Considering an upgrade or looking for a great value smartphone? The Motorola Moto G series has consistently offered impressive features without breaking the bank. This year, we’re pitting the latest contender, the Moto G7, against its predecessor, the Moto G6, to see what’s changed and if the upgrade is truly worth it.
Both devices aim to deliver a solid user experience, but the Moto G7 brings some notable improvements to the table. From display enhancements to camera upgrades, the latest generation looks to push the boundaries of what affordable smartphones can do. Let’s dive deep into the specifications and real-world performance of the Moto G7 versus the Moto G6.
Whether you’re a seasoned smartphone user or making your first big purchase, understanding the key differences between these two popular models is crucial. We’ll break down everything from design and display to performance and battery life, helping you make an informed decision between the Moto G7 and the Moto G6.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | moto g7 | moto g6 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.2-inch | 5.7-inch |
| Display Resolution | 1080 x 2270 pixels | 1080 x 2160 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 632 | Snapdragon 450 |
| RAM Options | 3GB/4GB | 3GB/4GB |
| Storage Options | 32GB/64GB | 32GB/64GB |
| Rear Camera | 12MP + 5MP | 12MP + 5MP |
| Front Camera | 8MP | 8MP |
| Battery Capacity | 3000 mAh | 3000 mAh |
| Operating System (Launch) | Android 9.0 | Android 8.0 |
| Water Resistance | P2i splash resistance | P2i splash resistance |
| USB Port | USB-C | USB-C |
| Headphone Jack | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Moto G7: Features a larger 6.2-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 2270 pixels. This offers a slightly sharper and more immersive viewing experience compared to its predecessor. The notch is smaller, allowing for more screen real estate.
- Moto G6: Sports a 5.7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels. While still good, it’s a bit smaller and has a more pronounced notch. The aspect ratio is also slightly different.
- Winner: moto g7
Processor & Performance
- Moto G7: Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 632 chipset, paired with either 3GB or 4GB of RAM. This offers a noticeable step up in performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming, providing a smoother user experience.
- Moto G6: Uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 chipset with 3GB or 4GB of RAM. While capable for basic use, it can feel a bit slower when multitasking or running more demanding applications.
- Winner: moto g7
Camera
- Moto G7: Boasts a dual rear camera setup: a 12MP primary sensor and a 5MP depth sensor. It excels in good lighting conditions and offers improved low-light performance and better portrait shots due to its enhanced software processing.
- Moto G6: Also features a dual rear camera: a 12MP primary sensor and a 5MP depth sensor. It captures decent photos in daylight but struggles more in low-light scenarios and its portrait mode can be less refined.
- Winner: moto g7
Battery Life
- Moto G7: Comes with a 3000 mAh battery, which is slightly smaller than the g6. However, thanks to software optimizations and a more efficient processor, it generally provides a full day of moderate usage. It supports 15W fast charging.
- Moto G6: Equipped with a 3000 mAh battery. It offers comparable battery life to the g7 in everyday use, though the g7’s newer processor might edge it out slightly in efficiency. It supports 15W fast charging.
- Winner: Tie
Build Quality & Design
- Moto G7: Features a more modern design with a slimmer profile and a smaller waterdrop notch. It has a glass back (Gorilla Glass 3) and a plastic frame, giving it a premium feel.
- Moto G6: Has a slightly bulkier design with a more prominent notch. It also uses a glass back (Gorilla Glass 3) and a plastic frame, but the overall aesthetic feels a bit more dated.
- Winner: moto g7
Software & Updates
- Moto G7: Launched with Android 9 Pie and has a cleaner, near-stock Android experience. Motorola is generally good with providing at least one major OS update for its devices.
- Moto G6: Launched with Android 8.0 Oreo and received updates to Android 9. While it also offers a clean Android experience, it’s closer to the end of its update cycle.
- Winner: moto g7
Storage Options
- Moto G7: Available in configurations with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD. The higher internal storage option is a welcome improvement for users who store a lot of media.
- Moto G6: Typically offered with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, also expandable via microSD. The storage options are largely similar, though the g7 offers more readily available higher-tier options.
- Winner: moto g7
Connectivity
- Moto G7: Features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, and NFC. It also includes a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, which is a modern standard.
- Moto G6: Includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.1, GPS, and NFC. It uses a microUSB port for charging, which is an older and less convenient standard compared to USB-C.
- Winner: moto g7
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display | moto g7 |
| Performance | moto g7 |
| Camera | Tie |
| Battery | Tie |
| Software Experience | moto g7 |
| Value (New) | moto g6 |
| Value (Used/Refurbished) | moto g6 |
What They Have in Common
- Display Technology: Both phones feature IPS LCD displays, offering good color reproduction and viewing angles for everyday use.
- Camera Hardware: They share a similar dual-rear camera setup (12MP main + 5MP depth sensor) and an 8MP front-facing camera, suggesting comparable photographic capabilities in good lighting.
- Battery Life: Both devices are equipped with a 3000 mAh battery, which should provide a full day of moderate usage for most users.
- Storage Expansion: microSD card support is present on both the Moto G7 and Moto G6, allowing users to easily expand their storage capacity.
- Build Materials: Both phones utilize glass on the front and back, with a plastic frame, contributing to a premium feel for their respective price points.
- Connectivity: They both offer standard connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS.
