Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G51 5G and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4. On the surface, these phones couldn't be more different – one a budget-friendly workhorse, the other a cutting-edge foldable marvel. But as we dissect the specs, we'll see exactly how these differences translate to real-world usability.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a side-by-side look at the key technical specifications, with a focus on how they impact the user experience:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-12-16 | 2022-08-25 | The Z Fold4 is newer, potentially with better long-term software support. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | The Z Fold4 offers a unique, tablet-like experience when unfolded; the G51 is a traditional smartphone. |
| Dimensions | 170.5 x 76.5 x 9.1 mm, 208g | 155.1 x 130.1 x 6.3 mm (unfolded), 263g | The G51 is taller but thinner; The Z Fold4 is wider when unfolded and heavier, feels bulky. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 7.6" (unfolded) | The Z Fold4 offers a significantly larger screen, great for media and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1812 x 2176 | The Z Fold4 is sharper, resulting in clearer visuals. |
| Pixel Density | 387 PPI | 373 PPI | Both have similar pixel density, so they'll look sharp. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | (Unspecified) | The G51’s IPS LCD is a basic technology; The Z Fold 4 is most likely using an AMOLED for vibrant colors and better contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have identical peak brightness at 0 nits. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8nm) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm) | The Z Fold4’s chip is far more powerful, handling heavy tasks and gaming with ease. The G51 is for less demanding tasks. |
| Antutu Score | 381,000 | 1,232,800 | The Z Fold4 has significantly better real-world performance (multitasking, app speed). |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 730 | The Z Fold4’s GPU offers superior graphics for gaming and demanding apps. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4400mAh | The G51 has a larger battery, likely offering longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 10W fast charging (Li-Ion) | 25W fast charging (Li-Polymer) | The Z Fold4 charges much faster; It also supports wireless charging (15W) and reverse wireless charging(9W). |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP | 50MP | Both phones capture detailed images; Z Fold4 has a larger sensor which may help in low light. |
| Main Sensor Size | 1/2.76" | 1/1.57" | The Z Fold4’s larger sensor allows for better low-light performance and more detail. |
| Front Camera Resolution | 13MP | 10MP | G51 has a slightly higher resolution, which might be good for some users. |
| Telephoto Lens | No | 10MP | The Z Fold4 has a dedicated telephoto lens for zoom capabilities. |
| Wide-angle lens | 8MP | 13MP | The Z Fold4's wide-angle lens is higher-resolution. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | No | The G51 has a dedicated macro camera for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@240fps | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps, 720p@960fps | The Z Fold4 can capture video at much higher resolutions with image stabilization. |
| DXOMark Score | N/A | Mobile: 124, Photo: 131, Video: 122 | The Z Fold4’s camera performance is highly rated, unlike the G51. |
| Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Autofocus, Touch 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 | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Laser AF, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), Dual front camera, Under display camera, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | Z Fold4 has significantly more camera features such as optical zoom and stabilization. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradeable to 12) | Android 12 (upgradeable to 16) | The Z Fold4 offers a newer OS out of the box, and is expected to get more OS upgrades. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | The Z Fold4 has newer Wi-Fi for faster speeds and better network handling. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | The Z Fold4 has a more modern Bluetooth version with additional features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | The Z Fold4 has access to more precise location data. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | The Z Fold4 offers eSIM, allowing for more flexible carrier options. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB or 128GB | 256GB, 512GB or 1024 GB | The Z Fold4 offers significantly more storage options for media and apps. |
| RAM | 4GB or 8GB | 12GB | The Z Fold4 has more RAM for better multitasking and demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device supports expandable storage via microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 Microphones | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | The Z Fold4 features Stereo speakers while the G51 only has microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both phones use side-mounted fingerprint sensors for convenient access. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 uses superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensor Suite | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 includes additional environmental sensors. |
2. Key Insights
- Motorola Moto G51 5G:
- Strengths: This phone is a solid budget device, offering 5G connectivity, a large 120Hz display, and a substantial 5000mAh battery. It excels in providing good value for the money, suitable for basic tasks and media consumption. The inclusion of a macro lens is a plus for creative shots.
- Trade-offs: The performance is limited by its Snapdragon 480+ chipset, and the camera system is basic. The screen is an IPS LCD, which is not as vibrant or high-contrast as an AMOLED display.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4:
- Strengths: This phone is a technological powerhouse, with a foldable screen, a top-tier Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, a versatile camera system, and wireless charging capabilities. The unique foldable design offers a tablet-like experience in a pocketable form factor, ideal for multitasking, gaming and consuming content.
- Trade-offs: It is expensive, heavy, and significantly thicker than standard phones. Battery life, while adequate, does not match some non-folding flagships. It does not have expandable storage, and it is also quite heavy at 263g.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Moto G51 5G:
- Best Suited For: Budget-conscious users who need a reliable phone for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and video streaming. Students, or people who need a backup phone.
- Use Cases: General mobile use, watching videos, basic photography, and light gaming.
- Price-to-Value: High value for its price. This is a phone that focuses on the core aspects of a smartphone and makes them affordable.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4:
- Best Suited For: Tech enthusiasts, professionals who need a device for multitasking and content creation, and users who desire a unique mobile experience.
- Use Cases: Advanced mobile work (multitasking, document editing, presentations), media consumption, mobile gaming, high-quality photography, and videography.
- Price-to-Value: A premium device with a high price tag. It’s an investment for users who prioritize cutting-edge features and unique design.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To decide between the Moto G51 5G and the Galaxy Z Fold4, consider these questions:
- Budget: Are you looking for the most affordable option or are you willing to pay a premium for advanced features?
- Usage: Will you be using the phone for basic daily tasks, or do you need powerful performance and multitasking capabilities?
- Form Factor: Do you prefer a standard smartphone design, or are you interested in the unique experience of a foldable device?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious Student: The Motorola Moto G51 5G offers excellent value for its price. It's ideal for daily use and media consumption.
- Content Creator: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 with its high quality cameras and large display is a no brainer for you. Its versatility for productivity and creativity make it a great investment.
- Professional Multi-Tasker: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 is the perfect choice, given its enhanced processing power, multitasking, and a versatile interface.
- Casual User: The Motorola Moto G51 5G is perfect for everyday tasks; its large battery will give you the whole day of use.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4, even with its premium price. Why? Well, as a tech journalist, I often find myself juggling multiple tasks, researching, writing, and editing on the go. The Z Fold4's multitasking abilities, its powerful performance, and its impressive camera suite are invaluable for my daily workflow. Plus, I am genuinely fascinated by the folding screen – it represents innovation in a way that few devices do. While the G51 is a practical choice for many, the Z Fold4 aligns better with my needs and interests, even at the expense of extra cost and weight.
