Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G51 5G and the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G. We’ll break down the specs, see what they mean for real-world use, and figure out which phone is best suited for whom. Let's get started.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the key specifications of both devices, with an emphasis on what these numbers translate to for the user:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 170.5 x 76.5 x 9.1 mm | 163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9 mm | The Moto G51 is taller, while the S22 Ultra is slightly wider. The S22 Ultra is a bit thinner, but likely feels more substantial overall due to the added weight. |
| Weight | 208g | 228g | Moto G51 is noticeably lighter and more comfortable for extended periods. S22 Ultra is heavier and may feel more premium. |
| Build Quality | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | The S22 Ultra has superior screen protection, making it more durable against drops and scratches. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.8" | Both have large displays for immersive content consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1440 x 3088 | S22 Ultra offers much sharper visuals due to higher pixel count. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 387 | 500 | S22 Ultra provides a noticeably clearer display with finer details. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | S22 Ultra's AMOLED panel delivers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast ratios, and superior power efficiency for dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1750 nits | S22 Ultra is dramatically brighter, ensuring excellent visibility outdoors, even in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480+ (8 nm) | Exynos 2200 (4 nm) | S22 Ultra's chipset is significantly more powerful, enabling faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 381,000 | 1,023,311 | S22 Ultra's benchmarks confirm its superior performance capabilities. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Xclipse 920 | S22 Ultra offers superior graphics performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both have large batteries for all-day use, but real-world endurance will vary with usage patterns. |
| Charging | 10W | 45W | S22 Ultra charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | S22 Ultra has additional features, making it more versatile in terms of power management. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm pixel size | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33", 0.80µm pixel size | S22 Ultra's main camera has higher resolution and a larger sensor, capturing more detail and better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | None | 12MP, f/2.4, 1/3.52", 1.12µm pixel size | S22 Ultra offers superior portrait capabilities and optical zoom. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixel size | 40MP, f/2.2, 0.70µm pixel size | S22 Ultra has higher resolution for sharper selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 12MP, f/4.9, 1/3.52", 1.12µm pixel size | S22 Ultra has a telephoto camera for extended zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, 1.12µm pixel size | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm pixel size | S22 Ultra's wide-angle lens has higher resolution, and potentially better low-light performance. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, 1.75µm pixel size | None | Moto G51 has a dedicated macro lens, which is missing on the S22 Ultra. |
| Video | 1080p @ 30/60/240fps | Up to 8K @ 24fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | S22 Ultra records much higher quality and stable videos. |
| DxoMark Camera | Not Rated | Mobile: 131, Selfie: 135 | S22 Ultra offers superior image and video quality with high scores. |
| Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Autofocus, Touch focus, PDAF, LAF, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW | 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | S22 Ultra is feature-packed, offering better optical zoom and advanced stabilization features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 12 (upgradable to 16) | S22 Ultra has the latest software version, promising better performance and newer features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Wi-Fi MiMO | S22 Ultra has faster Wi-Fi and better connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | S22 Ultra has newer Bluetooth version with enhanced audio codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | S22 Ultra offers dual-band GPS for better accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | S22 Ultra supports eSIMs, offering flexibility with digital carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256/512/1024 GB | S22 Ultra has more storage options for users who need to store a lot of media. |
| RAM | 4/8 GB | 8/12 GB | S22 Ultra has more RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | S22 Ultra has superior audio playback. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | The Moto G51 has a more convenient side-mounted sensor, while S22 Ultra uses an in-display fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | S22 Ultra has additional environmental sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G51 5G:
Strengths:
- Budget-Friendly: This phone is designed to be accessible to users on a budget, while still offering a good 5G experience.
- Lighter Weight: The lighter build makes it more comfortable to hold for extended periods.
- Decent Display: The 120Hz refresh rate on the 6.8" screen is excellent for the price point, providing smooth scrolling and animations.
- Macro Lens: The inclusion of a macro lens will be appreciated by users who love close-up photography.
Competitive Advantages:
- Affordability: The primary appeal is its affordability.
- Good Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery is suitable for all-day use for most users and the light weight contributes to its usability for longer periods.
Trade-offs/Limitations:
- Lower Performance: The Snapdragon 480+ chipset is good for daily tasks but not for heavy gaming or multitasking.
