Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G31 and the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G. As a tech journalist, I'm always keen to look beyond the spec sheet and understand how these devices perform in the real world.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, categorized for clarity:
Design
| Feature | Motorola Moto G31 | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 161.9 x 73.9 x 8.6 mm | 163.7 x 76.1 x 7.6 mm | The A73 5G is slightly taller and wider, but thinner. The Moto G31 has a slightly higher volume. |
| Weight | 181g | 181g | Both phones are virtually identical in weight. |
| Build Material | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 (Screen) | The A73 5G has a more robust screen with Gorilla Glass, better protecting against scratches. The G31 is unspecified which leaves the screen vulnerable to scratching and breakage. |
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G31 | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.4" | 6.7" | The A73 5G offers a more immersive viewing experience with a larger display. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same Full HD+ resolution, ensuring sharp images. |
| Pixel Density | 411 PPI | 393 PPI | The G31 has slightly sharper image density. But both are very similar. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both phones will have vibrant colors and deep blacks thanks to the AMOLED tech. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The A73 5G's 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is not specified, so direct comparison is difficult. |
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G31 | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G85 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) | The A73 5G’s Snapdragon chip is significantly more powerful, handling demanding tasks and games with ease. |
| AnTuTu Score | 225,154 | 575,551 | The A73 5G has dramatically superior performance. It'll offer much faster app loading and overall smoother experience. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Adreno 642L | The A73 5G's Adreno GPU is more capable, providing better graphics performance for gaming and other intensive apps. |
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G31 | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm, Samsung S5KJN1) | 108MP (f/1.8, pixel size unspecified) | The A73 5G's 108MP sensor can capture much higher resolution images with more detail. The G31's images will be decent but not as crisp. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP (f/2.2, 1.12µm, unspecified sensor) | 32MP (f/2.2, pixel size unspecified) | The A73 5G provides significantly more detailed and sharper selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP (f/2.0, 1.12µm, unspecified sensor) | 12MP (f/2.2, pixel size unspecified) | The A73 5G offers slightly higher resolution and wider field of view in its wide angle shots. The G31 has a wider aperture, meaning better low-light wide angle shots. |
| Depth Sensor | Not available | 5MP (f/2.4, pixel size unspecified) | The A73 5G has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode effects. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4, 1.75µm, unspecified sensor) | 5MP (f/2.4, pixel size unspecified) | The A73 5G's macro lens will have sharper more detailed macro shots due to the higher MP sensor. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, slow-motion: 120fps, No stabilization. | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@30/60fps with EIS, slow-motion: 120fps | The A73 5G can shoot much higher resolution 4K video with Electronic Image Stabilization for smoother shots. The G31 doesn't offer image stabilization which will result in a lot more shaky footage. |
| Camera Features | Digital/Optical Zoom, Triple cam, Image stabilization, Autofocus, PDAF, LAF, Continuous shooting, Geo tagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, and more. | 4k Video, Digital Zoom, Quadruple cam, Digital Image stabilization, Optical Stabilization, Autofocus, PDAF, Continuous shooting, Geo tagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection and more. | The G31 has Optical Zoom and Laser Autofocus, the A73 5G has 4K video, OIS, and a more versatile Quadruple camera setup. |
Battery Life
| Feature | Motorola Moto G31 | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should provide all-day battery life for typical use. |
| Charging | 10W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | 25W Fast Charging, Li-Ion | The A73 5G charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. The G31 will take much longer to charge. |
| Features | Non-Removable | Non-Removable, Bypass Charging | The A73 5G's bypass charging feature prevents battery degradation while gaming or using intensive apps. |
Other Features
| Feature | Motorola Moto G31 | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 (upgradable to 16) | The A73 5G offers a more up-to-date Android experience, including future OS updates. The G31 is already outdated with Android 11. |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band, Hotspot, Direct, Display | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Dual-band, Hotspot, Direct, Display | The A73 5G supports Wi-Fi 6 which offers better performance, especially on busy networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, AVRCP, DIP, HFP, HID, HSP, MAP, PAN, OPP, PBAP/PAB, HOGP | The A73 5G features more advanced Bluetooth profiles. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Both offer comprehensive location services; The G31 supports SUPL. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Both offer dual SIM support. |
| Storage | 64GB or 128GB | 128GB or 256GB | The A73 5G offers more internal storage, while neither offer expandable storage. |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB or 8GB | The A73 5G has more RAM for smoother multitasking, especially with 8GB variant. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Stereo speakers | The A73 5G's stereo speakers provide a better audio experience for music, movies, and gaming. The G31 has 2 mics for better call quality. |
| Security | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | The Moto G31 has a more advanced fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Geomagnetic, RGB, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | The Samsung has extra sensors for better ambient lighting and proximity detection. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G31:
- Strengths: The Moto G31 is an affordable device with a decent AMOLED display, a large battery, and good call quality with 2 microphones. Its primary advantage is affordability. The device is more ergonomic and easier to hold with a slightly smaller volume.
