Moto G Power 2026 vs. 2025: Is the Upgrade Worth It? [Full Comparison] (2026)

Moto G Power 2026 vs. 2025: A Surprising Upgrade Dilemma

Is the latest Moto G Power worth the upgrade? The Moto G Power 2026 has arrived, but it's causing quite a stir among tech enthusiasts. With a price tag of $299, it's the same as its predecessor, yet it offers some intriguing upgrades. But here's the catch: is it enough to justify the cost?

Moto G Power 2026: A Quick Overview

The 2026 edition boasts a larger battery, a higher-resolution selfie camera, and new color options. It also features enhanced scratch protection for the display and an impressive IP69 rating, making it a durable choice. However, it retains the same SoC as the 2025 model, which wasn't exactly a powerhouse.

Pros:
- Display scratch protection with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i
- IP69 rating and MIL-STD-810H certification for ruggedness
- Android 16 out of the box
- 32MP selfie camera for crisp selfies
- Larger battery capacity

Cons:
- Same SoC as the 2025 model
- No improvements to other cameras or display
- Wireless charging is a thing of the past

Moto G Power 2025: Still a Solid Contender

The Moto G Power 2025 has seen a significant price drop to $200, making it an even more attractive option. With similar specifications, it offers excellent value for money and is eligible for two OS upgrades.

Pros:
- Striking Leaf Green color option
- Durable build quality
- Improved software update promise
- Solid battery life and 15W wireless charging

Cons:
- MediaTek chip may lag occasionally
- Uninspiring software and bloatware
- Average camera performance

Design and Display: A Familiar Face-Off

The Moto G Power 2026 and 2025 share a similar design, with a minor tweak to the rear camera bump. They even have the same weight and dimensions, making older cases compatible. Both offer IP68 and IP69 water protection, but the 2026 model has been tested against more rigorous standards.

The display on both phones is identical: a 6.8-inch IPS LCD with Full-HD+ resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The 2026 model, however, boasts Corning Gorilla Glass 7i for better scratch resistance.

Hardware and Specs: A Tale of Two SoCs

Motorola's decision to use the same SoC, the MediaTek Dimensity 6300, in both models is a bit puzzling. While it handles everyday tasks and light gaming, it can feel sluggish at times. The 2026 model offers 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, expandable via microSD. The battery has been upgraded to 5,200mAh, but wireless charging is now absent.

Software and Cameras: A Mixed Bag

The Moto G Power 2026 runs Android 16 with Motorola's signature apps, but lacks AI features. It promises two OS upgrades and security updates, but falls short compared to Samsung's A-series update policy. The selfie camera has been upgraded to 32MP, but the rest of the camera setup remains unchanged.

The Verdict: Which One Deserves Your Wallet?

For those on a budget, the Moto G Power 2025 is a no-brainer. At $200, it offers excellent value, wireless charging, and similar performance. The 2026 model's minor upgrades might not be worth the extra $100. However, if you're a fan of the latest features and don't mind the missing wireless charging, the 2026 edition could still be a compelling choice.

But here's where it gets controversial: Is Motorola's strategy of releasing a slightly upgraded model at the same price point a smart move? Or should they have waited and offered more significant improvements? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let's discuss whether the Moto G Power 2026 is a worthy upgrade or a missed opportunity.