Moto G 5G (2024) Review: A Stellar Budget-Friendly Smartphone

The Moto G 5G (2024) stands as a testament to Motorola’s commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable smartphones. Priced at just $149.99 with a 25% discount from its original price of $199.99, this unlocked device is made specifically for the US market, boasting features that cater to both casual and tech-savvy users. With its sleek Sage Green design, robust hardware, and an array of user-friendly features, the Moto G 5G is undoubtedly one of the best-value smartphones in its category.

Let’s delve deeper into its features and discover what makes the Moto G 5G a compelling choice.

Moto G 5G Design and Build Quality

The Moto G 5G’s design is both premium and practical. Featuring a vegan leather back cover, it offers a soft-to-the-touch feel while being fingerprint-resistant. Measuring 2.95 x 0.32 x 6.47 inches and weighing just 6.8 ounces (194 grams), the phone is lightweight and easy to handle. Its slim profile enhances portability, making it perfect for users on the go.

The Sage Green color adds a refreshing aesthetic, setting it apart from traditional black or white smartphones. Its slate form factor is modern yet timeless, appealing to a wide audience. The device is also water-resistant, providing durability and peace of mind for users prone to accidental spills or light rain exposure.

Display: Immersive 120Hz Experience

The Moto G 5G features a 6.6-inch display with a resolution of 1612×720 pixels. While the HD+ resolution might seem modest compared to flagship devices, the 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and a fluid user experience. This high refresh rate makes navigating through apps, browsing social media, and gaming feel seamless.

The inclusion of Dolby Atmos multidimensional stereo sound enhances the multimedia experience. Watching movies, streaming videos, or playing games is immersive, with vibrant visuals and clear audio that elevate entertainment on a budget.

Camera: 50MP Quad Pixel Excellence

One of the standout features of the Moto G 5G is its 50MP main camera. Equipped with Quad Pixel technology, this camera captures sharper images with enhanced light sensitivity. By combining four pixels into one, it delivers effective photo resolutions of 12.5 MP, ensuring vivid details and accurate colors even in low-light conditions.

For photography enthusiasts, the Macro Vision lens provides an opportunity to explore close-up shots with stunning detail. Whether capturing intricate textures or minute subjects, the camera excels in delivering impressive results. The front-facing camera is also capable of producing crisp selfies, ensuring social media-ready shots every time.

Performance: Powered by Snapdragon 4 Gen 1

At the heart of the Moto G 5G is the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 octa-core processor, which provides efficient performance for everyday tasks. Coupled with 4GB of RAM, the phone handles multitasking with ease, from running multiple apps to casual gaming.

The inclusion of 5G connectivity ensures lightning-fast internet speeds, allowing users to stream high-definition content, download large files, and enjoy lag-free gaming. Note that 5G network compatibility varies by carrier and location, so users are advised to check availability in their areas.

Storage: Ample Space for Everything

With 128GB of internal storage, the Moto G 5G provides ample space for photos, videos, apps, and documents. For those needing more storage, the device supports microSD cards of up to 1 TB. This expandability is a significant advantage for users who frequently store large media files or require extra space for work-related documents.

Battery Life and Charging

The 5000mAh battery is a powerhouse, ensuring that users can work and play for extended periods without constantly reaching for the charger. Motorola’s TurboPower charging technology enables fast recharging, though it’s worth noting that the maximum charging speed is 18W, and the charger may be sold separately depending on the market.

Software: Android 14

Running on Android 14, the Moto G 5G offers a clean and intuitive user experience. Motorola’s near-stock Android approach ensures minimal bloatware, faster updates, and better overall performance. Features like Always-On Display and Mobile Hotspot Capability further enhance the phone’s utility.

Connectivity and Special Features

The Moto G 5G is equipped with a host of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, and NFC. It also supports dual SIM functionality, making it an ideal choice for users who juggle personal and work lines. Additional features like built-in GPS, stereo speakers, and a 3.5mm audio jack add to its versatility.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

With a customer rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from over 1,356 reviews, the Moto G 5G has garnered positive feedback for its value, performance, and design. Customers have praised its long battery life, immersive display, and reliable 5G connectivity. A few users have noted that the HD+ resolution could be improved, but this is a minor drawback considering the phone’s price point.

Comparison with Competitors

When compared to other smartphones in the same price range, such as the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G and the OnePlus Nord N300, the Moto G 5G holds its own. While the Galaxy A14 offers a slightly higher resolution display, the Moto G 5G’s 120Hz refresh rate and premium design give it a competitive edge. Similarly, while the OnePlus Nord N300 features faster charging, the Moto G 5G’s larger battery capacity ensures longer usage.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable price with excellent value for money
• Immersive 120Hz display with Dolby Atmos sound
• High-quality 50MP camera with Quad Pixel technology
• Long-lasting 5000mAh battery with TurboPower charging
• Expandable storage up to 1 TB
• Sleek, fingerprint-resistant design

Cons:

• HD+ resolution could be higher
• TurboPower charger may need to be purchased separately
• Limited RAM at 4GB for heavy multitasking

Verdict: Is the Moto G 5G Worth It?

The Moto G 5G (2024) is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a feature-rich smartphone. Its combination of a 120Hz display, powerful camera, long battery life, and sleek design makes it a standout in its price range. While it may not cater to power users or those seeking flagship-level specs, it offers more than enough for everyday use and light gaming.

Whether you’re upgrading from an older device or purchasing your first 5G smartphone, the Moto G 5G is a solid investment. At just $149.99, it delivers exceptional performance and features that are hard to match in its segment.

Buy the Moto G 5G today and experience a smartphone that balances affordability with quality.