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Motorola hasn't changed much since it was bought by the Chinese Lenovo. It still produces smartphones in different categories and sells them at affordable prices. For example, the Moto Z smartphone at the time of its release tried to compete with flagship devices, and the Moto G4/Play/Plus are good examples of what budget smartphones should look like.
The Moto M smartphone falls somewhere between these two categories. This is a mid-range Android smartphone that offers good specifications, great design and affordable price. On paper it sounds like an attractive combination, but is this smartphone worth buying for yourself? Let's try to figure it out.
Design
The Moto M looks pretty generic in photos, but in reality it's a sleek device with a decent quality finish that feels great in the hand. The body is metal and larger than the Moto Z Play Droid, but feels stylish due to its discreet appearance.
The Moto M is small for a 5.5-inch screen, and is no larger in size than the Moto G4 and OnePlus 3. The body is 7.85 mm thick, which is not very thin, making it feel solid in the hand. The device weighs 163 g, which is less than the average weight of models with a 5.5-inch screen.
There are no navigation buttons on the front of the smartphone, only the Moto logo at the bottom will remind you of what kind of device you have in your hands. There's no indication of a Motorola on the back, but instead houses a round finger scanner. The smartphone's body is splash-proof, so it's not afraid of light rain, but it's unlikely to survive a fall into a pool.
At the bottom of the case there is a USB type C connector, to the right of it there is a single speaker. At the top there is a headphone jack; not all Motorola smartphone models have it lately.
The power button and volume rocker have a clear click when pressed and provide users with tactile feedback, and the textured surface of the power button makes it easier to press. As a result, we can conclude that the Moto M looks and feels like a more expensive smartphone than it actually is. In terms of design, the developers did not make any sacrifices.
Screen
The Moto M comes with a 5.5-inch IPS LCD screen with Full resolution HD. There are clearer screens, but 9 out of 10 users will be satisfied with this. It is worth remembering that screen quality depends not only on resolution. One of the important parameters is color temperature; in this regard, the Moto M is not as accurate as we would like. The screen is cold, the color temperature is 8452 K, which is significantly higher than the standard value of 6500 K. As a result, the white color becomes bluish, this is a common mistake in budget smartphones.
There are two screen modes, standard and rich (Vibrant). Even in the first of these, the smartphone screen tends to oversaturate the colors green, yellow and red, although not by much. In the second, the color becomes too saturated and not at all accurate. Naturally, it is recommended to use the standard mode.
The screen's color gamut is mostly accurate, meaning the contrast is correct. The maximum and minimum brightness are at a good level, the values are 445 nits and 7 nits, so you can work with the smartphone both in bright sun and in the dark.
Interface and functionality
Moto M runs on a close to pure version of the Android operating system. This is almost the same interface used on Nexus smartphones running Android Marshmallow. Most of the pre-installed apps here are from Google. There are only a few custom programs from Motorola, such as File Manager and Device Help. Of these, the latter monitors the system and at the same time offers an interactive guide to the functions of the smartphone.
Naturally, the pure version of Android runs as fast as possible. However, some users may find this interface boring.
It's disappointing that the Moto M isn't launching on latest version Android Nougat, because the clean version can be installed on your smartphone in the shortest possible time. I would like the device to receive an update as soon as possible.
There is a fast and accurate fingerprint scanner on the back of the case. Unfortunately, it cannot be used to access various functions of the device, which some other models offer.
Processor and memory
Inside the Moto M there is an 8-core MediaTek Helio P15 2.2 GHz, the memory capacity is 4 GB. Some versions of the Moto M are powered by an octa-core 2GHz Helio P10 processor, which is less powerful.
For tasks a little more complex than the most basic operations, the smartphone performs modestly. This is not to say that it is completely slow, but those who like to use Android on a grand scale will have to moderate their ambitions. Gamers in the most demanding games they will see a low frequency and dropped frames, while the smartphone noticeably heats up. Simpler games run noticeably better here. Luckily, Android's lightweight interface is fast and smooth.
The basic version of Moto M received 32 GB of flash memory, there is an option with 64 GB, and there is a compartment for microSD.
Connection
Moto M operates on 4G LTE networks in Europe, supporting LTE FDD bands 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20 and LTE TDD 38, 40 and 41. Two SIM card slots are available, one of which is hybrid and also accepts microSD . There is Bluetooth 4.1, dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, GPS, A-GPS, Glonass, BeiDou. A USB type C connector is used for charging and connecting to a computer.
