1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Motorola Moto G Power (2022) | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 167.2 x 76.5 x 9.4 mm | Motorola is taller and thicker, making it feel bulkier in hand. S21+ is more pocketable and sleek. |
| Weight | 200g | 203g | Negligible difference in weight, both feel similar in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | S21+ has a slightly larger display, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | S21+ has a much sharper display; text and images look significantly clearer. Moto G Power display will appear less sharp. |
| Pixel Density | 394 ppi | 270 ppi | S21+ screen is noticeably sharper and more detailed than the Moto G. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | S21+ offers superior colors, contrast, and deeper blacks. Moto G has a decent but less vibrant display. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21+ screen looks smoother when scrolling or gaming. Moto G will have a slightly less fluid experience. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21+ has much better outdoor visibility, especially in bright sunlight. The Motorola's screen brightness is not provided, implying a significant disadvantage outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5nm) | Mediatek Helio G37 (12nm) | S21+ has a significantly faster and more efficient chipset. Expect smoother performance across all tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 159,800 | S21+ offers a vastly superior user experience: apps load faster, better gaming performance, smoother multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | PowerVR GE8320 | S21+ has superior graphics performance for gaming and demanding apps. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 12MP | 50MP | Moto G has a higher resolution main sensor, but megapixels don't determine quality by themselves. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.76" | 1/2.76" | S21+ has a larger sensor size, typically capturing more light and detail, leading to better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto Camera | 64MP | None | S21+ offers optical zoom for better quality zoomed photos. The Moto G lacks a telephoto camera for zoomed shots. |
| Wide-Angle Camera | 12.2MP | None | S21+ has an ultrawide camera to capture wide scenic shots and macro images. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP | 8MP | S21+ offers slightly higher resolution. |
| Other Cameras | None | 2MP (depth), 2MP (macro) | Moto G has dedicated macro and depth sensors, potentially better for these specific shooting modes. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | S21+ allows for professional-grade video recording. The Moto G is limited to HD recording. |
| Video Stabilization | Yes | No | S21+ has better video stabilization, reducing shake and blur during recording. |
| DXOMark Score | 111 | N/A | S21+ has a good camera score, but the Moto G's camera has not been tested. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 5000mAh | Moto G has a slightly larger battery, likely offering slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | S21+ charges much faster reducing wait time; Moto G will take a longer time to charge. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | None | S21+ can charge wirelessly; Moto G does not have wireless charging feature. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 | Both phones launch with Android 11. |
| Max OS Version | Android 15 | Not Specified | The S21+ is confirmed to receive updates up to Android 15. Support for the Moto G's update path is unknown. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | S21+ supports faster Wi-Fi standards, leading to better network performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 with many features | 5.0 with A2DP, LE | S21+ has richer Bluetooth functionality, offering advanced audio and device connectivity. |
| GPS | Dual-band GPS | Single-band GPS | S21+ has better location accuracy with support for more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Single SIM (Nano) | S21+ offers more flexibility with two SIM cards, or one physical SIM and eSIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 64/128GB | S21+ offers more storage options and maximum storage. |
| RAM | 8GB | 4GB | S21+ offers more RAM, leading to better multitasking and smoother overall performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports external memory cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | 2 Microphones | S21+ offers a more immersive and high-quality audio experience. The Moto G has basic recording capabilities. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint sensor | Basic | Side Mounted | The S21+ has an inferior basic fingerprint sensor while the Moto G has a more modern side-mounted sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21+ is more durable with better screen protection. The protection on the Moto G is unknown, possibly less scratch-resistant. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED panel with higher resolution, refresh rate, and brightness. This means much better color, sharpness, and outdoor visibility.
- Much Faster Performance: Flagship-level Exynos 2100 chipset provides significantly faster performance for gaming, multitasking and app loading.
- Advanced Camera System: Features telephoto and wide-angle lenses with superior low-light performance and 8K video capabilities.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Charging: 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging compared to the Moto G's 10W charging.
- Better Connectivity: Supports newer Wi-Fi 6 standards and has richer Bluetooth features.
