Motorola One Action: A Complete Review of Features, Pros, and Cons
Looking for a balanced review of the Motorola One Action? We break down its features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
The smartphone market is flooded with numerous options, each promising unique features and top-notch performance. Amidst this sea of choices, the Motorola One Action has emerged as a beacon for those seeking a blend of functionality, style, and affordability. This comprehensive review delves deep into what makes this device a worthy contender in the mid-range smartphone segment.
In today’s digital age, a smartphone is more than just a communication device; it’s an extension of our personality, a tool for creativity, and a gateway to the world. Motorola, a pioneer in the mobile industry, has consistently delivered devices that resonate with the needs of the masses.
The Motorola One Action is no exception. Launched in October 2019, this device has been designed keeping in mind the dynamic needs of modern users. From its camera capabilities to its performance metrics, every aspect of the phone screams innovation and efficiency.
Key Specifications
Display and Design
Visual Appeal: The first thing that catches your eye when you hold the Motorola One Action is its sleek design. The 6.3-inch IPS LCD display boasts a resolution of 1080×2520 pixels, offering vibrant colors and sharp visuals. The 21:9 aspect ratio is a treat for movie buffs, providing a cinematic viewing experience right in the palm of your hand.
The 6.3-inch IPS LCD display is not just about size; it’s about delivering vibrant colors, sharp visuals, and an immersive experience. With a resolution of 1080×2520 pixels, every image, video, or game comes to life. The 21:9 aspect ratio is not a mere number; it’s a cinematic experience that fits in your pocket. Whether you’re streaming your favorite show or playing a game, the display ensures you’re in for a visual treat.
Build Quality: The phone exudes a premium feel, thanks to its glass front. The plastic back and frame might raise eyebrows, but they have been crafted with precision, ensuring durability without compromising on aesthetics. The water-repellent coating is an added bonus, offering protection against accidental spills.
Performance and Hardware
Processing Power: At the heart of the Motorola One Action lies the Exynos 9609 chipset. This, combined with 4GB of RAM, ensures that the device handles multitasking with ease. Whether you’re switching between apps, playing graphics-intensive games, or streaming videos, the phone promises a lag-free experience.
Storage: With 128GB of internal storage, the device offers ample space for all your photos, videos, apps, and more. The provision to expand the storage using a micro SDXC card ensures that you never run out of space. Chipset: The Exynos 9609 chipset is a powerhouse.
Designed for efficiency and performance, it ensures that the Motorola One Action can handle a range of tasks, from basic to intensive. Whether you’re multitasking between apps, playing a resource-intensive game, or editing a video, the chipset ensures a smooth experience.
RAM: 4GB RAM might seem standard, but combined with the optimized Android One experience, it ensures that apps launch quickly, multitasking is smooth, and there are no lags.
Camera Capabilities
Triple Threat: The camera department is where the Motorola One Action truly shines. The primary 12MP camera is adept at capturing detailed and vibrant photos. The 16MP ultra-wide action video camera is a game-changer, allowing users to record wide-angle videos, ensuring that no detail is left out. The 5MP depth sensor aids in taking portrait shots with a professional blur effect.
Selfie Game: The 12MP front camera ensures that your selfie game is always on point. With features like HDR, your selfies are bound to be social media-ready.The camera setup on the Motorola One Action is not just about megapixels; it’s about versatility and creativity.
Primary Camera: The 12MP primary camera is equipped with advanced sensors that capture more light, ensuring bright and clear photos even in low-light conditions.
Ultra-wide Action Video Camera: This 16MP camera is a game-changer. It’s not just about capturing wide-angle videos; it’s about capturing memories, adventures, and moments without missing any detail.
Depth Sensor: The 5MP depth sensor is a boon for portrait photography enthusiasts. It ensures that the subject stands out with a professional blur effect in the background.
Battery Life
Endurance: A smartphone’s battery life can make or break the user experience. The Motorola One Action is equipped with a 3500mAh Li-Po battery. This ensures that the device easily lasts through a day of moderate to heavy usage. The 10W rapid charging feature ensures that you’re quickly back to 100%, reducing the time you spend tethered to a charger. The 3500mAh Li-Po battery is designed for the modern user. With apps becoming more resource-intensive and screen-on time increasing, battery life is crucial. The Motorola One Action’s battery ensures you don’t have to reach for the charger multiple times a day. And when you do, the 10W rapid charging ensures you’re back in action quickly.
Ultra-wide Action Video Camera
Broaden Your Horizons: One of the standout features of the Motorola One Action is its ultra-wide action video camera. Traditional smartphone cameras often limit the field of view, but with this ultra-wide lens, you can capture a broader perspective. Whether you’re recording an adventurous bike ride or capturing the beauty of a sprawling landscape, this camera ensures that you miss out on no detail.
Stability and Clarity: Another advantage of the ultra-wide action video camera is its stability. Even during action-packed moments, the camera records smooth videos, reducing shakes and jitters. This is particularly beneficial for those who love recording their adventures on the go.
Motorola One Action Pros and Cons
The Motorola One Action is an affordable Android One phone that focuses on video capabilities. It offers a triple-lens camera with a dedicated video lens, capturing 117-degree footage in portrait orientation. The phone runs on Android One, providing a bloat-free interface. It is priced at £219 in the UK and is yet to be launched in the US. The device has a 6.3-inch display with a 21:9 aspect ratio and is designed similarly to its sibling, the Motorola One Vision. However, it is only IPX2 water-resistant.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable Price: Priced at £219, it offers good value for money. | Limited Water Resistance: Only IPX2 rated, not ideal for rugged use. |
| Android One: Provides a clean, bloat-free interface. | Screen Accessibility: The 21:9 aspect ratio makes one-handed use difficult. |
| Dedicated Video Lens: Unique 16MP sensor for video capture. | Not Yet Available in the US: Limited availability. |
| Stabilized Video Capture: Electronic stabilization for smoother videos. | Plastic Build: The rear is a fingerprint magnet. |
| Good Display: 6.3-inch display with strong peak brightness. | Not Very Dust Resistant: Lower IP rating compared to One Vision. |
Android One Experience
Pure Android: The Motorola One Action is a part of the Android One program. This means that the device offers a pure Android experience, devoid of any bloatware. Users get to enjoy the Android interface just as Google intended.
Regular Updates: Being under the Android One umbrella also ensures that the Motorola One Action receives regular security updates. This not only keeps the device secure against potential threats but also ensures that any bugs or issues are promptly addressed.
Optimized Performance: Without unnecessary apps and bloatware, the device runs smoother and faster. Apps launch quickly, battery life is optimized, and the overall user experience is enhanced.
User Opinions and Reviews
Real-world Feedback: While specifications and features provide a technical overview of the device, real-world user feedback offers insights into the actual performance and user experience. The Motorola One Action has received positive reviews from users worldwide.
Performance Praise: Users have lauded the device for its consistent and smooth performance. The combination of the Exynos 9609 chipset and 4GB RAM has proven to be efficient in handling everyday tasks and more.
Camera Capabilities: The ultra-wide action video camera has been a hit among users. Many have praised its ability to capture wide-angle videos, highlighting its stability and clarity.
Pricing and Availability
Affordable Innovation: The Motorola One Action, with its plethora of features, comes at a competitive price point. This makes it an attractive option for those who want a feature-rich smartphone without burning a hole in their pocket.
Global Availability: Since its launch, the Motorola One Action has been made available in multiple regions, ensuring that users worldwide can experience its unique features and robust performance.
Software Experience
The Motorola One Action’s software experience is one of its standout features. Being a part of the Android One program, it promises a pure, bloat-free Android experience.
Clean Interface: The device runs on a near-stock version of Android, devoid of any unnecessary apps or bloatware. This ensures that the user interface is clean, intuitive, and user-friendly. It’s Android as Google intended, providing users with a seamless and efficient experience.