Camera
A 16 MP camera on the back is enough for a device in this price category. The camera app here is not stock from Google; Motorola has installed its own version with an intuitive interface. It has enough modes and functions. Users can use manual control, various Instagram-style filters, and several shooting modes. HDR mode is supported, but must be turned on and off manually.
When it comes to photo quality, the Moto M is average. If you have a steady hand and there is enough light around, the detail in the pictures is at a high level. If these conditions are not met, the images will appear blurry. This is especially true for low-light photography. This main drawback Moto M smartphone cameras.
Usually the camera sets the exposure correctly, only occasionally making mistakes. Colors are close to real, there is almost no excess saturation or sharpness. White balance is also most often accurate. Phase detection autofocus is quite fast and rarely misses the mark.
On the front there is an 8 MP camera, which is equally good. The detail in the photographs is not as high as we would like, but it is enough for social networks. Hidden somewhere in the settings is an Ultra HD shooting mode, which theoretically increases detail, but in reality the difference is imperceptible. The built-in beautification mode smoothes the skin and removes all excess from the face.
Panoramic shooting is available and parts of the image are usually combined correctly, although the quality is not impressive. Photos are rarely larger than 5 megapixels and cannot boast of detail.
The smartphone shoots video at 1080p resolution at 30 frames/s, the quality is most often normal. The camera quickly changes focus and changes. There is a noticeable lack of image stabilization, which leads to shaking when shooting video.
Multimedia
The smartphone has only one speaker at the bottom of the case, quite loud and with deep rich sound. You can use headphones through the 3.5 mm jack, which is located at the top. There is an FM radio, which is not found on all smartphones.
Call quality
There are no complaints about Moto M on this point. The sound quality during phone calls cannot be called outstanding, but it is sufficient for both interlocutors.
Autonomous operation
The battery capacity is 3050 mAh, it is enough for a whole day of use. If you load the device more than usual, it will have to be recharged as the day progresses.
In tests on the Phonearena portal with the screen turned on, the smartphone worked for 7 hours 8 minutes, the brightness level was 200 nits. This is a good result for such a battery, but it could be better.
Conclusion
Motorola Moto M can be called a good device. It has an attractive design, good battery life, and an intuitive and easy interface without unnecessary functions. It has some shortcomings in certain areas: performance leaves much to be desired, the screen doesn't reproduce colors accurately, and photo quality could also be better.
The device is officially sold in India, China, and European countries. The basic version with 32 GB of flash memory costs about $239, 64 GB will cost $268.
Among the competitors of this model is an excellent device from Motorola itself, the Moto G4, which can be found for $200. For $249, the Honor 6X is available with a fingerprint scanner, two rear cameras and increased performance.
pros
- Stylish, durable and splash-proof
- Close to stock Android
- Minimum amount of flash memory 32 GB
- High quality speaker
- Good autonomy
Minuses
- Mediocre performance
- Inaccurate screen
- Photo quality
Motorola Moto M is a kind of transition from a budget gadget to a mid-range representative. As a result, you get the golden mean - a high-quality device with good technical characteristics at an affordable price.
Appearance
A strict metal body, stylish minimalistic design and reliable assembly are what sets the Motorola Moto M apart from the available smartphones that you can buy in our online store. For a 5.5-inch gadget, it looks quite compact and feels good in the hand, weighing 163 grams. Neat rounded ends and nice chamfers give the gadget a more expensive look.
Screen
The IPS screen, perfectly calibrated in colors and with a solid reserve of brightness, has a resolution of 1920 × 1080 pixels. For greater ease of use, the display is supplemented with an oleophobic coating, and the brightness is adjusted both manually and automatically. The display is protected from falls by durable Corning Gorilla Glass with a 2.5D effect.
Performance 
The high performance of the smartphone is ensured by the fast 8-core MediaTek Helio P15 processor with a clock frequency of 2.2 GHz and 3 GB random access memory. The power reserve allows the gadget to easily multitask and run games at high settings without losing frame rates.
Initially, the user has 32 GB of internal memory, which can be increased up to 64 GB using a MicroSD card.
The smartphone's audio chip provides clear sound even at maximum volume.
Cameras
The smartphone is equipped with a high-quality 16-megapixel camera with fast autofocus and a proprietary Moto interface, which provide intuitive control of settings. The photo module supports several shooting modes and filters. As a result, the smartphone does a good job of taking pictures even in difficult lighting conditions.