- Basic Camera: While decent for basic photography, it lacks the versatility and quality of the S22 Ultra's camera system.
- Slower Charging: The 10W charging is quite slow compared to other modern smartphones, it also lacks wireless and reverse wireless charging.
- IPS LCD: The IPS LCD display isn't as vibrant or sharp as the AMOLED on the S22 Ultra and has weaker performance in direct sunlight.
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G:
Strengths:
- Flagship Performance: The Exynos 2200 chipset offers top-tier performance for any task, including demanding games and heavy multitasking.
- Superior Display: The AMOLED display offers exceptional clarity, vibrant colors, and excellent outdoor visibility.
- Versatile Camera System: A highly capable camera setup includes an impressive main sensor, multiple lenses, and advanced features, making it a great choice for photography enthusiasts.
- Fast Charging and Wireless Options: With 45W fast charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging, it offers versatile power management options.
- Premium Build Quality: The superior screen protection and overall build quality offers great durability.
- Advanced Software: It runs the latest Android version and will receive several years of updates, giving it longevity.
Competitive Advantages:
- Exceptional Camera Capabilities: Outperforms all other phones in this specification comparison with its advanced photo and video technology.
- Top-Tier Performance: Unmatched processing power for demanding applications.
- Premium User Experience: Boasts cutting-edge features and technology for a superior experience.
Trade-offs/Limitations:
- Higher Price: It comes at a premium price point, making it a significant investment.
- Heavier Weight: This makes it less comfortable for extended single-handed use.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G51 5G:
Best For:
- Budget-conscious consumers who need a reliable 5G phone for basic tasks.
- Users who value a lightweight and comfortable design.
- Individuals who don't require high-end performance or advanced camera features.
- Users who don't prioritize screen quality and brightness.
Use Cases:
- Everyday browsing, social media, and communication.
- Watching videos and light gaming.
- Users seeking a reliable secondary phone for travel.
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G:
Best For:
- Power users who require top-tier performance for demanding apps and games.
- Photography enthusiasts seeking the best possible mobile camera experience.
- Users who prioritize display quality and want a phone that excels outdoors.
- Professionals who require features such as video recording, and the latest software.
Use Cases:
- Professional photography and videography.
- Mobile gaming and heavy multitasking.
- Demanding productivity workflows.
- Content creation and consumption with the best possible visuals.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide between these two phones:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a smartphone? The Moto G51 is significantly more budget-friendly.
- Performance and Camera: How important is top-tier performance and a versatile camera system to you? If those are priorities, then the S22 Ultra is the clear choice.
- Display and Design: Do you value a premium display with high brightness and a more robust design? If so, the S22 Ultra is a better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget User: If you primarily use your phone for basic tasks and want a reliable 5G device without breaking the bank, the Motorola Moto G51 5G is the best choice.
- Multimedia Enthusiast: If you enjoy consuming high-quality content and playing graphics-intensive games, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G offers a vastly superior visual and performance experience.
- Photography Lover: If mobile photography is your passion, the S22 Ultra's advanced camera system will provide the best experience, capturing exceptional photos and videos in diverse conditions.
- Practical Professional: If you are a working professional and need a phone that can keep up with your workflows and offer high productivity features, then the S22 Ultra is a must-have with its advanced features.
- Occasional User: If you only use your phone occasionally for basic tasks, the Moto G51 is more than sufficient.
What I Would Choose
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally opt for the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G. Here’s why:
As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I appreciate the cutting-edge technology and premium user experience that the S22 Ultra offers. While I acknowledge the value of the Moto G51 5G as a budget-friendly device, the S22 Ultra’s superior display, unmatched performance, exceptional camera capabilities, and advanced features align more closely with my needs.
I require a device that can handle demanding tasks like video editing and testing various applications, and the S22 Ultra's Exynos 2200 chipset and 12GB of RAM make it a powerhouse. Its camera system would allow me to capture stunning images and high-quality videos, essential for my professional work. The bright AMOLED display would be a joy to use, especially for content creation and consumption, and it would help in accurately reviewing photos and videos for my articles.
The additional features, like fast charging, wireless charging, and the more robust build quality, add significant value and convenience. Though the S22 Ultra is more expensive, it justifies its price with superior performance, advanced features, and a premium user experience. For me, it’s a long-term investment that matches my requirements for a cutting-edge smartphone.