Regular Updates: One of the significant advantages of the Android One program is the promise of regular security updates. In a world where digital threats are ever-evolving, having a device that receives timely security patches is crucial. Additionally, the Motorola One Action is also in line to receive major Android updates, ensuring that users always have access to the latest features and improvements.
Connectivity and Audio
Connectivity: The Motorola One Action supports a wide range of connectivity options, including 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and USB Type-C. Whether you’re streaming content, transferring files, or making contactless payments, the device has got you covered.
Audio Experience: The device comes equipped with a loudspeaker that delivers clear and loud audio output. Whether you’re watching a movie, playing a game, or listening to music, the sound quality enhances the overall experience. The 3.5mm jack is a welcome feature, allowing users to connect their favorite headphones or earphones.
User Feedback and Reception
While technical specifications provide a snapshot of what a device offers, real-world user feedback offers invaluable insights into its performance, usability, and overall experience.
General Reception: Since its launch, the Motorola One Action has received positive feedback from users and tech enthusiasts alike. Its unique camera features, especially the ultra-wide action video camera, have been particularly praised.
Performance Feedback: Users have appreciated the device’s smooth performance, attributing it to the combination of the Exynos 9609 chipset, 4GB RAM, and the optimized Android One experience.
Value for Money: Given its competitive pricing and the plethora of features it offers, many users consider the Motorola One Action to provide excellent value for money.
Durability and Build Quality
In the realm of smartphones, durability often goes hand-in-hand with design. The Motorola One Action strikes a balance between aesthetics and resilience.
Materials: The choice of a glass front gives the device a premium feel, while the plastic back and frame offer durability without adding excessive weight. This combination ensures that the phone can withstand the rigors of daily use while still looking sleek and stylish.
Water-Repellent Coating: While the Motorola One Action isn’t waterproof, the water-repellent coating offers a layer of protection against minor splashes and accidental spills. It’s a practical feature that adds to the device’s durability.
Audio Capabilities
While we’ve touched upon the audio output, let’s dive deeper into the auditory experience the Motorola One Action offers:
Audio Tuning: The device is tuned to provide a balanced audio output, ensuring that neither the bass nor the treble is overpowering. This results in a clear and enjoyable listening experience, whether you’re watching a movie, listening to music, or on a call.
Microphone Quality: The Motorola One Action comes equipped with noise-canceling microphones that filter out background noise during calls or recordings, ensuring clear audio capture.
Audio Jack Quality: The 3.5mm audio jack provides a high-quality connection, ensuring minimal loss of audio fidelity when using wired headphones.
Sensors and Their Utility
Modern smartphones are equipped with a variety of sensors that enhance user experience and functionality. Let’s delve into the sensors present in the Motorola One Action and their significance:
Accelerometer: This sensor detects the orientation of the phone. It plays a crucial role in features like auto-rotation of the screen and is also vital for certain games that require tilt-based controls.
Gyroscope: Working in tandem with the accelerometer, the gyroscope helps detect rotational movements. It’s essential for VR (Virtual Reality) experiences and provides more accurate motion tracking for certain apps and games.
Proximity Sensor: Located near the top speaker, this sensor detects when the phone is near an object, typically your ear during calls. It turns off the display during calls when the phone is close to your ear, preventing accidental touches.
Ambient Light Sensor: This sensor measures the light around the device and adjusts the screen brightness accordingly, ensuring optimal visibility while also conserving battery life.
Fingerprint Sensor: Located at the back, this sensor provides a quick and secure way to unlock the device, authenticate payments, and log into certain apps.
Extended Software Features
Motorola has always added subtle software enhancements to improve user experience.
Moto Actions: These are gesture-based controls that allow users to quickly access certain features. A quick twist of the wrist can launch the camera, while a chopping motion turns on the flashlight.
Moto Display: This feature gives you a sneak peek at your notifications without fully waking up the device, saving battery in the process.
Adaptive Brightness: Beyond the standard auto-brightness, the device learns your preferences over time and adjusts the brightness accordingly.
