Alright, let's dive deep into the tech specs of the Motorola Moto G31 and Moto G72. I'll break down what each of these phones offers, not just on paper, but in terms of how they'll fit into your daily life.
Motorola Moto G31 vs. Moto G72: A Detailed Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a side-by-side comparison of the key specs, with a focus on what they mean for you:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G31 | Motorola Moto G72 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.9 × 73.9 × 8.6 mm | 160.5 × 74.4 × 7.9 mm | G72 is slightly shorter and thinner, might feel more pocketable. |
| Weight | 181g | 166g | G72 is lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.6" | G72 offers slightly more screen real estate for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp Full HD+ visuals. |
| PPI | 411 | 402 | Both have excellent pixel density, resulting in crisp text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | P-OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, with slight differences in sub-pixel layout. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | G72 offers much smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have the same peak brightness, not suitable for bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) | G72 has a more powerful and efficient chip, leading to faster apps and smoother games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 225,154 | 415,300 | G72 demonstrates significantly better performance across the board, suitable for gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | G72's GPU can handle more demanding graphics better. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8, 1/2.76" | 108MP f/1.7 | G72's higher resolution allows more detailed photos and better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP f/2.2 | 16MP | G72 provides higher-resolution selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP f/2.0 | 8MP f/1.9 | G72 has a slightly wider aperture which can allow for better low-light shots |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Similar macro capabilities on both phones. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps | G72 allows 60fps recording which leads to much smoother videos. |
| Camera Features | Optical Zoom, RAW | None | G31 offers slightly more advanced camera features like Optical zoom and RAW image capture. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer all-day battery life for most users. |
| Charging | 10W fast charging | 33W fast charging | G72 charges much faster, reducing downtime significantly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 | G72 has a more recent version of Android which may provide more updated features and security patches. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Both offer dual-band Wi-Fi and hotspot capabilities. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE | Both offer Bluetooth 5.0 with low energy features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS... | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS... | Both offer comprehensive GPS support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | G72 offers more storage options, especially for storing photos, videos, and apps. |
| RAM | 4 GB | 6/8 GB | G72 has more RAM leading to better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone provides expandable storage options. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 mics | Dolby Atmos, Stereo speakers | G72's stereo speakers provide much better audio experiences than the G31s 2 mics. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic | G31's side-mounted fingerprint is much more modern and convenient than a simple sensor |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer | G72 provides a slightly more comprehensive sensor suite. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G31:
- Strengths: Decent AMOLED display, a wide range of camera features such as optical zoom and RAW image capture.
- Advantages: Good for users who want a reliable phone with a decent screen and a versatile camera system.
Motorola Moto G72:
- Strengths: Significantly more powerful processor, a much higher refresh rate screen, better camera, and faster charging.
- Advantages: Ideal for gamers, heavy app users, and anyone who values a fluid and responsive experience.
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- The Moto G31 is an older device with slower charging and an older OS.
- Neither phone offers expandable storage, a significant limitation for media hoarders.
- The brightness of both displays is not specified, which might be an issue outdoors.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G31:
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious users who need a good display for media consumption. It's great for social media, browsing, and light apps. Users who like to have more control over their camera, such as having access to RAW images.
- Use Cases: Casual web browsing, social media scrolling, streaming videos, everyday photography.
Motorola Moto G72:
- Ideal For: Users who value performance and responsiveness. It’s ideal for gamers, heavy multitaskers, and users who appreciate a smooth display.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, running demanding apps, high-resolution video capture, fast charging.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
Do you prioritize performance and responsiveness?
- If yes, the Moto G72's faster processor and 120Hz refresh rate are a big advantage. If you like to game, the G72 is the one for you.
- If not, the G31 might suffice for basic use with its decent screen and wide array of camera features such as RAW and optical zoom.
How much do you value screen fluidity and smoothness?
- If a smooth visual experience is critical, the 120Hz display on the Moto G72 is a game-changer.
- If you're not too bothered by it, the 60Hz on the G31 won't be a huge issue.
Are you bothered about expandable storage?
- If yes, neither of these phones will be suitable for you.
- If not, the G72 offers 128/256GB of storage which is plenty for the average user.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: "I want a good phone that's easy on the wallet. I mostly browse, use social media, and watch videos."
- Recommendation: Moto G31 is sufficient, especially if you like to have full control over your camera photos.
Scenario 2: "I play mobile games, use a lot of apps, and I like a smooth experience."
- Recommendation: Moto G72 is the clear choice. The better processor, 120Hz refresh rate, and faster charging make it perfect for power users.
Scenario 3: "I want a phone with a great camera, I love capturing RAW images"
- Recommendation: Moto G31 provides the most flexibility in terms of the features that come with the camera, such as RAW image capture.
Personal Recommendation
If I had to choose, I'd lean towards the Motorola Moto G72. While the Moto G31 has its charm, the G72 offers a much more compelling package for the slightly extra cost (depending on your region and current market prices). The more powerful processor, smoother display, faster charging, and upgraded camera make a tangible difference in daily use. The fact that it is newer is also a big plus. Sure, it lacks some of the camera features the G31 has such as optical zoom and RAW image capture but the overall experience is much better.
The performance gap between these two phones is significant. The G72 isn't just a bit faster; it's substantially more responsive and capable. If you like to play mobile games, or do more resource-intensive things with your phone, the G72 will provide you with a significantly better experience.
I hope this detailed breakdown helps you make an informed decision!
