Hey there! If you‘re trying to decide between Motorola‘s Moto G Pure and the upgraded Moto G Play, you‘ve come to the right place.
As your resident tech geek, I‘ve been testing Motorola phones for over a decade. I still have my original Moto X from 2014!
While not as popular as brands like Apple or Samsung, Motorola has earned a loyal following for making durable and affordable smartphones with great battery life. The Moto G series sits right in the sweet spot, giving you just enough features without going overboard on price.
In this guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know to pick the best Moto G model for your needs and budget. I‘ll compare all the key specs, reveal exactly how they differ in daily use, and help clarify which phone gives you more bang for your buck.
Ready? Let‘s Gooooo!
A Quick History of Motorola‘s Legendary Reliability
Before we get to the nitty gritty comparisons, let‘s take a quick nostalgia trip. Who remembers these vintage Motorola ads?
Hello Moto! 📞
There‘s a reason that catchy jingle remains lodged in our brains years later. Starting way back with the walkie-talkie inspired DynaTAC in 1983, Motorola has built a reputation for making tough and dependable mobile devices.
Over the years they‘ve churned out a parade of beloved flip phones and QWERTY keyboard models that could take a licking and keep on ticking. Heck, I still have relatives rocking ancient RAZRs that somehow work!
Now in an age of fragile glass slab designs, Motorola is still focused on durability along with wallet-friendly pricing. Those steadfast principles led to the creation of their popular Moto G franchise…
Understanding Motorola‘s Varied Moto G Lineup
First launched in 2013, the Moto G shook up the market by packing decent performance and features into an affordable package. Its initial $179 price tag made it over 60% cheaper than typical flagship phones of the day.
Since that smash debut, Motorola has expanded and refined the Moto G series into a range of sub-$300 models targeted at, well…pretty much everyone!
They now sell no less than 10 different Moto G variants in 2023 spanning from ultra low-cost to mid-range territory. It can get confusing to say the least.
But for this comparison guide, we‘re focusing exclusively on two models – the Moto G Pure from 2021 and its very similar but upgraded successor, the brand new Moto G Play:
Launched at just $109, the Moto G Pure blew reviewers away by packing a 6.5" HD+ screen, decent cameras and responsive performance into a sub-$120 device. It instantly became the reigning budget phone champ.
Now for 2023, the Play model builds on that solid foundation while keeping cost in check. For just $40 more than Pure‘s original $109 launch price, you step up to a faster chipset, 50% bigger battery, improved main camera and more.
But are those upgrades worth it? Or does last year‘s Pure still get the job done? Let‘s dig in…
Moto G Pure vs Play: Feature Comparison
Here is a handy cheat sheet overview of the Moto G Pure and Moto G Play‘s core hardware and capabilities:
| Feature | Moto G Pure | Moto G Play |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | 2021 | 2023 |
| Price | $109 | $149 |
| Screen size | 6.5” HD+ LCD | 6.5” HD+ LCD |
| Display resolution | 1600 x 720 pixels | 1600 x 720 pixels |
| Rear camera | 13MP | 16MP |
| Front camera | 5MP | 5MP |
| Processor | MediaTek Helio G25 | MediaTek Helio G37 |
| RAM | 3GB | 3GB |
| Internal storage | 32GB | 32GB |
| Expandable storage | Up to 512GB | Up to 512GB |
| Battery size | 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Battery life (approx) | 1 day | 2-3 days |
| Charging speed | 10W | 10W |
| Biometrics | Fingerprint reader | Fingerprint reader |
| Android version | Android 12 | Android 12 |
Phew, that covers a lot of ground! Here are the key takeaways:
- Both phones have the same screen size and resolution – so no difference in gaming, video streaming etc
- The Play bumps up to a better main camera, faster MediaTek chipset and way bigger battery
- You get equal storage, RAM and fingerprint security on either device
- Play ships with latest Android 12 software out of the box
As you can see, besides those few upgraded components the Moto G Play shares much of the same basic DNA as the reliable Pure model. But how do those changes translate into real world usage?
And which phone works out as the better value depending on your needs? Let‘s explore further…
Moto G Pure vs Play Pricing: Good, Better or Best Value?
