21/02/2022
When considering a new smartphone, understanding its value proposition is crucial. This often involves looking beyond just the price tag and delving into the device's specifications, features, and how they stack up against the competition. In the realm of budget-friendly yet capable devices, Motorola's Moto G series has consistently offered compelling options. This article will focus on the Motorola Moto G5S Plus, exploring its pricing and introducing the concept of a 'Ki score' to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Ki Score?
The 'Ki score' is an innovative metric designed to provide an objective ranking of mobile devices. It's an automatic score derived from a comprehensive analysis of a device's specifications and its retail price. The calculation is remarkably detailed, incorporating over 200 variables. These variables are meticulously assessed to rank smartphones, tablets, and other portable electronic devices from best to worst. The aim is to offer a holistic view of a device's worth, moving beyond simple feature lists.
How is the Ki Score Calculated?
The calculation of the Ki score involves a multi-faceted approach, evaluating five key general aspects of a device:
- Design and Screen: This category assesses the build quality, materials used, ergonomics, display size, resolution, pixel density, and any protective features like Corning Gorilla Glass.
- Hardware and Performance: Here, the focus is on the processor, RAM, internal storage, and the overall speed and responsiveness of the device.
- Camera: This aspect evaluates the specifications of both the rear and front-facing cameras, including megapixel count, aperture, autofocus capabilities, and additional features like dual-lens systems or advanced video recording.
- Connectivity: This includes assessing Wi-Fi standards, Bluetooth versions, GPS capabilities, and cellular network support.
- Battery: The battery life is a critical factor, considering battery capacity, charging speeds, and overall endurance.
Once these five core factors are rated, the price variable is introduced. This is where the Ki score truly shines, as it directly reflects the quality versus price ratio. Even two devices with identical ratings will receive different Ki scores if their prices differ. This means that a device that might be objectively 'lesser' in terms of raw specifications could achieve a higher Ki score if it offers a significantly better price point. It's a testament to the idea that value isn't just about having the best specs, but about getting the most for your money.
Does the Ki Score Change?
Indeed, the Ki score is not static. It is a dynamic metric that evolves over time. As newer devices with superior specifications enter the market, the Ki scores of older devices naturally tend to decrease. However, this decrease is often compensated by a corresponding reduction in their price. This ensures that the Ki score remains a relevant indicator of a device's current value proposition, reflecting both technological advancements and market adjustments.
Motorola Moto G Series: A Closer Look
Motorola, under Lenovo, has been prolific in releasing smartphones, particularly within the popular Moto G range. The Moto G5 and Moto G5 Plus were initially launched, followed by the 'special edition' Moto G5S and G5S Plus. This expansion has transformed what was once a simple choice into a more complex decision for consumers seeking the best budget-friendly device.
Motorola Moto G5 vs. G5 Plus vs. G5S vs. G5S Plus: A Comparative Analysis
Let's break down the key differences between these four models to understand where the Moto G5S Plus fits in and why it might be the right choice for you.
Design
All four devices share a similar design language, but the newer G5S and G5S Plus boast a construction from a single piece of high-grade aluminium, making them feel more premium and robust. While all feature a metal build, the G5S series offers enhanced durability. A common design element is the signature 'M' logo below the distinct circular camera housing on the rear. The G5S, G5 Plus, and G5S Plus have a slightly protruding camera bump, whereas the G5's is flush. The headphone jack is positioned at the top for the G5, G5S, and G5S Plus, while the G5 Plus places it at the bottom. A notable improvement in the special edition models (G5S and G5S Plus) is the multi-functional front-mounted fingerprint sensor, which not only unlocks the phone but also facilitates navigation and mobile payments, a step up from the standard unlocking function on the G5 and G5 Plus.
In terms of physical dimensions, the Moto G5S Plus is the largest and heaviest, measuring 153.5 x 76.3 x 8-9.5mm and weighing 168g. Conversely, the Moto G5 is the most compact and lightest at 144.3 x 73 x 9.5mm and 144g.
Display
The display sizes vary across the range. The Moto G5 features a 5-inch screen, while the Moto G5 and G5 Plus have slightly larger 5.2-inch displays. The Moto G5S Plus leads the pack with the largest screen at 5.5 inches. All four models sport a Full HD resolution. However, due to the different screen sizes, the pixel densities vary: the Moto G5 boasts the sharpest display at 440ppi, followed by the G5S and G5 Plus at 423ppi, and the G5S Plus at 401ppi. While theoretically, the Moto G5 has a sharper display, the difference in pixel density is generally imperceptible to the naked eye. An important advantage for the G5 Plus, G5S, and G5S Plus is the inclusion of Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection, which the standard Moto G5 lacks.
