Moto G04 Review: Feature-rich at a Budget Price

HomeReviewsMoto G04 Review: Feature-rich at a Budget Price

Highlights

  • Priced between Rs 6,999 and Rs 7,999, offering great value.
  • Features a 90Hz high refresh rate display for smooth visuals.
  • Runs on Android 14 with Motorola’s clean My UX interface.
  • Equipped with a 5000mAh battery supporting over a day’s usage.

Motorola continues its assertive push into the budget smartphone market with the introduction of the Moto G04, a new member of its esteemed G-series.

Launched with a starting price of Rs 6,999 and peaking at Rs 7,999 for the higher-end variant, the Moto G04 is positioned as an accessible yet feature-rich device.

I had a chance to review this device and dive into its various facets, with the aim of equipping you with all the information needed to decide if this smartphone aligns with your needs.

Moto G04: Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Affordable Pricing Very Basic Camera Setup
High Refresh Rate Display Limited Performance
Clean Software

Moto G04: Key Specs

Moto G04: Key Specs
Moto G04: Key Specs
  • Display: 6.56-inch IPS LCD, 90Hz refresh rate
  • Processor: Unisoc T606 SoC
  • Camera: 16MP primary rear camera
  • Battery: 5000mAh with 15W charging
  • Software: Android with Motorola’s My UX
  • Design: IP52 water-repellent
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, dual-band Wi-Fi, USB Type-C

Design and Display

Design and Display: A Closer Look
Moto G04 Design: A Closer Look

The design ethos of Motorola shines brightly with the Moto G04, especially with its sea green variant, which boasts a subtle shimmer and a matte finish, offering a premium feel that belies its price point.

I feel that the Moto G04 design is not just about aesthetics but also functionality, with flat edges that ensure a firm grip and easily accessible display edges.

Security is straightforward and reliable, thanks to a responsive fingerprint sensor placed on the side.

Additionally, the IP52 rating provides a degree of protection against water splashes, further enhancing its durability.

Powered by Unisoc T606 SoC for efficient daily performance
Moto G04 Powered by Unisoc T606 SoC for efficient daily performance

From my time using the handset, I can say for sure that it manages to stand out with its design, presenting itself as a device from a higher price segment.

It also features the Dolby Atmos branding and, while it houses a single speaker system rather than the stereo setup found in its sibling, the Moto G24 Power, the audio output is surprisingly clear and loud, offering a satisfactory auditory experience.

The display is a 6.56-inch LCD panel, offering HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate.

I don’t think it is the most colourful or even the brightest outdoors, but it provides a pleasant viewing experience indoors with decent colour reproduction and enhanced smoothness courtesy of the high refresh rate, making daily interactions on the device notably smoother.

Don’t expect it to stream HDR content but for its price its OTT experience is acceptable.

Camera Capabilities

Cameras: Snapshot Potential
Moto G04 Cameras: Snapshot Potential

The Moto G04 sports a single 16MP primary camera at the back and a 5MP front-facing camera.

There’s not much to say about it as it lacks any kind of camera versatility, like say some offerings from Infinix or Tecno.

The outdoor photography yields decent results with acceptable detail and color accuracy, although the dynamic range could be improved.

e Moto G04's camera setup appears promising for its segment
e Moto G04’s camera setup appears promising for its segment

Indoor and low-light conditions challenge the camera, with noticeable decreases in detail and sharpness, and a significant presence of noise.

Night mode attempts to mitigate these issues but with limited success.

Selfie performance is adequate, with the main detractors being noise and a general softness in the images.

Overall not the most seasoned optical hardware to deal with but for the price there is not much else you can expect.

Moto G04 Day Camera Samples

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Moto G04 Night Camera Samples

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Moto G04 Daylight Video

Moto G04 Nightlight Video

Performance, Features, and Connectivity

Performance and Features: Preliminary Insights
Moto G04 Performance and Features: Preliminary Insights

At its core, the Moto G04 is powered by the Unisoc T606 chipset.

