Okay, let's break down these two phones, the Motorola Moto G71 5G and the Samsung Galaxy S24+, and see how they stack up for everyday use. Buckle up, tech enthusiasts, because we're diving deep!
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed table comparing the specs, focusing on what they mean for you:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G71 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.2 x 73.9 x 8.5 mm | 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7 mm | Moto G71 is taller and thicker, while the S24+ is slightly wider and thinner. The G71 is more voluminous. S24+ might feel more compact. |
| Weight | 179g | 196g | Moto G71 is lighter, which could be more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.7" | S24+ offers a slightly larger display for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1440 x 3120 | S24+ has a significantly sharper screen, resulting in much clearer images and text. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 411 | 513 | S24+ display will appear much crisper and detailed, especially for reading or high-resolution content. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | Moto G71 offers great blacks and contrast with AMOLED technology; S24+ unknown but likely AMOLED as well, but not specified. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | S24+ provides much smoother scrolling and animations, making the experience feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2600 nits | S24+ will be much easier to view outdoors, even in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | S24+ provides significantly faster performance, better for gaming and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 396,564 | 1,639,695 | S24+ is over 300% more powerful, leading to snappier responses, faster app loading, and a better gaming experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 750 / Xclipse 940 | S24+ GPU will handle graphically intensive tasks much more smoothly. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 4900 mAh | Both offer similar battery capacity, suggesting similar battery life, depending on the use. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging (Li-Polymer) | 45W fast charging (Li-Ion) | S24+ will charge faster; S24+ provides a more modern battery chemistry. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, 15W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless charging | S24+ includes wireless charging and reverse charging, adding extra versatility. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm pixel size, Samsung S5KJN1 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", 1.00µm pixel size, Samsung GN3 | S24+ has a larger sensor and bigger pixels, which generally captures better low light detail and higher quality pictures. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.2, 1.00µm pixel size | 12MP, f/2.2, pixel size unknown | Moto G71 has higher MP count but it may not equate to better image quality without more detail about the sensor |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9", 1.00µm pixel size, Samsung S5K3K1 | S24+ offers additional telephoto zoom capability. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixel size | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.40µm pixel size, Sony IMX564 | S24+ has higher MP count and a larger sensor, resulting in better quality ultrawide images |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Moto G71 includes dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30/60fps | Up to 8K@24/30fps with HDR and EIS, 1080p@240fps | S24+ records up to 8K videos and includes advanced features like HDR recording and video stabilization and higher frame rate for slow motion. |
| Camera Features | LAF, Digital/Optical Zoom, Digital Image Stabilization | OIS, Night Mode 2.0, 4K/8K Video, Digital/Optical Zoom, Digital Image Stabilization | S24+ offers more advanced features, including optical image stabilization for better photos and videos. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (max 12) | Android 14 (max 21) | S24+ offers the latest Android version with longer support period. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | WiFi 6E (802.11ax) | S24+ supports newer Wi-Fi standards and higher bandwidth offering better wireless performance. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 5.3 LE with advanced protocols | S24+ supports advanced codecs, improving audio quality and device pairing capabilities. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | S24+ supports more satellites resulting in slightly improved accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM / eSIM | S24+ supports eSIM for flexibility in carrier options. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB | 256GB or 512GB | S24+ offers more storage for media, apps and files. |
| RAM | 6GB or 8GB | 12GB | S24+ has more RAM for smoother multitasking and better gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | None | None | Both lack expandable storage options. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 Microphones | Stereo speakers, Noise cancellation microphone | S24+ features dual speakers, with noise cancellation; Moto features Dolby Atmos and two microphones. Samsung provides clearer audio for media and calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Rear mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both offers basic biometric security for unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S24+ offers superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | S24+ features additional sensors for advanced environmental information and more accurate readings for gaming. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G71 5G
- Strengths:
- Lightweight Design: The Moto G71 is notably lighter, making it comfortable for long use.
- AMOLED Display: Offers excellent blacks and vibrant colours.
- Macro Lens: Provides a dedicated lens for detailed close-up shots.