Moto G7 Vs Moto G6 Buying Guide
Performance and Everyday Use
When considering everyday tasks like browsing the web, social media, and light gaming, both the Moto G7 and Moto G6 offer a competent experience. The Moto G7, with its slightly more powerful Snapdragon processor, will generally feel snappier, especially when multitasking or running more demanding applications. However, for the average user, the performance difference might be negligible in day-to-day operations. If you prioritize a smooth and responsive feel for all your basic needs, the G7 has a slight edge.
If you’re a power user who frequently switches between many apps or enjoys graphically intensive mobile games, the Moto G7’s upgraded chipset will provide a noticeably smoother and more fluid experience. The Moto G6, while capable, may show occasional stutters or longer loading times under heavy load. For those who demand the best performance for their money in this price bracket, the G7 is the more future-proof option. (See Also: Maybelline Exhilarator Vs Pioneer )
Camera Capabilities
Photography enthusiasts will find the Moto G7 to be a step up from the Moto G6. While both devices offer decent camera sensors for casual snapshots, the G7 often produces images with better detail, color accuracy, and dynamic range, especially in good lighting conditions. The G7’s improved image processing contributes to more pleasing results straight out of the camera, requiring less editing.
For those who primarily take photos in well-lit environments and are satisfied with standard point-and-shoot quality, the Moto G6’s camera is perfectly adequate. However, if you’re looking for a smartphone that can consistently capture sharper, more vibrant photos with better low-light performance and more advanced features like improved portrait modes, the Moto G7 is the clear winner in the camera department.
Battery Life and Charging
Both the Moto G7 and Moto G6 generally offer respectable battery life, capable of lasting a full day for most users with moderate usage. The Moto G7, with its slightly larger battery capacity in some configurations and potentially more power-efficient chipset, might eke out a bit more longevity. However, the difference isn’t always dramatic and can depend on individual usage patterns and software optimizations.
Charging speed is another factor to consider. Both phones support fast charging, but the Moto G7 often comes with a faster charging brick out of the box, meaning you can get back to a significant charge in less time. If quick top-ups are crucial for your busy lifestyle, the G7’s faster charging technology can be a significant convenience, reducing downtime. (See Also: Omron Bp5450 Vs Bp7450 )
Design and Display
Visually, the Moto G7 sports a more modern and refined design compared to the Moto G6. It often features slimmer bezels, a smaller notch, and a more premium build feel. The display on the G7 also tends to be slightly brighter and offer better color reproduction, making media consumption and general viewing more enjoyable. The overall aesthetic of the G7 is more in line with contemporary smartphone trends.
The Moto G6, while still a well-built device, carries a slightly more dated design with thicker bezels. Its display is still good for the price, offering clear visuals for everyday use. If you prioritize a sleek, modern look and a more immersive viewing experience, the Moto G7’s design and display will likely appeal more to you. However, if budget is the primary concern and you’re less fussed about cutting-edge aesthetics, the G6 remains a solid choice.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy moto g7 If…
- You want a slightly larger and more modern display with a higher pixel count.
- You’re looking for a modest performance boost from a newer processor.
- You prefer to start with a more recent version of Android out of the box.
- You value having a slightly more up-to-date design aesthetic.
Buy moto g6 If…
- You are on a tighter budget and can find a great deal on the older model.
- A slightly smaller screen is perfectly acceptable for your needs.
- The performance difference between the Snapdragon 632 and 450 is not a significant factor for you.
- You don’t mind updating your Android version manually if available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has a better camera?
The Moto G7 generally boasts a superior camera system. It often features larger sensors, improved image processing, and better low-light performance, leading to sharper and more vibrant photos. While the Moto G6’s camera is adequate for casual shots in good lighting, the G7 offers a more consistent and higher-quality photographic experience across various conditions, including better detail retention and color accuracy.
Is the Moto G7 significantly faster than the Moto G6?
Yes, the Moto G7 typically features a more powerful processor than the Moto G6. This translates to snappier performance in everyday tasks, smoother multitasking, and better handling of demanding applications and games. While the Moto G6 is capable for basic use, the G7 offers a noticeable upgrade in speed and responsiveness, making it a better choice for power users or those who want a more future-proof device. (See Also: Furnace Rental Vs Purchase )
Which phone has better battery life?
Both phones offer decent battery life, often lasting a full day for moderate users. However, the Moto G7 can sometimes edge out the Moto G6 due to a slightly larger battery capacity in certain models and potentially more power-efficient chipsets. Real-world battery performance can vary based on usage, but the G7 generally provides a slightly more reliable all-day experience, especially when combined with its faster charging capabilities.
What are the key design differences?
The Moto G7 features a more modern design with slimmer bezels and often a smaller notch, contributing to a more immersive display experience. The build quality also tends to feel more premium. In contrast, the Moto G6 has a more traditional design with thicker bezels, which can make it appear slightly dated. Both offer good ergonomics, but the G7 leans towards current smartphone aesthetics.
Which phone is a better value for money?
The “better value” depends on your priorities. If you seek a more modern design, a better camera, and faster performance, the Moto G7 offers a more premium experience. However, if your budget is tighter and you need a reliable smartphone for basic tasks, the Moto G6 often represents excellent value, providing solid performance and good battery life at a lower price point. Consider what features are most important to you.
Final Verdict
The Moto G7 stands out as the superior device, offering a more modern design, a noticeably better camera, and enhanced performance for everyday tasks and gaming. Its faster charging also adds significant convenience. While the Moto G6 remains a capable budget option, the G7 provides a more refined and future-proof user experience that justifies its typically higher price point for those seeking the best of both worlds in this lineup.
Winner: Moto G7