My model, with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, performed adequately in managing basic tasks, though it’s clear that the device is not cut out for heavy multitasking or demanding applications.

The T606 chipset is popular in the sub Rs 10,000 category so you are not missing out on much.

That being said, it is very unlikely you will be able to play any kind of heavy-duty games on the device.

Features-wise the fingerprint sensor works adequately and unlocks in a jiffy. Network connectivity and other wireless options like Bluetooth and WiFi also have no issues.

The audio from the single speaker unit at the bottom is serviceable for my needs.

Software and Battery

Software and Battery: First Thoughts
Moto G04 Software and Battery: First Thoughts

One of the highlights of the Moto G04 is its software; it runs Android 14 out of the box.

While the absence of major OS upgrades might be a downside for some, I think that the inclusion of the latest Android version and Motorola’s commitment to the software experience through MyUX features like ambient display and gestures is commendable.

The device offers a stock-Android-like experience but may occasionally stutter in performance during intensive use. Nonetheless, for everyday tasks, it remains competent and reliable.

It’s noteworthy that the device comes with the January 2024 security patch, a pleasant surprise for a budget device, highlighting Motorola’s attention to security and software integrity.

The 5000mAh battery within the Moto G04 confidently supports more than a day’s usage on a single charge, ideal for regular activities like browsing social media and messaging.

With 15W fast charging, the device can be fully recharged in just over an hour and a half, ensuring minimal downtime.

Final Verdict

Summary: Anticipation Builds
Moto G04 Summary: Anticipation Builds

The Moto G04 stands as a testament to Motorola’s ability to offer value-driven devices that cater to the essentials while throwing in some pleasant surprises, such as a high-refresh-rate display and the latest Android software.

While it may not excel in every area, particularly in camera performance under challenging lighting conditions, its design, display, and overall user experience make it a compelling option for those seeking an affordable smartphone that doesn’t compromise on the basics.

MyMobile Rating

Moto G04 features a comprehensive unboxing experience with essential accessories included
Moto G04 MyMobile Rating
  • Design – 4/5
  • Display – 3.5/5
  • Cameras – 3/5
  • Performance – 3.5/5
  • Software – 4/5
  • Battery 3.5/5
  • Overall – 3.5/5

5 Reasons to Buy the Moto G04

  • Affordable Pricing: Starting at Rs 6,999, the Moto G04 offers an excellent blend of features and functionality, making it a highly accessible option for those on a tight budget without sacrificing on essential smartphone capabilities.
  • Design and Build Quality: With its unique sea green variant, subtle shimmer, and matte finish, the Moto G04 offers a premium feel and ergonomic design, including flat edges for a secure grip, that belies its affordable price tag.
  • Smooth Display with High Refresh Rate: The 6.56-inch LCD panel with HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate ensures smoother scrolling and interaction, enhancing the daily user experience, especially for media consumption and web browsing.
  • Latest Android Experience with Added Features: Running Android 14 out of the box and equipped with Motorola’s MyUX features, the Moto G04 provides a stock-Android-like experience with additional functionalities like ambient display and gestures, making it up-to-date with the latest software trends.
  • Reliable Battery Life with Fast Charging: The inclusion of a 5000mAh battery capable of supporting more than a day’s usage on a single charge, coupled with 15W fast charging, means less downtime and more productivity or entertainment throughout the day.

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Moto G04

  • Limited Camera Capabilities: The Moto G04 sports a basic camera setup with a single 16MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera, lacking versatility and struggling in low-light conditions, which might not satisfy those who prioritize photography in their smartphone use.
  • Average Performance for Heavy Tasks: Powered by the Unisoc T606 chipset and with configurations up to 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, the Moto G04 is best suited for basic tasks and may not meet the expectations of users looking to perform intensive gaming or multitasking.
  • Lack of Major OS Upgrades: Despite launching with Android 14, the Moto G04 is not expected to receive any significant OS upgrades, potentially limiting its long-term appeal to users who desire continual software updates and new features over time.

