OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Motorola Moto G72: In-Depth Comparison
Both phones target the mid-range segment, but they take different approaches. The OnePlus Nord CE 5G leans toward performance and camera flexibility, while the Moto G72 emphasizes media consumption, battery life, and a newer chipset. Below, we break down the differences and help you decide which fits your needs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G72 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 160.5 × 74.4 × 7.9 mm | G72 is slightly taller, but both feel compact for their screen sizes. |
| Weight | 170g | 166g | Negligible difference in hand feel. |
| Build Quality | Plastic frame, glass back | Plastic frame, glass back | Both feel premium for the price, but neither offers IP rating. |
Key Takeaway: Both are sleek and light, so design won’t be the deciding factor.
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G72 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.6" P-OLED | G72 is larger, better for videos/gaming. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Smoother scrolling and animations on G72. |
| Brightness | 700 nits (peak) | Not specified (likely dimmer) | Nord CE 5G is much better in sunlight. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1080x2400 (402 PPI) | Same sharpness, but AMOLED on Nord has slightly better contrast. |
Key Takeaway:
- For media consumption? Moto G72 (larger, 120Hz).
- For outdoor use? Nord CE 5G (brighter screen).
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G72 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | MediaTek Helio G99 (6nm) | G99 is newer and slightly faster (~8% in benchmarks). |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 619 is more optimized for gaming. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 6/8GB | Nord CE 5G’s 12GB option is great for heavy multitasking. |
| Storage | 128/256GB (non-expandable) | 128/256GB (non-expandable) | Equal storage, but no microSD on either. |
Key Takeaway:
- Raw performance? Moto G72 (Helio G99 is slightly better).
- Future-proofing? Nord CE 5G (12GB RAM option).
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G72 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, OV64B) | 108MP (f/1.7) | G72 has higher resolution, but Nord CE 5G has better low-light processing (based on DxOMark). |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 8MP (f/1.9) | G72’s wider aperture helps in low light. |
| Extra Lenses | 2MP B&W (for depth) | 2MP Macro | G72’s macro is more useful than Nord’s B&W sensor. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps (with EIS) | 1080p@60fps | Nord CE 5G wins for videography. |
| Selfie | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | 16MP | Similar quality, but Nord’s sensor is more proven. |
Key Takeaway:
- For photography? Nord CE 5G (better processing, 4K video).
- For versatility? Moto G72 (macro lens, higher main sensor MP).
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G72 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | G72 lasts longer (~10-15% more). |
| Charging | 30W (Li-Polymer) | 33W (Li-Ion) | Similar speeds; G72 charges slightly faster. |
| Audio | Noise cancellation mic | Dolby Atmos, stereo speakers | G72 is better for media & gaming. |
Key Takeaway:
- Battery life? Moto G72 (bigger battery).
- Multimedia? Moto G72 (better speakers).
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths:
✅ Better display brightness (700 nits vs. unspecified) – crucial for outdoor use.
✅ Superior videography (4K recording vs. 1080p on G72).
✅ More RAM options (up to 12GB) for heavy multitasking.
✅ Fingerprint sensor + face unlock (vs. G72’s fingerprint only).
Motorola Moto G72 Strengths:
✅ Bigger battery (5000mAh) + faster charging (33W).
✅ 120Hz display (vs. 90Hz on Nord CE 5G).
✅ Better speakers (Dolby Atmos, stereo sound).
✅ Newer chipset (Helio G99) for slightly better efficiency.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Choose the OnePlus Nord CE 5G if you:
📸 Take lots of photos/videos (better processing, 4K recording).
☀️ Use your phone outdoors often (brighter screen).
⚡ Want extra RAM (12GB option for power users).
Choose the Motorola Moto G72 if you:
🎮 Play games & watch media (120Hz, stereo speakers).
🔋 Need longer battery life (5000mAh).
💨 Prefer smoother UI (120Hz + slightly faster chipset).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I care more about camera quality or battery life?
- Camera = Nord CE 5G.
- Battery = Moto G72.
- Is a 120Hz display worth sacrificing brightness?
- Yes (for smoothness) = Moto G72.
- No (for outdoor use) = Nord CE 5G.
- Do I need 4K video recording?
- Yes = Nord CE 5G.
- No = Moto G72.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d go with the OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
Why?
- Display brightness matters—700 nits makes outdoor use far better.
- 4K video recording is a big plus for content creators.
- More RAM options (12GB) ensure longevity.
That said, if you prioritize battery life and media consumption, the Moto G72 is a great alternative. Both are strong mid-rangers—it just depends on your needs!
Which one would you pick? Let me know in the comments! 🚀
