Moto Z2 Force vs Moto Z2 Play: tough choice
Specs comparison for lazy people
The Moto Z2 Play comes with a 5.5" full HD screen. The Z2 Force comes with a 5.5" QHD Shattershield screen, so higher pixel density and same size, but drop proof on the Force one. Both devices measure 6mm and Motorola made their designs very similar this year. Both devices come with Snapdragon processors. While the Z2 Force comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 clocked at 2.35GHz, the Z2 Play comes with a Snapdragon 626 clocked at 2.2GHz. The Z Force comes with 4/6GB of RAM while the newer Z2 Play offers both 3 and 4 GB versions. Both come with Android Nougat, 7.1.1.
The rear-camera on the Moto Z2 Play comes with a 12MP shooter compared to the Z2 Force 12MP dual-cam, which allows some better imaging power and some Black and White and Color modes which the Z2 Play doesn't bring. Both offer 5MP front shooters. Motorola set the bar really high in the battery department with the Z Play series, as the Z2 Play comes with a 3,000mAH battery. The Z2 Force comes with a smaller 2,730mAH battery.
Motorola's Z2 Play comes in gold and dark silver rear housings, while the Z2 Force comes in black, silver and gold backs. Both offer MotoMods support, so every Mod from 2016 till now will work in both of them.
In the specs department, you can see the Z2 Force offers better specs as it's the flagship phone here, but the design is basically the same, except for the screen resistance on the Force. In terms of battery life, the Z2 Play wins.
In the specs department, you can see the Z2 Force offers better specs as it's the flagship phone here, but the design is basically the same, except for the screen resistance on the Force. In terms of battery life, the Z2 Play wins.
Essentials comparison for those who care...
Since it's 2017 vs. 2017, both devices are marketed in similar ways and to similar segments: great specs, design and modularity at an upper mid-range price.
Stock android experiences and fast performance are key features of both devices. With both phones, you get access to the amazing Moto Experiences ecosystem. This includes gesture-based actions that improve user experience and simplify daily tasks. You get the Moto Camera, Chop Chop for the flashlight, Moto Display just to name a few. These features are highly appreciated by consumers around the world.
With these new phones, you also get One Button Navigation, which expands the screen while hiding the navigation bar, letting you control everything from the fingerprint sensor. You also get a new feature called "Show Me", which allows users to talk to the phone in whatever app they are, asking the Moto Z2 Play or Force to show them a specific task, app, or information.
With these new phones, you also get One Button Navigation, which expands the screen while hiding the navigation bar, letting you control everything from the fingerprint sensor. You also get a new feature called "Show Me", which allows users to talk to the phone in whatever app they are, asking the Moto Z2 Play or Force to show them a specific task, app, or information.
Conclusion: Right now, and depending on the market, there's a $300 dollar difference between both phones. In the USA, for example, the Z2 Play is being sold for $408 through Verizon Wireless. And when the unlocked version is released in the coming days, it will just cost $499.
The Z2 Force will be available for $750 in all US carriers and in most countries for a similar price. The Moto Z2 Play is already available globally while the Z2 Force won't be available until later this summer.
The Z2 Force will be available for $750 in all US carriers and in most countries for a similar price. The Moto Z2 Play is already available globally while the Z2 Force won't be available until later this summer.
So it's a very tough choice. In terms of specs and design, there isn't a huge difference between them, but if you compare the price, you will have to consider if you value a shatterproof screen, dual cameras and a better processor at the cost of a smaller battery, compared to a solid-specced phone with a better battery life.
If your country still didn't get the new Z2 Force and you really want a Moto Z phone, you should go for the Z2 Play. And, if you think it's not worth paying $300 for a shatterproof screen and better specs, we definitely recommend the Z2 Play. If you drop your phone often and/or crave for the latest processor, then you should go for the Z2 Force.
In my opinion, I would go (and might replace my 2016 Moto Z) with a Moto Z2 Play, as it looks as gorgeous as the Z2 Force but comes with great battery life.
