Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G73 and the TCL 50 SE. I've spent some time dissecting these specs, and I'm ready to break it down for you in a way that's both technically accurate and easy to understand.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a side-by-side look at the key specs, focusing on what they mean for you:
| Feature | Motorola Moto G73 | TCL 50 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Size | 161.4 × 73.8 × 8.3 mm | 168.2 × 75.5 × 8.1 mm | TCL is noticeably taller and a bit wider; Motorola is slightly thicker. |
| Weight | 181g | 195g | Motorola is lighter, better for one-handed use and extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.78" | TCL provides slightly more screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2460 | Both are sharp; TCL has minor increase in vertical pixels. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 405 | 396 | Both are very similar, will have same perceived sharpness. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Standard LCD, good color accuracy; no major difference |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Motorola offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 900 nits | TCL is significantly brighter, excellent for sunny conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 930 (6 nm) | Mediatek Helio G88 (12 nm) | Moto G73 has a more advanced, efficient processor. |
| Antutu Score | 497,466 | 250,000 | Moto G73 is much faster, better for gaming and multitasking. |
| GPU | IMG BXM-8-256 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Moto G73 has a more capable GPU. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Rear | 50MP, f/1.8, 1.0µm pixel size | 50MP, f/1.8, 0.64µm pixel size | Both are 50MP, Moto has bigger pixel size and potentially better low-light. |
| Selfie | 16MP, f/2.4, 1.0µm pixel size | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm pixel size | Moto G73 has higher resolution selfie; TCL has wider aperture, potentially better low light. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixel size | Not Available | Moto G73 has a dedicated wide-angle camera. |
| Macro | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm pixel size | TCL 50 SE includes a macro camera for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30/60fps, Slow-motion 240 fps | 1080p@30fps, Slow-motion 30 fps | Moto G73 offers 60fps, slow-mo at 240fps. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5010mAh | Very similar; expect comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 30W fast charging | 33W fast charging | TCL has slightly faster charging speeds. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 13 | Android 14 | TCL 50 SE has the newer Android version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | Moto G73 supports Wi-Fi 6 (newer standard) with additional features. |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, APT-x, LDAC, AAC | 5.1, EDR | Moto G73 has newer Bluetooth with higher-quality audio codecs. |
| GPS | More Satellites | Fewer Satellites | Moto G73 has better GPS accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer same internal storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 4 GB or 6 GB | Moto G73 has more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither offer expandable storage. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 mics | Stereo Speakers | Moto G73 has richer sound with better audio capture. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | side-mounted | side-mounted | Both have the same fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Insights
- Motorola Moto G73: This phone is a performance powerhouse, sporting a superior chipset, GPU, and more RAM, resulting in significantly better speed, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming capabilities. Its 120Hz display is also a treat for the eyes, making everyday interactions incredibly fluid. Additionally, it includes a wide-angle camera, a more advanced Bluetooth version with better audio codecs and newer Wi-Fi.
- TCL 50 SE: The TCL 50 SE distinguishes itself with its significantly brighter display, making it excellent for outdoor use in bright sunlight. It also boasts a newer Android OS out of the box and slightly faster charging speeds. It also has a dedicated macro camera.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Moto G73:
- Ideal for: Performance-focused users, gamers, multitaskers, and anyone who wants a smooth, responsive experience. Also, for those seeking better audio quality and advanced wireless connectivity.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, video editing, seamless app switching, demanding apps, capturing videos with the flexibility of 60fps and slow-mo, and better audio recording.
- TCL 50 SE:
- Ideal for: Users who spend a lot of time outdoors, prioritize battery life, and want a modern Android experience, and capture close-up photos with macro lens.
- Use Cases: Watching videos in bright conditions, casual social media browsing, everyday communication, and casual photo taking.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to ask yourself to help you decide:
- How important is performance and speed to you?
- If performance is key for mobile gaming or intensive multitasking, go for the Motorola Moto G73.
- If you need a reliable device for everyday tasks, the TCL 50 SE is a good option.
- Do you often use your phone outdoors in bright sunlight?
- If yes, the TCL 50 SE's bright screen is a big advantage.
- If not, the Moto G73's high refresh rate and display quality might be preferable.
- Do you need the highest audio/wireless quality or a wider range of camera options?
- If yes, Moto G73 has better audio, wireless connectivity and an extra wide angle camera.
- If no, the TCL 50 SE might be a better option with a macro camera.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Power User: If you're a demanding user who needs a phone that can keep up with heavy usage, the Motorola Moto G73 is the clear choice.
- The Outdoor Enthusiast: If you often use your phone under direct sunlight, the TCL 50 SE offers significantly better visibility.
- The Budget-Conscious Buyer: If you are looking for a modern, reliable experience at a low price point and are looking for a macro camera, the TCL 50 SE offers a good mix of features.
Which One Would I Choose?
Given my background as a tech journalist and my focus on performance and usability, I would choose the Motorola Moto G73. Here’s why:
- Performance: The Dimensity 930 chipset provides a level of speed and responsiveness that the Helio G88 simply can’t match. This translates to a much smoother experience, especially for gaming and multitasking, which I do a lot.
- Display Smoothness: The 120Hz refresh rate on the Moto G73 makes a noticeable difference in daily use. I appreciate the fluidity it brings to scrolling and animations.
- Audio and Wireless: As someone who is always listening to podcasts or music, the addition of Dolby Atmos and aptX, LDAC support is very important. I am also an enthusiast of new technologies like Wi-Fi 6.
- Camera Flexibility: I value the added flexibility of having a wide-angle lens for capturing different perspectives.
While the TCL 50 SE's brighter screen and newer OS are compelling, the overall performance and user experience with the Moto G73 aligns better with my needs and preferences. Plus, the slightly higher price (if there is any difference) is a worthwhile investment for the improved performance and feature set.
In short, for me, the Moto G73 offers the better blend of performance, features, and overall experience.