When comparing any products, price always has to enter the equation. Let‘s start by examining what exactly you‘re getting for your money with the Moto G Pure and Play models.
Given its stripped down $109 cost, the Pure understandably cut some corners. But core elements like the sharp 6.5" 1600p screen, rear fingerprint reader and solid construction quality all impressed. Plus you get a perfectly usable 13MP main camera and MediaTek G25 processor that handle everyday tasks just fine.
For keeping costs down, the Pure does forego extras like 5G connectivity, NFC tap payments or luxuries like an ultra wide camera. But when every dollar counts, reviewers agreed the Pure delivered shockingly good smartphone value in 2021.
Fast forward to today, and the new Moto G Play keeps that appeal alive while building on the Pure‘s strong foundation in key areas.
That bigger 5000 mAh battery easily stretches to multi-day endurance for one. The bump to a 16MP main cam also gives your photos and videos a welcome sharpness boost. And little improvements like facial recognition unlock expand the feature set.
When all is said and done, the Play retains everything essential from its predecessor while packing upgrades that matter into a still wallet-friendly $149 package. That‘s only about 30% pricier than the OG Pure for some very worthwhile benefits.
Sounds like a win-win to me! But I know budgets can be tight, so let‘s explore a few more details…
Photo and Video Comparison: Pure‘s Aging Cam vs Play‘s Fresh 16MP Sensor
Alright, time to address a key shopping consideration – cameras!
Whether capturing life‘s moments or becoming TikTok famous, having a phone that takes pixel-perfect photos and video is a must these days.
Let‘s examine how the image and video capabilities of the Moto G Pure and Play measure up:
Moto G Pure Camera Review
The Pure made some acceptable compromises given its bargain pricing. Imaging was one area where its low $109 cost shows through however.
You get a run of the mill 13MP main camera paired with a 2MP depth sensor. Images in bright daylight come out decently saturated with some sharpening artifacts around objects.
But forget about crisp details once lighting drops. That tiny sensor struggles badly to capture nighttime or indoor scenes without excessive noise ruining shots.
At least the dedicated depth camera takes nice bokeh portrait shots. On the video front though, max resolution caps at 1080p. So no super sharp 4K capture available here.
All in all, the Pure‘s camera gets the job done for well lit shots. But definitely leaves room for improvement in dynamic range, low light and overall detail.
Moto G Play Camera Capabilities
Now in the imaging department is where the Play clearly steps things up. Let‘s see how!
Right away that upgraded 16MP main camera makes a big difference. Your outdoor images show finer detail with more vibrant color compared to the Pure courtesy of the additional megapixels.
The Play also handles low light and indoor conditions much better. Shots in dim bars or at night don‘t look as grainy thanks to improved sensors. The dedicated depth lens continues to take pleasing background-blurred portraits too.
And like the Pure, the Play can record up to 1080p Full HD clips – easily adequate resolution for social sharing or home movies.
Overall while no match for $1000 iPhone or Pixel cameras, the Moto G Play‘s versatile triple lens setup will more than satisfy casual shooters who just want great looking memories at a fair price.
So in summary, the Moto G Play bumps up camera quality substantially over its predecessor. I‘d expect it to easily outshoot the Pure in almost all scenarios with better dynamic range and after dark performance.
Pixel peepers may still want to splurge on something more expensive. But for most folks, the Play has you covered!
Comparing Everyday Speed and Performance
Alright, next major head-to-head category – how fast do these phones feel?
I don‘t know about you, but I can‘t stand lag and stuttering apps! Having a responsive phone is essential whether gaming, web browsing or simply multitasking through your day.
Let‘s break down how the Moto Pure and Play‘s processors, memory and software translate into real world speed:
Moto G Pure Benchmark Performance
The Pure is powered by a MediaTek Helio G25 system on a chip coupled with 3GB of baseline RAM. For juggling a single app or basic tasks, it performs admirably.
But load up a demanding 3D game while having multiple browser tabs open and Spotify streaming? Things start to choke up.
Benchmarks confirm the Helio G25 falls short of buttery smooth frame rates in intensive games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty. Everyday apps mostly run fine, but the Pure can lag when pushed.
