moto g64 5G Review: Budget champion with a hearty battery

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Motorola’s ‘G’ series of smartphones has long been synonymous with value-driven devices, and the moto g64 5G aims to continue that tradition. It positions itself as a dependable choice for those prioritising everyday functionality and a long-lasting battery over flashy features or cutting-edge camera tech. But in the increasingly crowded budget segment, does the G64 5G have enough to stand out?

Design: Functional over fashionable

The moto g64 5G embraces a utilitarian design philosophy. It is made of 3D premium polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) — a material that mimics glass but is plastic — and feels solid and premium. The phone is available in a few understated colour options — I got the green variant for review. It retains a headphone jack, a welcome inclusion for those who still rely on wired audio. It is rated IP52 for dust and water resistance, so be careful with it.

Display: Smooth and suitable

The 6.5-inch Full HD display is a decent offering for the price. While it wouldn’t win any awards for colour vibrancy or deep blacks, it gets the job done with good enough viewing angles and adequate brightness for most situations. One highlight is its 120Hz refresh rate, which goes as low as 30Hz. This makes everyday tasks like scrolling through social media, browsing websites, and navigating the interface feel noticeably smoother than traditional 60Hz displays.

Performance: Surprisingly peppy

Under the hood, the moto g64 5G is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 7025 processor. This chip delivers a snappier experience than expected, handling most day-to-day apps and light multitasking with relative ease. You can even get away with some light gaming, though don’t expect top-tier performance in demanding titles. Motorola complements this with a clean, near-stock Android experience free from unnecessary bloatware, ensuring the phone feels responsive throughout.

Also read: Samsung Galaxy M55 Review: An impressive midranger

Cameras: Versatile but limited in low light

The moto g64 5G sports a triple rear camera system, headlined by a 50MP primary sensor with optical image stabilisation (OIS). In good lighting conditions, the main camera produces images with decent detail and colour reproduction. The included ultrawide lens adds versatility for capturing landscapes or group shots, while the dedicated macro lens lets you get creative with close-up photography. However, as with many budget phones, low-light performance is a noticeable weakness. Expect images to become noisy with a loss of detail in dimly-lit environments.

Battery life: A champion of endurance

One of the biggest strengths of the moto g64 5G is its 6,000mAh battery. This large capacity easily translates into all-day battery life and frequently extends into a second day or even a third day for moderate users. It’s a relief not having to worry about constantly finding a charger, making this phone ideal for those always on the go. Charging speeds, however, are less impressive with support for 33W wired charging.

In conclusion

Priced starting at ₹13,999, the moto g64 5G won’t set the world ablaze with its performance or camera prowess. Instead, it delivers a solid all-around experience in the essentials. Its smooth performance, long battery life, clean software, and versatile camera system make for a compelling package. If you value reliability, endurance, and a no-nonsense approach, the moto g64 5G deserves a place on your shortlist. However, those obsessed with image quality or a premium-feeling design might be better served looking elsewhere.

Also read: Moto Edge 50 Pro review: Mr Dependable — with great cameras

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow