In the world of budget smartphones, the Moto G series has long been a staple, but the Moto G (2026) has left a bitter taste in many a tech enthusiast's mouth. So, what's the verdict? Is it time to bid farewell to Motorola's budget offering? I say yes, and here's why.
The Moto G (2026)'s Flaws
Ryan Haines, my esteemed colleague, highlighted several issues with the Moto G (2026) that make it a tough sell. The short update policy, disappointing performance, and poor durability are deal-breakers for many. While it boasts a big battery and solid main camera, these positives are overshadowed by the negatives.
The Competition Steps In
The good news is, there's a plethora of alternatives vying for your attention. Let's dive into the five best options, each offering a unique blend of features and value.
Samsung Galaxy A17 5G
Samsung's Galaxy A17 5G is a strong contender, offering six years of OS updates, a durable design, and superior screen tech. The update policy alone is a significant upgrade over the Moto G's two years, and the price remains competitive at $200. However, it's not without its flaws, including slow charging speeds and poor secondary cameras.
CMF Phone 2 Pro
Nothing's CMF Phone 2 Pro is a unique offering, especially for those outside the US. Its modular design allows for customization, and the 2x 50MP telephoto camera is a standout feature. The phone also boasts a 6.7-inch 120Hz OLED screen, a decent Dimensity 7300 chip, and a 5,000mAh battery with 33W charging. The update policy is impressive, offering three years of OS upgrades and six years of security patches.
TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G
TCL's 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G is a paper-like display marvel, offering a unique experience with its NXTPAPER tech. The phone packs a 5,010mAh battery, 8GB of RAM, and a 50MP + 5MP + 2MP triple camera setup. While it falls short in some areas, like the Dimensity 6100 Plus chip and 18W wired charging, it remains a great deal at $200.
Moto G Power (2026)
For those who prefer a Motorola phone, the Moto G Power (2026) is a solid choice. It offers IP69 durability, a vegan leather finish, and an 8GB RAM configuration. However, it shares the same Dimensity 6300 chip as the Moto G (2026) and lacks wireless charging, which is a disappointment.
Google Pixel 10a
Google's Pixel 10a is a refined mid-range phone with a Tensor G4 processor, a 120Hz display, and Gorilla Glass 7i protection. It boasts a compact form factor, a capable camera setup, and wireless charging. The seven years of OS updates and durable design make it a strong contender, despite its $500 price tag.
The Verdict
In my opinion, the Moto G (2026) is a tough sell due to its shortcomings. The alternatives, like the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G, CMF Phone 2 Pro, TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G, Moto G Power (2026), and Google Pixel 10a, offer a compelling blend of features and value. It's time to upgrade and embrace the competition!
