The Moto G series has been a staple in the budget smartphone market for years, offering affordable devices with impressive specifications. However, with the numerous iterations and variations, it can get confusing for consumers to differentiate between them. One such conundrum is whether the Moto G Play and Moto G4 Play are the same device. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of both devices, comparing their features, specifications, and performance to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Display: A Tale of Two Devices
At first glance, the Moto G Play and Moto G4 Play may seem identical, but upon closer inspection, there are some subtle differences in their design and display.
The Moto G Play features a more modern design, with a sleek and compact build that fits comfortably in the hand. It has a 5-inch HD display with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels, which is decent for a budget device. The screen is also protected by a layer of Gorilla Glass 3, providing added durability.
On the other hand, the Moto G4 Play has a slightly larger 5-inch display with a similar HD resolution. However, the screen is not protected by Gorilla Glass, making it more susceptible to scratches and cracks. The device also has a more rounded design, which some users may find appealing.
Processor and Performance: A Battle of Wits
When it comes to performance, the Moto G Play and Moto G4 Play take different approaches.
The Moto G Play is powered by a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 425 processor, clocked at 1.4 GHz. This processor is paired with 2GB or 3GB of RAM, depending on the storage variant, and 16GB or 32GB of internal storage. The device also features a dedicated microSD card slot, allowing users to expand their storage capacity up to 128GB.
In contrast, the Moto G4 Play is equipped with a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor, clocked at 1.2 GHz. The device comes with 1GB or 2GB of RAM, depending on the storage variant, and 8GB or 16GB of internal storage. While the Moto G4 Play also has a dedicated microSD card slot, the maximum expandable storage capacity is limited to 64GB.
In terms of performance, the Moto G Play has a clear advantage due to its more powerful processor and higher RAM capacity.
Camera and Battery Life: Capturing Moments and Powering Through
When it comes to camera capabilities, both devices feature an 8-megapixel rear camera with LED flash and a 5-megapixel front camera. However, the Moto G Play has a slight edge with its f/2.2 aperture, compared to the Moto G4 Play’s f/2.4 aperture. This results in slightly better low-light performance and more detailed images.
In terms of battery life, the Moto G Play has a 2800mAh removable battery, which provides a decent day-long battery life. The Moto G4 Play, on the other hand, has a 2500mAh removable battery, which may require more frequent charging.
Software and Additional Features: Streamlined Experience
Both devices run on near-stock Android, with the Moto G Play featuring Android 7.1.1 Nougat out of the box. The Moto G4 Play, however, runs on Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow, with an update to Nougat available.
In terms of additional features, the Moto G Play has a few tricks up its sleeve. It features a fingerprint sensor, which is missing on the Moto G4 Play. The device also has support for Moto Actions, which allows users to perform specific actions with specific gestures. For instance, users can twist their wrist to launch the camera app or chop their hand twice to turn on the flashlight.
Price and Availability: The Bottom Line
The Moto G Play and Moto G4 Play are both budget-friendly devices, but their prices vary depending on the region and storage variant.
The Moto G Play is generally priced around $150-$200 for the 2GB RAM and 16GB storage variant, while the 3GB RAM and 32GB storage variant costs around $250-$300.
The Moto G4 Play, on the other hand, is priced around $100-$150 for the 1GB RAM and 8GB storage variant, while the 2GB RAM and 16GB storage variant costs around $150-$200.
In conclusion, while both devices offer excellent value for their price, the Moto G Play is the clear winner in terms of performance, camera capabilities, and additional features.
| Specification | Moto G Play | Moto G4 Play |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 5-inch HD, Gorilla Glass 3 | 5-inch HD, no Gorilla Glass |
| Processor | Quad-core Snapdragon 425, 1.4 GHz | Quad-core Snapdragon 410, 1.2 GHz |
| RAM | 2GB or 3GB | 1GB or 2GB |
| Internal Storage | 16GB or 32GB | 8GB or 16GB |
| Rear Camera | 8-megapixel, f/2.2 aperture | 8-megapixel, f/2.4 aperture |
| Battery | 2800mAh, removable | 2500mAh, removable |
| Software | Android 7.1.1 Nougat | Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow (upgradable to Nougat) |
In conclusion, while the Moto G Play and Moto G4 Play share some similarities, they are distinct devices with different strengths and weaknesses. If you’re looking for a more powerful device with better camera capabilities and a more modern design, the Moto G Play is the way to go. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and still want a reliable device with a decent performance, the Moto G4 Play is a good option. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
What is the Moto G4 Play?
