Unveiling the Motorola Moto E 2nd Gen Specs Price Pros & Cons

Network and Connectivity

The Motorola Moto E (2nd gen) supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies, which ensures that users have access to a wide range of networks for voice and data services. The device operates on several 2G bands (GSM 850/900/1800/1900) across all versions and 3G bands (HSDPA 850/1700(AWS)/1900) particularly for models XT1527 and XT1511. LTE support is available on specific bands (2, 4, 5, 7, 17) focusing on model XT1527, offering enhanced mobile broadband connectivity with high-speed data throughput.

Launch and Availability

Released in February 2015, the Motorola Moto E (2nd gen) was positioned as an affordable yet capable smartphone aimed at budget-conscious consumers. Despite its initial success, the device has since been discontinued by the manufacturer and is no longer in production. However, it remains a popular choice among those seeking a reliable, low-cost handset through secondary marketplaces.

Design and Build

The Motorola Moto E (2nd gen) is designed to offer both durability and comfort. Measuring 129.9 x 66.8 x 12.3 mm and weighing 145 grams, the device feels solid in the hand without being overly bulky. It uses a Micro-SIM and features a robust, practical design that focuses on user-friendliness. Available in classic black and white color options, it caters to those who prefer understated aesthetics.

Display

Equipped with a 4.5-inch IPS LCD screen, the Moto E (2nd gen) provides a display resolution of 540 x 960 pixels with an aspect ratio of 16:9 and a pixel density of approximately 245 ppi. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, making it more resistant to scratches and drops, and includes an oleophobic coating to reduce fingerprint smudges.

Performance and Platform

The Moto E (2nd gen) runs on Android 5.0/5.1 Lollipop out of the box, with the XT1527 model being upgradable to Android 6.0 Marshmallow. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 chipset for the 3G model and a Snapdragon 410 for the LTE model, with a quad-core CPU (1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 for 3G; Cortex-A53 for LTE) and an Adreno GPU (302 for 3G; 306 for LTE). This combination ensures basic multitasking capabilities and reasonable performance for everyday tasks.

Memory and Storage

The device offers 8GB of internal storage complemented by 1GB of RAM. For additional storage needs, it features a dedicated microSDHC slot, enabling users to expand their storage according to their needs, which is particularly beneficial given the limited internal space.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera on the Moto E (2nd gen) is a 5 MP unit with an f/2.2 aperture and autofocus, supporting features like panorama and HDR to enhance photo quality. It can record video at 720p@30fps. The front-facing camera is a basic VGA unit, suitable for simple video calls despite lacking the sophistication found in more modern smartphones.

Sound and Audio

The phone features a built-in loudspeaker and supports a 3.5mm headphone jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories. This is particularly useful for users who prefer connecting to speakers or headphones for an enhanced audio experience.

Communication Features

The Moto E (2nd gen) supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, and can act as a hotspot, providing flexible connectivity options. Bluetooth 4.0 with LE and aptX is available for wireless connecting, while GPS and GLONASS are included for enhanced location tracking. Notably, NFC is not supported, but the phone includes FM radio with RDS for traditional media consumption, and microUSB 2.0 with OTG for data transfer and peripheral connection.

Sensors and Other Features

The device includes essential sensors such as an accelerometer and proximity sensor, supporting basic phone functionalities. Although lacking advanced sensors like fingerprint or gyro, it covers necessary detections for everyday use.

Battery and Power

Equipped with a 2390mAh non-removable Li-Ion battery, the Moto E (2nd gen) offers reasonable battery life given its power-efficient hardware. With an endurance rating of 82 hours, it supports extended use before requiring a charge, making it suitable for daily activities without frequent recharging demands.

Conclusion

Overall, the Motorola Moto E (2nd gen) is a smartphone designed for cost-effectiveness and practicality. Offering reliable performance for its price segment, it focuses on core functionalities required by users seeking a simple and durable mobile experience. While it may not satisfy those looking for high-end features or the latest technology, it remains a practical option for budget-conscious consumers or as a reliable secondary device.