Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Motorola Moto G71 5G and the Moto G (2022). It's not just about specs on paper; it's about how these phones fit into our daily lives. I'll break it down with my signature blend of technical depth and practical insight.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Motorola Moto G71 5G | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.2 × 73.9 × 8.5 mm, 179g | 165.4 × 75.8 × 9.4 mm, 204g | The G71 5G is noticeably more compact and lighter, making it more comfortable for one-handed use and long periods. The G (2022) is bulkier, which might feel less ergonomic. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard slab designs. No folding here. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.5" | Negligible difference in screen size; both are large enough for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | The G71 5G boasts a sharper display; text, images, and videos will be significantly clearer. The G (2022) has a lower pixel density and will appear less sharp. |
| Pixel Density | 411 PPI | 270 PPI | The G71 5G will show much crisper details than the G (2022), due to the higher PPI. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | The G71 5G's AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast than the G (2022)'s LCD, resulting in a more immersive and visually appealing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | The G (2022)'s 90Hz refresh rate will make scrolling and animations feel smoother compared to the G71 5G's 60Hz. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have identical peak brightness at 0 nits, but the AMOLED screen on the G71 will make it look brighter in real life. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) | Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Both are capable mid-range chips. The Snapdragon 695 in G71 has slightly better efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 396,564 | 389,300 | Real-world performance will be pretty similar, suitable for everyday tasks and some gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Both phones will handle casual games fine, but the Adreno in the G71 may have a slight edge in graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | Both share the same primary sensor, so similar image quality in good light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.2, 1.00µm | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | G71 5G has higher resolution while the G (2022) has larger pixels, so it will perform a little better in low-light condition. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | None | The G71 5G has a dedicated wide-angle lens for landscape and group shots. |
| Depth Sensor | None | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | The G (2022) has a depth sensor for better portrait mode effects. |
| Macro | 2MP, f/2.4, Unknown | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | Both phones can capture very close-up photos. |
| Video | 1080p@30/60fps, Slo-mo 60fps | 1080p@30fps, No Slo-mo | The G71 5G can capture slow-motion video and smoother video footage. |
| Camera Features | Optical zoom, Digital image stabilization, Laser Autofocus | No Optical Zoom, Digital image stabilization, Laser Autofocus | G71 5G has more camera features, including a proper optical zoom. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have similar battery capacity, which should easily last a full day of typical use. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | The G71 5G charges much faster than the G (2022), significantly reducing charging time. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer is usually lighter and more flexible than Li-Ion, often lasting longer too. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Upgradable to 12 | Android 12 | The G (2022) has a newer OS out of the box, which is better in terms of privacy and features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual Band | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Both offer good wifi, with the G71 supporting dual band for more stable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.1 LE | The G (2022) has the latest Bluetooth standard with expanded Bluetooth features and better power efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | The G71 5G provides more comprehensive satellite connectivity for precise location data. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Single SIM | The G71 5G supports dual SIM usage, which can be useful for separate work and personal lines or while traveling. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB | 64GB | The G71 5G offers double the storage, which can store more photos, videos, and apps. |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 6 GB | The G71 5G has more RAM than the base model of the G (2022), ensuring smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 microphones | Basic | The G71 5G offers much better audio quality, especially with Dolby Atmos. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted | The side-mounted fingerprint sensor on the G (2022) can be a bit more natural to use and ergonomically better for some users. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Hall | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Both have a comprehensive sensor suite. The G (2022) has additional sensors such as a compass and barometer. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G71 5G Strengths:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED screen with higher resolution and pixel density is a clear winner for better visuals.
- Faster Charging: The 33W charging is much quicker compared to the G (2022)'s 10W.
- More Storage: 128GB of internal storage is double of the Moto G (2022), and 8GB RAM can improve multitasking.
- Better Camera Versatility: The addition of an ultrawide lens and better video recording options makes it more flexible for photographers.
- Enhanced Audio Quality: Dolby Atmos support makes the audio experience more immersive with richer sound and better voice quality.
- Better Connectivity More GPS satellites and Dual SIM
Motorola Moto G (2022) Strengths:
- Smoother Display: The 90Hz refresh rate makes the UI and animations look and feel smoother.
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 12 for a more modern software experience.
- Better Bluetooth: Offers newer Bluetooth version for more consistent connection and features, and broader compatibility.
- More Sensors: The G (2022) packs additional sensors such as a compass and barometer.
- Better Selfie Camera larger pixel size for better low-light selfies.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Moto G71 5G trades a smoother 90Hz refresh rate for a higher quality AMOLED screen.
- The Moto G (2022) lacks a wide angle camera.
- The Moto G (2022) has significantly slower charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G71 5G:
- Ideal for: Media consumers who prioritize sharp visuals, users who need faster charging, mobile photographers who value camera versatility, and users who need more internal storage and better audio experience.
- Use Cases: Watching movies, editing photos, playing graphics-intensive games, users on the go who need quick charging.
Motorola Moto G (2022):
- Ideal for: Users who value smoother scrolling and animations, those looking for the latest Android OS, users who prefer side-mounted fingerprint sensors, and basic smartphone users who need a reliable phone without high-end features.
- Use Cases: Everyday use like browsing, social media, making calls, and casual gaming.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Questions to Consider:
- Display Preference: Is a sharper, higher-quality display (AMOLED) more important than a smoother refresh rate?
- Usage Habits: How often do you use the camera, and do you need a wide-angle lens? Do you value quick charging or the latest Android software more?
- Storage Needs: Do you need a lot of internal storage, and would an expandable storage option be important to you?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Frequent Traveler or Power User - Moto G71 5G because of its better battery charging and storage.
- Scenario 2: Casual Social Media User - Moto G (2022) due to its latest Android version, and smoother 90hz display.
- Scenario 3: Camera Enthusiast on a Budget - Moto G71 5G, with its better camera versatility.
What I would Choose
If I had to pick between the two, I'd lean towards the Motorola Moto G71 5G. While I appreciate a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, the leap in display quality with its AMOLED panel, the significantly faster charging, the extra storage and enhanced camera capabilities outweigh the loss of 30Hz refresh. For me, that sharper display, combined with the enhanced audio and faster charging, makes for a better daily companion. Plus, the wide-angle lens adds a level of creative flexibility that I value. In my experience, the trade-offs are very worthwhile.
