Motorola Moto G35 5G: A Budget-Friendly Smartphone That Delivers More Than Expected
In the ever-competitive world of budget smartphones, Motorola continues to shine with its ability to craft feature-packed handsets at prices that are hard to beat. The Moto G35 5G, priced at just £150, is a prime example of this philosophy. It offers a smooth display, respectable performance, and 5G capabilities at a fraction of the cost of flagship devices. In this review, we’ll dive into its key features, pros and cons, and whether it’s truly worth the hype.
Key Features of the Moto G35 5G
- 6.72″ 120Hz Full-HD Display: A vibrant, high-resolution screen with a refresh rate twice as fast as many competitors in this price range.
- 5G Connectivity: Equipped with an Octa-core Unisoc T760 processor, the phone supports rapid data speeds for seamless streaming and downloads.
- Gaming Performance: Capable of running competitive games like Pokémon Unite and League of Legends: Wild Rift at above-average frame rates.
- Battery Life: A 5000mAh battery that provides decent longevity for everyday use.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable Price: At £150, it’s a steal for the features it offers.
- Sleek Design: Lightweight with smooth edges and a premium feel.
- Impressive Display: Bright, colorful, and smooth with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Cons
- Slow Charging: The 18W wired charging is sluggish compared to modern standards.
- Mediocre Camera: While functional, the camera struggles in challenging lighting conditions and lacks versatility.
- Limited Multitasking: With 4GB of RAM, it’s not ideal for heavy multitasking.
Design and Build Quality
The Moto G35 5G features a sleek design with a lightweight build and smooth edges. Its vegan leather texture (available on select colors) adds a touch of sophistication, making it comfortable to hold. The phone’s tall and slim profile ensures ease of use, even for those with smaller hands.
At the bottom, you’ll find a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a three-grill speaker. The rear houses a dual-camera setup with a subtle camera bump that feels less intrusive compared to other budget phones.
Display: A Highlight of the G35 5G
The 6.72-inch Full-HD display is a standout feature of this phone. With a resolution of 2400 x 1080 and a 120Hz refresh rate, the screen delivers vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. Whether you’re watching Netflix, scrolling through social media, or reading articles, the display is a joy to use.
However, the speakers are less impressive. While they get reasonably loud, the sound lacks depth and warmth, making it better suited for casual listening rather than immersive experiences.
Camera Performance
The Moto G35 5G’s camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide sensor, and a 16MP front-facing camera. While the specs sound promising, the execution leaves room for improvement.
- Main Camera: Struggles in low-light conditions and with moving subjects.
- Ultrawide Camera: Quality drops significantly compared to the main sensor.
- Selfie Camera: Surprisingly good, especially for video calls and social media content.
For casual photography, the camera is serviceable, but if capturing memories is a priority, you might want to explore alternatives like the Moto G55 5G or Moto G85 5G.
Performance and Gaming
Powered by the Unisoc T760 chip and 4GB of RAM, the Moto G35 5G performs admirably for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light gaming. However, it’s not designed for heavy multitasking or demanding applications.
For gamers, the phone handles titles like League of Legends: Wild Rift and PUBG Mobile reasonably well, achieving smooth frame rates on low-to-medium settings. Older or less demanding games like Dead Cells and Roblox run without a hitch.
Software and Updates
Running Android 14 out of the box, the Moto G35 5G offers a clean and intuitive user interface. Motorola promises an upgrade to Android 15 and three years of security updates, ensuring the phone stays relevant for years to come.
The software experience is relatively bloat-free, with only a handful of pre-installed apps that can be easily removed.
Battery Life and Charging
The 5000mAh battery provides all-day usage for most users, but the charging speed is a letdown. With a maximum charging speed of 18W, it takes around 90 minutes to fully charge the phone. If fast charging is a priority, consider investing in a device like the Nothing CMF Phone 1.
Should You Buy the Moto G35 5G?
If you’re looking for an affordable smartphone that excels in everyday use, the Moto G35 5G is a fantastic choice. Its vibrant display, smooth performance, and 5G connectivity make it a standout option in the budget category.
However, if you prioritize photography or fast charging, you might want to explore other options in Motorola’s lineup or competitors like the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G.
Final Verdict
The Moto G35 5G is a testament to Motorola’s ability to offer premium features at a budget price. While it has its limitations, such as slow charging and a mediocre camera, the phone’s overall value is undeniable.
For just £150, you’re getting a device that punches well above its weight, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Where to Buy
Looking to grab the Moto G35 5G? Find it on Amazon here:
– Moto G35 5G
For alternatives, check out these options:
– Moto G55 5G
– Moto G85 5G
– Nothing CMF Phone 1
FAQs
Does the Moto G35 5G come with a case?
Yes, a flexible rubber case is included in the box.
Does it have a headphone jack?
Yes, there’s a 3.5mm headphone jack at the bottom of the device.
Does it support wireless charging?
No, the Moto G35 5G only supports wired charging.
With its combination of affordability, performance, and modern features, the Moto G35 5G proves that you don’t need to break the bank to own a capable smartphone. Whether you’re upgrading from an older device or need a reliable secondary phone, this handset is worth considering.
