Tracfone Motorola Moto G6 (XT1925DL) Review
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| Tracfone Moto G6 Review |
Featuring a 5.7" full HD touchscreen, dual rear cameras, Android 8.0 Oreo and excellent battery life, the Moto G6 towards users who want a powerful everyday device at a reasonable price.
The most desired features might be the 32 GB internal storage and 3 GB RAM to go along with an octa-core processor. Many of our readers have long been asking for Tracfone to release a budget friendly phone with more than 16 GB storage and Tracfone has finally listened.
Tracfone has also recently released several other smartphones including the Moto E5, Samsung Galaxy J7 Crown and LG Rebel 4, but all of these phones only have 16 GB internal storage.
Let's jump straight to the pro's and con's for the Moto G6
Tracfone Moto G6 Quick Facts
What we Like:-Good Screen (full HD resolution)
-32 GB internal storage
-3 GB RAM
-dual rear camera
-Android 8.0 Oreo
-reasonable price
What we Don't Like:
-No NFC
-Glass back
-Non-removable battery and mediocre performance
There really is a lot to like about the G6 which makes sense, it is, after all, in the 6th iteration in the popular Moto G line and Motorola has perfected the phone year after year.
Many of our dislikes about the Moto G6 are minimal, such as the glass back instead of a higher end aluminium back cover. (However, many high-end devices are featuring glass-backed designs).
For Tracfone BYOP users, the unlocked Moto G6 has been a popular option since it was first released in mid-2018 and the unlocked version can be used with either GSM or CDMA networks. For users who don't want to deal with the BYOP program, they can now get the Moto G6 directly from Tracfone.
Let's look at what this phone comes with.
Tracfone Moto G6 (XT1925DL) Features and Specs
Below are the features followed by the technical specs- Android 8.0 Oreo
- 4G LTE with GSM (T-Mobile) or CDMA (Verizon)
- Access to over 1 million apps on Google Play
- WiFi
- GPS
- Bluetooth 4.2
- Alarm Clock
- FM Radio
- MP3 Player
- Standard 3.5mm headphone jack
- Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
- SMS/MMS
- USB Type-C connection
- USB Charger
- Fingerprint reader
- Splash Resistant
- Hearing Aid Compatible
Size: 6.1" x 2.8" x 0.33" in (5.7 oz)
Camera: Dual Rear Camera (12 MP + 5 MP) and 8 MP Front Camera
Screen: 5.7" full HD touchscreen with 2160x1080 resolution (424 ppi)
Processor: 1.8 Ghz Octa-core (Qualcomm Snapdragon 450)
Memory: 3 GB
Storage: 32 GB and supports up to 256 via MicroSD card
Battery: 3000 mAh with 21hrs talk time, 14 days standby
Motorola was an American telecommunications company founded way back in 1928. But in 2011, after several years of significant losses, the company was split and the mobile phone segment of the company was sold to Google. After just two years, the Motorola mobile phone segment was again sold, this time to Lenovo in 2014.
Despite changing hands several times, Motorola has maintained a consistent stream of budget friendly smartphones in several lineups including the Moto E and Moto G lines
Many Tracfone BYOP users are very familiar with the Motorola brand as it has released a number of low cost unlocked phones capable of being used with Tracfone going back to the original Moto G.
Based on the specs sheet, the Moto G6 appears to continue this trend but let's take a closer look in our full review.
Tracfone Moto G6 Review
TouchscreenThe 5.7" IPS LCD touchscreen on the Moto G6 has a generous resolution of 2160x1080 for a pixel density of 424 PPI. This basically means the screen looks sharp and clear and it is one of the highest screen resolutions for a Tracfone smartphone in this price range. The phone also uses the popular 18:9 screen ratio. Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection keeps the screen safe (and the back panel too) and the phone has good max brightness for viewing outdoors.
The phone does not have a notification LED, instead it will display the time and any notifications on the screen when it receives one or when it senses a hand movement.
Internal Specs- RAM, Processor and Storage
As we mentioned above, the Moto G6 is the first phone from Tracfone with 32 GB internal storage and 3 GB RAM at this price range. Our readers, and many Tracfone users, have requested for some time that Tracfone would increase the storage and RAM on the budget phones. The additional RAM helps the phone run multiple apps and web pages more effectively. Extra storage is also available via a MicroSD Card slot next to the SIM card slot.
The 1.8 Ghz octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 is well suited for many demanding apps and games but it isn't as powerful as processors in some more expensive smartphones.
Camera
The Moto G6 has dual rear cameras with a 12 MP (f1.8) and a 5 MP (f2.2) setup. The 12 MP sensor has phase detect auto focus while the 5 MP camera is used for depth to create 'Portrait' style blurred backgrounds. Also included on the rear cameras are dual-tone LED flash. Image quality is pretty good overall, but isn't up to the same performance as more expensive smartphones. The included portrait mode allows for adjustment of the blurred background for a nice 'DSLR' photo effect.
