Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the Motorola Moto G73 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. Both of these phones are vying for a spot in your pocket, but they take slightly different approaches to get there. Let's break it down, tech-friend style.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a table to get down and dirty with the details, focusing on real-world impact.
| Feature | Motorola Moto G73 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Size | 161.4 x 73.8 x 8.3 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | Moto G73 is slightly taller and thicker but both fit well in the hand. Note 12S might be more comfortable for those with smaller hands. |
| Weight | 181g | 176g | Xiaomi slightly lighter; more comfortable for prolonged use, but the difference is minimal. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.43" | Similar size, barely a difference; both offer good screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp and clear visuals on both. |
| PPI | 405 | 409 | Very similar pixel density; both are sufficiently sharp for everyday use. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | AMOLED offers significantly better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors—better for media consumption. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Moto G73’s 120Hz refresh rate results in smoother animations and scrolling—nice for gamers and everyday navigation. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1000 nits | Redmi Note 12S is significantly better for outdoor use, offering better visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 930 (6 nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Moto G73's Dimensity 930 provides a noticeable performance boost - faster app loading, smoother multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 497,466 | 412,400 | Moto G73 is generally faster and more responsive; better for demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | IMG BXM-8-256 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Both GPUs are capable, but the Dimensity 930's GPU will generally handle games a bit better on the Moto G73. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8, 1.0µm | 108MP f/1.8, 0.7µm | Redmi Note 12S’s high-resolution sensor captures more detail, especially in good lighting, but sensor size matters, too; Moto G73 has a slightly bigger pixel size. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.4, 1.0µm | 16MP f/2.4 | Comparable front-facing cameras, suitable for selfies and video calls. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP f/2.2, 1.12µm | 8MP f/2.2 | Both have similar wide-angle lenses, providing versatility. |
| Macro Lens | No | 2MP f/2.4 | Redmi Note 12S has a dedicated macro lens, good for close-up photography. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30/60fps, 240fps slow-mo | 1080p@30fps, 120fps slow-mo | Both capture good quality 1080p video; Moto G73 has slightly better slow-motion and has 4K video.. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, Dual camera, Ultra stable video, etc | Triple camera, etc | Moto G73 has 4K video and ultra-stable video, Redmi Note 12S has a triple camera. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have similar battery capacity, expected to last a full day for most users. |
| Charging | 30W | 33W | Redmi Note 12S has slightly faster charging, meaning less time plugged in. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, non-removable | Redmi Note 12S offers reverse charging, allowing it to charge other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 13 | Android 13 | Both phones are running similar versions of android. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | Moto G73's Wi-Fi 6 support provides faster and more reliable wireless connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 LE | 5.2 LE | Moto G73 has a newer Bluetooth version with extra codecs for better audio. |
| GPS | Full GPS support | Basic GPS support | Moto G73 has better and more complete GPS support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Both offer similar storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB/8GB | Both have good multitasking abilities, more RAM will always be better for demanding tasks. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage via microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Moto G73 has Dolby Atmos and 2 mics, and Note 12S has Hi-Res Audio; both have stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side mounted fingerprint | Side mounted fingerprint | Both have fingerprint scanners for biometric unlocking and security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 12S has better screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Redmi Note 12S has a gyroscope, which can be helpful for gaming. |
2. Key Insights
- Motorola Moto G73: This phone focuses on performance and smooth user experience with its Dimensity 930 chipset and 120Hz display. It also boasts better Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities. The audio is also better.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S: The highlight is its stunning AMOLED display, which offers vibrant colors and excellent outdoor visibility. It has a high-resolution 108MP main camera, a macro lens, and offers slightly faster charging, but not as good performance as the Moto G73.
How they translate to user experience:
- Moto G73: Feels more responsive and fluid in everyday use. Games run smoother, apps open faster, and overall it's a snappy experience.
- Redmi Note 12S: Media consumption is a joy thanks to that beautiful AMOLED screen. The high-resolution camera captures detailed photos, and the macro lens adds versatility. However, it can feel a bit slower compared to the Moto G73.
Trade-offs:
- Moto G73: It has an IPS LCD which doesn't have the pop that an AMOLED does, and it is missing a macro lens for close-up photography.
- Redmi Note 12S: While the display is amazing, the performance isn’t as robust as the Moto G73, and the older Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Moto G73:
- Ideal for: Performance-focused users, gamers, and those who value a smooth and responsive experience.
- Use Cases: Playing demanding games, multitasking, fast web browsing, and people who need reliable GPS for navigation. Also, if audio is important, the moto G73 has an edge here.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S:
- Ideal for: Media lovers, photography enthusiasts, and users who prioritize a vibrant and beautiful display.
- Use Cases: Watching videos, browsing photos, capturing detailed photos with its high-resolution camera, and those who want a great screen for everyday use in a well lit environment.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize performance or display quality? If raw speed and smoothness are paramount, go with the Moto G73. If a vibrant screen is your priority, the Redmi Note 12S is the one.
- How much do you care about camera versatility? If macro shots are important, the Redmi Note 12S has that extra lens, but the Moto G73 has better video and digital zoom capability, with a good main sensor with bigger pixels.
- How important is battery performance? Both phones are fairly equal here but the Note 12S has a slightly faster charge and can reverse charge.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Gamer: Moto G73 is the clear winner, due to its better processing power, smoother display, and better wifi.
- For the Photographer: Redmi Note 12S, because of the 108MP camera and extra macro lens for greater versatility.
- For the Average User: Depends on the priorities. For a smooth everyday experience, the Moto G73 is great. For a beautiful and engaging display for media consumption, the Redmi Note 12S wins here.
My Choice If I had to choose, I'd lean towards the Motorola Moto G73. While the AMOLED screen on the Redmi Note 12S is undeniably gorgeous, the Moto G73 offers a more balanced package. The stronger processor, 120Hz refresh rate, and better Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity makes it feel noticeably snappier and more future-proof.
I like to have a phone that feels fast and can handle whatever I throw at it, and the Moto G73 edges out the Redmi Note 12S in that regard. While the Redmi has that 108MP camera, the 50MP sensor with bigger pixels on the G73 will perform pretty well, too. For me, smooth operation is more important than having a macro lens.
I am not saying the Redmi is a bad phone! On the contrary, it excels in certain areas and for some people may be the better choice. However, the more well rounded option for me is the Moto G73.
