Smartphone Comparison: Motorola Moto G 5G vs. Sony Xperia 1 IV
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G 5G | Sony Xperia 1 IV | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 166.1 × 76.1 × 9.9 mm | 165 × 71 × 8.2 mm | The Moto G 5G is noticeably larger and thicker, making the Xperia 1 IV more pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 212g | 185g | Xperia 1 IV is significantly lighter, improving comfort for extended use and reducing hand fatigue. |
| Build | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Xperia 1 IV has superior screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | Moto G 5G provides a slightly larger viewing area, which might be better for media consumption; the difference is subtle. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1644x3840 | Xperia 1 IV has a much sharper display, resulting in clearer text and images. |
| PPI | 393 | 643 | Xperia 1 IV delivers significantly higher pixel density, making the display appear much more crisp. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | Xperia 1 IV offers better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors than the Moto G 5G's IPS LCD, providing a superior viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Xperia 1 IV offers much smoother scrolling and animations, making the user experience feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have identical peak brightness at 0 nits, but the practical effect of this missing data cannot be evaluated. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Xperia 1 IV has a much more powerful processor, offering significantly faster performance for all tasks, including gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 390,000 | 1,076,100 | Xperia 1 IV offers significantly better performance for demanding apps and multitasking, indicating better overall speed. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 730 | Xperia 1 IV's GPU will provide much better graphics performance, particularly in demanding games. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP f/1.7, 0.8µm | 12MP f/1.7, 1.8µm, Exmor RS | Xperia 1 IV's main camera, despite lower MP count, has larger pixels and a better sensor, likely leading to superior low-light performance and image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.2, 1.00µm | 12MP f/2.0 | Xperia 1 IV's front camera may perform better in low light due to a wider aperture, though a pixel size is missing for a more detailed comparison |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 12MP f/2.3, 1/3.5", 1.0µm, IMX650 | Xperia 1 IV offers optical zoom capabilities with a dedicated telephoto lens, which the Moto G 5G lacks. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 8MP f/2.2, 1.12µm | 12MP f/2.2, Exmor RS | Xperia 1 IV's wide-angle camera has higher resolution, and likely offers better details and less distortion. |
| ToF 3D sensor | None | Present | Xperia 1 IV has a dedicated sensor that can improve portrait mode effects and depth perception |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4, 1.75µm | None | Moto G 5G has a dedicated macro camera for taking close-up shots, but it will probably not be as good as a main sensor with macro capabilties |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps EIS | Up to 4K@120fps HDR OIS EIS | Xperia 1 IV has much more advanced video capabilities, including higher frame rates, HDR, and more sophisticated stabilization. |
| DxOMark | Not tested | Main: 105 Photo: 107 Video: 92 | Xperia 1 IV is tested and scored by DxOMark. The Motorola has not been tested. |
| Camera Features | Triple Camera, Digital Zoom, EIS, PDAF, LAF | Quadruple Camera, Digital Zoom, Optical Zoom, OIS, EIS | Xperia 1 IV offers more advanced camera features for a variety of photography scenarios such as optical zoom and a more advanced stabilisation system than the Motorola. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have similar battery capacity, suggesting comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 20W Fast Charging, Li-Ion | 30W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | Xperia 1 IV charges faster, and Li-Polymer is typically lighter and more durable. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | Xperia 1 IV has bypass charging for gaming while plugged in for less battery degradation. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 12 (upgradeable to 13) | Xperia 1 IV has a more recent version of Android and is slated to be updated further, which may be better for apps. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Xperia 1 IV offers faster and more stable Wi-Fi connectivity, especially in congested networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE | Xperia 1 IV has a newer Bluetooth version with more features for higher-fidelity audio and broader device compatibility. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Xperia 1 IV uses more satellite systems for higher accuracy location tracking, particularly in challenging environments. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Xperia 1 IV supports eSIM for more flexible carrier options, while Motorola allows two physical SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB/128GB | 256 GB/512GB | Xperia 1 IV offers much more internal storage for apps, media, and files. |
| RAM | 4 GB/6 GB | 12 GB/16 GB | Xperia 1 IV provides considerably more RAM for smoother multitasking and better performance with demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | None | None | Neither phone offers the option to expand storage via microSD card. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 Microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xperia 1 IV provides a much better audio experience with Hi-Res Audio and stereo speakers for immersive sound. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Rear Mounted Fingerprint | Side Mounted Fingerprint | The Xperia 1 IV has a modern side mounted fingerprint sensor rather than a more old-school rear-mounted sensor on the Moto G 5G. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Hall | Xperia 1 IV has an additional barometer for environmental data tracking. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G 5G Advantages:
- Larger Screen Size: Offers slightly more screen real estate for media consumption, though the difference is minimal.