On the front is an 8 MP (f2.2) selfie cam with fixed focus and LED flash that performs well enough for snapping pictures of yourself or friends.
Video capability on the G6 is alright, with 1080p capture at 30fps and no 4K.
Battery
Motorola has long been known for focusing on great battery performance on their budget phones with several of them lasting up to two days on a single charge.
The Moto G6 doesn't quite reach those performance standards partially due to the average sized 3000 mAh non-removable battery. It has about 21 hrs talk time and 14 days standby which puts it in the middle of the road as far as battery life compared to other Tracfone devices.
This phone does include fast charging capabilities with the included charger, for almost 50% charge after 30 minutes.
Android OS
Many cell phone manufactures who use Android as their phone's Operating System will modify ti or include a number of their phone apps. But Motorola has released the Moto G6 with a nearly stock version of Android 8.0 Oreo and only a few extra apps such as the camera app. This reduces the clutter on the phone when first getting started and allows users to have more say about which apps they want to download and use.
For some app ideas, check out our List of the Best Apps for Android.
Tracfone doesn't provide OS updates for Android, so whatever version the phone comes with it will have to keep for the life of the device. Thus it is generally a good idea when shopping for a new phone to keep that in mind and purchase a phone with the latest OS.
Overall Design
With an aluminium frame and glass back panel, the Moto G6 follows the trend of many high-end smartphones. However, we can't help but feel like this might make the phone more fragile, and glass panel on the back does sound a little hollow.
The fingerprint reader is located at the bottom of the front screen and can also be used for basic screen interactions like back, home and open Google Assistant.
While the phone does not have a waterproof rating, Motorola does list it as Splash Resistant which should keep it safe from minor interactions with the elements.
Conclusion
The Moto G6 looks good, and performs well and despite a few minor drawbacks such as mediocre battery performance, it is a great value for the price.
Compared to the Samsung Galaxy J7 Crown which was also just released, the Moto G6 outperforms it in most categories despite the two phones sharing a similar price point.
We would also recommend the Moto G6 over the LG Stylo 4 (unless the large, 6.2" screen on the Stylo 4 is a key feature for you) because the G6 has twice the internal memory, more RAM, better processor and better camera.
For users who are looking to spend less, consider the Moto E5 which Tracfone also recently released. It also runs Android 8.0 and has the same sized screen, but less storage, RAM and lower quality camera. The Moto E5 is available between $100-120.
For Tracfone users looking for a dependable upgrade from a previous Tracfone smartphone, the Moto G6 is a top option at a great price.
For the newest releases, visit our List of Latest Tracfone Smartphones.
Where to Buy The Moto G6
The Tracfone Moto G6 is currently available from several online retailers, with the best deal including an airtime bundle from HSN.View the Tracfone Moto G6 with 1200 minutes/1 Year service from HSN for $199
We will add more links as the become available.
Tracfone users can also buy an unlocked Moto G6 and use it with the Tracfone BYOP program (either GSM or CDMA). One of the benefits of doing this would be the unlocked G6 still receives OS updates from Motorola.
View the Unlocked Moto G6 on Amazon for $229
That concludes are review of the Tracfone Moto G6. We hope you found this information useful. Leave a comment below with any thoughts or questions.
Learn all about How Data Works with Tracfone (and how to buy data only cards) or check out our 7 Tips for Reducing How Much Airtime you Use!
Also see our Guide to Improving your Cell Phone Photography with 8 Tips.
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Be sure to take a look at our List of Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales for the latest bargains.
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GSM or CDMA?
ReplyDeleteI have a very basic question. I only get covered by Verizon, so I need to have CDMA phone. Does phone come with both GSM and CDMA? Or I need to purchase Moto G6 with CDMA? HSN site does not let you choose GSM or CDMA,so I am bit concerned..
ReplyDeleteThank you very much.
When you buy direct from Amazon, you get a unlocked phone, buying from HSN you get a 1 year card but it is locked to TracFone.
ReplyDeleteThe Moto G6 from HSN is $199 currently and is a CDMA. Getting the one year of service with 1200 min, 1200 texts and 1200 Mb. of data makes this a great deal. It is advertised at present on Motorola's website for $199, but has been $229. I am glad I got mine from HSN! Tracfone is a great deal if you are not a heavy phone user and have free WiFi access.
ReplyDeleteI have Tracfone Motorola Moto G6. It says I have a system update from Motorola I should download. Should I do this?
ReplyDeleteI have very poor coverage at my house - the only way I can use the phone for calls or text is through WiFi calling. Does this phone have the ability to use WiFi calling? My current Samsung phone can but when I got a new Samsung it could not and I had to return it. It seems the reviews do not address this issue at all.
