Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G51 5G and the Infinix Note 12 G96. These two phones offer distinct strengths, and understanding their differences is key to choosing the right one for your needs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a table breaking down the key specs, along with real-world implications:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 170.5 x 76.5 x 9.1 mm | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | Moto G51 is taller and thicker, Note 12 is slimmer and more compact; Note 12 is 23g lighter making it more comfortable for long usage. |
| Weight | 208g | 185g | |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Minimal difference in size, both offer ample screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp and detailed images on both. |
| PPI | 387 | 393 | Very similar pixel density, both are sharp. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | AMOLED offers deeper blacks, richer colors, better contrast and better visibility in direct sunlight, better for dark themes |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | Moto G51 provides smoother scrolling and animations, better for gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 650 nits | Note 12 has better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8nm) | Helio G96 (12nm) | Moto G51’s chipset is more efficient and powerful, better app loading times and overall performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 381,000 | 307,000 | Moto G51 has better performance in benchmark scores. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Different graphics processing units, Moto G51's generally performs better. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should provide similar full-day battery life with moderate usage. |
| Charging | 10W fast charging | 33W fast charging | Infinix Note 12 G96 recharges much faster, beneficial for users on the go. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear (Main) | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | Note 12’s wider aperture might perform better in low light. |
| Selfie | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | 16MP, f/2.0 | Note 12 takes higher resolution selfies, wider aperture for better low light selfie. |
| Wide Angle lens | 8MP | None | Moto G51 offers a wide-angle perspective for more versatile shots. |
| Portrait (depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Infinix Note 12 has a dedicated depth sensor to improve portrait mode shots. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, 1.75µm | None | Moto G51 allows for close-up photography. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@60fps, 240fps slow-mo | 1440p@30fps, 120fps slow-mo | Moto G51 has higher standard and slow-motion capture rate, Infinix Note 12 G96 allows for higher-resolution recording. |
| Camera Features | PDAF, LAF, RAW | Digital stabilization, Manual Focus, Night Mode | Moto G51 features more advanced focus, RAW support while Note 12 excels in stability and low-light shooting. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 12 | Android 12 | Note 12 ships with a newer version of Android. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11n | Moto G51 supports newer WiFi standard, offering faster and stable internet connection. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.1 LE, EDR, HID | Note 12 offers broader compatibility with Bluetooth devices. |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, SUPL | GPS, A-GPS | Moto G51 offers better location accuracy with more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both offer dual SIM capabilities. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64 GB / 128 GB | 64 GB / 128 GB | Both offer identical storage options. |
| RAM | 4 GB / 8 GB | 4 GB / 6 GB / 8 GB | Both offer the same amount of RAM. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports microSD cards, users are limited to the built-in storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 microphones | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Infinix Note 12 G96 has a slight edge in audio features, better surround sound and better audio separation. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both offer convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensors. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Gravity | Infinix Note 12 G96 includes a gravity sensor for certain motion-based apps. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G51 5G:
- Strengths: Stronger processing power thanks to the Snapdragon 480+ chipset, smoother display with a 120Hz refresh rate, better GPS with more satellite support and a wider array of camera features, including an ultrawide lens, dedicated macro camera, PDAF and LAF for focusing, continuous shooting and RAW.
- Competitive Advantages: Best performance for daily tasks and gaming, more versatile camera system for capturing various scenes, more accurate GPS for navigation and faster internet thanks to the newer WiFi standard.
- Trade-offs/Limitations: Heavier, thicker, and lacks the vibrant screen of AMOLED, and slower charging.
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Strengths: Superior AMOLED display with deeper blacks and better sunlight visibility, significantly faster charging, and more compact body, and better low-light capabilities in selfie and main cameras.
- Competitive Advantages: Better for media consumption, offers a lighter and more comfortable design, and it's ideal for users who frequently need to quickly top up their battery, better audio quality with stereo speakers and better bluetooth compatibility.
- Trade-offs/Limitations: Weaker processing power, slower refresh rate, no wide angle or macro camera and a limited camera features set (no RAW, PDAF or LAF).
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G51 5G:
- Best Suited For: Gamers, power users who value performance and a smoother display, those who want better GPS navigation and more versatile camera options, or for those who need more consistent internet connection.
- Use Cases: Playing graphics-intensive games, multitasking, capturing different perspectives with the camera, and use mapping applications for travel.
- Price-to-Value: Excellent price-to-performance ratio for users who prioritize processing power and camera functionality.
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Best Suited For: Media lovers, those who value vibrant colors and high contrast, users who often need fast charging, those who prefer a light and more compact design, or those who want to take good quality low light selfies and enjoy good audio.
- Use Cases: Watching videos and movies, browsing social media, taking selfies, and those who often forget to charge their phones overnight.
- Price-to-Value: Great value for media enthusiasts who want an immersive viewing experience without spending a fortune.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize performance or display quality? If gaming or heavy multitasking is your priority, go for Moto G51; if you prefer vibrant colors and better sunlight visibility, go for Infinix Note 12 G96.
- How important is fast charging and design? Infinix Note 12 G96 charges much faster and is lighter and slimmer, ideal if you value convenience and portability.
- What kind of photography do you usually do? If you want versatile photography with wide angle and macro capabilities, go for Moto G51; If you take a lot of selfies and want better low light capture go for the Infinix Note 12 G96.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Gamer/Power User: You want smooth performance, quick loading times, and a responsive display for fast paced gaming. The Motorola Moto G51 5G is the clear choice due to its faster processor and 120Hz display.
- Scenario 2: The Movie Buff: You frequently watch videos or movies on your phone, and want great picture quality and audio. The Infinix Note 12 G96 is the better option, providing a vibrant AMOLED display and stereo speakers for an immersive experience.
- Scenario 3: The On-The-Go Professional: You value a phone with a design and build quality that allows for all-day usage while being able to charge fast. The Infinix Note 12 G96 provides a lightweight design, and quick charging capabilities.
Final Thoughts:
Both phones have pros and cons and cater to different needs. Choosing between the two will mostly come down to what you value most in a smartphone.
My Choice:
If I were to choose, I'd lean towards the Motorola Moto G51 5G. I prioritize performance and having a smooth experience for day-to-day tasks, as well as the extra flexibility with the camera thanks to the wide angle and macro cameras. While the AMOLED display on the Infinix is tempting, the slightly smoother performance, the more versatile camera set, the better GPS and newer WiFi standard in the Moto G51 5G make it the more well-rounded device for me.
