Smartphone Comparison: Motorola One 5G Ace vs. Sony Xperia 1 IV
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola One 5G Ace | Sony Xperia 1 IV | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 166.1 x 76.1 x 9.9 mm | 165 x 71 x 8.2 mm | Sony is more compact and thinner, making it easier to handle and pocket; Motorola is bulkier and less ergonomic. |
| Weight | 212g | 185g | Sony is significantly lighter, which makes it more comfortable for prolonged use and less fatiguing. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | Motorola offers a slightly larger screen, which can be more immersive for media consumption but can be less convenient for one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1644x3840 | Sony's much higher resolution results in a dramatically sharper, crisper display, better for text and detailed images. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 393 | 643 | Sony's display will be noticeably sharper, with smoother text and more detailed images. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | Sony's OLED offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors compared to Motorola's IPS LCD. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Sony's 120Hz refresh rate provides much smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experiences compared to Motorola's 60Hz. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Unable to compare brightness, data unavailable. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Sony's chipset is significantly more powerful, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 330,000 | 1,076,100 | Sony offers significantly superior performance for demanding tasks and future-proof usage. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 730 | Sony's GPU provides a substantial increase in graphics processing power for graphically intense applications and games. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have similar battery capacities, offering comparable battery life depending on usage patterns. |
| Charging | 15W Fast | 30W Fast | Sony's 30W charging allows for significantly faster battery replenishment. |
| Features | 10W charger in-box, Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | Sony supports Bypass Charging to extend battery life during gameplay, Motorola includes 10W charger. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res | 48MP (f/1.7) | 12MP (f/1.7) | Motorola has a higher megapixel count; Sony has larger pixel size; Sony likely produces better low light results and dynamic range |
| Selfie Camera Res | 16MP (f/2.2) | 12MP (f/2.0) | Motorola has a higher megapixel count, but Sony has a wider aperture for better low light selfies. |
| Telephoto | None | 12MP (f/2.3) | Sony offers optical zoom capabilities for better zoomed photos, while Motorola does not. |
| Wide-angle | 8MP (f/2.2) | 12MP (f/2.2) | Sony's wide-angle lens likely captures better images. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | Motorola has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| ToF 3D sensor | None | Available | Sony has a ToF 3D sensor which enhances depth sensing for better portraits and AR applications. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps (EIS) | 4K@120fps (HDR, OIS, EIS) | Sony captures much smoother and higher quality videos, with more advanced stabilisation and slow-motion. |
| Camera Features | Multiple features | More advanced features, including OIS, 4K Video | Sony has advanced video recording features like optical zoom and stabilization. Motorola has laser autofocus and night mode. |
| DxoMark Score | Not Tested | 105 (Mobile) | Sony's camera performance is rated, with a specific overall score and scores for Photo and Video. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 12 (Upgradable) | Sony offers a newer version of Android, with more features and potentially better long-term support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | Sony supports the latest Wi-Fi standard for faster wireless speeds and better network performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE | Sony has a newer version of Bluetooth with better audio codec support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Sony supports more satellite systems, potentially improving location accuracy and stability. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM, eSIM | Sony offers the option for two SIM cards and eSIM, improving connectivity and usage. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128GB | 256/512GB | Sony provides significantly more internal storage for media, applications, and files. |
| RAM | 4/6GB | 12/16GB | Sony has much more RAM, resulting in smoother multitasking and better performance in demanding applications. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers the option to expand storage with an SD card. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 Microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Sony offers superior audio output with stereo speakers and supports high-resolution audio formats. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Rear-mounted Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Both have fingerprint sensors, with the side-mounted being more ergonomic. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus | Sony's screen is protected by Corning's most advanced screen protection for improved scratch and shatter resistance. |
| Sensors | Multiple Standard Sensors | Standard Sensors + Barometer | Sony has additional environmental sensor providing comprehensive data to the user. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola One 5G Ace Advantages:
- Larger Display: The 6.7" screen can be appealing for media consumption, although it is less sharp and has lower quality.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.
- Lower Cost: Expected to be significantly more affordable than the Sony, making it a budget-friendly option.
Practical Implications:
- The larger display makes viewing content enjoyable.
- Macro Lens provides a good option for photographers
- Ideal for budget-conscious users looking for a large screen device.
Sony Xperia 1 IV Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, OLED technology, and 120Hz refresh rate for a much sharper and smoother experience.
- Powerful Performance: Much more powerful chipset and GPU for smooth multitasking and gaming.
- Advanced Camera System: Telephoto lens, better main sensor pixel size, higher video quality, and additional features like OIS.
- Faster Charging: 30W fast charging compared to 15W.
- Better Audio: Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio for enhanced audio quality.
- Newer Software & Connectivity: Updated Android, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection.
Practical Implications:
- The sharper, smoother display provides an incredible experience for watching videos, playing games, and browsing.
- The performance boosts will ensure apps are fast, responsive and it can handle high performance games.
- The camera system offers impressive results, with great dynamic range and low-light performance and incredible video quality.
- The device offers faster charging and superior audio output for media consumption.
- Better connectivity and build quality.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Motorola: Sacrifices display quality, performance, and camera quality for a lower price.
- Sony: Higher price point and a slightly smaller screen size compared to the Motorola.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola One 5G Ace Ideal Users:
- Budget-conscious users seeking a large screen for media consumption.
- Users who prioritize battery life and macro camera features.
- Those who need a basic smartphone for daily tasks with 5G connectivity.
Use Cases:
- Watching videos and browsing social media.
- Taking macro photos of small objects or textures.
- Daily communication, browsing, and casual gaming.
Sony Xperia 1 IV Ideal Users:
- Power users who demand high performance for gaming, video editing, or multitasking.
- Photography and videography enthusiasts who want a top-tier camera system.
- Users who value a premium, immersive experience with the best possible display and audio.
- Professionals who require seamless performance and connectivity for work.
Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming with graphically intense titles.
- High-resolution video recording and editing.
- Professional photography and videography.
- Multimedia consumption with premium audio.
- Heavy multitasking with multiple demanding applications.
Price-to-Value:
- Motorola: Offers a good value for budget-conscious buyers.
- Sony: Represents a premium experience, justifying its price with top-tier performance, display, and camera.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a new smartphone?
- Primary Use: What will be your main use case(s) (e.g., gaming, photography, casual browsing)?
- Performance Needs: Do you require top-tier performance, or will a more basic device suffice?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If the budget is the primary concern, and a larger screen is desired, the Motorola One 5G Ace is a suitable option. The device is great for general use such as browsing and social media with the benefit of 5G.
- Scenario 2: Multimedia and Gaming Enthusiast: For users who prioritize a high-quality display, audio experience, and smooth performance for gaming and media, the Sony Xperia 1 IV is the clear winner.
- Scenario 3: Photography and Videography Focus: If you’re passionate about mobile photography and videography, the superior camera system, video recording capabilities, and advanced features of the Sony Xperia 1 IV make it the superior choice.
- Scenario 4: Balanced Usage & Future-Proofing: If you value overall performance, advanced features, the Sony Xperia 1 IV offers a premium experience with greater long-term value due to its powerful performance, and better software.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Sony Xperia 1 IV. While it is undoubtedly more expensive, the difference in user experience is substantial. The vastly superior display, much faster processor, better camera system with telephoto lens and high quality 4k video, better build quality, and faster charging outweigh the benefits of the slightly larger screen and macro camera of the Motorola. The Sony also offers a more premium feel with improved audio output and advanced connectivity. As someone who prioritizes performance, multimedia quality, and a superior overall experience, the Sony Xperia 1 IV aligns much better with my requirements.
