Released in 2020, the Motorola Moto E is aimed at budget-conscious consumers who need a reliable smartphone for basic tasks. With a Snapdragon 632 processor and 2GB of RAM, it is positioned as an entry-level option among a sea of competitive devices. It targets users who primarily need a device for communication, social media, and light media consumption.
This review is based on various sources including benchmark results from UL Solutions, performance tests, and comparisons to similar devices from reputable tech review platforms. These data points help paint a comprehensive picture of the Moto E 2020's capabilities and limitations.
Ultimately, the Moto E 2020 delivers decent performance for its category but comes with significant drawbacks such as limited RAM and storage. The strong points include its display and battery life, but its value may be overshadowed by competitors like the Moto G Fast. This phone is a reasonable choice for casual users but falls short for those seeking higher performance.
How well does the Moto E 2020 perform in daily tasks?
Powered by the Snapdragon 632 processor and 2GB of RAM, the Moto E 2020 achieves a 3DMark Sling Shot Extreme score of 518. This indicates acceptable performance for basic multitasking and light gaming, although it might struggle with more demanding apps or heavy multitasking.
User benchmarks suggest that while it handles social media and web browsing comfortably, the overall experience could be choppy, especially as apps demand more resources. Competitors with more RAM, like the Moto G Fast, can offer a smoother experience for the same price.
Is the display quality satisfactory?
The Moto E 2020 features a 6.2-inch HD+ display with a resolution of 1520 x 720 pixels. While adequate for watching videos or browsing, the display quality may not impress due to limited brightness and color accuracy, especially when compared to higher-end models.
In direct sunlight, the visibility suffers, which could be a concern for users who spend a lot of time outdoors. A competitor like the Moto G Power offers better display technology and resolution, enhancing media consumption experiences.
How does the battery hold up under use?
One of the strong points of the Moto E 2020 is its battery life, powered by a 3550mAh battery, which users report lasting over a full day with typical usage. Benchmarks indicate a solid battery performance that is quite commendable in its price range.
However, heavy users may find themselves needing to recharge before the day is over, particularly if engaging in more demanding activities like gaming or extensive web browsing. Competing models like the Moto G Fast also provide excellent battery longevity, making it harder for the Moto E to stand out.
Can the camera deliver satisfactory photography?
The Moto E 2020 is equipped with a 13-megapixel rear camera and a 5-megapixel front camera. While they can capture decent shots in good lighting, users often report struggling with low-light performance, resulting in blurry images.
Given that numerous budget smartphones now offer better camera capabilities, such as the Redmi Note 9, potential buyers seeking photo quality may be disappointed with the Moto E's camera performance.
Is the construction of the Moto E 2020 durable?
The Moto E 2020 is built with a plastic body that is lightweight but may not give the premium feel some users desire. Durability is average; while it can withstand everyday bumps and drops, the absence of water resistance could be a downside for some potential buyers.
Comparatively, competitors like the Samsung Galaxy A11 often feature similar plastic bodies while offering higher build quality and added features like better protection against water.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Decent battery life with a 3550mAh capacity lasting a full day in typical usage scenarios.
- ✅ Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious consumers.
- ✅ Adequate performance for daily tasks with a Snapdragon 632 chipset.
- ✅ Large 6.2-inch display provides an immersive viewing experience for videos.
- ❌ Limited 2GB of RAM can lead to sluggish performance during multitasking.
- ❌ Camera struggles in low-light conditions, leading to subpar image quality.
- ❌ Display lacks brightness and color vibrancy compared to competitors.
- ❌ No water resistance rating, making it less durable in inclement weather.
How It Compares to the Competition
- Moto G Fast — Offers better performance and RAM at a similar price.
- Samsung Galaxy A11 — Provides more features and a better camera for the same price range.
- Redmi Note 9 — Features superior camera performance and build quality.
- Nokia 5.3 — Offers better durability and processing power.
Who Should Buy This & Who Should Skip It
Buy it if: The Moto E 2020 is suitable for casual users looking for a basic smartphone for communication and social media. First-time smartphone users or those needing a simple device for calls and texts will find this phone adequate.
Skip it if: Users who prioritize performance, camera quality, or need a more robust device for demanding tasks should consider alternatives. Gamers and heavy multitaskers would be better served by models with more RAM and processing power.
Search Purchase Options
Use these links to search for Moto E 2020 on trusted marketplaces. The links open in new tabs; if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
* Affiliate links: you pay the same price either way.