1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | TCL 40 SE | Motorola Moto G04s | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 167.9 x 76.5 x 8.5 | 163.5 x 74.5 x 8 | Moto G04s is slightly smaller and more compact. |
| Weight (g) | 190 | 178.8 | Moto G04s is noticeably lighter, improving one-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.75 | 6.56 | TCL 40 SE offers a larger screen for media consumption. |
| Resolution (pixels) | 720 x 1600 | 720 x 1612 | Negligible difference in resolution; both are HD+. Expect similar sharpness. |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 90 | 90 | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Display Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Similar color accuracy and viewing angles expected. TCL specifies 450 nits typical brightness, while Moto G04s doesn't specify peak brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G37 | Unisoc T606 | Both are entry-level chipsets; performance differences likely minimal for basic tasks. Moto G04s may have a slight edge due to the Cortex-A75 cores. |
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) | Moto G04s's CPU architecture is more modern and potentially more efficient. |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 MP1 | Difficult to compare without benchmark data; expect basic gaming performance from both. |
| RAM (GB) | 4 | 4 | Same RAM capacity; multitasking performance should be similar. |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 14 | Moto G04s benefits from the latest Android version, offering newer features and potentially longer software support. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera | 50MP Main, 2MP Depth, 2MP Macro | 50MP Main | TCL 40 SE has dedicated depth and macro sensors, while Moto G04s might rely on software for these features. The real-world performance of these cameras will depend heavily on image processing. Moto G04s specifies OIS, indicating potentially better low-light and video performance. |
| Front Camera | 8MP | 5MP | TCL 40 SE has a higher resolution front camera. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 5010 | 5000 | Negligible difference in battery capacity; expect similar battery life. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
TCL 40 SE Advantages:
- Larger Display: Better for media consumption and gaming.
- Higher Resolution Front Camera: Potentially better selfies.
- Dedicated Macro and Depth Sensors: Could offer better versatility in photography, although real-world performance is dependent on image processing.
Motorola Moto G04s Advantages:
- More Modern CPU Architecture: Potentially better performance and efficiency.
- Newer Android Version: Longer software updates and newer features.
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and carry.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Significantly improves low-light photography and video stability.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
TCL 40 SE: Users prioritizing a large display for media consumption, casual gaming, and those who value a higher-resolution front camera. Budget-conscious buyers seeking a large screen experience.
Motorola Moto G04s: Users who value a more compact and lightweight phone, prioritize software updates and potentially better performance, and need a reliable camera with OIS for better low-light photography.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The TCL 40 SE is generally more affordable.
- Do you prioritize a large screen or a compact design? The TCL 40 SE has a larger display, while the Moto G04s is more compact.
- How important are software updates and camera quality to you? The Moto G04s offers a newer Android version and OIS for its camera.
My Choice: Motorola Moto G04s
While the TCL 40 SE offers a larger display and dedicated macro/depth sensors, the Moto G04s provides a more compelling overall package for my needs. The more modern CPU, newer Android version ensuring longer software support, lighter weight, and critically, the inclusion of OIS for the camera significantly outweigh the benefits of the TCL 40 SE. OIS dramatically improves image and video quality, especially in less-than-ideal lighting conditions, a feature I personally value. The slightly smaller screen size is a trade-off I'm willing to make for the overall improved user experience and longevity offered by the Moto G04s.