- More RAM and Storage: Comes with more RAM (8GB) and greater storage options (up to 256 GB).
- Higher Quality Audio: Offers immersive and high-quality audio with Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and Stereo Speakers.
- Better Build Quality: Features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for better screen protection.
- eSIM Support: Allows for easier carrier switching and dual SIM functionality.
Practical Implications: The S21+ is a powerhouse that excels in every aspect, delivering a premium experience for users seeking high-end performance, multimedia capabilities, and a top-tier camera system.
Motorola Moto G Power (2022) Advantages:
- Slightly Larger Battery: Has a slightly larger battery capacity (5000mAh) which may result in marginally better battery life, although this will depend on how efficiently the phone is used.
- Macro Lens and Depth Sensor: Offers dedicated macro and depth lenses for specific shooting scenarios.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Features a more convenient and modern side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Potentially Lower Price: Usually sold at a lower price range, making it more accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
Practical Implications: The Moto G is a more basic phone focusing on long battery life and some camera versatility. It's a good choice for those with a tight budget who prioritize battery life.
Significant Trade-offs: The S21+ offers premium features, better performance and a far better user experience overall, while the Moto G is a much more budget-focused device.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
- Power Users: Users who need high performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize camera quality, versatility, and advanced features.
- Multimedia Lovers: Users who enjoy watching videos, streaming content, and need a vibrant display and quality audio.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want cutting-edge features, fast performance, and good build quality.
Use Cases:
- Gaming: High frame-rate gaming with smooth visuals and fast loading times.
- Content Creation: 4K/8K video recording, high-quality photography, and video editing on the go.
- Media Consumption: Immersive movie watching, clear and vibrant social media browsing.
- Productivity: Smooth multitasking, quick app switching and support for demanding work applications.
Ideal User for Motorola Moto G Power (2022):
- Budget-Conscious Users: Users who want a smartphone at an affordable price.
- Casual Users: Users who primarily use their phone for basic tasks, such as calls, messaging, and browsing.
- Battery Life Prioritizers: Users who value long battery life and don't need high-performance features.
- Users New to Smartphones: Less tech-savvy users who are looking for an easy to use device.
Use Cases:
- Long Battery Life: All-day usage without needing to frequently recharge.
- Basic Photography: Capturing everyday moments without requiring advanced features.
- Casual Browsing: Checking social media, emails, and web browsing.
- Affordable Communication: Making calls and sending messages.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G: Offers premium features at a higher price. Provides excellent value for users who can justify the price premium.
- Motorola Moto G Power (2022): Offers basic functionality at a lower price point. Good value for those who have a limited budget.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The S21+ is significantly more expensive than the Moto G.
- How important is performance? The S21+ provides a far superior experience for demanding tasks.
- What are your camera needs? The S21+ excels in image and video capture with an advanced camera system.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance and Camera are Top Priorities
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. The S21+ provides a superior camera, smoother performance, and an overall premium user experience.
- Scenario 2: Budget is the Biggest Constraint
- Recommendation: Motorola Moto G Power (2022). It offers a basic smartphone experience with long battery life for a much lower cost.
- Scenario 3: A Balanced User Experience is Required
- Recommendation: Neither. Both phones have major drawbacks. The S21+ may be too expensive for the average user and the Moto G has significant deficiencies.
What would I choose and why?
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. Although it is an older phone, it is a superior device in almost every single aspect that matters for a premium phone experience, particularly for long-term use. The AMOLED display alone is a huge differentiator, providing a much better viewing experience for media consumption, and the vastly superior performance will help the phone feel fast and responsive for a much longer period of time. Furthermore, the higher-quality camera system with its telephoto and ultrawide lens allows much greater versatility and creativity, and the premium build quality means it will last longer. Yes, it costs more, but its price has reduced over time and it provides far superior value in terms of overall user experience. The Moto G Power, on the other hand, offers basic functionality that is useful at the lower price point but will not be a worthwhile experience if you want to use your smartphone as a daily workhorse. The significantly slower processor and lower quality screen mean that the Moto G is a much worse investment over time, as it will be replaced much more quickly.