Top 5 Alternatives To Moto G04

  • Xiaomi Redmi 12C

Redmi 12C
Xiaomi Redmi 12C

Features MediaTek Helio G85, a 6.71-inch IPS LCD display, and a 50MP dual primary camera setup.

  • Tecno Spark Go 2024

Reasons to Buy Tecno Spark Go 2024
Tecno Spark Go 2024

Offers a Unisoc T606 processor, a 6.56-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 13MP dual primary camera.

  • Infinix Smart 8 HD

 Infinix Smart 8HD: Features
Infinix Smart 8 HD

Comes with a Unisoc T606 processor, a 6.6-inch display also with a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 13MP dual primary camera.

  • Realme C51

Realme C51: Key Specifications
Realme C51

Features a Unisoc T612 processor, a 6.74-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 50MP dual primary camera setup.

  • POCO C51 128GB

Poco C51
POCO C51 128GB

Offers MediaTek Helio G36 processor, a 6.52-inch display, and an 8MP dual primary camera setup.

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moto g04 Specs
Spec Detail
 Operating System Android™ 14
System Architecture/ Processor UNISOC T606 processor with 2xA75 1.6GHz + 6xA55 1.6GHz octa-core CPU, 650MHz ARM Mali-G57 MP1 GPU
Memory 4GB RAM, expandable up to 8GB with RAM Boost* 8GB RAM, expandable up to 16GB with RAM Boost*
Storage 64GB/128GB built-in | up to 1TB microSD card expandable
UFS 2.2
  Body PMMA
  Dimensions 163.49 x 74.53 x 7.99mm
  Weight 178.8g
  Water protection IP52 – Water-repellent design
  Display 16.66cm (6.56″) display
  Display Technology IPS LCD | 90Hz refresh rate | HiD
  Display Resolution HD+ (1612 x 720p) | 269ppi
  Display Aspect Ratio 20:9
  Display certifications N/A
  Battery 5000mAh
  Battery Life 40.5 hours (claim: 40 hours of battery)
  Charging 15W device charging capable | 5V3A
Bands (by model)* 4G: LTE 1/3/5/7/8/20/28/38/40/41
3G: 1/5/8
2G: 3/5/8
  Main Rear Camera 16MP (f/2.2, 1.0μm) | PDAF
  Flash Single LED flash
Rear camera software Shooting modes:
Photo Portrait Night Vision
Artificial intelligence:
Google Lens™ integration
Other features:
HDR
Leveler Timer
Assistive Grid Watermark
Rear camera video software Shooting modes:
Video Timelapse
Other features:
Snap in Video Recording
  Rear camera video capture FHD (30fps) | HD (30fps)
  Front camera hardware 5MP (f/2.2, 1.12μm)
Front camera software Shooting modes:
Photo Portrait
Artificial intelligence:
Face Retouch Mirror
Other features:
HDR                                                                                           Leveler
Assistive Grid                                                                    Watermark
Timer
  Front camera video capture FHD (30fps) | HD (30fps)
Front camera video software Shooting modes:
Video Timelapse
Other features:
Snap in Video Recording
  SIM Card Dedicated SIM (2 Nano SIMs + 1 microSD) [Triple Card Slot]
  FM Radio Yes
  Speakers Single speaker with Dolby Atmos®
  Microphones 1
  Headset Jack 3.5mm headset jack
  Bluetooth® Technology Bluetooth® 5.0
  Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 2.4GHz + 5GHz | Wi-Fi hotspot
  Ports Type-C port (USB 2.0)
  Location Services GPS, A-GPS, LTEPP, SUPL, GLONASS, Galileo
  Sensors Proximity sensor, Ambient light sensor, Accelerometer
  Security Side fingerprint reader | Face unlock
Inbox Accessories Headset, protective cover, protective film, 10W charger, USB Type-C cable, guides, SIM tool
My UX Display: Ambient display
Gestures: Fast flashlight, Three-finger screenshot, Sidebar, Double press power key, Press and hold power button
  Voice control Google Assistant
  Colors Concord Black, Sea Green, Satin Blue, Sunrise Orange
  Device name moto g04

FAQs

What is the price range of the Moto G04, and how does it stand out in the budget smartphone market?

