Motorola continues its stride in the budget smartphone market with the introduction of the Moto G04, an entry-level device that impresses with its design, display, and software features, all packaged at an attractive price point.
Design and Display
Starting with the design, the Moto G04 showcases Motorola’s commitment to aesthetics and functionality. The sea green variant, with its subtle shimmer and matte finish, exudes a premium feel that defies its budget-friendly price. The flat edges contribute to a secure grip, and the device’s IP52 rating adds a layer of durability, protecting it from splashes.
The single bottom-firing speaker, although not stereo, delivers surprisingly clear and loud audio, complemented by the Dolby Atmos branding. The 6.56-inch LCD punch-hole display offers an HD+ resolution and a commendable 90Hz refresh rate. While it may not be the brightest outdoors, the display provides a pleasant viewing experience indoors, with smooth scrolling, making daily interactions on the device notably seamless.
Performance and Software Features
Powered by the Unisoc T606 chipset, the Moto G04 is geared towards basic daily tasks. The inclusion of Android 14 out of the box is a notable feature, bringing the latest software experience to the entry-level segment. The device incorporates Motorola’s MyUX features, offering ambient display, gestures, and a stock-Android-like experience. Although there may be occasional stutters during intensive use, the device remains competent and reliable for everyday tasks.
Security is handled efficiently with the responsive side-mounted fingerprint sensor. The inclusion of the January 2024 security patch for a budget device is a pleasant surprise, topped with Motorola’s commitment to providing 2 years of security updates. However, there’s no assurance of an Android 15 upgrade.
A noteworthy feature is the virtual memory expansion with RAM Boost, allowing for smoother app opening and multitasking. The 8GB variant can get up to 8GB of virtual RAM, and the 4GB variant can get up to 4GB of virtual RAM with the RAM Boost feature.
The 5000mAh battery provides impressive backup, easily lasting more than a day with moderate use. The included 10W charger ensures a quick recharge, taking about 2 hours to go from 0 to 100%. This battery performance is commendable for a budget device, catering to regular activities like social media browsing and messaging. However, the phone can support faster charging with up to a 15W charger.
However, the camera performance is a slight letdown. The single 16MP rear camera performs adequately in outdoor conditions but struggles with dynamic range and details indoors, particularly in low light. The 5MP front camera for selfies captures decent colors but suffer from noticeable noise and softness. The Moto G04 might not be the go-to choose for photography enthusiasts.
Price and conclusion
The Moto G04 comes in two variants, 4GB RAM + 64GB storage priced at Rs 6,999, and 8GB RAM + 128GB storage at Rs 7,999. In conclusion, the Moto G04 shines as a budget-friendly smartphone that excels in design, display, and software experience. While it may fall short in camera performance, its overall value-driven approach, with features like a high-refresh-rate display and the latest Android software, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable device that doesn’t compromise on essential features.
