Motorola has once again captured attention in the mid-range smartphone market with the launch of its Motorola G96 5G. This smartphone blends performance, elegant design, and 5G connectivity at an affordable price point. With a focus on premium build, smooth display, and reliable camera capabilities, the G96 5G is aimed at users who want flagship-like features without crossing the ₹20,000 mark.
Highlights Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.67-inch Full HD+ pOLED, 144Hz refresh rate, 1600 nits brightness |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4nm) |
| RAM & Storage | 8GB RAM + 128GB / 256GB UFS 2.2 |
| Rear Camera | 50MP Sony LYTIA 700C (OIS) + 8MP Ultra-Wide / Macro |
| Front Camera | 32MP Selfie Camera |
| Battery | 5500mAh with 33W TurboPower Charging |
| Operating System | Android 15 with Hello UI |
| Design | Vegan Leather Finish, IP68 Dust & Water Resistant |
| Price (Expected) | ₹17,999 (8GB+128GB) / ₹19,999 (8GB+256GB) |
Design and Build Quality
The Motorola G96 5G delivers a premium aesthetic that rivals even higher-end smartphones. Its curved edges, slim profile, and vegan leather back finish give it a modern, elegant look. The IP68 rating ensures water and dust resistance, making it more durable for everyday use. The phone is available in beautiful Pantone-certified colors like Ashleigh Blue and Greener Pastures, adding a stylish touch.
Display Experience
The 6.67-inch Full HD+ pOLED curved display with a 144Hz refresh rate is one of the major highlights. It offers fluid scrolling, vibrant colors, and crisp details for videos and games. The 1600 nits peak brightness makes outdoor visibility excellent, while 10-bit color depth ensures a cinematic viewing experience. This display clearly gives the Motorola G96 an edge in its segment.
Performance and Speed
Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset built on a 4nm process, the Motorola G96 5G delivers efficient and smooth performance. The combination of 8GB RAM and UFS 2.2 storage ensures fast app loading and lag-free multitasking. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or browsing, this phone handles everything with ease. Motorola’s clean Hello UI offers a near-stock Android experience, free from unnecessary bloatware.
Camera System
The camera setup is another strong point of the G96 5G. The 50MP Sony LYTIA 700C sensor with OIS captures detailed and vibrant shots in all lighting conditions. The 8MP ultra-wide/macro lens adds flexibility for landscape and close-up photography. On the front, the 32MP selfie camera produces sharp, well-balanced selfies and is great for video calls. The night mode and AI enhancements further improve the image quality.
Battery and Charging
The phone packs a large 5500mAh battery, ensuring a full day of heavy usage without running out of power. It supports 33W TurboPower fast charging, which can recharge the device quickly. While not the fastest in the segment, it’s reliable and efficient for most users. The power optimization in Android 15 also enhances standby time.
Software and User Experience
Motorola continues to impress with its near-stock Android 15 experience. The Hello UI is clean, responsive, and free from ads or pre-installed bloatware. Motorola promises timely updates and security patches, ensuring that users get a smooth and secure experience over time. The interface also includes smart gestures and Moto Actions that make daily use intuitive.
Connectivity and Features
The Motorola G96 5G supports dual 5G SIMs, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, and NFC. It also includes stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support for an immersive audio experience. The in-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock offer quick security options. The inclusion of an IP68 rating makes it resistant to splashes and dust — a rare feature in this price segment.
Performance in Gaming and Multimedia
With the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 and the 144Hz display, the phone performs well for casual and mid-level gaming. Titles like BGMI, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Asphalt 9 run smoothly at medium to high settings. The stereo speakers enhance the gaming experience, while the curved display provides an immersive field of view. Heat management is efficient, thanks to Motorola’s internal cooling system.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✅ Premium curved pOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate
✅ Reliable Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor
✅ Clean Android 15 interface
✅ IP68 water and dust resistance
✅ Excellent camera performance with Sony sensor
✅ Strong battery life with fast charging
Cons:
❌ Charging speed could be faster compared to rivals
❌ Only two years of software updates expected
❌ Curved display may not appeal to all users
Verdict
The Motorola G96 5G is an excellent mid-range smartphone offering a premium feel at a reasonable price. It delivers in nearly every department — display, performance, design, and battery life. For users who value clean software, elegant design, and smooth performance, this phone is a great all-rounder in the sub-₹20,000 category.
If fast charging or extended software updates are your top priorities, you may consider alternatives like the Redmi Note 14 Pro or iQOO Z9 5G, but overall, the Motorola G96 5G offers incredible value for its price.
FAQs
Q1. Does Motorola G96 5G support 5G connectivity?
Yes, it supports multiple 5G bands for a reliable experience.
Q2. What is the display refresh rate?
It features a 144Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth scrolling and gameplay.
Q3. How long does the battery last?
The 5500mAh battery easily lasts over a full day on moderate to heavy use.
Q4. What operating system does it run?
It runs on Android 15 with Motorola’s Hello UI.
Q5. Is it suitable for gaming?
Yes, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset and 144Hz display make it great for gaming and multitasking.
