Alright, let's dive deep into the Nokia G21 and Motorola Moto G73. These two phones occupy a similar space in the market, but a closer look reveals some significant differences that could make all the difference for you. I'll break down their specs, highlight key strengths, and help you figure out which one aligns best with your needs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison of the Nokia G21 and Motorola Moto G73, keeping in mind what these specs mean in real-world use:
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Motorola Moto G73 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-02-15 | 2023-01-24 | Moto G73 is a newer device, potentially with more up-to-date software and features. |
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.5 mm | 161.4 × 73.8 × 8.3 mm | Moto G73 is slightly smaller and thinner, possibly more comfortable for one-handed use; Nokia G21 is slightly larger. |
| Weight | 190g | 181g | Moto G73 is lighter by 9g, which can be a subtle but noticeable difference during prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.5" | Both have the same screen size. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Moto G73 has a significantly sharper display with more detail, better for reading and viewing images/videos. |
| PPI | 270 | 405 | Moto G73 has a much higher pixel density, making text and images clearer. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use standard LCD tech, decent viewing angles and color accuracy. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Moto G73 has a smoother scrolling and animation experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have identical peak brightness at 0 nits (likely a data error, we'd need to investigate for real-world data). |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 930 (6 nm) | Moto G73’s processor is significantly more powerful, offering faster app loading, better multitasking, and improved gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 497,466 | Moto G73 has almost double the benchmark performance, translating to a much snappier user experience. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | IMG BXM-8-256 | Moto G73 has a more capable GPU, providing better graphics performance, especially in games and demanding apps. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 5000mAh | Very similar battery sizes, expected comparable battery life, which should be good for a full day on average use. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging (Li-Ion) | 30W Fast Charging (Li-Polymer) | Moto G73 charges considerably faster, which is very convenient when you're in a rush. Also, the Li-Polymer battery in the Moto is more modern and generally safer and more reliable. |
| Features | Non-removable, In box charger 10W | Non-removable | Nokia G21 comes with a charger in the box while the Motorola Moto G73 does not. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" sensor, 0.64 µm pixels | 50MP, f/1.8, 1.00 µm pixels | Both offer similar main sensor resolutions; The Moto G73 sensor has much bigger individual pixels, potentially better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 16MP, f/2.4, 1.00 µm pixels | Moto G73 has higher resolution and pixel size, suggesting better quality selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12 µm pixels | Moto G73 has a wide-angle camera for more versatile shots, something the Nokia G21 lacks. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Nokia G21 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Nokia G21 has a dedicated macro lens. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps, Slow-mo: 240 fps | Moto G73 has a slightly more capable video suite, offering 60 fps recording and slow motion. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Upgradable to 13 | Android 13 | Moto G73 has a more up-to-date OS out of the box, ensuring the latest features and security patches. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/n 5GHz | 802.11a/b/g/n/n 5GHz/ac/ax, WiFi 6 | Moto G73 supports faster WiFi 6, offering faster speeds and better performance on modern networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.3 LE, APT-x, LDAC, AAC | Moto G73 has a newer Bluetooth standard with better audio codec support, ensuring superior sound quality with compatible headphones. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), NavIC System | Moto G73 has more GPS bands for better location accuracy, especially useful in challenging conditions. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Moto G73 has more internal storage, good for storing lots of photos and apps. |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6 GB | 8 GB | Moto G73 has more RAM for smoother multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Moto G73 has a superior audio experience with enhanced spatial sound and better stereo audio. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both offer similar biometric security options. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass | Moto G73 includes a compass which is useful for navigation. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G21 Strengths:
- Battery Focus: While similar in capacity, the Nokia G21's focus seems to be on battery longevity, with claims of multiple days of use on a single charge.
- Dedicated Camera Lenses: It offers dedicated macro and depth sensors, which could be useful if you like to experiment with different photography styles.
- In-box Charger: The Nokia includes a 10W charger in the box, which the Motorola does not.