- Macro Lens: It has a macro lens for taking close-up shots.
Practical Implications:
- The larger screen is beneficial for those who want more viewing area for media consumption; however, the overall experience is diminished due to the lower display resolution and the less vibrant IPS technology
- The macro lens offers a good entry level macro experience.
Sony Xperia 1 IV Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, higher pixel density, OLED technology, and 120Hz refresh rate lead to a much better visual experience with sharper details, vibrant colors, and smoother scrolling.
- Significantly Higher Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset delivers significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming performance compared to the Moto G 5G.
- More Advanced Camera System: A more versatile camera setup with a telephoto lens, better sensors, and higher-quality video recording capabilities.
- More Advanced Features: A much wider range of features with better audio, more modern connectivity options, side mounted fingerprint scanner, more RAM and Storage.
- Premium Build: Higher quality build with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for better screen protection.
- Faster Charging: 30W charging versus 20W on the Moto G 5G; battery degradation protection with bypass charging.
Practical Implications:
- The display is significantly superior and the higher refresh rate enhances user experience considerably.
- The Xperia 1 IV will perform significantly better than the Moto G 5G, it will have a longer software life cycle, higher quality camera, audio and additional sensors.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Motorola Moto G 5G: The primary trade-off is significantly lower performance, a lower-quality display, and a less versatile camera system compared to the Sony Xperia 1 IV. The older Android version will also mean less longevity with the device.
- Sony Xperia 1 IV: The main trade-off is that it is more expensive than the Moto G 5G and does not have a macro lens.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G 5G Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users who prioritize a large screen and moderate battery life over raw performance and camera quality.
- Users who only need basic smartphone capabilities for everyday tasks like browsing, calling, messaging, and casual social media use.
- Users that like Macro Photography.
Use Cases:
- Daily social media consumption, email, and web browsing.
- Basic photography needs for social sharing.
- Occasional movie watching or video calls.
Sony Xperia 1 IV Ideal User:
- Users who want a premium smartphone experience and are willing to pay for top-tier performance, a high-quality display, and a versatile camera system.
- Users who value camera performance for both photography and video recording
- Mobile gamers who need the best possible graphics and performance.
- Users who prioritize the latest features and smooth software experience.
Use Cases:
- Demanding mobile gaming with high graphics settings.
- High-quality photography and videography with diverse shooting options.
- Professional use cases requiring a fast, reliable, and versatile smartphone.
- Extensive multitasking between demanding apps and applications.
- Immersive media consumption
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Motorola Moto G 5G is a budget-friendly option but offers a more basic experience
- The Sony Xperia 1 IV is a much higher price premium smartphone with more advanced features and performance.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a smartphone? If you're budget-conscious, the Moto G 5G is significantly cheaper.
- Primary Use Case: What do you use your smartphone for the most? (Gaming, photography, social media, everyday tasks). If you value performance, display quality and camera the Xperia 1 IV is a better option. If you want something basic, the Moto G 5G will be fine
- Longevity: How long do you intend to keep your phone? The Xperia 1 IV is newer and will receive updates for a longer time.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If you're looking for a basic smartphone with a large screen and 5G connectivity on a tight budget, the Motorola Moto G 5G could be sufficient for casual use.
- Scenario 2: Performance-Oriented User: If you need a high-performance phone for demanding apps and gaming, and want an excellent display, the Sony Xperia 1 IV is the clear choice.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: If you are a photography enthusiast and value camera capabilities, versatility and video recording, the Sony Xperia 1 IV is the better option.
- Scenario 4: Balanced Needs: If you are looking for a phone that provides a great user experience with premium features such as an OLED display, smooth performance and an excellent camera, the Xperia 1 IV is the best option, despite its higher price
Personal Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would unequivocally choose the Sony Xperia 1 IV. My decision is primarily driven by its vastly superior display, significantly faster performance, and more advanced camera system.
Here's why:
- Display Quality: The OLED screen with its higher resolution, pixel density, and 120Hz refresh rate is a game-changer. It offers an experience that the Moto G 5G can't match.
- Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 offers a far more fluid experience, handling demanding apps, games, and multitasking with ease. As someone who uses my phone for more than basic functions, this is very important.
- Camera System: The Xperia 1 IV's camera system offers much more versatility with its Telephoto lens, higher quality sensors, and more advanced video recording options.
- Overall Experience: It is also a much more modern device with the software, sensors and connectivity options.
While the Moto G 5G is more budget-friendly, the trade-offs are significant. As someone who prioritizes performance, display quality and an overall premium experience, the Xperia 1 IV is the better choice, even considering its higher price. The longevity of the software updates also makes the Xperia a longer term investment.
