Nexus 6 vs Moto X review and Comparison: Which Is The 'Best Smartphone'?

Jeiniel Silvestre Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Different colored examples of Motorola's new Moto X phones rest on a table at a launch event in New York. | REUTERS/LUCAS JACKSON

Motorola is set to release two new phones that have drawn raves – the Moto X and Nexus 6.

While Moto X has elicited such tag as "the best smartphone ever," the Nexus 6 could pose a stiff competition.

The two phones are similar in many ways. Their key differences and advantages could perhaps determine which of the two devices will emerge the real winner.

Nexus 6 has a massive display of 5.9-inches. But Moto X is smaller with a 5.2-inch screen, just like many of the new tablets in the market today.

However, according to Digital Trends, Moto X's reduced screen size is not a disadvantage. "We love the Moto X's 5.2.-inch screen and you'll be happy to find that you've got nearly endless options to personalize your Moto X," a reviewer exclaims.

The Moto X has diverted from the traditional keypad style and relocated the volume keys near the sleep/wake key. It has a thinner metal frame than the Nexus 6 but uses Nexus 6's signature matte-rear panel design.

As for the camera feature, the Nexus 6 stands out. Even though the two peer devices have identical specs with 2MP front camera and 13MP rear camera, the Nexus 6 is powered by the Snapdragon 805 processor and as such has better performance and speed in capturing still shots, especially in low light.

When it comes to hardware, the Nexus 6 has the updated Android 5.0 Lollipop while Moto X is still on the Android 4.4 Kitkat OS.

Nexus 6 has Bluetooth 4.1 but the Moto X boasts of Wi-Fi, 4G LTE, HSPA_ and NFC connectivities.

The Moto X has 2300 mAh battery capacity while the Nexus 6 has a 3220 mAh battery which is equivalent to 24 hours of talk time.

The Google Shamu/Moto X is currently offered in just two colors -- black and white.

As for the price, Nexus 6 can be bought at US$650 if purchased without a contract. The Moto X has already been offered by carriers with a two-year contract for only US$ 99.

There is no firm conclusion yet on which of these phones is better than the other. But some reviewers are of the opinion that the Nexus 6 seems more enticing than the Moto X.