Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Motorola Moto G (2022) and the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. We're going to look at the nuts and bolts of each phone, but more importantly, we'll see how those specs translate into your daily life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Okay, let's break down the specs into a digestible format. Here's a table that'll help us compare these two devices, while highlighting how the tech specs translates to real world user experience:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.4 x 75.8 x 9.4 mm | 164 x 76.1 x 8.9 mm | The Poco M4 5G is a hair shorter and thinner, making it potentially feel a bit more compact. |
| Weight | 204g | 200g | Both feel similar in hand – a negligible difference in weight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.58" | Very similar screen sizes, the M4 5G is slightly bigger but negligible in daily use. |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 | 1080 x 2408 | The Poco M4 5G's screen is significantly sharper, providing clearer text and more detailed images; Moto G is noticeably less sharp. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 401 | The Poco M4 5G offers a visibly crisper display; less strain on the eyes when reading small text. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use LCD, so similar color reproduction and viewing angles; no major difference here. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer a smoother scrolling experience compared to 60Hz, but equally so. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have the same peak brightness. In practice, both should be fine in most indoor conditions and ok outdoors |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Identical chipsets mean similar day-to-day performance; good for general use and light gaming. |
| Antutu Score | 389,300 | 381,300 | Similar benchmark scores; both will handle everyday tasks with ease and light to moderate gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Same GPU indicates similar graphics performance; good for casual gaming. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer all-day battery life for most users. |
| Charging | 10W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | The Poco M4 5G charges significantly faster, meaning less time tethered to an outlet; less waiting time. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, Non-removable | M4 5G can act as a power bank for other devices; handy for emergencies. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 13MP, f/2.2 | The Moto G (2022) offers much higher resolution main camera, which could potentially mean better quality photos, especially in good light. Wider aperture will mean better low light photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.2 | 5MP, f/2.2 | Moto G (2022) has a much higher resolution for selfies, making them sharper. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Similar camera for depth effects, should produce comparable results. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | The Moto G (2022) offers an additional macro lens for close-up photos. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Similar video quality across both; good enough for social media and home video. |
| Camera Features | Triple camera, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting | Dual camera, Digital image stabilization, 4k video, Night Mode | The Moto G (2022) has the edge with a triple camera system and PDAF for faster focusing, but the Poco M4 has Digital image stabilization, 4k video, and night mode. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 | Similar operating system, should provide a similar user experience |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Similar WiFi; both support dual-band and hotspot functionality; Xiaomi has more advanced WiFi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.1 LE | Both have Bluetooth 5.1 for decent range and power efficiency; Motorola has more audio features; Xiaomi EDR enhances data transfer. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | The Poco M4 5G offers more satellite positioning support; more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | The Poco M4 5G allows for two SIM cards, handy for travel or work/personal separation. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB | 64GB or 128GB | The Poco M4 5G offers a larger storage option; better for users who keep lots of media on their phones. |
| RAM | 6GB | 4GB or 6GB | Both offer adequate memory for multitasking, with the 6GB option giving more headroom. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No expandable storage on either device, so choose your storage option wisely. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic audio features | Basic audio features | Neither phone offers high-end audio; similar basic quality. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both use the same convenient side-mounted fingerprint reader. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | The Poco M4 5G offers superior screen protection; more resistant to scratches. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | The Moto G (2022) features a Barometer sensor, providing more environmental data. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G (2022): Strengths
- Camera Superiority: Boasting a 50MP main camera and a 13MP selfie camera, the Moto G (2022) should generally produce more detailed and sharper photos compared to the Poco M4 5G. The addition of a macro lens also provides more versatility.
- Comprehensive Sensor Suite: The inclusion of a barometer enhances its utility, potentially appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
- Audio: More Bluetooth features than the Poco M4.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G: Strengths
- Display Clarity: The significantly higher resolution (1080x2408) provides a much sharper and more detailed display experience, making text and media appear crisper than on the Moto G (2022).
- Faster Charging: 18W charging will replenish the battery faster than the 10W of the Moto G (2022), reducing downtime.
- Dual SIM and Reverse Charging: Support for two SIMs and reverse charging adds practical value for international travelers or those needing to charge other devices on the go.
- Storage Option: While both have 64 GB base models, the 128 GB option of the M4 5G offers more storage.
- Build Quality: Gorilla Glass 3 offers better screen protection.
- More GPS Options: It supports more satellite positioning systems providing greater accuracy.
- Software: Night Mode and 4K recording can offer better quality video and photography in low light.
Trade-offs & Limitations
- Motorola Moto G (2022): Lower screen resolution, slower charging, single SIM, no expandable storage.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 5G: Lower megapixel camera, basic audio.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G (2022):
- Ideal User: Someone who prioritizes camera quality for social media and daily shots. This phone would suit users who are not too demanding on storage and don't require Dual SIM capabilities.
- Use Cases: Perfect for photographers on a budget, individuals seeking a good all rounder, outdoor enthusiasts wanting to take advantage of the barometer for altitude tracking and more.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G:
- Ideal User: A user who consumes a lot of visual content and needs a crisp, detailed display for video and reading. Also ideal for those seeking to use two SIMs (for example, for work and personal use) and fast charging with a large storage.
- Use Cases: Great for binge-watching videos, online reading, mobile gaming, and those who need the convenience of fast charging and Dual SIM. It is also ideal for users who would like to take advantage of 4K video recording and night mode.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to guide your decision:
How important is display sharpness to you? If crisp text and high-resolution visuals are crucial, the Poco M4 5G is the clear choice. The Motorola Moto G (2022) has a lower resolution and this will be visible when viewing any kind of media.
Do you prioritize camera quality or features? If you want high-resolution photos and versatility with the additional macro lens, the Moto G (2022) is a good choice. However, if you are looking for better video features and low-light quality, the Poco M4 5G with its 4K, Night Mode, and digital stabilization would be better.
Do you need dual SIM or fast charging? If yes, the Poco M4 5G is the only viable option. It is also better for users who require more storage.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (The Casual Photographer): If you want a device that takes great photos, the Motorola Moto G (2022) would be a good starting point, providing better overall image resolution and an additional macro camera.
- Scenario 2 (The Media Lover): If you consume a lot of videos, read a lot of digital media, and need sharp visuals, then the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G is the phone to choose with its high-resolution display.
- Scenario 3 (The Busy Professional): If you juggle multiple SIMs, require fast charging, and need to quickly charge another device when out and about, the Poco M4 5G is the more practical option.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I'd lean towards the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. Here's why:
While I appreciate the camera specs of the Moto G (2022), the sharper display of the Poco M4 5G makes a huge difference in daily use. Given the higher pixel density, scrolling through articles, browsing social media, and watching videos would be much more enjoyable for me. Couple that with faster charging, dual SIM, reverse charging, and 128GB storage, and it becomes the better all round package. The Poco M4 5G is just a more convenient device to have and use. I also prefer the screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass 3. Although the Motorola has more Bluetooth features, that won't be a major issue to me. The addition of the barometer is nice, but not a game changer.
The Moto G (2022) is by no means a bad phone but the Poco M4 5G seems like the more value packed option, and it provides a better display and useful features that I prioritize for daily usage. In summary, the M4 5G simply offers a more well-rounded package.
