1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G30 | Realme 12+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-03-17 | 2024-03-02 | Realme 12+ is significantly newer, likely with updated features and longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 75.7 x 9.1 mm | 163 x 75.5 x 7.9 mm | Realme 12+ is slightly more compact and thinner, potentially more comfortable in hand. |
| Weight | 200g | 190g | Realme 12+ is slightly lighter, which may be preferable during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.67" | Realme 12+ offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Realme 12+ has a much sharper display, resulting in clearer text and images. |
| PPI | 269 | 395 | Realme 12+ has a significantly higher pixel density, leading to greater detail and clarity. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Realme 12+ offers superior blacks, contrast, and color vibrancy compared to the Moto G30. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Realme 12+ provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2000 nits | Realme 12+ offers significantly better visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 (11nm) | Dimensity 7050 (6nm) | Realme 12+ has a more powerful and efficient chipset, resulting in faster app loading and smoother performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 170,968 | 601,000 | Realme 12+ is substantially faster, offering much better gaming and multitasking capabilities. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Realme 12+ has a more powerful GPU for better graphics performance in games and demanding applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have similar battery capacity, suggesting comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging (Li-Ion) | 67W Fast Charging (Li-Polymer) | Realme 12+ charges much faster, reducing downtime significantly. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64.4MP (f/1.7, 0.7µm) | 50MP (f/1.88, 1/2", 0.61µm) (Sony LYT-600) | Motorola has a higher resolution sensor and a slightly wider aperture. Realme has a better main sensor and larger sensor size that may allow better light capture in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP (f/2.2, 1.12µm) | 16MP (f/2.45) | Realme 12+ has slightly higher resolution, Motorola has a wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 8MP (f/2.2, 1.12µm) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Both have similar wide-angle lenses. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP (f/2.4, 1.75µm) | N/A | Motorola has a dedicated depth sensor, potentially better portrait effects, though processing is also important. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP (f/2.4, 1.75µm) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Both have dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30/60fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps (with EIS) | Realme 12+ records higher-resolution videos and has EIS for smoother footage. |
| Camera Features | Quad Camera, Laser AF, RAW | Triple Camera, OIS, EIS | Motorola has Laser AF and RAW Support, Realme has OIS for better low light videos, and image stabilization |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 12) | Android 14 (Upgradable to 16) | Realme 12+ has a more recent OS version, likely with longer software support and newer features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | Realme 12+ offers faster WiFi speeds and better network performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.2 LE | Realme 12+ has a newer Bluetooth version with potential improvements in connection speed and power efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | Similar GPS capabilities; Motorola includes SUPL and Galileo, Realme includes Beidou. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128GB | 128/256/512GB | Realme 12+ has more storage options and a higher maximum capacity. |
| RAM | 4/6GB | 8/12GB | Realme 12+ has more RAM, leading to better multitasking and app performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Realme 12+ offers significantly better audio with Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, and stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Rear-mounted Fingerprint | basic Fingerprint | Both phones offer similar biometric security via fingerprint sensors. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Realme has additional sensor(compass) for more functionality. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Screen protection is not specified for either phone. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G30 Advantages:
- Slightly wider aperture on main camera: Potentially better low-light performance in standard photos, however, the sensor itself is older.
- Dedicated depth sensor: May provide better portrait mode images, but this can also be achieved using software processing.
- Laser Autofocus: Could offer faster focusing in some situations.
- RAW support: Useful for advanced photographers who prefer post processing.
Realme 12+ Advantages:
- Significantly newer: Expect better performance, software support, and features.
- Superior display: Higher resolution, AMOLED panel, higher refresh rate, and much higher brightness provide a much better visual experience.
- Dramatically superior performance: Much faster processor and GPU for smoother everyday use and gaming.
- Faster charging: 67W charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Better video recording: 4K recording and Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) result in higher-quality videos.
- Enhanced audio: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, and noise cancellation offer a superior audio experience.
- More RAM and Storage Options: More RAM and higher storage options.
- More modern Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and newer bluetooth for faster connection speeds.
Trade-offs:
- Motorola Moto G30: Older device, inferior display and performance, and slower charging.
- Realme 12+: Lacks a dedicated depth sensor, and laser autofocus.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Motorola Moto G30:
- Users on an extremely tight budget.
- Users who primarily use their phones for basic tasks like calls, texts, and social media browsing and who do not need a high quality display.
- Users who prioritize a slightly wider aperture main camera.
Use Cases for Motorola Moto G30:
- Basic communication and social media browsing
- Casual photography in well-lit conditions.
- Users who do not want to spend too much money.
Ideal User for Realme 12+:
- Users who value a high-quality display, smoother performance, faster charging, and enhanced audio.
- Users who enjoy gaming, watching videos, and multitasking.
- Users who want a phone with good camera capabilities, and video recording features.
- Users who want to future proof for a longer period of time.
Use Cases for Realme 12+:
- High-quality media consumption (videos, games).
- Multitasking and demanding app usage.
- Photography and videography, especially in low light.
- Users who require fast charging and want a future-proof phone.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Realme 12+ offers significantly better value due to its superior performance, display, camera, charging speed, and audio quality. The slightly higher cost of Realme 12+ over the Motorola Moto G30 justifies the improved experience.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The Moto G30 may be suitable if extremely cost-constrained.
- How important is display quality and smooth performance? If these are priorities, the Realme 12+ is the clear choice.
- Do I prioritize fast charging and enhanced audio features? The Realme 12+ offers significant advantages in both areas.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: If you are looking for the cheapest possible option, and just need a basic smartphone then the Motorola Moto G30 is a choice.
- Everyday User: If you need a phone that performs well for everyday tasks, with a good display, the Realme 12+ is a solid choice.
- Multimedia Enthusiast/Gamer: The Realme 12+ is ideal for users who watch videos, play games, and appreciate smooth performance and good audio.
- Photography/Videography Focused User: Realme 12+ is superior due to 4k video, and OIS. However, Motorola's support for RAW might be attractive for more advanced users.
My Choice
I would choose the Realme 12+. The advantages it offers in display quality, performance, charging speed, audio, and software far outweigh the minor camera advantages of the Motorola Moto G30. The Realme 12+ provides a significantly better user experience in almost every aspect and is the more sensible choice overall for the vast majority of users. While the slightly wider aperture and laser autofocus on the G30 is nice, the Realme 12+'s superior sensor size, higher video capabilities and OIS are more important overall. Furthermore, the much faster chipset and better display on the Realme 12+ make it a significantly better long-term investment.
