Moto G34 5G Review: A budget-friendly smartphone with impressive features

The Moto G34 5G stands out as a well-rounded and cost-effective smartphone. In a market where capable budget phones are scarce, this device provides a refreshing experience. Boasting Android 14 out of the box, a decent processor (Snapdragon 695 5G), and an impressive design, the Moto G34 5G deserves attention.

Featuring a vegan leather back — a Motorola staple by now — that prevents slipping and provides a comfortable in-hand feel, the Moto G34 5G exhibits thoughtful design. The subtle camera module and conveniently located buttons enhance the user experience. The 6.5-inch display with HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate is a unique combination, setting it apart from competitors. While outdoor visibility and viewing angles could be better due to the IPS LCD panel, the display performs well during regular usage, offering a smooth interface for gaming and navigation.

The 50MP quad-pixel primary camera captures decent photos with good colour accuracy. However, the Portrait mode struggles with object detection, and the Macro Vision camera has a long way to go in terms of detail and focus. Night shots exhibit graininess, and the selfie camera faces challenges in low-light conditions. Despite these limitations, the Moto G34 5G serves well for point-and-shoot purposes, making it suitable for users who prioritise functionality over intricate photography details, especially given its price.

Equipped with the reliable Snapdragon 695 SoC, the Moto G34 5G handles tasks effortlessly. The device performs admirably in gaming, showcasing no stutter issues or frame drops. The Android 14-based MyUX custom skin delivers a minimalistic and fluid user experience. The Game mode enhances the gaming experience, offering call blocking and performance monitoring features. Notable additions include 'Live Captions,' providing live transcriptions during video playback.

Benchmark scores, including 4,33,104 points on AnTuTu and a multi-core test score of 2,040 on Geekbench, reflect impressive performance. The CPU throttle test underscores the phone's robustness, maintaining 91% of its maximum performance over a prolonged period.

Motorola has promised at least one software update and three years of security support. Motorola did not rule out further software updates, but said it would take a call depending on user experience and demand,

The Moto G34 5G houses a 5,000mAh battery, delivering satisfactory performance. In a standardised battery test, the phone lasted 12 hours and 26 minutes, while real-world usage exceeded a day with light gaming and video streaming, with all other regular smartphone usage thrown in. The 20W fast-charging support replenishes the battery from 0-100% in approximately one hour and 21 minutes.

The Moto G34 5G is an excellent choice for those seeking a smooth and clutter-free user experience without breaking the bank. Its distinctive design, capable processor, and commendable software advantages make it a compelling option. While the camera performance may not be the best in its price range, the device's overall strengths, especially its software and performance, make it a solid contender.