The smartphone market is brimming with options, and as a long-standing Samsung Galaxy zealot, I was keen to see how the brand-new Motorola Edge 50 Pro measures up to my Samsung S21 Ultra 5G. Both devices offer exceptional features, but they cater to slightly different user preferences. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison to highlight their strengths.
Design and build
Motorola Edge 50 Pro. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro shines with its sleek, ergonomic design that feels perfect in hand. Its curved edges and slim profile contribute to a modern, sophisticated look. The device is lightweight, making it easy to carry around, and the high-quality materials used ensure durability. I say this phone is “too beautiful”, because you will not want to cover this delightful phone in a clunky case. You have a choice on a number of colours (including Black Beauty and Luxe Lavendar or Moonlight Pearl).
Samsung S21 Ultra 5G. My S21 is bulkier than the Edge 50 Pro, adding to a robust feel that I’ve grown accustomed to. Of course, the S21 is preserved in a case so thick and ugly, I’m not allowed to show it in polite company.
Display
Motorola Edge 50 Pro. The Edge 50 Pro features a stunning OLED display with a high refresh rate of 144Hz, ensuring buttery smooth visuals. The vibrant colours and deep blacks make for an immersive viewing experience, whether you’re watching videos or playing games.
Samsung S21 Ultra 5G. Samsung is renowned for its display technology, and the S21 Ultra 5G is no exception. It boasts a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a Quad HD+ resolution. The screen is bright, sharp, and offers incredible clarity, making it one of the best in the market.
Performance
Motorola Edge 50 Pro Equipped with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, the Edge 50 Pro delivers lightning-fast performance. Multitasking is seamless, and the device handles intensive gaming and applications with ease. The near-stock Android experience also ensures minimal bloatware, enhancing overall speed and responsiveness.
The S21’s One UI interface is feature-rich, although it can feel a bit heavy at times compared to Motorola’s cleaner and more modern interface.
Camera
Motorola Edge 50 Pro. Motorola has stepped up its camera game with the Edge 50 Pro. It features a versatile triple camera setup with a high-resolution main sensor, an ultra-wide lens, and a telephoto lens. The camera excels in various lighting conditions, producing sharp and vibrant photos. The software enhancements, including AI-based features, further elevate the photography experience.
Samsung S21 Ultra 5G. The S21 Ultra 5G’s camera system is nothing short of phenomenal. It includes a 108MP main sensor, ultra-wide lens, and dual telephoto lenses for impressive zoom capabilities. The camera performs exceptionally well in all conditions, offering stunning detail and dynamic range.
In my experience (and I’m no photo expert), the photos between the S21 and the Edge 50 are almost indistinguishable. If anything, there is a slight edge (pun) to the Motorola. The onboard AI really helps bring life to photos. Motorola have really caught up to Samsung’s camera technology.
Battery life
Motorola Edge 50 Pro. With a robust battery and efficient power management, the Edge 50 Pro easily lasts a full day of heavy use. It supports fast charging and wireless charging, ensuring you’re quickly back in action even if you run low on power. The battery optimisation in Motorola’s software further enhances longevity.
Samsung S21 Ultra 5G. Similarly, The Samsung S21 Ultra 5G boasts impressive battery life, delivering reliable performance throughout the day even with heavy usage. Its robust 5000mAh battery ensures extended usage without the need for frequent recharging, making it an ideal companion for busy schedules or extended periods away from power sources. With efficient power management features and fast charging capabilities, the S21 Ultra 5G ensures you stay connected and productive without worrying about running out of power.
Conclusion
The Motorola Edge 50 Pro is perfect for users who appreciate a sleek design, a brilliant display, and a near-stock Android experience with blazing performance and superb photo taking.
This device represents a step change in the mobile phone market for Motorola. I’ve never been a fan of their previous devices (Razor, Flip), they all seemed a bit niche. I could see this phone becoming mainstream taking market share from other devices, including my beloved Samsung Galaxy lineup.
Am I ready to replace my S21 with an Edge 50 Pro? Maybe! There is a lot to love about this phone. I was impressed by the camera functions and near-seamless Android experience (as compared to the S21).
I’ve dropped my S21 so many times, fortunately, it’s been saved by the aforementioned case.
The Edge 50 pro is simply too beautiful to hide. I would want to parade it everywhere.
The Motorola Edge 50 Pro is available in Moonlight Pearl, Luxe Lavender and Black Beauty in a vegan leather finish at JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Bing Lee, Officeworks, Amazon and motorola.com.au for RRP $999.
For those seeking an entry model, the Motorola Edge 50 fusion is also now available in Hot Pink in a vegan suede finish, Marshmallow Blue in a vegan leather finish and Forest Blue at JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Bing Lee, Officeworks, Amazon and motorola.com.au for RRP $599.