Alright, let's dive deep into the tech specs of the Motorola Moto G (2022) and the Xiaomi Poco F4, and see how they stack up in the real world.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones compare across key areas, focusing on what these specs mean for daily use:
Feature | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Xiaomi Poco F4 | Real-World Implications |
---|---|---|---|
Design | |||
Dimensions | 165.4 × 75.8 × 9.4 mm | 163.2 × 76 × 7.7 mm | Poco F4 is slightly more compact and noticeably thinner; Moto G is taller and thicker, impacting in-hand feel and pocketability. |
Weight | 204g | 195g | Poco F4 is a bit lighter, which can be noticeable over extended use. |
Build | Plastic Build | Plastic and Glass | Poco F4 has a more premium feel due to its glass back |
Display | |||
Size | 6.5" | 6.67" | Poco F4 offers a slightly more immersive viewing experience. |
Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Poco F4 has a much sharper display, leading to clearer text and images. |
Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 395 | Poco F4's display is noticeably crisper, reducing eye strain. |
Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Poco F4 has deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors; Also significantly better in direct sunlight, also more power-efficient with dark themes |
Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Poco F4 provides smoother scrolling and animations, a premium feel. |
Brightness | 0 nits | 1300 nits | Poco F4 is vastly superior for outdoor visibility, even under bright sunlight. |
Performance | |||
Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Poco F4 boasts a far more powerful processor, resulting in faster performance for apps and games. |
AnTuTu Score | 389,300 | 861,200 | Poco F4 has more than double the benchmark score, reflecting faster app loading and smoother multitasking. |
GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 650 | Poco F4's GPU is significantly more capable, providing better graphics for games. |
Camera | |||
Main Camera Resolution | 50MP | 64MP | Poco F4 captures more detailed photos, especially when cropping or zooming in. |
Main Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.79 | Poco F4 slightly better low-light performance due to wider aperture; |
Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.76" | 1/2" | Poco F4's larger sensor captures more light and detail |
Selfie Camera Resolution | 13MP | 20MP | Poco F4 takes higher resolution selfies. |
Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.4 | Moto G's front camera will slightly perform better in low light situations. |
Additional Cameras | Depth, Macro | Wide Angle, Macro | Poco F4 adds more versatile wide-angle shots; Moto G offers depth, and macro. |
Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30/60fps | Poco F4 captures far higher quality videos, essential for vlogging. |
Video Stabilisation | No | Yes | Poco F4 provides smoother video, especially useful when walking. |
Slow Motion | No, 30fps | Yes, 960fps | Poco F4 can produce much more dramatic slow-motion effects. |
Battery Life | |||
Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | Moto G has a larger battery which should provide better endurance. |
Charging Speed | 10W fast charging | 67W fast charging | Poco F4 charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
Battery Tech | Li-Ion | Li-Ion Polymer | |
Software | |||
OS | Android 12 | Android 12 (Upgradable to 13) | Xiaomi Poco F4 is expected to receive newer Android updates, lengthening software support. |
Connectivity | |||
Wifi | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Poco F4 supports the newer Wi-Fi standard, allowing for faster speeds and lower latency. |
Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE | Poco F4 includes a newer Bluetooth version which may have slightly improved battery management and connectivity |
GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | Poco F4 uses a better satellite system for more accurate positioning. |
SIM | Single (Nano) | Dual (Nano + Nano) | Poco F4 can handle dual sims and also provide dual sim standby. |
Storage | |||
Internal Storage | 64 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Poco F4 offers more storage and options for higher capacity users. |
RAM | 6 GB | 6 GB / 8 GB / 12GB | Poco F4 offers more options for higher memory performance, especially with 8 or 12 GB versions. |
Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone can expand the storage with a MicroSD card |
Audio | |||
Audio | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Poco F4 offers superior sound quality with immersive sound. |
Security | |||
Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both phones use a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
Build Quality | |||
Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Poco F4 offers better screen protection against scratches and drops. |
Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Motorola Moto G (2022) includes a barometer while Xiaomi Poco F4 features an ultrasonic proximity sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G (2022): Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Larger battery capacity (5000mAh) for potentially longer battery life.
- It has a barometer sensor which the Poco F4 lacks.
- Wider aperture front camera will have slightly better low-light performance.
- It has a depth sensor, but this is not that useful compared to a wide-angle camera.
Weaknesses:
- Lower screen resolution and pixel density make for a less sharp display.
- IPS LCD technology provides poor blacks, and inferior contrast in direct sunlight.
- Significantly weaker processor and GPU for gaming and demanding apps.
- Slower charging speed and no video stabilization.
- Limited to 64GB storage with no expansion options.
Xiaomi Poco F4: Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Superior AMOLED display with higher resolution, refresh rate, and brightness.
- Far more powerful processor and GPU for smoother performance and gaming.
- More advanced camera system with 4K video, OIS, wide-angle lens, and superior slow-motion options.
- Faster charging speeds with 67W.
- Improved audio quality with Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers.
- Available with 128 or 256GB storage, and also more options for ram.
- It has better screen protection than the Moto G
- Supports newer Wifi standards
Weaknesses:
- Smaller battery (4500mAh) compared to the Moto G (2022).
- Does not include a barometer sensor.
- Selfie camera has a smaller aperture compared to the Moto G(2022).
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G (2022)
Best for:
- Users on a tight budget who prioritize a long-lasting battery.
- Casual users who primarily browse the web, make calls, and send messages.
- Those who don't need intensive processing power or high-end camera capabilities.
Use Cases:
- Everyday web browsing, social media, and basic productivity tasks.
- Users who need a phone that can last through an entire day without recharging.
- Budget-conscious consumers looking for an affordable smartphone.
Xiaomi Poco F4
Best for:
- Users who prioritize performance and gaming.
- Photography enthusiasts who desire better camera capabilities.
- Those who value a premium visual experience and fast charging.
- Users who expect frequent software updates.
Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming, graphic-intensive apps, and smooth multitasking.
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos.
- Users who value immersive video streaming and multimedia experiences.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Practical Questions:
- What is my primary use case? Do you need a basic phone for daily tasks, or do you require more power for gaming, photography, and multimedia?
- How important is display quality? Is a sharp, vibrant display with high brightness essential for your usage?
- What is your budget? Are you willing to pay more for premium features or is value more important?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious & Battery-Focused: If you are on a very tight budget and want a basic, reliable phone that has good battery life, the Moto G (2022) is the more suitable option, as it is likely to be cheaper than the Poco F4.
- Performance & Media Enthusiasts: If performance, gaming, a fantastic screen, and camera quality are your top priorities, then the Xiaomi Poco F4 is the clear choice.
- Well-Rounded User Experience: For those who want a balanced experience with a great screen, powerful performance, and faster charging, and don't mind paying a little more, the Poco F4 is the recommended option.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would unequivocally pick the Xiaomi Poco F4. Yes, the battery capacity is slightly smaller, but the differences in almost every other aspect make this an easy choice. The superior display (AMOLED, higher resolution, 120Hz, 1300 nits brightness), far greater performance with the Snapdragon 870, a much better camera system, and significantly faster charging speeds all outweigh the slight battery difference. I often use my phone for gaming, photography, and watching videos, and the Poco F4 offers a much better experience in all of these areas.