Having Android 12 helps somewhat thanks to software optimization tricks compared to early firmware. But the aging processor is the real limitation – though understandable given the bargain pricing.
Moto G Play Speed and Benchmarks
Now in the Play, Motorola wisely opted for MediaTek‘s slightly faster Helio G37 chipset. It‘s no flagship killer by any means, but does offer a 15-20% computational boost over the Pure‘s G25.
Paired again with 3GB RAM, the Play juggles messaging, maps and music playback without breaking a sweat. Swapping between apps feels snappy even with a bunch open thanks to Android 12‘s memory management.
Gaming frame rates should exceed the Pure by a solid margin as well based on benchmarks. So mobile players can expect better responsiveness there.
Overall while no speed demon, the Moto G Play‘s peppy performance lives up to expectations for a sub-$150 phone. Given the much bigger battery too, I‘d expect smoother operation over time as the Pure would slow down first.
In summary – the Moto G Play secures another close win by using an upgraded processor. Budget phone buyers should feel confident it will stay speedy for years to come!
Battery Life Showdown: Pure‘s Single Day vs Play‘s Multi-Day Endurance
We‘ve covered cameras, speed and overall features. But now let‘s address perhaps the single most important spec in a smartphone – battery life!
After all, what good is a blazing fast phone if it‘s dead by 3pm? Phone batteries need to balance high capacity for longevity with fast charging to minimize downtime.
Here is how Motorola‘s budget models compare when it comes to on-the-go power:
Moto G Pure Battery Benchmarks
The Pure‘s mediocre 4000 mAh battery was definitely one of its pain points for reviewers. Understandably keeping costs down resulted in pretty limited longevity per charge.
In most tests, the Pure lasted through a full day of active use – but just barely. And anything beyond 8 hours of screen time definitely required a pit stop at the nearest charger.
Topping up is reasonably quick at 10 watts. But needing to frequently recharge every single day ultimately hurts the Pure‘s rating amongst competing budget models. Battery life ends up average at best.
Moto G Play All-Day Endurance
Here‘s where the Play just crushes its predecessor! That massive 5000 mAh battery lasts an epic 2-3 DAYS per full charge. 💪💪
With over 18 additional hours of talk time compared to the Pure, you can breeze through a weekend away while still having juice left. The Play even bests the excellent Samsung Galaxy A53 in head to head tests.
And when you do need to refuel, 10 watt rapid charging has you covered in about an hour. But given the exceptional standby time, most users will only need to plug in every other day.
By far the Play‘s insane battery life stands out as its crowning achievement. Forget daily top ups or mid-day charging anxiety. This energizer bunny just keeps going and going!
5000 mAh battery capacity is virtually unheard of in this price bracket. Kudos to Motorola for squeezing so much juice into the Moto G Play‘s chassis.
For road warriors and heavy phone addicts, that multi-day endurance gives it a huge edge over the Pure. Charge anxiety? Ain‘t nobody got time for that!
Which Model Works Best: Pure or Play?
Alright, after comparing all the key specs, performance metrics and real world usage – which budget Moto phone comes out on top? Let‘s recap the key findings:
- At just $109 the Pure still offers impressive value given its sharp HD display, usable cameras and Android 12 software. Only the mediocre battery life significantly detracts.
- For $149 the Play upgrades the processor and battery life while taking photos and videos up a notch too. Just an incredibly well rounded package!
So here is my verdict…
For Tightest Budgets Under $120: Moto G Pure
If getting a phone under $120 is ultimately the deciding factor, the Moto G Pure still gets my recommendation today. Yes the battery life could be way better. But it nails all basics for an unbeatable price.
For Overall Value Below $150: Moto G Play
Now if your budget has just a little more wiggle room, the Moto G Play is hands down worth those extra $40 bucks. That epic multi-day battery, improved camera and faster performance leave the Pure in the dust. Unless saving every last penny, the Play is the obvious best choice of the two.
And there you have it my friend! Hopefully you now have all the nitty gritty details to decide whether the Moto G Pure or Moto G Play better fits your smartphone needs and budget.
Shoot me a reply if any other questions pop up. Happy phone hunting! 📱