- Competitive Advantages: It has a lower price point for those seeking an entry level smartphone. Its fingerprint sensor is side mounted which is much more convenient for users.
- Trade-offs: The G31's performance is modest, it lacks a high refresh rate, it lacks the advanced camera features of the competition, and the software is outdated.
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G:
- Strengths: The A73 5G is a powerhouse with a top-tier display, powerful performance thanks to the Snapdragon 778G 5G, a more advanced camera setup, and faster charging.
- Competitive Advantages: It stands out with its 120Hz refresh rate, larger screen, 4K video recording, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), and a better performing chipset for gaming. It is a more modern device with more modern software.
- Trade-offs: It’s pricier, larger, and lacks expandable storage.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G31 is Best For:
- Budget-conscious users: Individuals who need a reliable smartphone for basic tasks like browsing, messaging, and calls, without breaking the bank.
- Casual users: People who aren't looking for cutting-edge performance or camera quality. They just need a reliable phone for everyday use.
- Users who prefer side mounted fingerprint sensors: People who prefer the convenience of a side-mounted sensor versus an in-display one.
- Users who prefer a smaller device: People who want a more compact phone that's easier to hold with one hand.
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G is Best For:
- Enthusiasts: Users who demand top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and running demanding applications.
- Photography enthusiasts: Individuals who value high-quality photos and videos, including 4K capabilities and OIS.
- Power Users: People who want a larger, high-refresh-rate screen for multimedia consumption and better performance from their phones.
- Future-proofers: Users who prefer devices with up-to-date software and hardware to enjoy it for a longer amount of time.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
How important is performance?
- If you prioritize speed and smooth performance, the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G is the clear choice due to its Snapdragon chipset. If you don't need the extra power, then the Moto G31 may be enough for you.
How much do you value camera quality?
- If you want high-resolution photos, 4K video, and image stabilization, the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G's camera system is superior. If a basic camera is sufficient, the G31's camera is passable.
How much are you willing to spend?
- The Motorola Moto G31 is significantly more budget-friendly. If price is a major concern, the G31 may make more sense. But if you're willing to pay more for better quality and features, the A73 5G offers better value.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget Buyer: Go with the Motorola Moto G31, it delivers the basic features you need at a very affordable price point.
- Mobile Gamer: The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G is the best choice with its powerful chipset, high refresh rate screen and faster RAM.
- Photography Lover: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G. You will greatly appreciate the 4K video, OIS, and 108MP camera.
- Daily User: If you just need a reliable daily phone, the Motorola Moto G31 will work great for you. If you want a more immersive media consumption experience, then the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G may be worth the extra money.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I'd personally opt for the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G. While the Moto G31 is a decent budget option, the A73 5G offers a far superior experience in almost every aspect. I prioritize performance, camera quality, and a fluid user interface, which the A73 5G delivers with its powerful Snapdragon chipset, 120Hz display, and versatile camera system. The faster charging and future proofing with its software are also major benefits that make the A73 5G worth the extra cost. While the price difference is substantial, the A73 5G provides a more premium and future-proof experience that better fits my needs. The G31 may be okay for some people but I would struggle using it due to the much slower processing speed and lower display refresh rate.
