The Motorola G96 5G aims to deliver an upgraded experience in the mid-range category, combining a curved 144 Hz display, solid camera hardware, a large battery, and thoughtful software touches. It’s designed for users who want eye-catching visuals and dependable performance without stepping up to premium pricing.
Key Highlights: Motorola G96 5G Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.67-inch pOLED curved, FHD+, 144 Hz refresh |
| Processor | Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 |
| RAM / Storage | 8 GB + up to 256 GB |
| Rear Cameras | 50 MP main (Sony LYTIA 700C, with OIS) + 8 MP ultrawide/macro combo |
| Front Camera | 32 MP |
| Battery | 5,500 mAh |
| Charging | 33 W wired charging |
| Build & Durability | Vegan leather back, Gorilla Glass 5, IP68 rating |
| Dimensions & Weight | ~161.86 × 73.26 × 7.93 mm, ~178 g |
| Software | Android 15 with Motorola’s Hello UI |
| Extras | Stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos, curved display gestures |
Design & Display
The G96 5G stands out thanks to its curved pOLED 144 Hz display, which offers smooth animations, responsive touch, and an immersive viewing experience. The curvature gives it a premium feel often found in higher-end models.
On the back, the choice of vegan leather finishes adds both style and grip, and the inclusion of Gorilla Glass 5 and IP68 water/dust resistance boosts durability. Its form factor is slim at ~7.93 mm and relatively lightweight (~178 g), making it comfortable to handle even for users with smaller hands.
Performance & Software
Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, the G96 5G handles everyday usage, multitasking, and many modern games with confidence. It may not match the raw power of flagship chipsets, but in its category it performs admirably for most users.
Running Android 15 under Motorola’s Hello UI, the software experience is relatively clean, with a modest set of added features. Motorola often includes helpful gestures (especially leveraging the curved edges), display tricks, and performance modes without overwhelming the user with bloat. The interface is responsive, and day-to-day performance feels fluid.
Camera System
The rear camera setup features a 50 MP Sony LYTIA 700C main sensor with OIS, and an 8 MP ultrawide/macro combo for wider scenes and close-up shots. The OIS helps in low-light and handheld shots, producing sharper images in challenging conditions.
The 32 MP front camera is capable for selfies and video calls, delivering clear results in favorable lighting.
While the ultra-wide/macro is useful, it does not match the main sensor’s low-light performance. For most users, the 50 MP main lens will produce the strongest results in everyday photography.
Battery & Charging
A large 5,500 mAh battery ensures strong all-day endurance, even under heavy usage involving streaming, gaming, camera, and connectivity.
Charging is supported via 33 W wired TurboPower, which is reasonable for this class. While not blazing fast compared to some rivals, it reaches a useful charge level in a reasonable time. The lack of wireless charging is typical in this segment and should be considered if wireless convenience is important to you.
Strengths & Trade-offs
Strengths
- Stunning curved 144 Hz pOLED display with fluid visuals
- Durable build with vegan leather backs, IP68 rating, and glass protection
- Strong main camera with optical image stabilization
- Large battery capacity ensures endurance
- Clean software experience with useful enhancements
Trade-offs
- Charging is decent but not cutting-edge
- Ultra-wide/macro camera is functional but not outstanding
- Under intense sustained gaming, some thermal moderation may appear
- No wireless charging support
Verdict
The Motorola G96 5G delivers a compelling package in the mid-range segment, especially for users who value display quality, camera reliability, and battery life. While it may not eclipse flagship specs, it offers a balanced experience with style and functionality. If your priorities include immersive visuals and dependable daily use, the G96 5G is a solid option worth considering.