Smartphone Comparison: Motorola Moto G Power (2021) vs. Xiaomi Redmi A3
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Power (2021) | Xiaomi Redmi A3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.3 × 75.9 × 9.5 mm | 168.3 × 76.3 × 8.3 mm | Redmi A3 is slightly taller and thinner, making it feel more modern, while the G Power is a bit bulkier. |
| Weight | 206.5g | 193g | Redmi A3 is slightly lighter, which is beneficial for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.71" | Redmi A3 has a slightly larger screen, offering a more immersive experience for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1650 | Both are low resolution HD+, leading to pixelated images; negligible difference between them |
| PPI | 266 | 268 | Similar pixel density means comparable display sharpness; no practical difference. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both offer similar LCD display characteristics, with decent colors and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Redmi A3's 90Hz refresh rate offers noticeably smoother scrolling and animations than G Power's 60Hz. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness is missing from the specs. Unable to compare and assess user experience impact |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Mediatek Helio G36 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 662 generally offers better overall performance than Helio G36 for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. |
| Antutu Score | 178,220 | 127,000 | G Power will likely feel snappier and more responsive for multitasking and app loading. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | PowerVR GE8320 | Adreno 610 provides better graphics performance for gaming compared to the PowerVR GE8320, though both are not intended for intensive games. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery life, suitable for a full day of moderate use. |
| Charging | 15W | 10W | G Power charges faster, meaning less time tethered to the charger. |
| Charging Type | Li-Ion Polymer | Li-Ion | Minor difference, with Li-Ion Polymer considered slightly more stable. |
| Charger in box | 10W | N/A | The G Power comes with a charger, which is a nice inclusion |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera Resolution | 48MP (f/1.7) | 8MP (f/2.0) | G Power's higher megapixel count and wider aperture allows for more detailed photos and better low-light performance. |
| Front Camera Resolution | 8MP (f/2.0) | 5MP (f/2.2) | G Power offers higher resolution selfies with slightly better low-light capability due to the wider aperture. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | Not present | G Power allows for more advanced portrait effects. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | Not present | G Power is equipped for close-up photography. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30/60fps with EIS | 1080p@30fps | G Power's 60 fps option makes video smoother; G Power has better video stabilization. |
| Slow-motion Video | Yes, 60 fps | No | G Power has better slow-motion video recording |
| DxOMark Score | Not Available | Main: 45, Photo: 53, Video: 37 | Redmi A3 scores for camera, indicating it could be a consideration for some users |
| Additional Camera Features | PDAF, LAF | Manual Focus | G Power has faster autofocus and slightly more professional features |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 10 | Android 14 | Redmi A3 has a much newer version of Android, providing access to newer features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | Both offer similar Wi-Fi connectivity. |
| Wi-Fi Feature | Wi-Fi Display | Wi-Fi Direct | Minor features, with similar value. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Redmi A3 has newer Bluetooth offering more efficient connections and better audio codecs |
| Bluetooth Audio Codec | A2DP, EDR, LE | A2DP, EDR, LE, SBC, AAC | Redmi A3 has additional Bluetooth audio codecs |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | Similar GPS functionality, although the G Power is more inclusive. |
| SIM | Single Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Redmi A3 allows for two SIM cards, beneficial for travelers or those with multiple phone numbers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 32/64 GB | 64/128 GB | Redmi A3 has more storage options, reducing the need for cloud backups. |
| RAM | 3/4 GB | 3/4/6 GB | Redmi A3 offers a higher RAM option, which enables smoother multi-tasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Basic | Both have basic audio capabilities |
| Security | |||
| Security | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Similar biometric authentication. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi A3 is equipped with better screen protection, which reduces the risk of scratches and breakage |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Accelerometer, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | G Power is equipped with a full array of sensors |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G Power (2021) Advantages:
- Stronger Performance: Superior chipset (Snapdragon 662) and higher Antutu score lead to smoother overall performance and faster app loading times.
- Better Camera System: Higher resolution main and selfie cameras, along with dedicated depth and macro lenses, offer greater versatility and better image quality. The camera has faster autofocus and better features.
- Faster Charging: 15W charging is significantly faster than the Redmi A3's 10W, reducing charging times. The box contains a charger.
- Full Sensor Suite: Includes a fingerprint sensor, proximity sensor, compass, and gyroscope.
- Video Recording: Better video recording capabilities.
Xiaomi Redmi A3 Advantages:
- Newer Software: Runs on a much newer Android 14, ensuring better long-term support, features, and security updates.
- Smoother Display: 90Hz refresh rate makes the user experience noticeably smoother than the G Power's 60Hz.
- Lighter and Thinner Design: A more modern design with slightly reduced weight.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 gives protection for scratches and damage.
- More Storage and RAM: 128 GB storage options and a 6GB RAM configuration are available.
- Dual SIM Support: Allows for two SIM cards, beneficial for users needing multiple lines.
- Newer Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3 allows for better and more efficient connectivity
- DxOMark Score: Redmi A3's camera has been benchmarked and could be a consideration for camera enthusiasts.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The G Power sacrifices newer software and display smoothness for better overall performance and camera capabilities.
- The Redmi A3 provides a smoother experience and more modern software, but lacks the camera features and performance of the Moto G Power.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G Power (2021):
- Ideal Users: Individuals who prioritize performance, better camera quality, and battery life above all else. Users who take lots of photos and appreciate features like portrait mode and macro lenses.
- Use Cases:
- Photography enthusiasts on a budget who want a capable camera for social media.
- Users who need a reliable and speedy phone for everyday tasks.
- Those who don't mind an older operating system, but appreciate the extras.
- Gamers who appreciate better graphics.
Xiaomi Redmi A3:
- Ideal Users: Individuals who value a modern software experience, smoother user interface, and dual-SIM capability. Users who need a daily driver with ample storage and multi-tasking capabilities.
- Use Cases:
- Users who prefer a more modern software experience with up-to-date features.
- Individuals who value display smoothness for general phone usage.
- Travelers or those who need two active phone lines.
- Users that prefer a thinner and lighter build.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Do you prioritize performance and camera quality, or software and smoother display experience?
- Is dual-SIM functionality a necessity for your needs?
- Is a modern version of Android important to you?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Performance Focus): If you need the snappiest performance and take a lot of photos, and do not care about an older OS, choose the Motorola Moto G Power (2021).
- Scenario 2 (Software and Display Focus): If a newer Android OS and a smooth 90Hz display are your priorities, choose the Xiaomi Redmi A3.
- Scenario 3 (Balance): If you want a balance of features, storage, and smooth user experience, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 is still a good choice with its newer software and display.
Personal Choice
If I were to choose, I would pick the Xiaomi Redmi A3. Despite the better camera on the Motorola, the Redmi A3 offers a much more up-to-date software experience with Android 14, which is important for both security and new features. Additionally, the 90Hz display would make daily use much more pleasant. Finally, the availability of a dual sim is a nice option. Although the performance is not as good, for my usage it will be sufficient.
