Motorola Moto E (2020) and Moto G Fast Review: Smartphone Basics

Introduction

If you’re shopping for a reliable smartphone under $200, Motorola’s 2020 lineup offers strong contenders. The Moto E (2020) delivers the essentials at $149, while the Moto G Fast ups the ante slightly at $199 with better battery life, a larger display, and more capable performance. We tested both devices to see how they stack up for everyday use.

Moto E (2020): The Basic Option

Specs and Price
Released in June 2020, the Moto E (2020) launched at $149 unlocked. It features a Snapdragon 632 processor, 2 GB of RAM, and 32 GB of internal storage expandable via microSD.

Strengths

• Delivers solid camera performance for its price, especially with portrait shots

• Offers over 10 hours of battery life on web browsing tests

• Runs a near-stock version of Android 10 with simple Moto enhancements

• Includes a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor for basic security

Limitations

• HD+ display is not bright enough for easy outdoor use

• 2 GB of RAM and entry-level processor limit multitasking

• Ships with Android 10 and is not expected to receive major OS updates

• Charges via microUSB, which feels outdated in 2020

Conclusion
The Moto E (2020) is a capable, no-frills smartphone ideal for calls, messaging, and light app use. It offers decent value at $149 but has obvious compromises in performance and long-term software support.

Moto G Fast: A Smarter Budget Upgrade

Specs and Price
Also released in June 2020, the Moto G Fast retails for around $199. It upgrades to a Snapdragon 665 processor, 3 GB of RAM, and includes the same 32 GB storage capacity with microSD support.

Strengths

• Lasts over 12 hours in web usage tests thanks to a 4,000 mAh battery

• Features a larger 6.4-inch screen that is noticeably brighter than the Moto E

• Includes USB-C charging, a headphone jack, and a responsive fingerprint sensor

• Offers good performance for daily tasks and light gaming

• Comes with a wide-angle camera for more flexible photography

Drawbacks

• HD resolution on a large screen results in visible pixelation

• Selfie camera and speaker quality are average

• Limited to one Android version update and lacks NFC support for mobile payments

Real-World Perspective
Customer reviews and user feedback praise the G Fast for its balanced performance, excellent battery life, and clean Android experience. However, some users note that the camera and internal storage are basic for 2020 standards.

Conclusion
For an extra $50, the Moto G Fast delivers better battery life, improved performance, and a more modern experience with USB-C and a larger display. It is the better choice overall if your budget allows.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Final Thoughts

Both smartphones serve different user needs.

Choose the Moto E (2020) if you’re looking for a simple, ultra-budget phone for essential tasks like calls, messaging, and basic apps.

Choose the Moto G Fast if you want a better screen, longer battery life, improved performance, and more versatile camera options for a small increase in price.

In a market saturated with high-end phones, these two budget models prove that smartphone basics still matter—and Motorola delivers them well.