Smartphone Comparison: Motorola Moto G Power (2021) vs. Samsung Galaxy A04
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Power (2021) | Samsung Galaxy A04 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.3 × 75.9 × 9.5 mm | 164.4 × 76.3 × 9.1 mm | The Moto G Power is slightly taller and thicker, while the A04 is slightly wider and thinner, leading to minor differences in hand feel and pocketability. |
| Weight | 206.5g | 192g | The Samsung A04 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.5" | Very similar screen sizes, with a negligible difference in overall viewing area. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1600 | Identical resolution; expect similar sharpness for text, images, and videos. |
| PPI | 266 | 270 | Very similar pixel density, leading to nearly identical clarity. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | PLS LCD | IPS LCD generally offers slightly better viewing angles and color reproduction compared to PLS LCD. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Both have standard 60Hz displays, meaning similar smoothness when scrolling and in animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness is not provided. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Helio P35 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 662 is generally faster than the Helio P35; expect smoother multitasking, app loading, and better performance in demanding apps and games on the Moto G Power. |
| AnTuTu Score | 178,220 | 124,000 | The Moto G Power scores significantly higher in benchmarks, which usually translates to smoother and faster overall performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | PowerVR GE8320 | The Adreno 610 generally provides superior graphics performance compared to the PowerVR GE8320, leading to a better experience in graphically intensive games. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.7 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Samsung A04 has slightly higher resolution, while the Moto G Power has a slightly wider aperture, potentially better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 5MP, f/2.2 | Moto G Power's selfie camera has higher resolution and a wider aperture, generally capturing better details and low light images. |
| Portrait (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer similar depth sensors for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | The Moto G Power includes a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, a feature not found on the Samsung A04. |
| Video | 1080p@60fps (EIS) | 1080p@30fps | The Moto G Power can record 1080p video at 60fps with EIS for smoother, stabilized video, while Samsung A04 records 1080p video at 30fps. |
| Camera Features | Triple cam, PDAF, LAF, EIS | Dual cam | Moto G Power has a triple-camera system, phase detection and laser autofocus, and electronic image stabilization, potentially leading to better photos in a wider range of conditions |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Identical battery capacity means similar potential for all-day usage. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | Standard Charging | The Moto G Power supports 15W fast charging, allowing for quicker top-ups of the battery compared to the standard charging on Samsung A04. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 12 | The Samsung A04 ships with a newer Android OS, which may offer better features and security; updates to version 13 may also be possible. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11b/g/n/ac | Moto G Power has broader compatibility (802.11a), Wi-Fi Display is a good feature. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE with EDR | 5.0 LE | Both have Bluetooth 5.0, Moto G Power offers additional EDR for higher data transfer rate |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS | Moto G Power has more comprehensive GPS suite, which can result in more accurate navigation. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM | Samsung A04 supports dual SIMs for better flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64 GB | 32/64/128 GB | Samsung A04 offers a larger 128GB storage option, potentially appealing to those who need more space for media and apps. |
| RAM | 3/4 GB | 3/4/6 GB | Samsung A04 has a 6GB RAM option for better multitasking and smooth operation. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage, limiting long-term capacity. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Basic security features | Moto G Power has a more convenient and secure fingerprint scanner for unlocking the phone. |
| Other | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Proximity | Moto G Power has additional sensors, that supports a broader set of features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G Power (2021) Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 662 chipset and higher AnTuTu score translate to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better overall responsiveness.
- Better Camera System: Offers a wider aperture main camera, higher resolution selfie camera, a dedicated macro lens, and additional features such as PDAF and LAF which contribute to a more versatile and superior photography experience.
- Faster Charging: 15W fast charging enables significantly faster battery replenishment.
- Enhanced Sensors: Features a fingerprint sensor, gyroscope, and compass, enabling more advanced features and gaming support.
- Better Display Technology: IPS LCD screen generally offers better color reproduction and viewing angles compared to PLS LCD.
- Better Video Recording: 1080p@60fps with EIS.
- Additional Wifi and Bluetooth features: Supports Wi-Fi Display and EDR Bluetooth.
- More Precise Navigation: Supports additional satellite systems like SUPL and Galileo for improved GPS accuracy.
Samsung Galaxy A04 Advantages:
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 12, offering newer features and potentially better long-term support for updates.
- Larger Storage Option: The availability of a 128GB variant provides more storage space for media and applications.
- Dual SIM: Dual SIM support enables using two SIM cards simultaneously, ideal for those who travel or need to manage two phone numbers.
- Lighter Weight: The lighter weight makes it comfortable for extended use.
- More RAM option: Offers a 6GB RAM variant for smoother performance in multitasking.
Trade-offs:
- The Moto G Power sacrifices some portability with its slightly thicker design, but delivers significantly better performance, camera, and battery charging speeds.
- The Samsung A04 offers a newer OS and more storage options at the cost of performance, camera capabilities, and the convenience of fast charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G Power (2021) is ideal for:
- Power Users: Those who prioritize smooth performance and multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value camera versatility and want better quality pictures with multiple features.
- Gamers: Those who want to enjoy smoother and more responsive gameplay with the additional sensors.
- Frequent Travelers: The superior GPS navigation can assist travelers.
- Users who value screen quality: The IPS LCD should look better than the PLS LCD.
Specific Use Cases:
- Playing demanding mobile games smoothly.
- Capturing detailed photographs in various conditions.
- Navigating with precise GPS location.
- Multi-tasking between multiple applications.
- Extended battery usage with fast charging capabilities.
Samsung Galaxy A04 is ideal for:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those who are seeking a basic, affordable smartphone.
- Users who need dual SIM functionality: Those who require two active SIM cards.
- Users who prioritize long-term storage: Those needing more space for apps and media.
- Users who want the latest Android version: The newer OS may be appealing.
Specific Use Cases:
- Basic communication and social media.
- Casual use with a focus on battery life.
- Users who need separate SIM cards for work and personal use.
- Storing a large music library or photo collection.
Price-to-Value:
- The Moto G Power offers better value for performance-focused users.
- The Samsung A04 offers better value for budget-conscious users and those who need dual SIMs and large storage.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance or Storage? Do you prioritize smooth, fast performance or having more space for files, and apps?
- Camera Quality or Software: Do you need versatile photography capabilities or desire the latest Android OS version with possible future updates?
- Battery Convenience or Portability?: Do you need fast charging and a long lasting battery or lighter weight and better pocketability?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Mobile gamer who also takes pictures: Choose Motorola Moto G Power (2021). The better chipset, GPU, and camera system offer a superior experience for gaming and photography.
- Scenario 2: Budget-conscious user who needs dual SIM: Choose Samsung Galaxy A04. The dual SIM support and lower price make it a more suitable option.
- Scenario 3: User who wants the latest Android version: Choose Samsung Galaxy A04. The more recent OS gives the phone better longevity in terms of software support.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Motorola Moto G Power (2021). My reasoning is as follows:
- Performance is Key: I prioritize smooth performance and responsiveness in my daily usage. The Snapdragon 662 chipset and higher AnTuTu score of the Moto G Power would make my experience considerably smoother compared to the Helio P35 in the Samsung A04.
- Camera Versatility: I value a good camera, and the Moto G Power offers better camera quality across the board, a macro lens, and better video capabilities.
- Convenience and Functionality: The 15W fast charging would enable me to quickly top up the battery, while the additional features like the fingerprint sensor and superior GPS support are practical in my daily life.
Although the Samsung A04 offers a newer version of Android and more storage space in certain configurations, for me, the improved performance, better camera, and more convenient features of the Moto G Power outweigh those benefits.
