Smartphone Comparison: Motorola Moto G30 vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G30 | Samsung Galaxy S23 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.2 × 75.7 × 9.1 mm | 158 × 76.5 × 8.2 mm | Moto G30 is taller and thicker, the S23 FE is slightly wider. Moto G30 may feel bulkier in hand, while S23 FE might be more pocketable despite the width. |
| Weight | 200g | 209g | Moto G30 is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.4" | Similar screen size, both comfortable for media consumption. The slight size difference is hardly noticeable in everyday use. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2340 | S23 FE offers much sharper text and images. Noticeably crisper detail for reading, browsing, and viewing photos/videos. |
| PPI | 269 | 403 | S23 FE's higher pixel density delivers significantly more detailed images. Individual pixels are much harder to see, resulting in a smoother visual experience. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | S23 FE has superior contrast, deeper blacks and more vibrant colors, especially noticeable when watching HDR content or using dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | S23 FE offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations. While not a huge difference, 120hz feels more responsive in daily use. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Unable to compare brightness due to missing information. Need clarification for accurate assessment in sunlight readability. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Exynos 2200 (4 nm) | S23 FE has significantly faster performance. Apps launch faster, multitasking is smoother, and games run much better. |
| AnTuTu Score | 170,968 | 1,188,176 | S23 FE performs significantly better in benchmarks. Noticeably improved responsiveness for gaming, app launches, and intensive tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Xclipse 920 | S23 FE offers superior graphics processing. Better gaming experience with smoother frame rates and higher graphics fidelity. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | Moto G30 has a larger battery that may offer longer usage between charges. Users might notice it in all day use without charging . |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | S23 FE charges faster. Less time waiting for the phone to be ready to go when charging from a low battery. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.4W, Non-removable, No charger in-box | S23 FE has features such as wireless and reverse wireless charging for added convenience and battery sharing; Moto G30 does not have such features. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64.4MP, f/1.7, 0.70µm pixel size | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", 1.00µm pixel size | S23 FE's main camera has a larger sensor with larger pixels for better light gathering. S23 FE's results in better low-light performance and dynamic range. Moto G30 has higher megapixel count, but pixel size matters more. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | - | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.00µm pixel size | S23 FE offers an additional zoom lens, enhancing portrait and distance photography. The lack of such lens makes Moto G30 less versatile. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixel size | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm pixel size | S23 FE has larger pixels for better low-light selfies. Moto G30 has slightly higher resolution selfie. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixel size | - | Moto G30 offers a wide-angle lens for capturing more in a single frame. S23 FE lacks this feature. |
| Portrait mode (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm pixel size | - | Moto G30 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. S23 FE uses software for depth sensing, possibly resulting in slightly less natural bokeh effects. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm pixel size | - | Moto G30 has a macro lens for capturing close-up shots. S23 FE lacks such feature, though has wide angle macro. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | - | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", 1.12µm pixel size | S23 FE has a single camera for wide-angle and macro shots. This saves space compared to having dedicated lenses. |
| Video | Up to 1080p@60fps | Up to 8K@24fps | S23 FE records at higher resolutions. Significantly better video quality with higher resolutions, higher fps, and image stabilization. |
| DxOMark | - | Main: 127(photo 124, video 131) | S23 FE’s camera is rated very well overall (127), especially the video capabilities (131). Moto G30 not tested. |
| Camera Features | LAF, Quadruple camera | 4K, 8K, OIS, Triple camera | S23 FE has better camera features such as OIS, and 4k and 8k video. Moto G30 has quad camera and LAF, but this won't be as powerful. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 12) | Android 13 (Upgradable to 17) | S23 FE has a newer operating system, receiving more up-to-date features and security patches. It will also receive more software upgrades over time. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | S23 FE has faster and more efficient Wi-Fi. Better performance in crowded network environments, less latency. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 | S23 FE uses newer Bluetooth version with improved stability and lower power consumption. More features for audio and accessory support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | S23 FE supports more satellite systems for precise location. Better for navigation and location-based apps. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIM cards. Dual SIM enables two phone numbers on the same device. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB/128 GB | 128 GB/256 GB | S23 FE offers more storage options. More room for apps, photos, videos, and games. |
| RAM | 4 GB/6 GB | 8 GB | S23 FE's higher RAM allows for smoother multitasking and app switching. Better performance when running multiple apps simultaneously and in general. |
| Expandable | No | No | No option for extra storage on either device; user is limited to internal storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | S23 FE has better audio capabilities: more immersive sound for videos and games; better sound quality on calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Rear fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both use fingerprint sensor for security. Provides basic biometric authentication. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 5 | S23 FE screen is more protected against scratches and drops. Increased longevity and better daily wear and tear. |
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | S23 FE offers a compass, which is essential for augmented reality and navigation. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G30 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers longer battery life than the S23 FE, potentially lasting longer on a single charge.