ReplyDeleteI bought the G6 from QVC but have not yet activated it. The problem is it only gets 3 bars 3G while my LG L56VL Tracfone gets 5 bars 4GLTE. They both are CDMA phones. One is in my right hand; the other in my left. Not getting any answers from QVC or Tracfone. Is this a cell tower issue? Is the G6 defective in some way? I would like to keep it but not with low signal. Any explanation?
ReplyDeleteThe signal bar indicators in these phones are not always identical. Just like an air pressure guage can be a few pounds different. You can see signal strength in your settings/about phone/sim card status.read what the signal in db shows.This is a more realistic indication of signal power.
DeleteIf you have not yet activated it, how could you possibly know how many "bars" it has?
ReplyDeleteThe Motorola G6 Tracfone deal from HSN is currently on sale for $169.99 wth 1200 min/texts/data 1 year service plan, its a great deal as I just ordered one myself as a upgrade from a LG Stylo 3 I belive it is a CDMA at least for my area, but fortunately GSM is also good in my area just in case I would get that one by chance( I live near State College, Pa)
ReplyDeleteSince tracphone don't update the os on their devices g6 owners are stuck with Android 8.0 my question is will the g6 still receive the security patch updates? I'm really regretting buying the tracphone variant of the Moto g6 I should have bought the unlocked g6 from Amazon,won't make this mistake again.
ReplyDeleteI got my G6 from HSN. I told them I must have ATT for where I work. They told me it will work. It does work ok at home, but not where I must use it. This uses Verizon Towers. When I called HSN for help they told me they had on way of knowing what towers a Tracfone uses. Of course if they new anything about phones they could find out. They were of no help. HSN lost a customer.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if I can replace the Verizon sim card with one from ATT?
Same problem. Discussed with TracFone this phone from hsn is a Verizon cdma phone only. Only way to get gsm att, must purchase new unlocked phone
DeleteJust to let everybody know you can buy this phone fully unlocked at Costco for $199.00 and buy the tracfone sim card at amazon for $1.00 and activate through Tracfone with the BYOP plan that you want. The big plus is this phone through Costco will work on either CDMA (Verizon) or GSM
ReplyDelete(AT&T or T Mobile) This phone is great. The 32 gig memory is really nice and you will get all future updates.
No, you can't replace the Verizon (CDMA) sim card with a GSM sim card. The phone is locked to Tracfone and only will use the CDMA. However, if what I have read is true, the phone can be unlocked after a year's service with Tracfone and then you should be able to do the BYOP and switch to the GSM. I have the best reception in my area with CDMA. All you have to do to determine what towers you have nearby is to go online and do a search.
ReplyDeleteMy only concern about the G6, is a lot of comments about how fragile it is...I have a ZTE Axon 7 mini.....have dropped it numerous times, and the only protection was the clear gel case that came with the phone, and I am amazed how it survived(one fall was from the top of a set of bleachers and hit every row on the way down)......the same can't be said for the G6, where many cases of the screen cracking from small falls, and the cost of screen repair is equal to the phone....also, pictures of the dual lens are just a little better than average....
ReplyDeleteI bought my ZTE unlocked, and added the Tracfone SIM card.....after two years the non serviceable battery is starting to show signs of weakening......hoping Tracfone comes out with another 32/3 GB phone, that's a little better....
There are 2 versions for the g6 being sold on qvc that look the exact same but the price is different. Cant find a model number on the page and the only difference I can spot is the case cover, even talked to one of their customer reps and even they couldnt sport the difference even after putting me on hold to check with someone.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know if there is a difference?
My phone is a Android Motorola g6 Oreo 8.0(XT1925DL). My concern is that it is very fragile,my phone cracked from a small fall. Is there a case for my phone because it is hard to find a good case for my phone. If so can someone plz reply to this as soon as possible. Thanks alot.
ReplyDeleteMy phone is a Android Motorola g6 Oreo 8.0(XT1925DL). My concern is that it is very fragile,my phone cracked from a small fall. Is there a case for my phone because it is hard to find a good case for my phone. If so can someone plz reply to this as soon as possible. Thanks alot.
ReplyDeleteI have had this phone for 8 months and no problems with cracking from falls. However, I purchased a nice case on eBay and it protects it well. There are many cases available in many styles. Well worth it to protect with a good case.
ReplyDeleteThis phone is on sale at tracfone.com for $105 including $15 tf card, use promo code.
ReplyDeleteAre there variants of this phone with USBC? I just bought 2 tracfone moto g6 from Amazon. Neither one of them are USBC. The info screen shows that model xt1925dl.
ReplyDeleteI've had this phone for a few months now and I have to say it is awful. Data goes in and out all the time, never consistent even with all bars. And when there is no data I cant even send a text with all service bars. I have gotten a message since I activated it saying I need an update and to install when I have wifi. When I do have wifi and I get nothing. Not impressed with this phone at all. Should have never switched.
