Moto G84 5G vs Moto G85 5G: Should You Upgrade?

Moto G84 5G vs Moto G85 5G: Should You Upgrade?

Motorola's Moto G84 5G was a well-rounded mid-ranger when it launched in August 2023, and just eleven months later the Moto G85 5G arrived with a curved design, a brighter display, and a refreshed chipset. The question for owners is simple: is it worth upgrading so soon? This comparison examines design, display, camera, performance, and software to help you decide whether the G85 earns your money or whether the G84 still holds up.

Key Differences at a Glance

The G84 offers 1300 nits peak brightness, Snapdragon 695 5G, Android 13, and a 16 MP front camera. The G85 upgrades to 1600 nits, Snapdragon 6s Gen 3, Android 14, and a 32 MP front camera. Both share a 50 MP plus 8 MP ultrawide rear camera and 1080p video recording.

Design and Build Quality

The G84 has a boxier profile with flatter edges and a leather back on select colors, including the striking Viva Magenta. It feels soft and pleasant, with Pantone branding on the rear. The G85 moves to a curvier design with rounded edges and a premium curved display, dropping the prominent Pantone branding. Button placement and the side fingerprint reader stay the same. The G85 is slightly heavier at 171 to 173 g versus 166 to 168 g on the G84. Both are IP54 or water-repellent rather than fully waterproof. The G85 looks more modern, but the G84's leather finish remains appealing.

Display Experience

The G84's 6.5-inch flat P-OLED panel runs at 120 Hz with 395 ppi and 1300 nits peak brightness, with an under-display fingerprint reader. It is good but not standout. The G85 expands to 6.67 inches with a curved P-OLED, 120 Hz, and 1600 nits peak brightness, improving outdoor visibility by roughly 23 percent. The screen-to-body ratio rises to about 92.7 percent versus 85.7 percent, giving a more immersive feel. The curved edges look premium, though some users prefer flat panels for accidental touches. Overall the G85's display is the clearer upgrade.

Is the Curved Display Worth It?

If you value immersion and modern looks, yes; if you prefer flat screens for gaming and typing, the G84's flat panel may suit you better.

Camera Performance

Both phones use an identical dual rear setup: a 50 MP wide camera plus an 8 MP 120-degree ultrawide. Daylight photos are good on either, but neither supports 4K recording, which is a notable omission at this price. The real change is the front camera: the G84's 16 MP selfie shooter doubles to 32 MP on the G85, producing sharper selfies and better video calls. If selfies matter to you, the G85 is the better buy.

Performance and Software

The G84 runs on the Snapdragon 695 5G at up to 2.2 GHz with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage plus a microSD slot. The G85 switches to the newer Snapdragon 6s Gen 3, offering improved efficiency and performance, with 8 or 12 GB RAM and RAM Boost. Both include Dolby Atmos sound. The G85 ships with Android 14 versus Android 13 on the G84, giving it a longer software runway. For everyday use both are capable, but the G85 is the better long-term investment.

Battery Life

Both phones pack batteries around 5000 mAh with fast charging support, so battery life is broadly similar. Neither is a standout, but both comfortably last a full day. The G85's more efficient chipset may squeeze out slightly better endurance, though the difference is modest.

Verdict

If you own the G84, upgrading to the G85 is optional rather than essential, since the core camera and battery are unchanged. However, the G85's brighter curved display, newer chipset, Android 14, and 32 MP selfie camera make it the better choice for new buyers. Upgrade if display quality and selfies matter; otherwise the G84 remains a solid value.

Price and Value

Because the G84 and G85 launched less than a year apart, pricing overlap is common in Bangladesh. The G84 often sells at a discount now, making it a strong value for budget buyers who do not need the newest features. The G85 costs more but brings a brighter curved display, newer chipset, Android 14, and a sharper selfie camera. If you find the G84 at a significant discount, it remains a smart buy; otherwise the G85 is the better long-term investment.

Who Should Buy Which Phone?

New buyers should pick the G85 for its modern design and longer software support. Existing G84 owners can skip the upgrade unless the curved display and 32 MP selfie camera are must-haves. Gamers and media lovers will appreciate the G85's brighter, more immersive screen, while value hunters can grab the discounted G84 without losing much.

FAQ

Does the Moto G85 support 4K recording?

No, both the G84 and G85 are limited to 1080p video recording.

Which has a brighter display?

The G85 reaches 1600 nits versus 1300 nits on the G84.

Which chipset is newer?

The G85 uses the Snapdragon 6s Gen 3, while the G84 uses the Snapdragon 695 5G.

Is the front camera better on the G85?

Yes, the G85 has a 32 MP selfie camera versus 16 MP on the G84.

Should I upgrade from the G84 to the G85?

Only if you value the brighter curved display, newer software, and better selfie camera; otherwise the G84 still performs well.