- Wider Angle lens This provides more versatility in photography.
- Lower price: Generally more affordable, better for users on a budget.
- Headphone Jack: Although not listed, the phone has a headphone jack which is not available on the S23 FE.
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Advantages:
- Significantly Superior Performance: The Exynos 2200 chip provides much faster performance, making the phone smoother and more responsive for all tasks.
- Far Superior Display: The AMOLED display with higher resolution, better color accuracy and contrast, and a higher refresh rate provides a much more vibrant and smooth visual experience.
- Superior Camera System: The S23 FE has better main camera, telephoto lens, and video recording quality, making it a more versatile option for photography and videography.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Charging: The faster charging speed and wireless charging support are more convenient for daily use.
- Longer Software Support: The S23 FE has a much longer support for updates compared to the G30.
- Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and Stereo speakers offer much better audio experience than the Moto G30.
- Better Build Quality: The S23 FE has Corning Gorilla Glass 5 which provides better screen protection.
Trade-offs:
- Moto G30: The trade off is that for its lower cost, it has compromises in display quality, performance, and camera quality. It does however have a better battery and headphone jack.
- Samsung Galaxy S23 FE: The trade-off is that for the improved performance, display, camera and features, it costs a lot more than the Moto G30.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G30:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life over performance and advanced features.
- Use Cases:
- Basic everyday use: calling, messaging, light browsing.
- Users who prefer a larger battery for all-day usage.
- Users who consume media, which benefit from the headphone jack.
- Users who need a reliable, no-frills phone.
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE:
- Ideal User: Users who want a premium experience with excellent display, performance, and camera capabilities, without paying top dollar for the latest flagship.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming, video editing, and demanding apps.
- Photography and videography enthusiasts.
- Users who stream high-definition content.
- Users who want to have the latest software and security updates for longer periods of time.
- Users who need the latest connectivity standards (Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3)
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a new phone?
- Primary Use: What will be the phone's main purpose? (e.g., casual use, gaming, photography)
- Longevity: How important is it for you to have the latest software updates and features for longer periods of time?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Tight Budget, Basic Needs: If budget is the biggest concern, and you need a basic reliable phone with good battery life, the Motorola Moto G30 is a solid option.
- Scenario 2: Performance & Features: If you are looking for smooth performance, a beautiful display, and good camera quality, and you are willing to pay more, then the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is much more suitable.
- Scenario 3: Gaming: If you play mobile games, then the S23 FE with a superior GPU and RAM is going to be far better.
- Scenario 4: Media Consumption: If you like watching videos or listening to music, the S23 FE will provide a better experience thanks to the improved display and speakers.
- Scenario 5: Photography: The S23 FE offers a vastly superior camera with Optical zoom and OIS.
My Choice
If I had to choose between the two, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE. While it is significantly more expensive, the advantages in display quality, performance, camera capabilities, software, connectivity, and build quality are substantial. The Moto G30 is suitable only if the user has a very limited budget and really needs a headphone jack or longer battery and doesn't need strong performance. The S23 FE offers a more premium and complete experience that is more future-proof with the better technology and longer support window that makes the additional cost worth it for me.
