent for selfies. The Moto G offers slightly higher resolution and a wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Camera | None | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", 1.00µm | The S24 FE has a dedicated telephoto lens, offering better zoom capabilities. |
| Wide-Angle Camera | None | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", 1.12µm | The S24 FE has an ultrawide lens, capturing more of the scene and offering versatile shooting options. |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | None | The Moto G offers a dedicated depth sensor, which assists in portrait mode photos |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | None | The Moto G has a dedicated macro lens for close up photography |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps, 1080@240fps | The S24 FE has vastly superior video recording capabilities, with higher resolution and frame rate options. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes | The S24 FE provides video stabilization, leading to smoother and less shaky videos. |
| DXOMark Score | None | 133 (Mobile), 136 (Photo), 125 (Video) | The S24 FE has scored well in DXOMark tests, while no results are available for Moto G. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | The S24 FE ships with a newer OS, offering the latest features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6E | The S24 FE supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, offering faster speeds and more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.3 | The S24 FE has a newer Bluetooth version, offering better efficiency and connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), Galileo (E1+E5a), NavIC System | The S24 FE supports more satellite systems, providing greater accuracy and reliability. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM, eSIM | The S24 FE has more options for handling different SIM configurations. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64 GB | 128/256/512GB | The S24 FE offers significantly more storage, which is crucial for media, apps, and games. |
| RAM | 6 GB | 8 GB | The S24 FE provides more RAM, leading to smoother multitasking and app performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone provides expandable storage. |
| Audio | Basic Features | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | The S24 FE provides better audio quality with stereo speakers and microphone. |
| Security | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | The Moto G offers a more advanced fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G (2022) Strengths
- Slightly Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery might give it a marginal edge in battery life.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Scanner: Can be more convenient for some users.
- Lower price: Moto G is significantly cheaper.
Motorola Moto G (2022) Weaknesses
- Lower Display Quality: Lower resolution, IPS LCD, lower brightness and refresh rate makes for a poor display
- Weaker Performance: Significantly slower chipset and GPU.
- Basic Camera System: Limited photo and video features compared to S24 FE.
- Older Software: Ships with Android 12, missing the latest features and security updates.
- Connectivity Limitations: Lacks modern standards such as Wi-Fi 6E, and newer Bluetooth versions.
- Basic Audio Features: Lacks premium audio experience such as stereo speakers.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Strengths
- Superior Display: Larger, higher resolution AMOLED screen with high refresh rate and brightness.
- Powerful Performance: Cutting-edge processor and GPU that handles demanding tasks with ease.
- Advanced Camera System: Versatile triple-lens setup with excellent video recording capabilities, optical zoom, wide-angle, and additional features.
- Modern Software: Ships with Android 14, guaranteeing the latest features and security updates.
- Comprehensive Connectivity: Features Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and more satellite systems for GPS.
- Premium Features: Includes wireless charging, reverse charging, and stereo speakers.
- Better Audio Quality: Provides an immersive audio experience.
- Better Security: Screen protected with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Weaknesses
- Slightly Smaller Battery: While efficient, it has a 300mAh smaller battery than Moto G.
- Higher Price Point: Comes at a premium compared to the Moto G.
Trade-offs
- Moto G emphasizes budget-friendliness and basic functionality with compromises in performance, display, camera quality, and connectivity.
- Samsung S24 FE focuses on a more premium experience, with significant advantages in display, performance, camera, and features, but at a higher cost.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G (2022) is best for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those looking for an affordable device for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and calls.
- Casual Users: Individuals who don't need high-end performance or advanced camera features.
- First-time Smartphone Buyers: A simple, entry-level device that's easy to use.
- Users who prioritize battery life.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is best for:
- Power Users: Individuals who need a phone for demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking.
- Media Enthusiasts: Those who watch videos, browse social media, and engage with visually intensive content.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want versatile camera capabilities, including excellent photo and video quality.
- Tech Savvy Users: People who want the latest technology, connectivity features, and advanced functionalities.
- Users who don't mind paying a premium for a high-end device.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- What's your budget? If you're on a tight budget and primarily need basic smartphone functions, the Moto G (2022) is your device. However, be prepared for compromises in screen quality, performance, and camera. If you're willing to spend more, the S24 FE is far superior.
- What do you prioritize most? If performance, display quality, and camera versatility are crucial, the S24 FE is the only choice. If battery life and basic features are your main concern and price is your highest priority, then Moto G is the device to choose.
- How long do you plan to keep the phone? The S24 FE is more future-proof due to its powerful chipset, modern features, and more extended software support. The Moto G is a more of an "of the moment" purchase.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student on a Tight Budget: Go for the Moto G. It handles basic tasks adequately and won't break the bank. However, be prepared for a basic screen, slow performance and an older Android OS.
- Social Media and Content Creator: Choose the S24 FE, its superior camera, display, and performance make it ideal for content creation and social media consumption.
- Gaming Enthusiast: The S24 FE is the clear winner. Its powerful processor and GPU offer a much better gaming experience.
- Professional User: Go for the S24 FE for its performance, advanced features, better connectivity, and excellent overall capabilities.
- Basic user who wants a cheap phone that is decent: Go for Moto G.
My Choice
If I were picking between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE without hesitation. Yes, it's significantly more expensive, but the difference in performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and overall user experience is night and day. As a tech journalist, I need a device that can keep up with my demanding workflow, capture high-quality photos and videos, and offer a premium experience. The Moto G (2022), while more budget-friendly, feels like a compromise in too many critical areas. The Galaxy S24 FE is a serious step up and I believe it delivers exceptional value for the price, if you can afford the difference in cost. The device is equipped with all of the latest tech making it a more future-proof investment, whereas the Moto G feels like a step back in smartphone technology.
