Alright, let's dive deep into the Nokia G60 and the Motorola Edge (2022). These two phones, while both aiming for the mid-range market, have some key differences that will sway different kinds of users. I've broken it down to make it clear which phone does what best, and more importantly, how those differences play out in daily life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's the detailed comparison table, with a focus on the real-world implications:
| Feature | Nokia G60 | Motorola Edge (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 166 × 75.9 × 8.6 mm, 190g | 160.9 × 74.2 × 8 mm, 170g | The Motorola is more pocketable and lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. The Nokia is slightly bulkier. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.58" | 6.6" | Negligible size difference; both offer ample screen real estate for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1080x2400 | Both are very similar in sharpness. Most users won't perceive a difference in pixel density at this range. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | OLED on the Motorola provides deeper blacks, richer colors, and better viewing angles compared to the IPS LCD on the Nokia. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 144Hz | Motorola's higher refresh rate offers a slightly smoother scrolling and gaming experience, although the difference might be minimal. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) | The MediaTek in the Motorola Edge has a higher Antutu score, suggesting better app loading and multitasking performance. |
| Antutu Score | 410,072 | 522,375 | Motorola Edge (2022) is ~27% faster, translating to smoother performance in demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Differences in GPU will affect graphics performance, with the Motorola's offering potentially better gaming capabilities. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 0.70µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1.00µm (1/1.55",OV50A) | Similar resolution, but larger pixels and a larger sensor on the Motorola likely capture more light and detail, especially in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 0.64µm | 32MP, f/2.45, 0.70µm | Motorola's higher resolution should result in sharper selfies and better detail. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP, f/2.0, | 13MP, f/1.5, 1.12µm | Motorola's wide-angle lens will capture higher resolution images with better low-light performance thanks to the wider aperture. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | The Nokia includes a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. Motorola relies on software processing |
| Macro Lens | None | 20MP, f/2.4, 0.90µm (1/2.83", OV24B1Q) | The Motorola has a dedicated macro lens that can capture detailed close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@30/60/120fps with EIS | Motorola captures much higher-quality video, including 4K, and also features video stabilization. |
| Camera Features | CDAF, Night Mode, 4K Video | OIS, PDAF | Nokia offers 4k recording, PDAF provides quicker focus, and OIS helps stabilize images. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Motorola's larger battery will likely provide longer battery life. |
| Charging | 20W Fast Charging, Lithium | 30W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | The Motorola charges faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, 15W Wireless, 5W Reverse, Non-removable | Motorola has several wireless charging options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 (upgradeable to 13) | Motorola will likely have at least one more software upgrade. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE | Slightly newer Bluetooth version on the Motorola, offering potential speed and connection stability improvements. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Motorola offers greater storage options, especially if you need a lot of space for media or apps. Neither has expandable storage. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB | 6GB/8GB | Motorola offers more RAM, which will help with multitasking. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio features | Dolby Atmos, Stereo speakers | Motorola has much more sophisticated audio features, which are ideal for media consumption. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass 3 | Nokia G60 offers superior screen protection. |
| Security | |||
| Biometrics | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | The side-mounted fingerprint sensor on the Nokia G60 provides a better experience. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | The Motorola has some advanced sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G60 Strengths:
- Solid Build Quality: The Gorilla Glass 5 provides superior screen protection, which can make the device more durable.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More convenient and faster than the standard sensor.
Motorola Edge (2022) Strengths:
- Superior Display: OLED screen for vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- Better Performance: More powerful processor and GPU, offering smoother overall experience.
- Enhanced Cameras: Better main, wide-angle, and macro camera with 4K recording capability.
- More RAM and Storage: More capable for multitasking and storing files.
- Longer Battery Life & Faster Charging: Larger battery capacity and faster charging are crucial for heavy users.
- Additional Features: Wireless charging and reverse charging increase flexibility for users.
- Better Audio: More immersive media experience thanks to the stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos and noise cancellation features.
- Better Sensor Array: For users who will take advantage of the additional sensors.
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- Nokia G60:
- Uses an IPS LCD screen, which is inferior to OLED in color and contrast.
- Less powerful processor and lower camera performance compared to the Motorola Edge.
- Lacks advanced audio and charging features.
- Motorola Edge (2022):
- While it has a larger battery, the brighter display and higher performance chip could cause it to have similar battery life to the Nokia, depending on usage.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Nokia G60:
- Users on a Budget: Those seeking a well-built device with a good screen and basic daily performance.
- Casual Users: Ideal for users who don't require heavy gaming or content creation and want a simple, reliable phone.
- Durability Focused: Users who prioritize screen protection from scratches and damage.
- Motorola Edge (2022):
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Users who watch a lot of videos, play games, and enjoy high-quality audio will appreciate the OLED screen, improved processor, and excellent audio.
- Content Creators: The better camera system, 4K recording, and larger storage makes it a better choice for content creators.
- Power Users: People who need a phone that can keep up with a busy schedule will benefit from the faster charging and longer battery life.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
How important is display quality to you?
- If you value vibrant colors and deep blacks, the Motorola's OLED screen is a must-have.
- If you’re okay with a decent screen, the Nokia is fine.
What will you use your phone for?
- If gaming, content creation, or frequent multitasking is part of your daily routine, the Motorola's more powerful hardware is better suited.
- If you use the phone for basic daily tasks and browsing, the Nokia G60 will suffice.
Do you value advanced charging and features?
- If you want wireless charging, reverse charging, and advanced audio features, the Motorola is the winner.
- If basic charging and audio features are sufficient, then the Nokia will suffice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Budget-Conscious User If you primarily need a reliable phone that will perform basic functions, the Nokia G60 might be the better choice as it is cheaper and you will not be paying for features you do not need.
- Scenario 2: The Multimedia Lover If media consumption is your primary use-case, the Motorola Edge will be the better option.
- Scenario 3: The Photography Buff If photography and video quality are your major priorities, the superior camera system and video quality of the Motorola Edge make it the clear winner.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two, I would go for the Motorola Edge (2022).
Here's why: As a tech journalist, I am always multitasking, whether it be creating content, researching, or gaming. I also value high-quality video and photography. For all of these reasons, the Motorola's more powerful processor, superior display, enhanced camera system and larger battery make it the better choice. It just provides a much more capable and modern experience than the Nokia, even though the Nokia does have superior build quality on its display.