Motorola Moto G73 Strengths:
- Performance Leap: The Dimensity 930 chip and higher RAM result in a much faster and smoother user experience, making the Moto G73 the clear winner for performance.
- Superior Display: The sharper, higher-resolution screen with a 120Hz refresh rate makes daily usage more enjoyable, especially for media consumption.
- Enhanced Camera System: The larger pixels on the main camera, the addition of a wide-angle lens and the higher resolution selfie camera makes the Moto G73 a much more versatile camera setup.
- Modern Software and Connectivity: The Moto G73 offers a newer version of Android, faster WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3, future-proofing the device and offering better connectivity.
- Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers provide a richer and more immersive audio experience.
- Better Charging: The 30W fast charging is much more convenient and efficient, reducing downtime.
- More Storage and RAM: The Moto G73 offers more storage and RAM, which gives the phone much more potential.
Trade-offs:
- The Nokia G21's main advantage is in the dedicated depth and macro lenses, which could be useful if you specifically take many macro or portrait shots. However, the Moto G73 has a wide-angle camera for much more versatility.
- The Moto G73 lacks a charger in the box, requiring a separate purchase.
- Neither phone has expandable storage.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G21 is ideal for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: If your primary concern is getting a reliable device at a lower price point, and you don't mind sacrificing on processing power or advanced features.
- Long-lasting Battery Needs: If you need a device that can last for days, the Nokia G21's battery is more appealing.
- Casual Photography: If you like to experiment with different photography modes, and value having dedicated macro and depth sensors.
Motorola Moto G73 is ideal for:
- Performance Seekers: If you use your phone for gaming, multitasking, or demanding apps, the Moto G73 offers a significantly better experience.
- Media Enthusiasts: If you love watching videos or browsing through social media, the Moto G73's display and audio features make it a clear winner.
- Camera Versatility: If you like taking different types of photos and want a better selfie experience.
- Future Proofing: If you want the latest version of Android with faster WiFi and Bluetooth options, the Moto G73 is more modern.
- Users who prioritize a great user experience: The Moto G73 offers a much smoother experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- What’s my budget? If price is your number one concern, the Nokia G21 may be the better option, though you sacrifice a lot in terms of performance and user experience. If you can afford to spend a little more, the Moto G73 provides much better value for money.
- How important is performance for me? If you need a phone for basic tasks, then the Nokia G21 is fine. However, if you play games or use demanding applications, you definitely need the Moto G73 for the best experience.
- How important is the camera? If you like to take selfies, then the Moto G73 has the better option. Both phones have similar main cameras. If you want versatility in your camera setup, the wide-angle camera in the Moto G73 is important to consider.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Casual User: You primarily use your phone for calls, texts, browsing, and social media; and you don't want to spend too much. The Nokia G21 might be sufficient if battery life is important for you.
- The Power User: You want a phone for everything: gaming, watching videos, taking lots of pictures, and running multiple apps; all while having a smooth experience. The Motorola Moto G73 is the right choice for you.
- The Photography Enthusiast: You often use your phone camera, like to experiment with macro photography and portraits, and value a good selfie camera. The Motorola Moto G73 offers a more versatile system with the wide-angle lens and higher resolution selfie camera.
Final Thoughts
The Motorola Moto G73 is clearly the superior phone here, offering better performance, a superior display, a more versatile camera system, and more up-to-date software and connectivity. While the Nokia G21 might be suitable for users on a very strict budget with its dedicated macro and portrait cameras, and longer battery life potential, I would strongly recommend spending a little more for the overall much better user experience provided by the Moto G73.
My Choice:
Personally, I would choose the Motorola Moto G73. As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I value performance and a smooth experience more than anything else. While the Nokia G21 has a few interesting camera features and may have better battery life, the Moto G73’s superior processor, display, camera, connectivity and overall user experience would make the additional cost totally worth it for me. The Moto G73 is the better all-around device and would be much more enjoyable to use daily.