- Dolby Atmos Audio: Could result in a more immersive audio experience.
- Affordability: Typically positioned as a more budget-friendly option.
- Limitations:
- Lower Performance: Significantly less powerful than the S24+, impacting speed and gaming.
- Older Software: Comes with an older Android version that could limit its lifespan.
- Basic Camera Capabilities: While it has a decent sensor, it lacks the advanced features and better performance of the S24+.
- Missing Features: No wireless charging or advanced display protection.
- Lower Resolution/Refresh Rate: Reduced visual clarity and less fluid animations compared to S24+.
Samsung Galaxy S24+
- Strengths:
- Top-Tier Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip offers blazing-fast speeds, great for gaming, multitasking, and any demanding task.
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, refresh rate, and brightness for a premium visual experience.
- Advanced Camera System: Includes a telephoto lens, larger sensors, and enhanced features like OIS and Night Mode.
- Modern Software: Ships with the latest Android version and has better long-term update support.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: Convenient for on-the-go power needs.
- Premium Build: Features a durable screen with superior protection.
- Better Connectivity: Supports the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards.
- Additional Sensors: Provides comprehensive sensor suite for advanced functionality.
- Higher Storage: Offers up to 512 GB compared to Moto's 128 GB.
- Limitations:
- Higher Price: Comes at a premium price point, placing it in a much higher class.
- Heavier: It is slightly heavier than the Motorola.
- No Macro Lens: Lacks a dedicated macro lens.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Moto G71 5G:
- Best for: Budget-conscious users, people who need a lightweight phone for basic tasks, and those who value battery life.
- Use Cases: Everyday browsing, social media, and basic photography. It’s a solid option for those who don’t need cutting-edge performance but want good value for money.
- Samsung Galaxy S24+:
- Best for: Power users, gamers, photography enthusiasts, and those who want the latest technology with all the bells and whistles.
- Use Cases: Professional photography, gaming, video editing, heavy multitasking, and high-definition content consumption. It's ideal for those who want a premium experience and are willing to invest in top-tier performance.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Before choosing, ask yourself these three questions:
- How important is performance and gaming to me? If you need a phone for resource-intensive tasks, the S24+ is essential. Otherwise, the Moto may suffice.
- How valuable are advanced camera features and a high-quality screen? If photography or display quality is paramount, the S24+ is a much better choice.
- What is my budget? The Moto G71 5G is a significantly more budget-friendly option, making it the obvious choice if cost is a major constraint.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Budget-Conscious Casual User: If you mainly use your phone for browsing, social media, and calls, and you want to keep costs down, the Motorola Moto G71 5G will meet your needs at an affordable price.
- Scenario 2: The Performance Enthusiast: If you're a gamer, use your phone for professional work, or need the fastest and most responsive experience, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ is worth the investment.
- Scenario 3: The Photography Fan: If the camera capabilities are paramount and you value the flexibility of shooting telephoto and wide, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ is the clear winner for its versatility and excellent picture quality.
- Scenario 4: The Average User Who Values All-Round Experience: If you don't need the best of the best for anything, and just want a good phone for everyday use the Moto G71 is a good choice to save money. However, it is old now, and you might want to consider a better, more modern budget phone if your goal is to save money.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would absolutely go for the Samsung Galaxy S24+. Here's why:
As a tech journalist and analyst, I value the best performance and latest technology. The S24+ delivers this in spades. The difference in performance between the Snapdragon 695 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is massive, and it impacts everything from app launch times to gaming experience.
Also, as someone who takes a lot of photos for reviews, I need a flexible and powerful camera. The inclusion of a telephoto lens, larger sensors, OIS, and superior video recording capabilities are incredibly useful to me.
While the price difference is significant, the S24+ provides an overall superior experience that I find worth the money. The S24+ also feels like it will last longer from a hardware and software perspective. The combination of blazing-fast performance, a stunning display, an advanced camera system, and modern connectivity make it a clear winner for me.
The Moto G71 5G is a great phone for what it is, but the performance and features of the S24+ make it the better choice if you can afford it.
