The smartphone landscape continues to evolve rapidly, and Motorola has made its mark once again with the release of the Moto G54. Positioned as a mid-range contender with high-end features, the Moto G54 merges affordability with performance, making it a compelling option for those who want more for less. With the inclusion of 5G connectivity and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), this device stands out in a crowd of similar offerings.
TL;DR:
The Motorola Moto G54 delivers impressive features at a budget-friendly price. With a MediaTek Dimensity 7020 chipset, 5G capabilities, and a 50 MP camera with Optical Image Stabilization, it offers performance and camera stabilization typically reserved for pricier models. The large 6.5” 120Hz display and 6000mAh battery round out a formidable package. While not perfect, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for premium features without breaking the bank.
Design and Build Quality
The Moto G54 is consistent with Motorola’s design language—sleek, minimalist, and functional. Constructed primarily from polycarbonate, the device manages to look premium despite its budget roots. It comes in a few tasteful color finishes, including Midnight Blue, Pearl Blue, and Mint Green.
Measured at 8.9 mm in thickness and weighing approximately 192 grams, it feels sturdy in hand without being unwieldy. The back houses a rectangular camera module with softly rounded edges, offering a modern aesthetic that complements the smartphone’s practical design.
Display
One of the standout features of the Moto G54 is its display. It boasts a 6.5-inch FHD+ LCD panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. The high refresh rate combined with 240Hz touch sampling ensures a smooth and responsive user experience, whether you’re scrolling through social media or gaming.
Though it’s not an AMOLED screen, the LCD display still offers vivid colors and decent contrast ratios. The inclusion of HDR support enhances media consumption quality, even if not to the level of flagship devices.
Performance and Software
Powering the Moto G54 is the MediaTek Dimensity 7020 chipset, which brings 5G support and solid performance for most day-to-day tasks. It’s paired with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM depending on the variant, and storage options go up to 256GB with microSD expandability.
Gaming and multitasking are handled competently. Casual games and some graphics-intensive titles like Call of Duty: Mobile perform without lag, although some frame drops may occur during extended sessions at high settings.
On the software side, Motorola continues to deliver a clean user interface. The G54 ships with Android 13 and minimal bloatware, sticking close to Google’s vision for the OS. Motorola’s signature features—such as Quick Gestures and Peek Display—add convenience without cluttering the experience.
Camera System with OIS
One of the Moto G54’s most surprising features is the inclusion of Optical Image Stabilization, a feature rarely seen in this price segment. The device is equipped with a 50 MP primary sensor with OIS and a 2 MP macro lens. The front houses a 16 MP camera for selfies and video calls.
In practice, the OIS dramatically improves image stability and low-light photography. Photos have better sharpness and reduced motion blur, and videos benefit from smoother footage even without using a gimbal or tripod.
However, the 2 MP macro lens feels more like a filler than a practical tool—details often lack clarity, and the fixed focus can be frustrating. That said, the main sensor compensates with accurate color reproduction and fairly balanced dynamic range.
Connectivity and Network
The Motorola Moto G54 supports standalone and non-standalone 5G networks, making it future-proof in many global markets. Other connectivity features include:
- Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)
- Bluetooth 5.3
- USB-C for charging and data transfer
- NFC support (region-dependent)
Call quality is clear and there are no significant connectivity drops when switching between 4G and 5G networks. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack and stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos adds further value for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
Battery Life and Charging
The Moto G54 packs a massive 6000mAh battery, which gives it an impressive battery life even with the power-consuming 120Hz display. Most users can expect up to 2 days of moderate use between charges. Intensive tasks like gaming or video streaming will drain the battery faster, but not drastically so.
Charging is handled via a 33W TurboPower adapter, which is included in the box. Charging from 0% to 100% takes approximately 80 minutes. It’s not the fastest charging in the market but remains efficient for the battery capacity it supports.
Comparison with Competitors
At its price point, the Moto G54 has to contend with devices like the Redmi Note 12 5G, Samsung Galaxy M14, and Realme Narzo 60. While these models offer comparable performance and design aesthetics, few can match the Moto G54’s well-balanced spec sheet and the unique inclusion of OIS in its price category.
- Redmi Note 12 5G: AMOLED screen but no OIS, smaller battery
- Galaxy M14: Similar battery size, but inferior camera features
- Realme Narzo 60: Stylish design and display, but pricier with similar internals
Security and Extras
The Moto G54 features a side-mounted fingerprint scanner integrated into the power button. Face unlock is available and works reasonably well in well-lit conditions. For privacy enthusiasts, the phone also features Motorola’s ThinkShield for Mobile, offering enhanced business-grade security features.
It also boasts an IP52 rating, giving it limited resistance against water splashes and light rain. While not suitable for submersion, it does provide some peace of mind in daily scenarios.
Who Should Buy the Moto G54?
The Motorola Moto G54 is a smart choice for users who want excellent value without making significant sacrifices. Whether you’re a student, a commuter, or someone who prioritizes media consumption and photography, this phone offers a well-rounded experience with enough future-proofing to last a few years.
Final Thoughts
The Motorola Moto G54 is a commendable entrant in the mid-range smartphone market, ticking many boxes that even certain premium devices fail to address. From 5G support and OIS-enhanced photography to long battery life and smooth software, this device provides substantial bang for your buck.
While it may not satisfy power users or those seeking AMOLED displays and ultra-fast charging, its thoughtful blend of features significantly elevates the user experience at this price point. For anyone on a budget but unwilling to compromise on core smartphone experiences—this device is worth serious consideration.
