1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Realme 8 | Motorola Edge (2022) | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-03-25 | 2022-09-22 | Motorola is significantly newer, likely with more up-to-date software and features. |
| Dimensions | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 160.9 × 74.2 × 8 mm | Almost identical physical size, making handling similar. |
| Weight | 177g | 170g | Motorola is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for long-term use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.6" | Motorola has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same detail; sharpness is similar. |
| PPI | 411 | 399 | Very similar screen sharpness; both appear crisp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; minor difference in technology. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 144Hz | Motorola display will appear much smoother, especially during scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 0 nits | Realme is significantly better for outdoor visibility under sunlight. Brightness is a major difference in these two phones. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12 nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) | Motorola is more efficient and more powerful, likely to offer better performance, especially in demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 522,375 | Motorola offers noticeably better performance in benchmarks which translates to snappier performance overall. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Motorola has better graphics performance which benefits gaming and video editing. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" | Motorola's larger sensor size captures more light, resulting in better low-light images. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13" | 32MP, f/2.45 | Motorola has higher resolution front camera, better for detail-rich selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.25 | 13MP, f/1.5 | Motorola has wider aperture which performs better in low light and better resolution. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 20MP, f/2.4, 1/2.83" | Motorola's macro lens has significantly higher resolution for more detailed close up shots. |
| Black & White Lens | 2MP | None | Realme has dedicated monochrome lens for artistic black and white shots. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps EIS, 1080p@120fps EIS | 4K@30fps EIS, 1080p@120fps EIS | Both offer similar video capabilities in terms of resolution and fps. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes | Motorola offers electronic video stabilization which reduces the effects of camera shake. |
| Slow-Motion | Yes, 240 fps | Yes, 120 fps | Realme has better slow-motion capabilities. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery life. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Both support 30W fast charging, expect similar charging times. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse, Wireless Charging | Motorola offers more convenient battery features like wireless and reverse charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12, upgradable to 13 | Motorola has newer OS version and likely offers better compatibility with newer apps and features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Motorola supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE | Motorola offers slightly more modern Bluetooth version for more stable connections. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Motorola offers the flexibility of using an eSIM for easy carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | Motorola offers more internal storage, which is more suitable for users with a lot of media. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | Both have good multitasking capabilities. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows memory expansion, potentially limiting for media-heavy users. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Motorola provides a more immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Basic | Both have standard fingerprint sensors for basic security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Motorola provides more reliable protection against scratches and damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Motorola provides a more comprehensive sensor suite, better for gaming and apps that rely on sensor data. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 8 Advantages:
- Brighter Display: Offers a significantly brighter display, which excels in direct sunlight readability (1000 nits vs 0 nits).
- Better Slow-motion Video: Offers a higher slow motion frame rate of 240fps vs Motorola's 120fps.
- Dedicated Black & White Camera: For users interested in artistic, monochrome photography.
- Hi-Res Audio: For audiophiles who prioritize high-quality music playback through wired headphones.
Motorola Edge (2022) Advantages:
- Newer & More Powerful Chipset: The Dimensity 1050 offers better performance and efficiency compared to the Helio G95.
- Smoother Display: 144Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations feel much more fluid.
- Better Cameras Overall: Larger primary sensor, higher resolution front and macro cameras, and wider aperture on wide-angle lens result in improved image quality, especially in low-light conditions.
- Wireless & Reverse Charging: Offers more convenience with wireless charging and the ability to charge other devices.
- Optical Image Stabilization: Provides better video stability and sharper photos.
- Newer Operating System: Android 12, upgradable to 13, compared to Realme's Android 11.
- More Internal Storage: Offers a 256 GB option for users with large media libraries.
- Superior Audio: Dolby Atmos, stereo speakers, and a noise-canceling microphone enhance the audio experience.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 provides better screen scratch resistance.
- More sensors: Including compass and barometer for more versatility in apps that use sensor data.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Realme 8 sacrifices performance and future software updates for a better outdoor display and a better slow motion recording capability.
- Motorola Edge (2022) does not have dedicated monochrome lens which may be of importance to some users.
- Motorola Edge (2022) has no value for display brightness, this is a major disadvantage.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Realme 8:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Users who frequently use their phone in bright sunlight.
- Budget-Conscious Photographers: Users who want a dedicated monochrome lens.
- Slow-Motion Video Fans: Users who prioritize better slow-motion recording with higher frame rate.
- Users with wired headphones: Who can take advantage of Hi-Res Audio.
Use Cases for Realme 8:
- Taking photos and videos in bright outdoor environments.
- Capturing artistic black and white photos.
- Recording high frame rate slow-motion videos.
- Listening to music with wired headphones.
Ideal Users for Motorola Edge (2022):
- Gamers: Users who prioritize a smooth display and better graphics performance.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want better overall image quality and versatility.
- Power Users: Users who need more performance for demanding tasks and multitasking.
- Audiophiles: Who like listening to music with stereo speakers and take advantage of Dolby Atmos.
- Users Wanting Future-Proofing: Users who prefer newer software and better compatibility with new apps.
- Users needing a more comprehensive suite of sensors.
- Users wanting more wireless conveniences: Who will be able to take advantage of wireless and reverse charging.
Use Cases for Motorola Edge (2022):
- Playing graphically intensive games.
- Capturing photos and videos in various lighting conditions.
- Multitasking between multiple applications.
- Enjoying media with enhanced audio quality.
- Using navigation apps that rely on multiple sensors.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Do you prioritize outdoor screen visibility over everything else? If the user frequently uses the phone under direct sunlight then Realme 8 is the obvious choice.
- Are you a heavy mobile gamer or media consumer who values a smoother experience? If the user wants a smoother experience then Motorola Edge (2022) is the best choice.
- Do you prioritize camera quality, newer software, and additional features like wireless charging? Motorola offers better camera performance, more modern software, and added conveniences such as wireless charging.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Bright sunlight visibility is critical.
- Recommendation: Realme 8 is the preferred choice due to its significantly brighter display.
- Scenario 2: Performance and Overall Camera Quality are Essential.
- Recommendation: Motorola Edge (2022) is the superior choice, offering better performance, better camera, and more modern features.
- Scenario 3: A balanced usage between photography and performance.
- Recommendation: Motorola Edge (2022) is a better fit. It delivers a smoother experience while providing a better camera system than Realme 8.
My Choice
I would choose the Motorola Edge (2022).
While the Realme 8 has a significant advantage in screen brightness, the Motorola Edge (2022) offers a more balanced and future-proofed package. The newer chipset and 144Hz refresh rate provide a significantly better user experience, while the better camera sensors and additional features such as wireless charging and OIS make the Motorola a more versatile phone for everyday use. I believe most users will appreciate the superior performance and software of the Motorola Edge (2022) as opposed to the high brightness and somewhat outdated internals of the Realme 8.
