Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Motorola Moto G71 5G and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. On paper, these two phones might seem like they're playing in different leagues, and, well, that's because they are. But let’s look at the specifications and see what the real-world differences are, and where each phone shines, before we choose one for ourselves!
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two devices stack up against each other.
| Feature | Motorola Moto G71 5G | Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-01-19 | 2023-02-17 | The S23 Ultra is significantly newer, which usually means better software support and more modern components. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones; no folding or other special designs. |
| Dimensions | 161.2 × 73.9 × 8.5 mm | 163.4 × 78.1 × 8.9 mm | The S23 Ultra is larger and slightly thicker, likely less comfortable for smaller hands or tighter pockets, making the G71 a much more comfortable fit in the pocket. |
| Weight | 179g | 234g | The G71 is noticeably lighter making it easier to hold and use for extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.8" | The S23 Ultra offers a larger screen, better for multimedia consumption and productivity. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3088 | The S23 Ultra’s display is sharper, with more detail for images and text, but honestly for daily use you'd be hard-pressed to tell, making the 1080p resolution of the G71 completely acceptable. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 411 | 500 | The S23 Ultra’s display is crisper and more detailed than the G71's, especially noticeable in fine details like text and sharp edges. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED technology for rich colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The S23 Ultra's smoother 120Hz refresh rate is far more fluid than the G71’s 60Hz display. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1750 nits | The S23 Ultra is dramatically brighter, perfect for viewing in direct sunlight, whereas the G71 would struggle outdoors due to its poor nits rating. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | The S23 Ultra has a far more powerful and efficient chipset, resulting in smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and better gaming performance. |
| Antutu Score | 396,564 | 1,521,862 | The S23 Ultra is considerably faster, showcasing significantly higher performance in all tasks and applications. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 740 | The S23 Ultra's GPU is much more powerful, providing a better gaming experience and smoother graphics performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery capacity, indicating similar potential endurance. |
| Charging | 33W | 45W | The S23 Ultra charges faster, getting you back on the go more quickly. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | Bypass charging on the S23 Ultra allows for less battery degradation when plugged in for long periods. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | 200MP, f/1.7, 1/1.3" | The S23 Ultra's main camera has a much larger sensor and higher resolution which leads to better low light performance and detail. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | None | 12MP, f/2.4, 1/3.52" | The S23 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens, providing enhanced portrait capabilities compared to the G71 |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.2 | 12MP, f/2.2 | The G71 has a higher resolution front-facing camera, but ultimately this will come down to software processing. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 12MP, f/4.9, 1/3.52" | The S23 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens, offering much better zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | The S23 Ultra’s wide-angle lens is slightly higher resolution and has a bigger sensor for better dynamic range in wide shots. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | The G71 includes a dedicated macro lens, which the S23 Ultra lacks, meaning the G71 is the best choice for extreme close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p @ 30/60 fps | 8K @ 24/30fps & 4K @ 30/60fps | The S23 Ultra supports much higher video resolutions and frame rates with additional features such as HDR and image stabilization, and offers much better slow motion recording. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Tested | 140 (Mobile) | The S23 Ultra's camera performance is significantly superior to the G71, showing the true capabilities of its camera set up. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Upgradeable to 12 | Android 13, Upgradeable to 17 | The S23 Ultra offers a much newer OS out of the box, and longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | WiFi 6E | The S23 Ultra supports faster and more efficient WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | The S23 Ultra has a newer version of Bluetooth, offering better connectivity and more features. |
| GPS | Standard | More accurate, more satellite support | The S23 Ultra provides more accurate location data, useful for navigation and location-based services. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM / eSIM | The S23 Ultra supports eSIM for easier digital carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB | 256/512/1024 GB | The S23 Ultra offers much more internal storage options, particularly beneficial if you’re a heavy user of photos, videos, and large apps. |
| RAM | 6 or 8GB | 8 or 12GB | The S23 Ultra offers more RAM, allowing for smoother multitasking and running heavy apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | The S23 Ultra offers better audio quality with stereo speakers and Hi-Res playback. The G71 has Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Rear-mounted Fingerprint sensor | In-Screen Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer biometric security via fingerprint scanners, but the S23 Ultra’s is newer and integrated into the screen. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | The S23 Ultra is significantly more durable with its screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | The S23 Ultra has a more comprehensive set of sensors for better environmental awareness and device functionality. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G71 5G Strengths:
- Lightweight and Compact: The G71 is significantly lighter and smaller, making it more comfortable for one-handed use and carrying in a pocket.