The Moto G4 Play is a budget-friendly smartphone released by Motorola in 2016. It’s part of the Moto G series, known for offering affordable devices with impressive features. The Moto G4 Play is an entry-level variant of the Moto G4, with some compromises to keep the price low. Despite being an older device, the Moto G4 Play remains popular due to its affordability and decent performance.
In terms of specifications, the Moto G4 Play features a 5-inch HD display, a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor, 2GB of RAM, and 16GB of internal storage. It also has an 8-megapixel rear camera, a 5-megapixel front camera, and a removable 2800mAh battery. The device runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow out of the box and has since received updates to Android 7.1 Nougat.
What are the key differences between the Moto G4 and Moto G4 Play?
The main differences between the Moto G4 and Moto G4 Play lie in their processors, storage, and camera capabilities. The Moto G4 features a more powerful octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 617 processor, 2GB or 3GB of RAM, and 16GB or 32GB of internal storage. In contrast, the Moto G4 Play has a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor, 2GB of RAM, and 16GB of internal storage. Additionally, the Moto G4 has a 13-megapixel rear camera and a 5-megapixel front camera, while the Moto G4 Play has an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 5-megapixel front camera.
Another significant difference is the design and build quality. The Moto G4 has a more premium design with a metal frame, whereas the Moto G4 Play has a plastic body. The Moto G4 also features a fingerprint sensor, which is absent on the Moto G4 Play. Despite these differences, both devices offer similar battery life, display quality, and software features.
Is the Moto G4 Play still worth buying in 2022?
Despite being an older device, the Moto G4 Play can still be a decent option for those on a tight budget or looking for a basic smartphone. The device’s performance, although not exceptional, is still sufficient for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and messaging. The camera quality, although not outstanding, can still capture decent photos and videos.
However, it’s essential to consider the limitations of the Moto G4 Play. The device’s processor and RAM may struggle with demanding tasks, and the storage capacity is limited. Additionally, the device is no longer receiving software updates, which means it may not be secure or compatible with the latest apps. If you prioritize performance, camera quality, and software updates, it’s recommended to consider newer devices.
Can I upgrade the Moto G4 Play’s software?
The Moto G4 Play was initially launched with Android 6.0 Marshmallow and later received an update to Android 7.1 Nougat. Unfortunately, the device is no longer eligible for further software updates, which means it will not receive newer versions of Android. This can be a concern, as newer Android versions often bring improved security, features, and performance enhancements.
If you’re looking for a device with the latest software, it’s recommended to consider newer devices that are still receiving updates. However, if you’re not concerned about having the latest software, the Moto G4 Play can still provide a decent Android experience, albeit with some limitations.
How is the Moto G4 Play’s battery life?
The Moto G4 Play has a removable 2800mAh battery, which provides a decent battery life considering the device’s specifications. In normal usage, you can expect the device to last around a day, depending on your usage patterns. With moderate usage, you can get around 12-14 hours of battery life, which is acceptable for a budget device.
However, if you’re a heavy user, you may need to charge the device more frequently. The Moto G4 Play doesn’t support fast charging, so recharging the battery may take some time. Nevertheless, the battery life is one of the device’s strong points, making it a suitable option for those who need a device that can last a day without requiring frequent recharging.
Is the Moto G4 Play compatible with 4G networks?
The Moto G4 Play supports 4G LTE connectivity, allowing you to access high-speed internet on compatible networks. The device supports various 4G frequency bands, making it compatible with most carriers around the world. However, it’s essential to check with your carrier to ensure the device is compatible with their specific 4G network.
Keep in mind that the Moto G4 Play’s 4G capabilities may vary depending on your region and carrier. In some areas, you may only get 3G or 2G connectivity, which can affect your overall browsing experience.
What are the alternatives to the Moto G4 Play?
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Moto G4 Play, there are several newer devices that offer better specifications and features at a similar price point. Some popular options include the Xiaomi Redmi 9, Samsung Galaxy A12, and Nokia 2.3. These devices offer better processors, more RAM, and improved camera capabilities.
If you’re looking for a device with similar specifications but a more modern design, you can consider the Moto E series or the Nokia 1 series. These devices offer similar performance to the Moto G4 Play but with more modern designs and features like Android Go edition. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.