The 8-megapixel front camera is additionally enhanced by the “Ultra HD” mode, due to which fine details are better worked out in self-portraits. To avoid having to press the shutter button again, set the “two fingers up” gesture detection mode and the camera will take a photo automatically.
Autonomy
The 3050 mAh battery has quite impressive battery life. With moderate use, your Moto M will run out of battery in just two days. And at maximum load the battery holds a charge for 7.5 hours.
The editors of Galagram received an interesting smartphone from the legendary company for review. It's called Moto M and is a well-built mid-range device with native Android 6.0 Marshmallow out of the box and a 5.5-inch FHD display. Let's get acquainted with the device and see what it offers users for their money.
Video review of Moto M
Specifications
- Display: 5.5 inches, Full HD, 2.5D Gorilla Glass
- Processor: MediaTek Helio P10
- RAM: 3 GB
- Flash memory: 32 GB
- Main camera: 16 MP, PDAF, 2xLED flash
- Front camera: 8 MP, 1 micron pixels
- Battery: 3050 mAh, 5V/2A
- Navigation: GPS
- Wireless interfaces: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3G, 4G LTE
- Operating system: Google Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow
- Dimensions: 151.35×75.35×7.85 mm
- Weight: 163 grams
What package does it have?
The box from Moto M is very compact; when you pick it up, you don’t believe until the very end that there is a 5.5-inch phone inside. In addition to the smartphone itself, the user will find inside: a 5V/2A charging unit, a clip for removing the SIM card tray, a USB Type-C cable, operating instructions and a budget included headset. The delivery package is good, the manufacturer decided not to skimp on it.
Design, appearance and feel in the hand
We received a smartphone for review with a golden body color; this model is also offered in gray (silver) color, but the model in this color is very rare. The appearance of the Moto M is quite typical: a solid metal body, a rear fingerprint scanner, a SIM tray on the left side for two Nano-SIMs (or one SIM card and a microSD memory card up to 128 GB) and a corrugated lock key and adjustment rocker volume on the right side.
At the top there is traditionally a 3.5 mm audio output and microphone, and on the opposite bottom edge there is a USB Type-C port in the center, as well as a speaker and a conversational microphone on the sides. The back cover of the smartphone is made of a single piece of metal, with two inserts for antennas in the color of the body and a slightly protruding camera module with flash.
ASSEMBLY QUALITY IS HIGH
On the front side there is a 5.5-inch display, sensors, a front camera, an LED event indicator (not configurable) and the Moto inscription immediately below the screen. Moto M is assembled simply perfectly, you can feel the quality in everything: the display module does not bend under strong pressure, and the body does not creak when twisted from the side. The device feels great in the hand and is comfortable to hold even with one hand. The side edges are polished at the front and back, so the hero of our review looks truly beautiful.
What kind of display is installed here?
The screen of the Moto M has a diagonal of 5.5 inches and a Full HD resolution of 1920x1080p (401 ppi). Installed on top of the display module protective glass Corning Gorilla Glass with 2.5D curve. The frames on the sides are noticeable, but they are not very thick (plus they are painted in the color of the body) and this does not distract from the experience of using the smartphone.
The display is not bad, but there are no unique features
The screen is very bright, well calibrated, fast and responsive. The AnTuTu multi-touch test showed support for up to 10 simultaneous touches. The display here is good, but nothing more: it is devoid of any useful features, such as waking up with a double tap, gesture support or AOD (Always On Display) technology.
Processor, memory and performance
Moto M is built on a processor MediaTek Helio P10. This is a 64-bit 8-core chip that operates at 1.8 GHz and is equipped with a Mali-T860 MP graphics accelerator. The smartphone works as quickly as for its price segment; there were no delays in the operation of the system or applications during testing. The AnTuTu benchmark showed 50.764 points, which is quite an expected result for the Helio P10. On Geekbench, the phone scored 722 in the single-core test and 2,891 in the multi-core test.
As for memory, it has 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of flash memory. After installing the main applications, you have just over 1 gigabyte of free RAM. The Android system takes up approximately 7.29 GB of flash drive space. If 24 GB of space is not enough for you, the Moto M can install an additional microSD memory card with a capacity of up to 128 GB.
Fingerprint's scanner
The Moto M's scanner is located on the back, just below the camera. It is convenient to reach it with your finger, even when you hold the smartphone with one hand. It works very accurately and quickly; you can add several prints to the scanner’s memory. The only thing I didn’t like is that the scanner is the same story as the display; it lacks any unique features, such as blocking individual applications or releasing the camera shutter.
