Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G51 5G and the Google Pixel 7. We'll cut through the marketing fluff and get right into what these specs mean for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a table comparing the key specs, with a focus on how these differences affect real-world usage:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Google Pixel 7 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 170.5 x 76.5 x 9.1 mm, 208g | 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.7 mm, 197g | Pixel 7 is noticeably more compact and lighter, making it easier to handle and pocket. Moto G51 is larger and bulkier. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-folding phones. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.3" | Moto G51 offers more screen real estate, ideal for media consumption. Pixel 7 provides a more compact experience. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both offer sharp, Full HD+ displays. |
| Pixel Density | 387 ppi | 416 ppi | Pixel 7 has slightly higher pixel density resulting in slightly sharper text and images. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Pixel 7's AMOLED offers superior blacks, contrast, vibrant colors, and better power efficiency for dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Moto G51 has slightly smoother animations and scrolling due to higher refresh rate. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1400 nits | Pixel 7 offers dramatically better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8nm) | Google Tensor G2 (5nm) | Pixel 7’s chip is much faster leading to better app loading, smoother multitasking, and a superior gaming experience. |
| AnTuTu Score | 381,000 | 827,033 | Pixel 7 provides significantly better performance across the board. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G710 MP7 | Pixel 7 has better graphics processing capabilities. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 4355 mAh | Moto G51 boasts a larger battery, potentially offering better battery life. |
| Charging | 10W wired | 20W wired, 23W wireless | Pixel 7 offers faster wired charging and the convenience of wireless charging. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable, No charger in box, Wireless charge 23W, Reverse wireless charge | Pixel 7 includes more premium features like reverse charging and wireless charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP | 50MP | Both have 50MP main sensor. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.76" | 1/1.31" | Pixel 7 has a larger sensor allowing it to capture more light and detail, leading to better images. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.64µm | 1.20µm | Larger pixels on the Pixel 7 mean better low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP | 12MP | Pixel 7's wide-angle lens offers more detailed shots. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | None | Moto G51 offers a dedicated macro camera, but it's not essential for many users. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP | 10.8MP | Moto G51 has slightly higher resolution but not enough to matter in comparison. |
| Video | 1080p@30/60/240fps | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps | Pixel 7 captures much higher quality video, with stabilization (OIS, EIS). |
| Camera Features | PDAF, LAF, Standard Features | 4K, OIS, EIS, PDAF, LAF, Manual, Night Mode, standard | Pixel 7 offers significantly more advanced camera features, with OIS, EIS, and a dedicated Night Mode. |
| DxOMark | N/A | Mobile: 140, Selfie: 138 | Pixel 7 has excellent scores indicating superior camera quality. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 13 (upgradable to 14) | Pixel 7 offers the latest Android experience and more years of updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6E | Pixel 7 supports a newer, faster Wi-Fi standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2, aptX, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Pixel 7 offers more robust Bluetooth audio codec support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Pixel 7 has more location tracking systems. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Pixel 7 provides eSIM for more flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | Pixel 7 has more storage options. |
| RAM | 4/8 GB | 8GB | Pixel 7 has more ram for improved multitasking performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 mics | Stereo speakers, Noise cancelling microphone, 3 mics | Pixel 7 provides a better audio experience with stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Motorola's side mounted sensor is slightly more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 7 offers superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | Pixel 7 has a more comprehensive set of sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G51 5G:
- Strengths: The G51 is focused on value, boasting a larger display and battery at a more budget-friendly price point. Its 120Hz refresh rate offers smooth scrolling. The device includes a Macro lens, which can be handy for close-up photography.
- Competitive Advantages: The primary advantage of the G51 is its affordability. It is intended for people who want the core features of a smartphone and a large display without breaking the bank.
- Trade-offs and Limitations: The G51 has a less powerful chipset, lower screen quality, and lower charging speeds. Its camera performance is also inferior.
Google Pixel 7:
- Strengths: The Pixel 7 excels in performance, camera quality, and overall user experience. The Tensor G2 chip provides smooth operation and superior AI capabilities. The AMOLED display offers excellent image quality, and the camera system is top-notch with excellent video recording capabilities. The device is also more compact and easy to handle.
- Competitive Advantages: Pixel 7 offers an amazing camera experience, great performance, and the most recent Android features. Its better build quality and wireless charging are also notable.
- Trade-offs and Limitations: The Pixel 7's battery capacity is smaller, although it benefits from efficient charging and software. It is more expensive than the Motorola.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Moto G51 5G:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who primarily consume media, browse the web, and prioritize battery life over peak performance. It's suitable for those who want a big screen on a budget.
- Use Cases: Watching videos, browsing social media, casual gaming, and day-to-day tasks.
- Google Pixel 7:
- Ideal User: Those who prioritize a premium experience, excellent camera quality, top-tier performance, and cutting-edge features.
- Use Cases: Photography enthusiasts, gamers, professionals who need a reliable and efficient device for their daily tasks, and people who like having the latest tech.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend? If budget is your main concern, the Moto G51 is a better fit. If you're willing to spend more for the best experience, consider the Pixel 7.
- Performance Needs: Do you need top-tier processing power and graphics performance? For demanding tasks and gaming, the Pixel 7 is the better choice. For simpler tasks, the G51 is fine.
- Camera Priorities: How important is camera quality to you? The Pixel 7 offers superior camera quality, features, and video capabilities. If this is important to you, the G51 will not be able to compete.
Scenario Recommendations:
- Photography Enthusiast: If photography is a priority, the Pixel 7 wins with its larger sensor, advanced features, and superior image quality.
- Budget Gamer: For casual mobile gaming, both phones will suffice. But for more demanding titles, the Pixel 7 is the better fit.
- Media Consumption on a Budget: The Moto G51 is better for people who prioritize a big screen for watching movies and don't require too much processing power.
- Daily Driver and Productivity: The Pixel 7 is much more suited for those who need their phone for work and personal use due to better performance, battery, and build quality.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Google Pixel 7. Here is why:
As a tech journalist and analyst, I value devices that offer cutting-edge features, excellent performance, and a high-quality user experience. The Pixel 7 checks all of these boxes. While the Moto G51 offers a bigger battery and display at a cheaper price point, the Pixel 7's superior chipset, camera system, build quality, and overall performance make it the better device for my needs. The Pixel 7 is also much more compact and offers wireless charging that are features I would value more.
The Pixel 7's excellent DxOMark scores, and superior screen and audio technology make it a no brainer for me. The additional software features that the Tensor G2 unlocks also makes it a great choice.
