1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Motorola Moto G85 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164 × 75.9 × 9.7 mm | 161.9 × 73.1 × 7.6 mm | Moto G85 is more compact and easier to handle, M12 is bulkier. |
| Weight | 212g | 171g | Moto G85 is significantly lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.67" | Moto G85 offers a slightly larger viewing area. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Moto G85 provides much sharper and more detailed visuals. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 395 | Moto G85 has a noticeably crisper display, better for text and images. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | P-OLED | Moto G85 offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Moto G85 has slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1600 nits | Moto G85 is much better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 (6 nm) | Moto G85 offers significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,341 | 475,000 | Moto G85 has dramatically superior performance, future-proof for apps and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Adreno 619 | Moto G85 offers a more capable GPU, translating to improved graphics performance, better for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | Moto G85 has slightly higher resolution, potentially more detail in photos. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/1.79 | Moto G85 captures more light, better in low-light conditions. |
| Main Camera Sensor | Samsung S5KGM2 | Sony LYT-600 | Moto G85 has a better image sensor for quality. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.00 µm | Moto G85 has larger pixels, better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 8MP | 32MP | Moto G85 produces much more detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.4 | M12 might perform slightly better in low-light for selfies, but differences are minimal. |
| Wide Angle Lens Resolution | 5MP | 8MP | Moto G85 has a better wide angle lens. |
| Portrait Mode | Yes | No | M12 has a dedicated depth camera for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | Yes | No | M12 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps | Moto G85 offers more flexibility with 60fps video recording. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes | Moto G85 offers digital video stabilization for smoother videos. |
| OIS | No | Yes | Moto G85 offers OIS for steadier photos and videos. |
| DXOMark Main Score | - | 88 | Moto G85 has significantly better camera performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 15W | 30W | Moto G85 charges significantly faster. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Moto G85 has a more up-to-date Android version with latest features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | Moto G85 has newer WiFi standard for faster speeds and better performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 LE | Moto G85 offers a newer Bluetooth version with Low Energy support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Moto G85 offers better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM / eSIM) | Moto G85 offers eSIM for digital carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 32GB/64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Moto G85 offers more storage capacity. |
| RAM | 3GB/4GB/6GB | 8GB/12GB | Moto G85 provides much better multitasking capabilities. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic audio features | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Moto G85 offers a richer, more immersive audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic | M12 features a more advanced side mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Moto G85 has a superior screen protection. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy M12 Advantages:
- Dedicated Macro and Depth Camera: Offers versatility in photography, specifically close-up and portrait shots.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Can be more ergonomic for some users.
- Slightly wider aperture in selfie camera: Potentially better selfies in very low light.
- More bluetooth features: Supports more bluetooth features for broader compatibility
Practical Implications:
- The M12's additional cameras provide niche photo features, while the other features are more user preference.
Motorola Moto G85 Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, P-OLED technology, 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness significantly improve viewing experience, especially outdoors.
- Significantly Better Performance: The Snapdragon chipset offers a much smoother and faster user experience.
- Better Main Camera: The Sony sensor, wider aperture and larger pixels results in improved image quality and low light performance.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: 32MP provides much clearer and more detailed selfies.
- Faster Charging: 30W charging is significantly faster than 15W.
- More Up-to-date Software: Android 14 offers the latest features and security updates.
- More RAM and Storage: 128/256GB storage and 8/12GB RAM leads to more multitasking and more storage capabilities.
- Better Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers offer a much more immersive audio experience.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 offers superior screen protection.
- Improved Connectivity: Latest WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS standards.
- eSIM support: Convenient for digital carrier switching
Practical Implications:
- The G85 provides a more modern, responsive, and overall better user experience in daily use.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Moto G85 lacks dedicated macro and depth cameras which the M12 provides.
- The Samsung Galaxy M12 has a slightly wider aperture in the selfie camera, however, the pixel count difference would outweigh this.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy M12:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize a large screen, long battery life, and niche camera features like macro photography. Users who prefer a wider range of bluetooth options may also choose this.
- Use Cases: Casual browsing, media consumption, basic photography, users who need a reliable phone for everyday tasks and do not prioritize speed or display quality.
- Price-to-Value: The M12 is generally a lower-cost option, but the G85 is a better value overall due to its superior components and overall capabilities.
Motorola Moto G85:
- Ideal User: Users seeking a well-rounded smartphone with a great display, strong performance, improved camera capabilities, and fast charging. Users who want a future-proof and modern device.
- Use Cases: Gaming, media consumption, heavy multitasking, frequent photography and videography, users who need a phone that performs well across all use cases. Users who value a high-quality display and smooth performance.
- Price-to-Value: Despite likely being more expensive, the G85 offers significantly more value for the investment, due to its better components and user experience.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget and priorities? Are you looking for the most affordable option or willing to pay more for better features?
- How important are display quality and performance to you? Do you need a device that is smooth and responsive for gaming and heavy use?
- Are dedicated macro and depth cameras a priority for your photography needs? Or are you ok with more general photo capabilities?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget User with Basic Needs: If you are on a tight budget and only need a basic smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy M12 will suffice for casual use.
- User Who values Camera versatility: If macro and depth capabilities are key, and you dont mind the low performance, and subpar display, the M12 may be preferred.
- Performance and Display Focused User: If you prioritize display quality, smooth performance, and overall user experience, the Motorola Moto G85 is the superior choice.
- Daily Driver User: The Moto G85's features such as faster charging, better cameras, more storage, and better display will improve everyday usage.
My Choice
I would choose the Motorola Moto G85.
While the Samsung Galaxy M12 has a few niche advantages, the Moto G85's overall superiority in display quality, performance, camera capabilities, faster charging, software, and audio features makes it a much better investment for the majority of users. The higher resolution, P-OLED display, and 120Hz refresh rate alone provide a much more enjoyable user experience. The significantly faster chipset translates to a smoother, more responsive phone, and the modern design is more attractive. The G85 offers a more future-proof and complete smartphone experience, making it well worth the investment over the budget M12. Even though the macro camera and portrait camera are not present on the G85, the advantages in the main camera and general performance make this a more suitable choice.