Sound and sound
The maximum volume level on the smartphone is sufficient to hear everything. The speaker installed here is not bad, it is clear and does not distort the sound at maximum volume. The sound through headphones is also normal, although not through the included headset, the manufacturer included it for beauty. The device also supports Dolby Atmos surround sound technology during video playback.
operating system
And now about one of the strongest aspects of the hero of our review. Moto M runs on native Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow out of the box, like Google's Nexus line of devices. The main bonus here is not only that the operating system looks beautiful and in the same style, but that there is no unnecessary software from a third-party manufacturer.
Native Android without unnecessary software is good
Of the pre-installed applications, you will find only the main ones Google services, like YouTube, Hangouts, Gmail and Photos, as well as the Microsoft package: Exel, Word, PowerPoint, Skype and more. During testing, no updates came to the smartphone. Motorola is also not yet saying when Android 7.0 Nougat or Android O will be available on the Moto M.
Cameras
The main camera in Moto M is set to 16 megapixels with an f/2.0 aperture and has phase detection autofocus (PDAF). The camera module protrudes slightly beyond the edge of the body and has an LED flash with 2 LEDs. The camera app has many settings, including:
- continuous shooting
- 4x digital zoom
- HDR mode
- panoramic photography
- ISO setting, white balance
In normal lighting, photos taken on the Moto M turn out very decent, but in low light (in the evening) the quality of the images drops noticeably, apparently it’s all about the f/2.0 aperture. The maximum video quality the phone shoots is Full HD (1920×1080 pixels).
The front camera here is 8 megapixels with 1 micron pixels, the quality of the images is very pleasing. There is a shooting mode when the “two fingers up” gesture is detected, a timer and the ability to remove the mirror image in a selfie picture.
Examples of pictures taken on Moto M
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Moto M battery capacity is 3050 mAh, the smartphone supports fast charging 5V/2A. The charging block itself is large in size and has convenient cavities on the sides for removal from the outlet.
3050 mAh battery with fast charging 5V/2A
The phone is charged via a USB Type-C cable, the total charging time is approximately 70 minutes. With mixed use, the battery charge lasts for approximately a full day of use. If you don’t surf the Internet a lot and play games, the Moto M will last 1.5 days without any problems. The battery is consumed evenly and there are no sudden drops or dips during operation.
Among the closest alternatives to this smartphone are, of course, phones from Chinese manufacturers. For example, which costs less, but still offers a Helio X20 chip, the same amount of memory at 3/32 GB and a 5.5-inch Full HD display. True, Motorola Moto M is doing much better with operating system and assembly. Still, international quality standards are better than local Chinese ones. You can also take a closer look at the older version of Redmi Note 4X and Meizu M5 Note, which are built on the same Helio P10 processor.
Feedback on using Moto M
The editors of Galagram liked the smartphone; it is very well built and feels great in the hand. At the same time, it comes with the latest hardware and software platform, and will also delight you with high-quality front camera selfie lovers. The device will also appeal to fans of the Motorola brand and those looking for a high-quality 5.5-inch phone with a fast fingerprint scanner.
The new Moto M smartphone is very different from previous Motorola solutions. Firstly, this is the first and so far the only metal smartphone in the Moto line. Before this, plastic, rubber and even ballistic nylon were used, but never metal. Secondly, for the first time, Motorola engineers trusted the processor from MediaTek. Previously there were Qualcomm, Texas Instruments and even such exotics in the mobile segment as NVIDIA, but MediaTek - never before.
For workaholics
The eight-core Helio P10 chip with Mali-T830 MP2 graphics, of course, runs 3D mobile games at low or even medium graphics settings, but it certainly cannot be called a gamer’s dream. But for active work With a smartphone in multitasking mode with frequent switching between several applications, it fits perfectly. Multitasking is also facilitated by as much as 4 GB of RAM: applications will remain running in memory for a long time, and will not close automatically, as often happens on smartphones with a small amount of RAM.
Cleanliness and tidiness
The 16-megapixel camera migrated straight from the previous model Moto G4 Plus. It produced good pictures before, and with the improved software, the photo quality has become even better. The main reason to buy a Motorola smartphone, as before, remains the virgin Android OS without any burdensome graphical shells. The only pity is that the Android version is still old 6.0 (probably a firmware update will be released over time).
