Okay, let's break down the Motorola Moto G51 5G and the newer Moto G (2023), and see what each has to offer for the everyday user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, focusing on what these specs actually mean for you:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Motorola Moto G (2023) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 170.5 × 76.5 × 9.1 mm | 164 × 75 × 8.4 mm | The G51 5G is larger and bulkier, while the G (2023) is more compact and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 208g | 189g | The G (2023) is noticeably lighter, which means more comfortable use for extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.5" | The G51 5G offers a slightly larger screen, good for immersive media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | The G51 5G’s higher resolution means sharper text and images, better for detailed content. |
| Pixel Density | 387 ppi | 270 ppi | The G51 5G offers crisper images, while the G (2023) might look slightly less defined. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use similar IPS LCD tech, offering decent viewing angles and color accuracy. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer a smooth 120Hz display, which translates to fluid animations and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | The peak brightness is identical on both devices. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8 nm) | Both phones utilize the same chipset, resulting in similar overall performance and 5G capabilities. |
| AnTuTu Score | 381,000 | 380,000 | Performance is virtually identical, adequate for daily tasks, some gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 619 | The same GPU means identical graphics capabilities on both. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 48MP, f/1.7 | The G51 5G has a slightly higher megapixel count, while the G (2023) has a slightly wider aperture, potentially better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.0 | The G51 5G provides higher resolution selfies, while the G (2023) has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP | None | The G51 5G includes a dedicated wide-angle lens for expanded field of view. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/1.75µm | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | Both share comparable macro capabilities for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 1080p@240fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | The G51 5G can record slow motion at a higher frame rate, and can record at 60fps, while the G (2023) is limited to 30fps for standard video recording. |
| Camera Features | Triple camera, LAF | Dual camera, digital stabilization | The G51 5G has an additional lens and Laser Autofocus while the G (2023) benefits from digital stabilization for smoother video. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have a large battery, should easily last a full day with moderate use. |
| Charging | 10W | 15W | The G (2023) charges faster with its 15W support, reducing charging time. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 12 | Android 13 | The G (2023) ships with a newer version of Android, offering improved features and likely better longevity in terms of updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac, dual-band | 802.11ac, dual-band | Both support the same WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.1 LE, EDR | Both have Bluetooth 5.1, with the G (2023) adding EDR for slightly faster data rates. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Both offer dual SIM, the G (2023) has an eSIM in addition. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128GB | 128GB | The G (2023) comes standard with 128GB of storage while the G51 5G can come with 64GB or 128GB. |
| RAM | 4/8GB | 4GB | The G51 5G offers an 8GB option for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards for storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 mics | Stereo Speakers, 2 mics | The G51 5G features Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio quality, while the G (2023) has stereo speakers for better sound immersion. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both include the same side-mounted fingerprint sensor technology for quick unlocking. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, proximity, accelerometer, gyroscope | Fingerprint, proximity, accelerometer, compass, gyroscope | The G (2023) has additional sensors for more comprehensive feature support. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G51 5G Strengths:
- Sharper Display: With its higher resolution and pixel density, the G51 5G provides a more detailed and immersive visual experience, great for watching videos and reading.
- Better Camera Setup: The triple-camera system with a dedicated wide-angle lens, and a higher resolution selfie camera, makes it more versatile for different photography needs.
- More RAM (optional): The option for an 8GB RAM variant provides smoother multitasking, beneficial for power users.
- Dolby Atmos: This provides a richer and immersive audio experience for headphones.
Motorola Moto G (2023) Strengths:
- More Compact & Lighter: The smaller size and lighter weight make it more comfortable and portable for daily use.
- Faster Charging: 15W charging is a step up from the G51 5G's 10W, reducing charge times.
- Newer Android Version: Shipping with Android 13 means it comes with the latest features and longer software support.
- Stereo Speakers: While Dolby Atmos does have advantages with headphones, stereo speakers provide a richer sound experience through the phones speakers.
- eSIM support: The G (2023) supports eSIM.
Trade-offs:
- Motorola Moto G51 5G sacrifices some convenience with its bulkier size and slower charging.
- Motorola Moto G (2023) gives up a bit in display sharpness and camera versatility for better portability and a newer Android version.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G51 5G is best suited for:
- Media Consumers: Those who prioritize a large, sharp display for videos and content consumption.
- Photography Enthusiasts (on a budget): Those who want a more versatile camera system, including a wide-angle lens, without breaking the bank.
- Multitaskers: Users who can benefit from the optional 8GB of RAM for smoother app switching.
- Audio buffs: Those who want Dolby Atmos and use wired headphones.
Motorola Moto G (2023) is best suited for:
- Everyday Users: People who value portability, ease of use, and a lighter design.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who want a modern Android experience with the latest software and updates.
- Practical Shoppers: Those who want a balanced smartphone that is fast and practical.
- Users of wireless headphones: Those who want better sound from the phone speakers.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Display Quality vs. Portability: Do you value a sharper, more immersive display (G51 5G) or a more comfortable and compact design (G 2023)?
- Camera Versatility vs. Software Updates: Do you prefer a more versatile camera setup with a wide-angle lens (G51 5G), or a newer version of Android with better software support (G 2023)?
- RAM for Multitasking vs. Convenience: Do you need more RAM for smooth multitasking (G51 5G) or do you prefer a lighter device with slightly faster charging (G 2023)?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the media buff: If you spend a lot of time watching videos, the Moto G51 5G’s larger, sharper display and Dolby Atmos make it a good choice.
- For the on-the-go user: If you prefer a phone that's easy to carry and use single-handedly, the Moto G (2023)'s compact design and lighter weight will be more appealing.
- For the power user: If you need to run multiple apps at once, then the option for 8GB of RAM in the Moto G51 5G is better.
- For the practical user: If you're seeking the latest software and a modern experience with good battery life and solid performance, then the Moto G (2023) is more suitable.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Motorola Moto G (2023). While the G51 5G has some compelling advantages with its sharper display and more versatile camera setup, the overall package of the G (2023) appeals to me more. I value the lighter and more compact design for daily use. The newer Android 13 and faster charging make the phone feel more current and convenient. While I enjoy good audio, the improvements that the G (2023) makes to sound through the phone speakers, is beneficial to me. Ultimately, as a daily driver, the G (2023) represents a better overall experience for how I use a phone.