The Moto G04 is priced between Rs 6,999 and Rs 7,999, making it a highly accessible option for those seeking feature-rich yet affordable smartphones. It distinguishes itself with a high-refresh-rate display and the latest Android software, presenting a strong value proposition.

How does the display quality of the Moto G04 contribute to its user experience?

The Moto G04 sports a 6.56-inch LCD panel with HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. While it may not be the brightest outdoors, it ensures a pleasant viewing experience indoors with smooth interactions, enhancing the overall user experience.

Can the Moto G04 handle gaming and heavy applications?

Powered by the Unisoc T606 chipset, the Moto G04 is suited for basic tasks and light applications. While it can manage everyday activities efficiently, it is not designed for heavy multitasking or demanding gaming, aligning with its budget-friendly positioning.

What are the camera capabilities of the Moto G04, and how do they perform under various lighting conditions?

The Moto G04 features a 16MP primary camera and a 5MP front-facing camera. It delivers decent outdoor photography with acceptable detail and color accuracy. However, its performance in indoor and low-light conditions shows limitations, with noticeable noise and reduced sharpness.

What software and security features does the Moto G04 offer?

The Moto G04 runs Android 14 out of the box, paired with Motorola’s My UX for a clean and user-friendly experience. It comes with the January 2024 security patch, highlighting Motorola’s commitment to security and software integrity in budget devices.

Motorola disrupts the entry level smartphone market with moto g04 boasting a premium design with 4 stunning colours, 90Hz 6.6” punch-hole display and the latest Android™ 14 at an effective price starting just Rs. 6,249. Details?

Motorola, India’s best 5G smartphone brand launched its latest entry level smartphone today, the moto g04.It comes with a premium design with acrylic glass finish (PMMA) and will be available in 4 attractive colours.

It also features a 16.66 cm (6.6”) IPS LCD punch-hole display with 90 Hz refresh rate. The moto g04 is also India’s most affordable smartphone with the latest Android™ 14.

Furthermore, the moto g04 delivers powerful performance with its built-in 4GB or 8GB RAM which can be extended up to 16GB with RAM boost feature and 64GB or 128GB UFS 2.2 storage with UNISOC T606 chipset, and a massive 5000mAh battery.

Additionally, it features IP52 water-repellent design, a rarity in this price range, and a 16MP AI camera with a Quad Pixel camera system for superb pictures, whether in daylight or low light

The moto g04 boasts an exceptional design, beautifully crafted from premium materials. Its streamlined camera housing feels great in hand and the device is extremely thin just 7.99mm and lightweight just 178g making it one of the lightest and slimmest smartphone in the segment.

Moreover, the side-mounted fingerprint reader ensures an easy and fast unlock along with high-quality matte finish on the back of the phone making it look as good as it feels.

Available in four vibrant colours, namely Concord Black, Sea Green, Satin Blue, and Sunrise Orange, the moto g04 compliments every style. The IP52 water-repellent design also ensures the device stays protected even with light spills and splashes.

Users can enjoy a multidimensional audio-visual experience owing to the punch-hole 16.66 cm (6.6”) 90 Hz display with a High Brightness mode complemented by a powerful Dolby Atmos speaker.

The display offers an immersive experience, eliminating all distractions and disturbances. High Brightness mode automatically adjusts the display outdoors so it’s easier to see, reaching peak brightness levels of up to 537 NITS.

Conversely, the Night Light mode tints the screen amber, making the display easier to view in dim or poor lighting conditions.

Matching such a remarkable display, Dolby Atmos adds another dimension of audio, offering greater depth, clarity, and details.

The moto g04 comes with Android 14, the only phone in its segment to do so. With this, users can make their devices more personal, protected, and accessible while getting privacy updates for health, safety, and data.

With enhanced PIN security that recommends users set a 6-digit PIN, upon finishing which the device unlocks automatically without any friction.

Additionally, the Health Connect feature acts as a central way to connect and sync all the data from various fitness apps in one place, for a more holistic view.