Camera Capabilities
The Moto G5 is equipped with a 13-megapixel rear camera (f/2.0 aperture, PDAF) and a 5-megapixel front camera (f/2.2 aperture, wide-angle). The Moto G5 Plus steps up with a 12-megapixel rear camera featuring Dual Autofocus Pixels and a wider f/1.7 aperture, along with a 5-megapixel front camera. The Moto G5S offers a 16-megapixel rear camera with PDAF and an f/2.0 aperture, plus a 5-megapixel front camera with a wider f/2.0 aperture. However, the Moto G5S Plus stands out with its dual 13-megapixel rear cameras, enabling advanced features like depth effects and boasting an f/2.0 aperture. Its front camera is also upgraded to 8-megapixels. For video enthusiasts, the Moto G5 Plus and G5S Plus can record in 4K, while the G5 and G5S are limited to Full HD.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the Moto G5 and G5S are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 430 processor, while the Moto G5 Plus and G5S Plus feature the more capable Qualcomm Snapdragon 625. All models available in the UK come with 3GB of RAM. Storage-wise, the G5 has 16GB, while the G5 Plus, G5S, and G5S Plus offer a more generous 32GB. All models support microSD card expansion up to 128GB. Battery capacities are 2800mAh for the G5 and 3000mAh for the G5 Plus, G5S, and G5S Plus. Fast charging is supported on the G5 Plus, G5S, and G5S Plus, with the G5 being compatible with rapid charging solutions.
Software Experience
All four devices run on Android Nougat with Motorola's signature software enhancements, such as Moto Display and Moto Actions. The Moto G5S and G5S Plus incorporate newer features like Night Display and Quick Reply, offering a slightly more refined user experience. Motorola's commitment to minimal bloatware provides a cleaner Android experience and generally leads to quicker software updates.
Pricing and Value
The pricing at launch was as follows (prices may vary depending on region and time):
| Model | Approximate UK Price |
|---|---|
| Moto G5 | £169 |
| Moto G5S | £220 |
| Moto G5S Plus | £260 |
| Moto G5 Plus | £269 |
Interestingly, the Moto G5S Plus, despite being the highest-specced model in many regards, was priced slightly lower than the Moto G5 Plus. This pricing strategy makes the G5S Plus particularly attractive from a value perspective.
Conclusion: Which Moto G is Right for You?
The choice among the Moto G series ultimately hinges on your budget and priorities. The Moto G5S Plus emerges as a strong contender, offering a larger display, a more advanced dual-camera system, a faster processor (compared to G5 and G5S), and a more robust build, all while being competitively priced, even undercutting the Moto G5 Plus. If the £260 price point for the G5S Plus is too high, the Moto G5S presents a good compromise, offering improvements in battery, storage, display size, and camera over the base Moto G5, albeit with a less powerful processor than the G5S Plus. For those on a tighter budget, the Moto G5 remains an option, but the increased value offered by the G5S and G5S Plus makes the standard G5 less compelling unless strict budget constraints are in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main advantage of the Moto G5S Plus over the Moto G5 Plus?
The Moto G5S Plus offers a dual-rear camera system, a higher resolution front camera (8MP vs 5MP), and a more robust all-metal unibody design. It also has a slightly larger display.
Q: Is the Moto G5S Plus good for photography?
Yes, the Moto G5S Plus is considered good for photography in its price segment, especially with its dual-rear 13MP cameras and features like depth effects. The upgraded 8MP front camera also enhances selfie quality.
Q: Which Moto G model has the best battery life?
While the Moto G5S Plus has a larger battery (3000mAh) than the Moto G5 (2800mAh), actual battery life also depends on usage and software optimisation. The G5 Plus and G5S also share the 3000mAh capacity.
Q: Does the Moto G5S Plus have fast charging?
Yes, the Moto G5S Plus supports fast charging, along with the Moto G5 Plus and Moto G5S.
Q: Where can I find the current price of the Moto G5S Plus?
Prices can fluctuate. It's best to check major electronics retailers and online marketplaces for the most up-to-date pricing information.
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