Alright, let's dive deep into the Xiaomi 12 Pro and Motorola Moto G85. We've got two very different phones here, each with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. My goal is to break down what these specs mean for you, the end-user, and help you decide which one fits your needs best.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi 12 Pro | Motorola Moto G85 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.6 x 74.6 x 8.2 mm | 161.9 x 73.1 x 7.6 mm | Xiaomi 12 Pro is slightly larger and thicker, which may feel bulkier in hand compared to the slimmer Moto G85. |
| Weight | 204g | 171g | The Moto G85 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and carrying. |
| Build | Glass front and back, aluminum frame | Plastic build | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers more premium feel with glass and metal, Moto G85 is less premium but more durable for some. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.73" | 6.67" | Both have large screens, a very slight difference between the 2, that will likely not be noticeable. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1080 x 2400 | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a much sharper and more detailed display, better for media and detailed content consumption. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 521 | 395 | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a significantly sharper display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | P-OLED | Both offer excellent contrast and colors; slight difference in tech but will offer similar viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both phones offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1600 nits | Moto G85 is noticeably brighter, offering better outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 (6 nm) | Xiaomi 12 Pro's flagship chipset is significantly faster, offering smoother performance, better gaming, and faster multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,177,498 | 475,000 | Xiaomi 12 Pro is much more powerful in benchmarks, highlighting better real-world performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 619 | Xiaomi 12 Pro's GPU offers much better gaming performance and graphical capabilities. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.9, 1/1.28" Sony IMX707 | 50MP, f/1.79, 1/2" Sony LYT-600 | Xiaomi 12 Pro has larger sensor and slightly wider aperture, offering better low-light performance, detail and overall image quality. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76" Samsung S5KJN1 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Xiaomi 12 Pro's wide angle lens produces much higher-resolution, detailed images compared to the Moto G85. |
| Portrait Lens | 50MP, f/1.9, 1/2.76" Samsung S5KJN1 | None | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a dedicated telephoto lens which allows for better bokeh effect and more natural depth in photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, 1/3.14" | 32MP, f/2.4 | Similar selfie camera quality. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K 24fps | Up to 1080p 60fps | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers professional-grade video capabilities with up to 8K resolution and more versatile options. |
| DxOMark Mobile Score | 129 | 88 | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers better overall camera performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4600mAh | 5000mAh | The Moto G85 has a slightly larger battery, which may translate to marginally longer battery life. |
| Charging | 120W Fast Wired, 50W Wireless | 30W Fast Wired | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers significantly faster charging capabilities, reducing charging times and boosting daily usability. |
| Additional Features | Reverse charging, Wireless charging | None | Xiaomi 12 Pro has much more versatile charging features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | Motorola has a more up to date OS with the Android 14 while the Xiaomi still uses the Android 12. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, MiMo | Wi-Fi 6 | Both phones support similar Wi-Fi standards with Xiaomi having an edge. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2, aptX, LDAC | Bluetooth 5.1 | Xiaomi offers more advanced Bluetooth connectivity with higher quality codecs. |
| GPS | More satellite systems | Basic satellite systems | Xiaomi offers better tracking and more accurate positioning with its advanced satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM, eSIM | Motorola has eSIM options giving more versatility. |
| Storage and Memory | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both phones have similar storage capacity options. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 8GB/12GB | Both phones have similar RAM capacity options. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage capacity |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi has better audio quality with Hi-Res audio and better microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both phones use basic fingerprint scanners. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | Xiaomi has much better protection with its Gorilla Glass Victus. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, RGB, Ultrasonic Proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Xiaomi has a more robust sensor set with the Barometer, RGB and advanced Ultrasonic Proximity. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12 Pro Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset offers significantly higher performance, making it excellent for gaming, heavy multitasking, and demanding applications.
- High-End Display: The higher resolution AMOLED display with high pixel density provides a much sharper and detailed visual experience.
- Advanced Camera System: The larger sensor and versatile camera system including telephoto lens, captures more detailed images and videos in various conditions.
- Fast Charging: 120W wired and 50W wireless charging capabilities are game-changers, dramatically reducing charging times.
- Premium Build: The use of glass and aluminum gives the device a more premium feel.
Motorola Moto G85 Strengths:
- Lighter and Thinner: The Moto G85 is more comfortable to hold and carry due to its lighter weight and slimmer design.
- Brighter Display: Offers slightly better outdoor visibility thanks to its brighter screen.
- Larger Battery: The bigger battery provides marginally better battery life.
- Up to Date OS: Uses Android 14 as opposed to the Android 12 of the Xiaomi
- eSIM Option: Includes eSIM support for more flexibility with carriers.
Trade-offs:
- The Xiaomi 12 Pro is heavier and thicker, making it less comfortable for some. It is also older and uses an older OS.
- The Motorola Moto G85 has a less premium build, and its camera and performance capabilities are significantly lower compared to the Xiaomi 12 Pro.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12 Pro is best for:
- Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, or heavy multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize high-quality photos and videos with versatile shooting options and better low-light performance.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who want cutting-edge technology, fast charging, and a premium build quality.
- Users seeking a great screen: Users who want the sharpest screen available.
Motorola Moto G85 is best for:
- Casual Users: Individuals who need a reliable phone for everyday tasks, social media, and media consumption.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those who want a decent smartphone without spending top dollar.
- Users who prioritize ergonomics: The lighter, thinner design and better battery life make it an excellent daily driver.
- Users who want the newest OS: The Android 14 on the Motorola is better than the Android 12.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Performance Needs: Do you need the absolute best performance for demanding tasks like gaming and heavy multitasking, or are you okay with good performance for daily use?
- Camera Priorities: Is a high-quality camera system with versatile features a priority, or are you satisfied with decent image quality for social media and casual use?
- Comfort and Convenience: Do you value a lighter, slimmer phone with longer battery life, or are you okay with a heavier device for better performance?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You're a gamer or a content creator.
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 12 Pro. Its superior chipset, display, and camera capabilities are essential for you.
- Scenario 2: You need a reliable daily driver and value comfort.
- Recommendation: Motorola Moto G85. It’s lighter, has a decent camera, and provides slightly better battery life, making it more comfortable for extended use.
- Scenario 3: You want the best value for your money without compromising too much.
- Recommendation: It would depend on price. If the price between the two is similar then the Xiaomi, if the Motorola is substantially cheaper it could be the better pick.
Personal Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would opt for the Xiaomi 12 Pro.
Here's why:
As a tech journalist and someone who enjoys exploring the limits of mobile technology, the superior performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is a big draw. The higher resolution display would allow me to better experience different content. I'm a very big camera user, and I appreciate the higher quality pictures and videos that come with the better lenses in the Xiaomi. Finally, I find that the extra premium build is important for long term use.
While I appreciate the lightweight and marginally better battery life of the Motorola Moto G85, I prioritize performance and features over comfort and ergonomics when choosing a new phone.
The Xiaomi 12 Pro offers a more complete experience for my needs and preferences.
