Price and specifications of Motorola Moto G5S advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Design and Build

The Motorola Moto G5S boasts a robust build quality with an aluminum back and frame, providing both durability and a premium feel in hand. The dimensions of the device are 150 x 73.5 x 9.5 mm, making it comfortable to hold and operate with one hand. Weighing in at 157g, it strikes a balance between sturdy construction and portability. The front of the phone is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, adding extra resilience against scratches and minor impacts.

Display Quality

Featuring a 5.2-inch IPS LCD, the Moto G5S offers a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 424 ppi. This configuration promises sharp and vibrant visuals, making it ideal for browsing, media consumption, and light gaming. The 16:9 aspect ratio, though not as modern as the newer tall ratios, is perfect for watching videos and offers ample screen real estate for various tasks.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Moto G5S is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 430 chipset with an octa-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and Adreno 505 GPU. While this setup is not groundbreaking, it handles day-to-day tasks such as browsing, social media, and multimedia with ease. Available in configurations of 3GB or 4GB RAM paired with 32GB of internal storage, it provides decent multitasking capabilities. Additionally, the storage can be expanded using a microSD card, which is a significant advantage for users requiring more space.

The device originally ships with Android 7.1 (Nougat) but is upgradeable to Android 8.1 (Oreo). Motorola's approach is close to stock Android, ensuring a smooth user experience with minimal bloatware and providing timely updates when compared to heavily skinned UIs.

Camera Versatility

The Moto G5S is equipped with a 16 MP rear camera with an f/2.0 aperture. It features phase detection autofocus (PDAF), allowing for quick focus times, which proves beneficial for capturing moments swiftly and accurately. Additionally, the camera supports Auto-HDR and Panorama modes. Video recording capabilities extend to 1080p at 30fps, capturing reasonably clear and stabilized footage.

The 5 MP front-facing camera, also with an f/2.0 aperture, is supported by an LED flash, making it convenient for selfies even in dim lighting conditions. Although it doesn't offer the higher megapixel count found in top-tier models, it sufficiently meets the needs of everyday selfie and video call requirements.

Battery Life

With a non-removable Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery, the Moto G5S is designed to last a full day of average usage. The inclusion of 15W fast charging technology enables quick top-ups, keeping downtime to a minimum. While not as large as some batteries found in modern smartphones, the efficient Snapdragon 430 and careful software optimization contribute to respectable endurance.

Connectivity and Extras

The Moto G5S supports comprehensive connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, and GLONASS. The presence of NFC, although model-dependent (XT1794 only), and FM radio caters to users with varied connectivity needs. While it lacks USB-C, the included microUSB 2.0 port remains widely compatible and practical.

A notable inclusion is the front-mounted fingerprint sensor, which allows for secure and quick unlocking. The device also comes equipped with other essential sensors such as an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass, enhancing the overall user experience.

Final Thoughts

The Moto G5S stands as an attractive option for consumers seeking a reliable and well-rounded smartphone experience without breaking the bank. Its solid build, sufficient performance, and useful features make it a compelling choice in the mid-range segment. While it may not compete with flagship models in terms of sheer power or cutting-edge features, it covers the essentials admirably, making it a smart selection for practical users who value functionality and design.