Galaxy S10 vs Motorola Moto G53

Galaxy S10
Galaxy S10
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$359.00

Versus A$849.00 new

See options
Motorola Moto G53
Motorola Moto G53
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$203.77

Versus A$975.00 new

See options

The Samsung Galaxy S10, released in March 2019, was a flagship smartphone known for its premium features and design. In contrast, the Motorola Moto G53, launched in December 2022, is a more recent device positioned in the entry-level to mid-range segment. These two Android-based smartphones offer distinct experiences, primarily differing in their core hardware capabilities, display technology, and camera systems, reflecting their respective market segments and release timelines.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, their release timelines and original software support play a significant role.

  • Release Timeline and OS Support: The Galaxy S10, being an older device, launched with Android 9.0 Pie and received major operating system updates up to Android 12. Samsung typically provides three generations of Android updates and four years of security updates for its flagship devices. The Moto G53, released more recently with Android 13, benefits from a newer starting point for software support, likely receiving updates for at least one to two more major Android versions.
  • Build Materials and Protection: The Galaxy S10 features a more robust construction with Gorilla Glass 6 on both the front and back, complemented by an aluminum frame, and boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The Moto G53, on the other hand, utilizes a plastic back and frame, and while it may offer some splash resistance, it does not carry an official IP certification for water and dust protection.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: While the Galaxy S10's hardware remains capable, its software support cycle has largely concluded. The Moto G53, with its newer software and more recent release, offers a longer expected period of official software updates, which can be a key factor for users prioritizing the latest features and security patches.

Release year

2019

2022

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of these two smartphones reflects their different market positions and the advancements in mobile technology over time.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S10, powered by a high-end processor for its release year, handles demanding applications, complex multitasking, and graphic-intensive games with smooth responsiveness. Users generally found its performance to be snappy and capable for a wide range of tasks. The Moto G53, featuring a more recent but entry-level to mid-range processor, is well-suited for everyday tasks such as web browsing, social media, and light gaming, offering a generally smooth experience for typical smartphone usage.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S10 typically comes with 8GB of RAM, providing ample capacity for running multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns. It offers internal storage options of 128GB or 512GB, with some variants extending to 1TB, and supports expandable storage via microSD. The Moto G53 is available with 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, also supporting microSD expansion, which is sufficient for most users' app and media storage needs.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S10 is equipped with a 3400 mAh battery, which users reported generally lasts a full day with moderate use, though heavy usage might necessitate a charge before the day ends. The Moto G53 features a larger 5000 mAh battery, providing extended usage times, which is beneficial for users who prioritize longer periods between charges.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on these devices is shaped by their distinct display technologies and specifications.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy S10 features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a high resolution of 3040 x 1440 pixels, resulting in a sharp 550 pixels per inch (PPI). This technology delivers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast, enhanced by HDR10+ support. The Moto G53 has a larger 6.5-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels, offering a pixel density of approximately 270 PPI.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S10's AMOLED panel provides strong brightness levels, making it comfortable for outdoor viewing. Its refresh rate is standard. The Moto G53, while having a lower resolution, compensates with a 120Hz refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience, particularly noticeable during fast-paced content or navigation.
  • Viewing Experience: Users prioritizing a highly detailed, color-accurate, and vibrant display for media consumption and photography will find the Galaxy S10's screen more appealing. For users who value a larger screen and smoother motion for everyday interactions and casual gaming, the Moto G53's display offers a good experience despite its lower resolution.

Resolution

1440 x 3040

720x1600

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera capabilities of the Galaxy S10 and Moto G53 cater to different photography needs and expectations.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S10 boasts a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 12MP wide-angle lens with dual aperture, a 12MP telephoto lens offering 2x optical zoom, and a 16MP ultrawide lens with a 123-degree field of view. This configuration allows for a wide range of photographic styles, from detailed close-ups to expansive landscapes. The Moto G53 features a dual-camera system with a 50MP main sensor and a 2MP macro lens, providing good quality for general photography and close-up shots.
  • Photography Features and Video Quality: The Galaxy S10 includes advanced features like Scene Optimizer, Shot Suggestion, and Super Steady video recording, along with the ability to record 4K video and HDR10+ content. Its low-light performance was considered strong for its time. The Moto G53 records video at 1080p at 30 frames per second and offers a simpler, more straightforward photography experience, suitable for capturing everyday moments.
  • Front Camera and Audio: The Galaxy S10 has a 10MP front camera capable of 4K video recording, providing detailed selfies. The Moto G53 features an 8MP front camera. Both devices offer decent microphone quality for calls and video recording. The Galaxy S10 includes stereo speakers, delivering a rich audio experience, while the Moto G53 also features stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support for enhanced media consumption.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core specifications, several practical elements differentiate these two smartphones in daily use.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S10 supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0. It notably includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and a USB-C port. The Moto G53 offers more modern connectivity with 5G support, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.1. It also retains the 3.5mm headphone jack and uses a USB-C port.
  • Biometric Security and Design: The Galaxy S10 features an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor, a premium feature at its release, alongside face recognition. Its design is characterized by a compact form factor, weighing 157 grams, with dimensions of 149.9 x 70.4 x 7.8 mm. The Moto G53 incorporates a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security and also supports face unlock. It is slightly larger and heavier at 183 grams, with dimensions of 162.7 x 74.7 x 8.2 mm.
  • Additional Features: The Galaxy S10 includes wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities, allowing it to power other Qi-compatible devices. The Moto G53 focuses on essential features, providing a straightforward user experience without these advanced charging options.

Weight

157 oz

183 oz

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.5

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S10 and Motorola Moto G53 cater to different user priorities, largely influenced by their original market positioning and release dates. Users frequently praise the Galaxy S10 for its vibrant AMOLED display, versatile camera system, and premium build quality. Many appreciate its compact size and the inclusion of features like the headphone jack and wireless charging. However, some users note that its battery life, while adequate for moderate use, might require more frequent charging for heavy users, and its software support has concluded.

The Motorola Moto G53 is often commended for its long battery life, the smooth experience provided by its 120Hz display, and the inclusion of 5G connectivity at its price point. Users find it a reliable device for everyday tasks and appreciate its newer Android version. Criticisms sometimes point to its lower screen resolution compared to higher-end devices and its plastic build.

Users prioritizing a premium build, a high-resolution and vibrant display, and a more advanced and versatile camera system, even if it means an older software experience, may find the Galaxy S10 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users who value extended battery life, a smoother scrolling experience, and more current software support for general daily use and 5G connectivity will likely lean towards the Moto G53. Both devices, especially the Galaxy S10, are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers seeking capable smartphones.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons