Launch report · Motorola
Moto G (2013): The phone that redefined what a budget Android could be.
SpecEagle Editorial·Nov 2013·$179·Score 46/100
The first Moto G proved a cheap Android phone didn't have to be terrible — near-stock software, timely updates and a clean HD screen at $179. It was a watershed that forced the entire industry to take the budget tier seriously.
Key specs at launch
Display
4.5" LCD 60 Hz
Chipset
Snapdragon 400
Memory
1 GB · 8 GB
Main cam
5 MP
Battery
2,070 mAh
Weight
143 g
What stands out
- Near-stock Android with timely updates.
- HD screen at a sub-$200 price.
- Swappable back covers.
- Got to Android 5.1 — rare for budget.
What to watch
- Only 8 GB, no microSD on base.
- 5 MP camera was weak.
- Mono speaker.
- 3G only at launch.
The phone it has to beat
Redmi 1S
$120 · score 66/100