Home » Motorola Moto G85 5G review: Looks can be deceiving

Motorola Moto G85 5G review: Looks can be deceiving

by Priya Kapoor
5 minutes read

Unveiling the Motorola Moto G85 5G: A Closer Look

In the realm of mid-range phones, the Motorola Moto G85 5G stands out with its elegant design and impressive features. Let’s delve into the details to uncover the essence of this device that may prove to be more than meets the eye.

Design & Build

The Moto G85 5G boasts a premium design with a curved-edge display that exudes a sense of sophistication. Available in vegan leather or matte plastic finishes, this device strikes a balance between style and functionality. Despite its sleek profile and lightweight build, its IP52 water resistance may leave some users wanting more.

When holding the Moto G85 5G, the ultra-slim profile and curved-edge front glass lend a premium feel. The vegan leather options add a unique texture, while the matte plastic finish provides a more conventional look. Ergonomically designed with well-placed buttons and a responsive fingerprint scanner, this device offers a comfortable and intuitive user experience.

Display & Sound

At the heart of the Moto G85 5G lies a stunning 6.67-inch pOLED panel that elevates the viewing experience. With a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and vibrant colors, this display delivers sharp visuals and an immersive viewing experience. The loud stereo speakers, although lacking in bass, enhance audio quality for everyday use.

The curved pOLED screen sets the Moto G85 5G apart from its competitors, offering a premium viewing experience. With excellent brightness and minimal color shift, this display is a standout feature of the device. The stereo speakers, backed by Dolby Atmos certification, provide clear audio output, though audiophiles may miss the depth of bass in higher volumes.

Specs & Performance

Equipped with the Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 chipset, the Moto G85 5G delivers smooth everyday performance. While it may lag behind some competitors in raw power, its efficient performance ensures seamless multitasking and app usage. The inclusion of UFS 2.2 storage, while limiting speed, contributes to overall performance stability.

The Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 chipset powers the Moto G85 5G, offering a balance between performance and efficiency. This device handles everyday tasks with ease, although intensive gaming may push its limits. Despite some performance constraints, the Moto G85 5G maintains consistent performance levels for most user requirements.

Cameras

In the camera department, the Moto G85 5G features a 50MP main rear sensor and an 8MP ultrawide lens, accompanied by a 32MP selfie shooter. While the main sensor captures vibrant photos with decent detail, the ultrawide lens struggles with softness and color consistency. Selfies in good lighting conditions are sharp, but low-light performance may introduce noise.

The camera setup on the Moto G85 5G delivers satisfactory results, with the main sensor excelling in well-lit environments. However, the ultrawide lens falls short in terms of sharpness and color accuracy. Selfies shine in daylight but may lack clarity in low-light scenarios, highlighting the camera’s limitations.

Battery Life & Charging

Featuring a 5000mAh battery and 30W wired charging, the Moto G85 5G offers reliable battery life for day-to-day usage. With efficient power management, this device ensures a smooth experience even under moderate to heavy usage. While lacking wireless charging, the device’s charging speeds are competent, albeit not class-leading.

The Moto G85 5G’s battery endurance is a strong suit, providing extended usage without frequent recharging. With around seven hours of screen-on time and efficient power consumption, this device caters to users with varying usage patterns. The absence of wireless charging may be a drawback for some, but the device’s fast wired charging compensates for this limitation.

Software & Features

Running on Android 14 with Motorola’s My UX skin, the Moto G85 5G offers a clean and intuitive user interface. Despite the inclusion of pre-installed third-party apps, the device maintains a clutter-free experience. Motorola’s useful Moto Gestures add convenience, while the limited software support in terms of OS updates may leave users wanting more.

The software experience on the Moto G85 5G is characterized by a user-friendly interface and minimal bloatware. Motorola’s commitment to delivering a clean Android experience is evident, although the lack of extensive software support raises concerns. While the device excels in day-to-day usability, the limited OS update policy may deter users seeking long-term software reliability.

Price & Availability

The Moto G85 5G is available in select regions, offering competitive pricing for its features. Priced at £299 in the UK and €349 in Europe, this device competes with similarly priced alternatives in the mid-range segment. Despite its availability through major retailers, the absence of direct network sales in certain regions may impact accessibility.

The pricing and availability of the Moto G85 5G position it as a viable mid-range option for users seeking a balance of performance and design. With color options to suit different preferences and a competitive price point, this device caters to a diverse audience. However, the presence of formidable competitors in the mid-range market underscores the need for careful consideration before making a purchase decision.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Motorola Moto G85 5G offers a compelling package with its premium design, impressive display, and reliable performance. While it excels in certain areas such as battery life and design aesthetics, its shortcomings in camera performance and software support may give pause to discerning users. Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Moto G85 5G hinges on individual preferences and priorities, weighing its strengths against the competition in the mid-range smartphone landscape.

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