Another feature is the flash notifications that alerts the users by turning on the flash and screen light for incoming calls, so they don’t miss a notification.

Ensuring an unmatched performance, the moto g04 comes with built-in 8GB / 4GB RAM which can be expanded up to 16GB with RAM boost feature.

Coupled with a a reliable UNISOC T606 chipset, and UFS 2.2 storage that enables faster read-write speeds, the moto g04 makes multitasking seamless.

The moto g04 offers two storage options of 64GB and 128GB which can be further expanded to 1TB via a dedicated microSD card and it also features a triple sim card slot.

The moto g04 comes with a massive 5000mAh battery that offers outstanding backup and supports 15W charging. It also comes with an IP52 rated water repellent design and a 16MP AI-powered camera that captures beautiful photos with the help of automatic AI enhancements.

Loaded with smart features like HDR and Portrait mode, to generate professional-looking shots automatically.

Moreover, consumers can click better selfies owing to the device’s 5MP front camera with face retouch, for social media worthy clicks every time. Other notable features included in the camera system are Timelapse, Night Vision, Portrait Mode, and Leveller among others.

What is the price & availability of Moto g04?

Availability:

The moto g04 will be available in four beautiful colours: Concord Black, Sea Green, Satin Blue, and Sunrise Orange, featuring acrylic glass (PMMA) finish with a matte texture that makes it scratch-resistant.

moto g04 will be available in two memory & storage variants with built-in 4GB RAM + 64GB storage and 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage; and will go on sale on Flipkart, Motorola.in and leading retail stores starting 22nd February 2024, 12PM onwards.

Launch Price:

4GB RAM + 64GB Storage: Rs. 6,999

8GB RAM + 128GB Storage: Rs. 7,999

Affordability Offers~:

Additional Rs. 750 on exchange for 4GB + 64GB variant.

Effective Price with offer:

4GB + 64GB: Rs. 6,249

8GB + 128GB: Rs. 7,999

Operator Offers:

Total Benefits worth Rs. 4,500 from Reliance Jio (Applicable on pre-paid plan of: Rs. 399)

– Cashback worth Rs. 2000

– Partner coupons worth Rs. 2500

What are the highlights of Moto G04?

The moto g04 boasts stunning design and comes with four amazing never-before-seen colours made from premium materials, a punch-hole 16.66 cm (6.6”) IPS LCD 90 Hz display for ultimate entertainment at an incredible budget friendly effective price starting Rs. 6,249*

· The moto g04 stands out as India’s most affordable smartphone with Android™ 14 ^making it safer, more personal, and easily accessible.

· The moto g04 also features powerful performance with built-in 8GB / 4GB LPDDR4x RAM and 128GB / 64GB of UFS 2.2 storage. The RAM can be further expanded up to 16GB with the help of RAM Boost.

· The moto g04 comes with other best in segment features such as a Dolby Atmos speaker, IP52 water repellent design and a massive 5000mAh battery making it a perfect entertainer.

· The device will be available in two memory variants, namely 4GB + 64GB and 8GB + 128GB at Rs. 6,999 and Rs. 7,999 respectively.

· Consumers will also be able to get an additional Rs. 750 off on exchange as part of the launch offer in 4GB + 64GB variant, making the effective price of the device just Rs. 6,249 and Rs. 7,999 respectively.
Moto g04 will go on sale on Flipkart, Motorola.in and leading retail stores across India, starting 22nd February 2024, 12PM onwards.

What comes in the box with the Moto G04?

The Moto G04 package includes the smartphone, charger, USB Type-C cable, paperwork, SIM ejector toolkit, and a clear silicone case for immediate protection.

What are the design features of the Moto G04?

The Moto G04 sports a sleek, modern design with an IP52 water-repellent build and a comfortable grip, complemented by a 6.56-inch IPS LCD screen with a 90Hz refresh rate.

Also Read: Moto G04 Launched in India With Unisoc T606 SoC: Pricing, Features, Specs, and More

Also Read: Moto G04 First Impressions: A Worthy Budget Contender?

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