Motorola's modular Moto Z line offered a unique approach to smartphones. Two popular models, the Moto Z Force and the Moto Z2 Force, aimed to deliver flagship performance and durability. But which one truly comes out on top? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Moto Z Force boasts superior battery life and a slightly more robust build. However, the Moto Z2 Force offers a faster processor and a more modern design. Ultimately, the Z Force is a better choice for battery-focused users, while the Z2 Force caters to those prioritizing performance.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only) | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - EMEA, USA |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - EMEA, USA |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 46 | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 13 - USA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (3CA) Cat9 450/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE |
| | - | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO - USA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2017, July. Released 2017, August | 2016, June. Released 2016, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic front, aluminum back, aluminum frame | - |
| Dimensions | 155.8 x 76 x 6.1 mm (6.13 x 2.99 x 0.24 in) | 155.9 x 75.8 x 7 mm (6.14 x 2.98 x 0.28 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 143 g (5.04 oz) | 163 g (5.75 oz) |
| | Splash resistant | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Shatterproof | Shatterproof |
| Resolution | 1440 x 2560 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~534 ppi density) | 1440 x 2560 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~535 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 83.4 cm2 (~70.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.5 inches, 83.1 cm2 (~70.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | P-OLED | AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Kryo & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo) | Quad-core (2x2.15 GHz Kryo & 2x1.6 GHz Kryo) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 (10 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 (14 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 540 | Adreno 530 |
| OS | Android 7.1.1 (Nougat), upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), upgradable to Android 8.0 (Oreo) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Laser AF, Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, panorama | Laser AF, Dual-LED dual-tone flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | 12 MP, f/2.0, 1/2.8", 1.25µm, PDAF
12 MP B/W, f/2.0, 1/2.9", 1.25µm, PDAF | 21 MP, f/1.8, 1.12µm, PDAF, OIS |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, 720p@240fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps, HDR |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED dual-tone flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.2, 1/4.0", 1.4µm |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, EDR, LE (5.0 after SW update), aptX | 4.1, A2DP, EDR, LE, aptX |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG, magnetic connector | USB Type-C, OTG, magnetic connector |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer | Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| | Moto Mods snap-on accessories | Moto Mods snap-on accessories |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 2730 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 3500 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Super Black, Fine Gold, Lunar Grey | Black/Gray, Black/Rose Gold, Black/Gold, White |
| Models | XT1789-05 | - |
| Price | About 320 EUR | About 270 EUR |
| SAR | 0.87 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.41 W/kg (head) 1.45 W/kg (body) | - |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality | - |
Noise -94dB / Crosstalk -94.9dB |
| Battery life |
Endurance rating 69h
|
Endurance rating 88h
|
| Camera |
Photo / Video | - |
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 68dB / Noise 70dB / Ring 86dB
|
Voice 69dB / Noise 68dB / Ring 77dB
|
| Performance |
AnTuTu: 209779 (v7)
GeekBench: 6629 (v4.4)
GFXBench: 15fps (ES 3.1 onscreen) |
Basemark OS II 2.0: 5395Basemark X: 36405 |
Motorola Moto Z2 Force
- Faster Processor (Snapdragon 835)
- Slightly Better Camera
- More Modern Design
- ShatterShield Display
- Shorter Battery Life
- Potentially Higher Price (if still available new)
Motorola Moto Z Force
- Longer Battery Life (88h)
- More Rugged Build
- Potentially Lower Price (due to age)
- Slower Processor (Snapdragon 820)
- Older Design
- May have limited software updates
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 5.5-inch AMOLED display, but the Z2 Force has a slightly higher resolution (2560 x 1440 vs 2560 x 1440). While the difference is minimal, the Z2 Force's slightly newer panel might offer marginally better color accuracy and brightness. Both support ShatterShield technology for enhanced durability.
Camera Comparison
While both phones offer capable cameras, the Z2 Force generally produces slightly better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. The Z2 Force's camera benefits from software optimizations and potentially a slightly improved sensor. Both phones are capable of recording 4K video.
Performance
The Z2 Force's Snapdragon 835 chipset and Octa-core Kryo processor significantly outperform the Moto Z Force's Snapdragon 820 and Quad-core Kryo processor. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better gaming performance on the Z2 Force. The 10nm process of the 835 also contributes to improved power efficiency.
Battery Life
The Moto Z Force holds a clear advantage in battery life, boasting an endurance rating of 88 hours compared to the Z2 Force's 69 hours. This difference is substantial and makes the Z Force a more reliable choice for heavy users.
Buying Guide
The Moto Z2 Force is ideal for users who value speed and a more refined design, and are willing to compromise slightly on battery life. The Moto Z Force is a great pick for those prioritizing long-lasting battery performance and a more rugged feel, especially if they can find it at a discounted price.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Moto Z2 Force still worth buying?
It depends. If you prioritize performance and a modern design, and can find it at a good price, it's still a decent option. However, consider newer phones with better battery life and more features.
❓ What is ShatterShield?
ShatterShield is Motorola's display technology designed to prevent shattering upon drops. It involves a layered construction to absorb impact.