- Good Battery Life: With a 5000mAh battery, it should comfortably last a full day for most users, though it doesn't have any battery-saving features.
- Macro Lens: The inclusion of a dedicated macro lens makes the G71 a great choice for extreme close-up photography.
- Dolby Atmos: Enhanced audio for a more immersive sound experience when using headphones and external speakers.
- Affordable price: The Moto G71 will undoubtedly cost a lot less, and is much more suited to people on a budget.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Strengths:
- Superior Display: The S23 Ultra has a larger, higher-resolution, and brighter display with a 120Hz refresh rate for a smoother, more vibrant viewing experience.
- High-End Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset delivers top-tier performance, ensuring a fluid experience even with demanding apps and games.
- Excellent Camera System: The 200MP main camera, coupled with advanced telephoto lenses, provides unmatched photography capabilities with better dynamic range, low-light performance, and zoom versatility.
- Advanced Features: Includes additional features like an under-screen fingerprint sensor, faster charging, wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and an eSIM.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Supports faster WiFi 6E and a newer Bluetooth 5.3 standard, providing more modern capabilities.
- Future-Proof: The S23 Ultra is a newer phone with better software support and more advanced features, which means it will likely last longer before becoming outdated.
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- Moto G71 5G: The G71's performance is noticeably weaker than the S23 Ultra, and its camera is not as capable, particularly in low light. It also has an older OS and limited software support, and the display isn't as bright or fluid.
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: The S23 Ultra is significantly larger, heavier, and more expensive than the G71. The lack of a macro lens might be a limitation for some users.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G71 5G: Best suited for budget-conscious users who prioritize portability, battery life, and a comfortable in-hand experience, or those that want to dabble in macro photography. Ideal for everyday tasks, social media, and some casual gaming.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Ideal for power users, photography enthusiasts, and gamers seeking top-tier performance, a premium display, and an exceptional camera experience. Great for content creators, professionals, and those who want the latest technology.
Specific Use Cases:
- G71 5G: Good for everyday browsing, calls, messaging, light gaming, and anyone who needs a reliable secondary device. A great option for the elderly due to its small form factor.
- S23 Ultra: Excels in professional photography and videography, graphic-intensive gaming, content creation, and multitasking with demanding apps. Perfect for anyone who wants cutting-edge technology and an unmatched mobile experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Key Questions:
- What’s your budget? The S23 Ultra is a premium device that comes with a premium price tag. If your budget is limited, the G71 is a much more affordable option.
- What is your main use case? If you mostly browse the web, use social media, and make calls, the G71 is enough for you. If you plan to do heavy gaming, photography, or content creation, the S23 Ultra is a better option.
- Do you prefer a larger screen and flagship features or a more compact and basic device? The S23 Ultra is significantly larger and comes with cutting-edge tech. The G71 is lighter and more comfortable for those who dislike large devices.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: The G71 offers a good balance of features and value.
- Scenario 2: Photography Enthusiast: The S23 Ultra delivers superior camera capabilities and flexibility.
- Scenario 3: Gamer/Power User: The S23 Ultra's powerful chipset and high-refresh-rate display make it ideal for gaming and intensive applications.
- Scenario 4: Basic User: The G71 is suitable for everyday tasks, light use, and is a comfortable phone due to its small size.
- Scenario 5: On the go: The G71 is much more comfortable and lighter in the pocket.
What I Would Choose and Why
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. While it's undeniably more expensive and bulky, my rationale boils down to future-proofing and overall experience.
Here’s why:
- Future-Proof Performance: As someone who uses my phone for a wide variety of tasks, including photo editing, light gaming, and productivity, I need a phone that can handle it all without breaking a sweat. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the S23 Ultra ensures this.
- Camera Versatility: I'm an avid photo taker, and the 200MP main camera coupled with the telephoto lenses and impressive video capabilities of the S23 Ultra offer the versatility and quality I want. I also often use my phone for document scanning, and the sharper images will really help.
- Superior Display: A bright, crisp, 120Hz display significantly enhances my daily phone use. I watch a lot of media on my phone, and the higher resolution of the S23 is a lot better than the 1080p display on the G71.
- Long-term Support: Being a newer device, the S23 Ultra will have longer software and feature support, providing better overall longevity.
- Improved Audio Experience: The inclusion of stereo speakers, and Hi-Res audio will greatly enhance my listening experience.
While the Motorola Moto G71 5G is undoubtedly a solid budget-friendly option, the S23 Ultra offers a more robust and complete mobile experience. For me, the additional investment is worthwhile for the leap in performance, camera capabilities, and overall quality.