Build and Ergonomics
While we’ve discussed the materials used in the Motorola One Action, the way a user interacts with the device is equally important.
Weight Distribution: Weighing 176 grams, the device strikes a balance between heft and comfort. The weight distribution ensures that even during prolonged usage, the device feels comfortable in hand.
Button Placement: The power button and volume rockers are strategically placed for easy access, ensuring that even one-handed operation is seamless.
Grip and Feel: The slightly textured back provides a firm grip, reducing the chances of accidental slips. The rounded edges further enhance the ergonomics.
Environmental Impact
In today’s world, the environmental impact of devices is a growing concern.
Materials: While the device uses plastic, it’s essential to note that it’s durable and meant to last. This reduces the chances of early replacements, indirectly reducing electronic waste.
Energy Efficiency: The device, with its software optimizations, ensures efficient battery usage, reducing the frequency of charges and, in turn, energy consumption.
Check Out more details on Motorola Official website for Motorola One Action, Also Check Out more Deals and Reviews here.
FAQs
How does the Motorola One Action fare in terms of durability?
The device is designed with a water-repellent coating, offering protection against minor splashes. While it’s not fully waterproof, it can handle accidental spills and light rain.
What is the significance of the 21:9 aspect ratio in the display?
The 21:9 aspect ratio provides a cinematic viewing experience, making it perfect for watching movies and videos. It offers a broader view, enhancing the visual experience.
How is the sound quality on the Motorola One Action?
The device comes with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack, ensuring clear and loud audio output. Whether you’re watching videos, playing games, or listening to music, the sound quality is commendable.
Is there any face unlock feature on the Motorola One Action?
While the primary security feature is the rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, the device also supports face unlock for added convenience.
How efficient is the rapid charging feature?
The 10W rapid charging ensures a quick battery refill, significantly reducing the time you spend charging the device.
Does the device support dual SIM?
Yes, the Motorola One Action offers a Hybrid Dual SIM option, allowing users to use two SIM cards simultaneously.
Are there any heating issues with the Motorola One Action?
Most users have reported a smooth experience without significant heating issues. However, like any device, prolonged intensive tasks might cause slight heating.
How is the call quality on the Motorola One Action?
The call quality is clear and loud, ensuring seamless communication.
What are the available color options for the Motorola One Action?
The device is available in Denim Blue, Pearl White, and Aqua Teal.
Is the Motorola One Action 5G compatible?
No, the Motorola One Action does not support 5G connectivity.
How does the Motorola One Action compare with other devices in the same price range?
Given its unique features, especially the ultra-wide action video camera and the Android One experience, it stands out in its price segment.
Is there any wireless charging feature available?
No, the Motorola One Action does not support wireless charging.
How user-friendly is the interface of the Motorola One Action?
Being a part of the Android One program, the device offers a clean and user-friendly interface, making it easy for both new and experienced users.
What is the weight of the Motorola One Action?
The device weighs 176 grams, making it comfortable to hold and use.
How does the Motorola One Action’s camera perform in varied lighting conditions?
The device performs admirably in different lighting conditions, thanks to features like Night Vision and the advanced sensors in the primary camera.
Is there any dedicated gaming mode on the Motorola One Action?
While there isn’t a dedicated gaming mode, the device’s hardware ensures smooth gameplay for most titles.
How responsive is the fingerprint sensor?
The rear-mounted fingerprint sensor is quick and accurate, ensuring that the device is unlocked swiftly.
Conclusion: In the vast ocean of smartphones, the Motorola One Action emerges as a beacon for those seeking a harmonious blend of innovation, performance, and affordability. Its unique camera capabilities, especially the ultra-wide action video camera, set it apart from its competitors. The Android One experience ensures a clean, efficient, and secure user interface. When you factor in its competitive pricing, it’s evident that Motorola has managed to strike the right balance between quality and cost.
For those in the market for a mid-range smartphone that doesn’t compromise on features, the Motorola One Action is a compelling choice. It promises and delivers a holistic smartphone experience, making it a worthy contender in its segment.
