Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G71 5G and the Realme 12+. I'll break down the specs, discuss their real-world implications, and guide you to the right choice based on your needs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a comprehensive table highlighting the key differences and what they mean for you:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G71 5G | Realme 12+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.2 x 73.9 x 8.5 mm | 163 x 75.5 x 7.9 mm | Realme 12+ is slightly taller and wider, while the Moto G71 is a bit thicker. May affect one-handed use and pocketability. |
| Weight | 179g | 190g | Moto G71 is lighter; Realme 12+ is a bit heavier, which might be noticed during prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.67" | Realme 12+ offers slightly more screen real estate for immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same FHD+ resolution, resulting in sharp images. |
| Pixel Density | 411 PPI | 395 PPI | Both are very similar in sharpness. The difference is likely imperceptible to the human eye. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, ideal for media consumption. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Realme 12+ provides smoother scrolling and animations, which feels more responsive. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2000 nits | Realme 12+ is significantly brighter, making it much easier to view under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | Dimensity 7050 (6 nm) | Realme 12+’s chipset generally performs significantly better, leading to faster app launches and better gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 396,564 | 601,000 | The Realme 12+ is noticeably faster in real-world usage and benchmarks, offering a smoother experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G68 MC4 | The Mali-G68 in the Realme 12+ is significantly more powerful and will perform better in games and GPU intensive apps |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both should provide similar all-day battery life for typical use, however, performance load will play a large role here |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 67W fast charging | Realme 12+ charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens Resolution | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76”) | 50MP (f/1.88, 1/2”) | Realme 12+'s sensor is a tad larger, suggesting better low-light performance. |
| Standard Lens Sensor | Samsung S5KJN1 | Sony LYT-600 | The Sony sensor in the 12+ should have better image processing. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.2, 1.00 µm) | 16MP (f/2.45) | Moto G71's selfie lens has a wider aperture, letting in more light and potentially better in low light. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP (f/2.2, 1.12 µm) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Both have similar wide angle lenses. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Both offer similar macro lens capabilities. |
| Video Resolution | 1080p@30/60fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps | Realme 12+ offers higher-resolution video recording and enhanced stabilization. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes | The Realme 12+ offers EIS for more stable videos. |
| Slow Motion | 60 FPS | 120 FPS | The Realme 12+ offers a slightly higher framerate for better slow motion videos. |
| Camera Features | Optical zoom, Laser autofocus (LAF), Continuous shooting, RAW | Optical Stabilization (OIS), 4K Video | Each phone has unique features; Moto G71 offers more control for photography, while Realme 12+ offers better video capture. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (max 12) | Android 14 (max 16) | Realme 12+ offers a newer OS with more updates, leading to more modern features and security patches. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (ac) | Wi-Fi 6 (ax) | Realme 12+ has faster Wi-Fi speeds and better performance in congested networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.2 LE | Realme 12+ has a newer Bluetooth version, with better energy efficiency and data transfer speeds. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | Moto G71 supports more satellite systems, for potentially better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano Sim | Dual Nano Sim | Both phones support dual sim cards |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Realme 12+ offers more storage options. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 8/12 GB | Realme 12+ has more RAM, allowing for better multitasking and smoother performance of intensive apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Realme 12+ has slightly better audio quality, with high-res playback and noise cancellation for clearer calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Rear-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both phones utilize fingerprint scanners. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Screen protection details are missing, this could be a big factor for some users |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint, Proximity: Proximity, Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Hall | Biometric: Fingerprint, Proximity: Proximity, Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Realme 12+ has a compass and Moto G71 has a hall sensor. These are not usually very big factors for most users. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G71 5G Strengths
- Lighter Build: The Moto G71 is significantly lighter, making it easier to handle for long periods.
- Wider Selfie Aperture: Its selfie camera might capture more light, which could be better for low-light selfies.
- More GPS Satellites: Could have better location accuracy with more supported GPS satellites.
- RAW Camera Capture: The ability to capture RAW images will appeal to some photography enthusiasts as the editing process allows more control.
Realme 12+ Strengths
- Brighter Display: The 2000 nits display is a huge advantage outdoors, providing significantly better visibility under sunlight.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate means more responsive scrolling and smoother animations.
- Faster Performance: A more powerful chipset that is much faster in benchmark and real-world scenarios with more RAM.
- Faster Charging: 67W charging is far quicker, getting you back to full power much faster.
- Better Video: 4k Recording with Electronic image stabilization (EIS) gives better video recording.
- More Storage: Up to 512 GB storage option.
- Newer OS: Comes with a more modern OS and is guaranteed to be supported for longer.
- Better Audio: Hi-Res audio, stereo speakers and noise cancellation should be noticed when consuming media and when talking on the phone.
Trade-offs
- Moto G71: The older OS, slower refresh rate, and slower charging are noticeable drawbacks. It might struggle with demanding tasks.
- Realme 12+: It's a bit heavier and bulkier, which might be an issue for some users.
- Both: Neither phone supports expandable storage.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G71 5G
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who need a capable phone at a lower price point and don't mind older software.
- Light Users: Individuals who primarily browse, use social media, and take occasional photos.
- Users Who Prefer a Lighter Phone: For those that are sensitive to phone weight.
Realme 12+
- Performance Enthusiasts: Gamers and those who need a fast, responsive phone for everyday tasks.
- Multimedia Consumers: People who watch lots of videos and play mobile games will enjoy the better display and sound.
- On-the-Go Users: Those who need fast charging and bright screens for outdoor visibility.
- Long-Term Users: Users who want the latest software, or want a phone that will be supported for longer and have newer features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Questions to Help Decide
- How important is outdoor visibility? If you spend a lot of time outdoors, the Realme 12+’s significantly brighter screen is a must.
- How much do you care about performance? If you play games or multitask heavily, the Realme 12+ offers much better performance.
- How important is the latest software? If you like the latest software, the Realme 12+ will be a clear winner
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Basic Daily Use: If you're a casual user who doesn't need top-tier performance, the Motorola Moto G71 5G is a viable option, though the compromises are significant with the older software, slower charging and less capable processor.
- Gaming and Multimedia: For the best experience with demanding apps, games and media, the Realme 12+ is the clear choice due to its faster processor, brighter and smoother display and enhanced audio.
- Photography Focused: While both have capable cameras, the Realme 12+ offers better quality videos, and for editing, it is more capable. The Moto G71 allows more control, but it is difficult to recommend over the much more performant Realme 12+.
- Long Term User: The Realme 12+ has a newer OS and newer hardware. It will be more supported long term, getting more software and security updates, making it the best choice.
What Would I Choose?
If I were in the market for a new phone between these two, I would choose the Realme 12+ without a second thought. While the Moto G71 5G might be a decent phone for basic tasks, the Realme 12+ outshines it in almost every aspect that matters most to me.
As someone who appreciates performance, spends time consuming media and often needs a bright screen outdoors, the Realme 12+ offers much better overall experience and its 120Hz display is a must-have. The faster processor and charging mean less time waiting and more time enjoying my phone. I value the better audio as well as the better video recording for capturing my memories. Ultimately, the Realme 12+ is simply the more versatile and forward-thinking choice, offering significantly more for the money and providing a better experience.
