iPhone 12 vs Motorola Moto E32

iPhone 12
iPhone 12
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$303.00

Versus A$1,129.00 new

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Motorola Moto E32
Motorola Moto E32
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The iPhone 12, released in October 2020, and the Motorola Moto E32, launched in May 2022, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. While the iPhone 12 operates on Apple's iOS ecosystem, the Moto E32 runs on Android, offering users different software experiences. These devices primarily differentiate themselves through their display technology, processing power, and camera capabilities, catering to varying user priorities.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support are key factors. The iPhone 12, being an older model, has already received several major iOS updates and is expected to continue receiving support for a few more years, potentially up to iOS 26, extending its practical software lifespan. The Motorola Moto E32, a newer device, typically receives fewer major Android updates compared to flagship phones, though it shipped with Android 11 or 12 and offers a clean Android experience.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 12 benefits from Apple's extended software support, ensuring access to the latest features and security updates for a longer duration. The Moto E32, while newer, may have a shorter window for major OS upgrades.
  • Physical Durability: The iPhone 12 features a Ceramic Shield front cover and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, offering robust protection against environmental elements. The Moto E32 has an IP52 water-repellent design, providing basic protection against splashes and dust.
  • Repairability: The iPhone 12 received an iFixit repairability score of 6 out of 10, indicating that many parts are replaceable, though independent repairs can be challenging due to Apple's software configurations. Information on the Moto E32's repairability is less detailed, but its construction suggests a more straightforward approach to component replacement.

Release year

2020

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

Operating system

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone dictates its responsiveness and ability to handle various applications. The iPhone 12, with its advanced internal components, delivers a fluid user experience, capable of managing demanding applications and multitasking with ease. The Motorola Moto E32 is designed for everyday tasks, offering reliable performance for general use.

  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone 12 provides consistently smooth navigation and rapid app loading, making it well-suited for users who frequently switch between applications or engage in graphically intensive activities. The Moto E32 handles daily operations like web browsing and social media effectively, though it may exhibit slower performance with more demanding apps.
  • Multitasking Capabilities: With its optimized software and hardware, the iPhone 12 allows for seamless multitasking, keeping multiple applications active in the background without significant slowdowns. The Moto E32, while capable of multitasking, is better suited for users with moderate usage patterns.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone 12 offers internal storage options up to 256 GB, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos. The Moto E32 typically comes with 64 GB of internal storage but includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage, which can be beneficial for users with large media libraries.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on a smartphone is largely defined by its display. The iPhone 12 and Motorola Moto E32 offer different screen technologies and resolutions, impacting clarity, color reproduction, and overall viewing pleasure.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone 12 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, known for its deep blacks, vibrant colors, and high contrast. This results in sharp text and detailed images with a resolution of 2532x1170 pixels. The Moto E32 has a larger 6.5-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 720x1600 pixels, providing a bright and clear viewing experience for general content.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone 12's display can reach up to 625 nits typical brightness and 1200 nits peak brightness for HDR content, ensuring good visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The Moto E32 offers a 90Hz refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience, though its brightness levels are generally lower than the iPhone 12.
  • Viewing Experience: Users prioritizing a premium visual experience with rich colors and high contrast, especially for media consumption, will find the iPhone 12's OLED display more immersive. For users who value a larger screen and smoother scrolling for everyday browsing, the Moto E32's display is a practical choice.

Resolution

1170 x 2532

720 x 1600

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Camera performance is a significant consideration for many smartphone users, and both devices offer distinct photographic capabilities. The iPhone 12 provides a sophisticated camera system with advanced computational photography, while the Motorola Moto E32 offers a versatile multi-camera setup for everyday capture.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 12 features a dual 12MP camera system with a wide (f/1.6) and an ultra-wide (f/2.4) lens, excelling in capturing detailed images with good dynamic range and improved low-light performance. It also supports 4K Dolby Vision HDR video recording. The Moto E32 includes a multi-camera system, typically featuring a primary sensor (often 16MP or 50MP with quad-pixel technology), a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor, suitable for various shooting scenarios in good lighting.
  • Low-Light and Video Quality: The iPhone 12's Night Mode and Deep Fusion technologies significantly enhance low-light photography, producing clearer and more detailed images in challenging conditions. Its video recording capabilities, including HDR with Dolby Vision, offer professional-grade results. The Moto E32 can take well-brightened low-light photos for its segment, but with less detail compared to higher-end devices. It records video at 1080p at 30 frames per second.
  • Front Camera and Audio: Both devices feature capable front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls. The iPhone 12 has a 12MP TrueDepth camera with Night Mode. The Moto E32 has an 8MP front camera. For audio, the iPhone 12 offers stereo sound recording for videos. The Moto E32 provides clear loudspeaker output for calls and media.

Main camera

12 megapixels

16 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several practical features contribute to the overall user experience. These include connectivity options, physical ports, biometric security, and the device's physical attributes.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The iPhone 12 supports 5G connectivity, offering faster mobile data speeds where available, along with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. It uses Apple's proprietary Lightning port. The Moto E32 supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 4 (802.11 b/g/n), and Bluetooth 5.0. It features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, and importantly, includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Security and Sensors: The iPhone 12 utilizes Face ID for secure facial recognition. The Moto E32 incorporates a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication. Both devices include standard sensors like accelerometers and proximity sensors.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone 12 has a compact design, weighing 162 grams and measuring 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 mm, with a flat-edged aluminum frame and glass back. The Moto E32 is slightly larger and heavier at 184-185 grams and 164 x 75 x 8.5 mm, featuring a plastic build that contributes to its comfortable feel.

Weight

164 oz

184 oz

Screen size (in)

6.1

6,5

Network

5G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

User feedback for the iPhone 12 often praises its strong performance, excellent camera capabilities, and the vibrant OLED display. Some common criticisms include its average battery life, particularly with 5G usage, and the proprietary nature of its charging port. For the Motorola Moto E32, users frequently highlight its impressive battery life, smooth 90Hz display for its category, and clean Android interface as positive aspects. Criticisms often point to its less powerful processor for demanding tasks and the camera's performance in challenging lighting conditions.

Users prioritizing a powerful and responsive device with a high-quality display and advanced camera features, along with long-term software support, may find the iPhone 12 well-suited to their needs. Its robust build and ecosystem integration are also key considerations. Conversely, users who value extended battery life, a larger screen for general media consumption, expandable storage, and the flexibility of the Android operating system might lean towards the Motorola Moto E32. It serves as a practical choice for everyday communication and light usage.

For those seeking a more sustainable and quality-assured option, considering a refurbished version of either device can be an eco-friendly alternative that aligns with responsible consumption.

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