Smartphone Comparison: Motorola Moto G Power (2021) vs. Motorola Moto G (2023)
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Power (2021) | Motorola Moto G (2023) | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.3 × 75.9 × 9.5 mm | 164 × 75 × 8.4 mm | Moto G (2023) is slightly smaller and thinner, making it more pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use. The Moto G Power (2021) is bulkier. |
| Weight | 206.5g | 189g | Moto G (2023) is noticeably lighter, enhancing comfort during extended use and reducing hand fatigue. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.5" | Negligible difference in screen size. Both offer a large enough display for media consumption and daily tasks. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1600 | Both displays have the same resolution, which is relatively low compared to higher-end devices. Expect decent, but not the sharpest, visuals. |
| PPI | 266 | 270 | Similar pixel density, so image sharpness will be virtually indistinguishable between the two. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use IPS LCD, providing good color accuracy and viewing angles but not the vibrant blacks of OLED screens. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Moto G (2023) offers a significantly smoother user experience, especially noticeable in scrolling and animations. The Moto G Power (2021) will feel less fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness is not available for either model. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8 nm) | Moto G (2023) has a newer and more efficient chip, leading to better overall performance, faster app loading, and improved multitasking capabilities. |
| AnTuTu Score | 178,220 | 380,000 | Moto G (2023) has significantly higher benchmark score, indicating it will perform significantly better in all tasks, including gaming, and provide a snappier overall user experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Adreno 619 | The newer GPU in Moto G (2023) offers improved graphics rendering, leading to a better gaming experience. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.7, 0.8µm | 48MP, f/1.7, 0.8µm | Both have similar main cameras; Expect comparable photo quality in good lighting. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm | Comparable selfie cameras with similar photo quality capabilities. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | Not present | Moto G Power (2021) has a dedicated depth sensor to enhance portrait mode shots, a feature missing in Moto G (2023). |
| Macro Camera | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | Similar Macro cameras, so both will perform comparably in close-up photography. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30/60fps w/ EIS | 1080p@30fps | Moto G Power (2021) offers higher frame rate recording, and a slightly more capable video experience. |
| Additional Camera Features | Triple Camera, Laser autofocus (LAF) | Dual Camera, RAW | Moto G Power (2021) includes Laser AF which can be faster in some situations, whilst the Moto G (2023) allows RAW photo capture for more advanced image editing possibilities. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer excellent battery life, potentially lasting a full day or more on a single charge, depending on usage. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | Charging speeds are identical; Both phones will take a similar time to fully charge. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 13 | Moto G (2023) comes with a much newer Android version, meaning a more modern interface, new features, better security, and longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Display | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Dual band, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Wi-Fi Direct, Display | Both have the same WiFi standards. The Moto G (2023) offers Dual Band and Wi-Fi Direct for quicker pairing and connection to devices. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.1 LE | Moto G (2023) has a slightly newer Bluetooth version, which may result in slightly better energy efficiency and connection stability with compatible devices. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | Moto G (2023) has additional Beidou GPS support, offering more accuracy in more situations. |
| SIM | Single SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM), Dual Standby | Moto G (2023) offers Dual SIM functionality, supporting both a nano SIM and an eSIM, which is more convenient for frequent travelers or those using separate work and personal numbers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 32 GB/64 GB | 128 GB | Moto G (2023) has much more internal storage, meaning more space for apps, media, and other files. This could make it more practical for many users who store a lot of media. |
| RAM | 3 GB/4 GB | 4 GB | Both phones offer sufficient RAM for basic usage; Moto G (2023) always includes 4GB of RAM, which is recommended over 3GB in the older model. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic audio features | Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Moto G (2023) offers superior audio performance with stereo speakers and dual microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both phones have fingerprint sensors for biometric security. |
| Other Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Hall | The inclusion of a Hall sensor in the Moto G (2023) can enhance some features. |
| ## 2. Key Differences Analysis |
Motorola Moto G Power (2021) Advantages:
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: Offers a dedicated 2MP depth sensor for enhanced portrait mode photos.
- Faster video recording Offers 1080p recording at 60 FPS.
- Laser Autofocus: Potentially faster focus in some situations.
Motorola Moto G (2023) Advantages:
- Significantly Better Performance: Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset offers superior speed for multitasking, gaming, and app loading.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate provides a much more fluid visual experience when navigating the UI, scrolling through web pages, and watching video.
- Newer Android Version: Comes with Android 13, which offers more features, improved security, and better software support.
- Significantly More Storage: 128 GB of internal storage is double or quadruple the storage on the Moto G Power (2021)
- Improved Audio: Stereo speakers and dual microphones for a more immersive audio experience.
- Dual SIM and eSIM: Supports two SIM cards including eSIM.
- Improved connectivity: Dual band WiFi and Beidou GPS support for better connectivity.
- RAW photo capture: Provides more advanced photo-editing capabilities.
- Lighter and thinner: Better in-hand feel and more pocketable.
Trade-offs:
- The Moto G (2023) sacrifices a dedicated depth sensor, while still having a very good standard camera.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G Power (2021) Ideal User:
- Users on a very tight budget.
- Users who prioritize a depth sensor for portrait mode photography.
Use Cases:
- Basic smartphone tasks like calling, texting, and social media browsing.
- Occasional photo taking and video recording.
Motorola Moto G (2023) Ideal User:
- Users who want a balance of performance, modern features, and good value.
- Users who consume media and play games on their phones.
- Users who need more storage and better audio.
Use Cases:
- Daily use, including moderate gaming, video streaming, and social media.
- Users who need a phone for work and personal use due to dual SIM capability.
- Users who prioritize a smoother display.
- Users who prefer the latest android version for app compatibility and security.
Price-to-Value:
- The Moto G (2023) offers a much better value proposition, providing a significant upgrade in overall performance and features for a slightly higher cost. The 120hz screen, faster processor, larger storage, and better speakers make it a more modern and enjoyable experience.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The Moto G Power (2021) may be attractive due to a lower price tag, but the Moto G (2023) offers a significant performance boost.
- How important is performance and fluidity? If you play games, heavily multitask, or simply value a smooth experience, the 120Hz refresh rate and faster processor of the Moto G (2023) are essential.
- How much internal storage do you need? The Moto G (2023) comes with 128GB of storage, double or quadruple the capacity of the Moto G Power (2021) and may be required for those who want to store a lot of photos and videos.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: If your budget is the absolute priority, the Moto G Power (2021) provides basic smartphone functionality.
- Performance & Modern Features: If you value a smooth and responsive phone with good all around performance, the Moto G (2023) is far superior.
- Multimedia User: If you watch videos, listen to music, or play games, the superior audio quality and smoother display of the Moto G (2023) will be more enjoyable.
My Choice
I would choose the Motorola Moto G (2023).
Reasoning:
While the Moto G Power (2021) might be more budget-friendly, the Moto G (2023) offers a significantly better user experience due to its superior performance, smoother 120Hz display, and significantly larger storage. The faster processor makes a noticeable difference in daily use, and the improved audio capabilities are a major plus. The newer Android version ensures longer software support and more modern features. While it does not have the dedicated depth sensor of the 2021 model, the improved camera features like RAW capture make this an acceptable trade-off. The improvements in connectivity, weight, and in-hand feel also add to the value proposition of the Moto G (2023).
