Moto X 2nd Gen (2014) In 2018! (Should You Still Buy It) (Review)

TL;DR

The Moto X 2014 remains decent but suffers from battery and camera issues years later.

Transcript

what is going on everybody so right now we're going to do another still worth the video in 2018 and it's been a minute since I did one of these and we're kind of getting to the end of the year so this is going to be kind of interesting because for a lot of the phones it really is dependent on the year because of software versions and everything but... Read More

Key Insights

• 🚀 The Moto X 2014 was lauded for its innovative design and AMOLED display, distinguishing itself from competitors at launch.
• 😒 Despite a solid display, battery capacity presents a significant drawback, limiting the phone’s practicality in daily use.
• 👤 The device's camera capabilities are weak by modern standards, affecting users who prioritize photography in their smartphone experience.
• ⚡ Its acceptable performance for light gaming contrasts with frustrations arising in resource-intensive applications, highlighting its aging hardware.
• 😀 The lack of software updates restricts user access to the latest app features, limiting the device's longevity in a fast-evolving tech landscape.
• 😥 The Moto X 2014's customizable back options remain a unique selling point, catering to consumers who value personalization.
• 😀 The device’s front-facing speakers are praised, enhancing multimedia experiences compared to many modern smartphones with less effective audio orientations.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the design of the Moto X 2014 compare to today's smartphones?

The Moto X 2014 had a standout design for its time, particularly with its AMOLED screen and reduced bezel size. However, compared to today’s offerings, many smartphones now feature edge-to-edge displays and enhanced materials, making the Moto X's design feel somewhat outdated, though it retains a unique appeal with customizable backs like leather and bamboo.

Q: What is the performance of the Moto X 2014 in 2018?

In 2018, the Moto X 2014’s performance is a mixed bag. While it handles basic tasks and older games fairly well, heavier applications and modern gaming demand exceed its capabilities due to its Snapdragon 801 chipset and 2GB of RAM. Users may experience lag and subpar performance with more demanding tasks.

Q: Are there any significant software limitations on the Moto X 2014?

The Moto X 2014 originally shipped with Android KitKat and can be updated to Android 6.0. However, many users report difficulties in upgrading beyond 5.1 due to the lack of official support, limiting access to newer applications and features that require more recent software versions.

Q: What are some pros and cons of the Moto X 2014's camera?

The Moto X 2014 comes with a 13-megapixel rear camera that, despite being impressive on paper, produces lackluster images with poor autofocus and washed-out colors. While it can record 1080p video, the quality falls short of modern standards, making it less appealing for photography compared to current smartphones.

Q: How does battery life affect the usability of the Moto X 2014?

The 2300 mAh battery in the Moto X 2014 is considered small for a device with a 5.2-inch display. Users can expect limited usability, as both active use and standby times are unsatisfactory. Battery performance diminishes even further over years of usage, leading to frequent recharging.

Q: What alternative smartphones are recommended over the Moto X 2014?

If seeking alternatives, the Samsung Galaxy S5 is recommended due to its larger battery, Super AMOLED display, removable battery, and additional features such as water resistance. Other options may include newer budget models that provide better performance and battery life.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Moto X 2014 was well-received for its design, featuring a large AMOLED screen with minimal bezels, but it is hindered by outdated software capabilities.

• Performance-wise, the device is acceptable for basic tasks and even some gaming, but it struggles with heavy applications due to aging hardware and limited RAM.

• The 13-megapixel camera is underwhelming compared to modern standards, with poor focus and video quality, and the small 2300 mAh battery fails to sustain usage throughout the day.