Moto G86 5G Launched in 2025: A Game-Changer in Budget Smartphones

The smartphone world is buzzing with the launch of the Moto G86 5G, Motorola’s latest addition to its popular G-series. Known for offering impressive specifications at budget-friendly prices, the G-series continues to win the hearts of consumers looking for value and performance. The Moto G86 5G, launched in 2025, marks a significant leap forward, especially for users who crave 5G connectivity, stylish design, and capable hardware without spending a fortune.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into all the features, specifications, performance benchmarks, and why the Moto G86 5G might just be the best budget 5G phone released this year.

A Modern and Premium Design

Motorola has clearly invested time into revamping the design of the G-series, and the Moto G86 5G is a testament to that. With a sleek, refined finish and narrow bezels, the device offers a premium look that belies its affordable price tag. It features a slim profile with curved edges, making it comfortable to hold for long periods.

The phone is available in several trendy colors, including Midnight Blue, Forest Green, and Titanium Silver, catering to a wide range of user preferences. The rear panel, made of high-quality polycarbonate, has a matte finish that resists fingerprints and smudges—an underrated yet useful feature.

Display: Large, Smooth, and Vibrant

One of the highlights of the Moto G86 5G is its 6.6-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display. The screen offers a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, delivering crisp visuals, vivid colors, and deep contrast levels that elevate the multimedia experience. Whether you’re streaming videos, playing games, or browsing social media, the visuals are sharp and immersive.

Motorola has upped the ante with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and responsive touch input. This refresh rate is a standout feature at this price point, making the G86 5G ideal for users who want fluid performance during gaming and multitasking.

Performance: Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon

Under the hood, the Moto G86 5G is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, a chipset built for mid-range devices with a focus on efficiency and power. Paired with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage, the G86 handles everyday tasks with ease—from web browsing and messaging to gaming and video editing.

The phone also includes a microSD card slot, allowing users to expand the storage by up to 1TB. This is a huge plus for those who store large media files, apps, or games on their phones.

When tested with popular benchmarks and gaming titles like PUBG Mobile, Asphalt 9, and Call of Duty: Mobile, the Moto G86 5G maintained consistent frame rates without overheating. Multitasking between apps was smooth, with no noticeable lag, making this an ideal phone for students, casual gamers, and professionals on a budget.

5G Connectivity and Network Features

As 5G networks become increasingly available across the globe, having a device that supports the latest standards is no longer optional—it’s essential. The Moto G86 5G supports dual-mode 5G (SA/NSA), ensuring high-speed internet and future-proofing for years to come.

Users can experience lightning-fast downloads, lag-free streaming, and crystal-clear video calls. Additionally, the phone supports dual SIM, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2, enabling seamless connectivity on all fronts.

Camera System: Sharp and Smart

In the camera department, Motorola delivers a versatile dual-camera setup on the rear. The main sensor is a 50MP wide-angle lens with an f/1.8 aperture and Quad Pixel technology, designed to deliver crisp, well-lit photos even in low-light conditions. It is accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide sensor that also functions as a macro and depth camera—offering creative flexibility to photography enthusiasts.

On the front, the Moto G86 5G features a 16MP selfie camera, which captures detailed portraits and supports Full HD video recording. It’s ideal for vlogging, video calls, or snapping selfies with friends and family.

The camera app is enhanced by Motorola’s AI software, which includes features like:

• Night Vision
• Portrait Mode
• Auto Smile Capture
• Google Lens integration
• Slow-motion and Time-lapse video modes

The video recording capabilities are also solid, offering 4K recording at 30fps and 1080p at 60fps, making it a good choice for aspiring content creators.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a crucial consideration for any smartphone user, and the Moto G86 5G delivers in this area. It houses a 5000mAh battery, capable of lasting more than a day on moderate to heavy usage. Whether you’re browsing, gaming, or watching videos, the phone keeps up without needing constant recharging.

Motorola includes support for 33W TurboPower fast charging, which can juice the battery from 0 to 50% in just 30 minutes. While it may not be the fastest in the industry, it strikes a good balance between battery size and charging speed, ensuring you’re not left tethered to the wall.

Software Experience: Clean and Efficient

The Moto G86 5G runs on Android 14, with Motorola’s near-stock UI experience. This means minimal bloatware, no heavy skins, and fast access to Google updates. The clean interface contributes to smoother performance and improved battery efficiency.

Motorola also includes its signature Moto Gestures:

• Twist to launch the camera
• Chop twice to activate the flashlight
• Three-finger screenshot
• Peek Display for notifications

These small yet meaningful additions enhance day-to-day usability without overwhelming the user with unnecessary features.

Security and Extras

For biometrics, the phone features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button, as well as face unlock support. Both methods are quick and reliable.

The device comes with IP52 water-repellent certification, offering basic protection against splashes and light rain—useful for users in unpredictable weather conditions.

Other notable extras include:

• Dolby Atmos dual speakers for immersive audio
• 3.5mm headphone jack
• USB Type-C port
• Support for Moto Ready For (a PC connectivity feature)

Pricing and Availability

One of the most attractive aspects of the Moto G86 5G is its pricing. Starting at a competitive price point, it undercuts many competitors offering similar specs. The G86 offers multiple configurations with 128GB and 256GB storage options, giving users flexibility based on their needs and budget.

Motorola has made the device available in key markets across Asia, Europe, and Latin America, with global expansion expected throughout Q3 of 2025.

Final Verdict: Is the Moto G86 5G Worth It?

Absolutely. The Moto G86 5G is a well-rounded smartphone that punches far above its weight class. From the AMOLED 120Hz display and reliable Snapdragon chipset to the 50MP camera system and long battery life, Motorola has created a phone that delivers an excellent experience without stretching your wallet.

It’s perfect for:

• Students and young professionals who want speed and style on a budget
• Users upgrading to 5G without breaking the bank
• Everyday users looking for a reliable, future-ready smartphone

With the Moto G86 5G, Motorola has raised the bar in the mid-range segment once again, proving that quality and affordability can indeed go hand in hand.more Samsung Galaxy M35 5G