ReplyDeleteLast week I purchased and activated a Motorola Moto G6 - purchased from Amazon but it is a Tracfone. My old phone was a Samsung Galaxy S5 that I brought to Tracfone under their BYOP program. My total for the new phone, including tax, was $131 and some change. But, I think I like it better than the old Samsung. Full Disclosure: I really have no use for the data function. If needed, I use my wifi at home. I text pretty heavy and don't use many voice minutes. I was able to buy (as an add-on) 365 service days (no minutes, texts or data) so now I'm set up truly on an a la carte basis - if I need texts, I simply go to Tracfone and buy their text only card - using the promo code I get here, I end up with 2,000 texts for $5 and tax. I've seen some negative reviews but, for me, the Motorola Moto G6 is a winner.
ReplyDeleteAs an update, even though TracFone Reviewer warns that there won't be any OS updates, my phone did successfully download & install an upgrade to Android Pie. Not sure how or why that happened but, after about a week, so far, so good.
DeletePurchased this phone as a fraction clog from shopping channel last year. Just a few days ago got notice that update pending. I was surprised to be updated from 8.0 to 9.0 operating system. Has anyone else gotten this update?
ReplyDeleteBought Moto g6 from QVC as a tracfone upgrade. Last week receive notice on phone for system upgrade. I was upgraded from 8.0 to 9.0. Has fraction changed their policy on system upgrades? Wonder if anybody else has received notice?
ReplyDeleteSorry to say the Moto g6 was not a good phone. Had it 3 days and now refuses to charge. Tried everything ..now battery totally dead. Seems there is issues with the charging on this phone. Back it goes to QVC.
ReplyDeleteIf I buy the Tracfone Moto G6 XT1925DL it will be locked to Tracfone CDMA for 1 year. After that one year and I get it unlocked, will it be fully unlocked so I can use it on either CDMA or GSM? Or is this phone a special version of the XT1925-6 truly unlocked phone that is only CDMA? If it won't be a fully unlocked Moto G6 then I think I'll just buy a new unlockec Moto G6 from another source.
ReplyDeleteIs this a Tracfone modified Moto G6 XT1925-6 phone (This is the real Moto G6 model number). The Tracfone has the model number as XT1925DL. If I keep the Tracfone XT1925DL for a year and then have it unlocked, will I get the CDMA and GSM bands, or is this really a CDMA only phone?
ReplyDeleteThe non-removable battery on this and some other phones is very questionable. I've replaced the battery on my old Samsung S4 3 times...batteries wear out...they can only be cycled so many times. What are we supposed to do, buy a new phone every couple years? Not me.
ReplyDeleteThis phone is listed as having FM radio? Does it really have an FM radio that works as a radio b/c in the past Tracfone seems to always take them out?
ReplyDeleterjejr - On the HSN website, the specs for this particular Tracfone say "Radio: No".
ReplyDeleteMy Tracfone Moto G6 has an FM radio which works well and also updated the OS from 8 to 9.
ReplyDeleteI have had a motog6 since January of 2020. I bought it from HSN for $129.99 and got 1500 minutes and 1 year service with it so it was a pretty good deal. I used to get my voicemails from my motog6 phone (which takes off minutes) or if available another phone. However, recently I noticed when I click on voicemail if a message has been left there is a place on the phone to get my voicemail right from the phone and no charge for minutes. Is this an update from Motorola or did Tracfone add it? I bet it is a Motorola update as i just recently got an update for the phone.
ReplyDeleteI bought this phone 7 months ago and now has started to have have battery charging problem, and the battery looses 40% of its charge in about 5 hours with out use.
ReplyDeleteMy commment is a question. Yes, this is 8/18/2021 and I have the Moto G6 still. But for the last month or so, it will not fast charge. I've tried shutting off the phone, I've plugged it into different outlets etc. Slow charging wouldn't be a big deal except that slow is SLOW! It takes near 8 hours to charge my phone and sometimes it won't charge to 100%. Any suggestions or ideas?
ReplyDeleteTime to upgrade your phone Pugdaddy! Since you are using TracFone, just get a new one from HSN or QVC, that is the easiest and most cost efficient way to get a new phone and a year of service as well as the data, texts and min. I upgraded a year ago from the Moto G6 to the Moto G7 Optimo Maxx and just recently upgraded from the G7 to the Moto G Power.
ReplyDeleteFor those who don't know, most of the Motorola phones from HSN and QVC are DL, which means they can be used with either CDMA or GSM. They are initially sent out with CDMA sim cards and after one year of service, you are able to contact TracFone and request that the phone be unlocked.Very easy to do--they give you a series of numbers and Voila! the phone is unlocked. Then you can use the BYOP sim cards and select the carrier that works best for you.