June 16, 2024

Motorola Pros and Cons | Top 5 Motorola Phones on Tracfone

Motorola Smartphone Pros and Cons - Best Tracfone Moto Devices 2023

Best motorola smartphones from Tracfone

Motorola smartphones have been a staple for many Tracfone users starting years ago when the first unlocked Moto G phones could be used on Tracfone BYOP, and continuing as Tracfone started offering subsidized Motorola phones directly.

Tracfone has released almost 20 different Motorola smartphones to use on their prepaid network and they continue to be a popular option for both locked and unlocked devices.

The phones offered by Tracfone tend to be less expensive and geared to budget-conscious consumers. Let's start with our pros and cons for these devices.

Tracfone Motorola Smartphone Pros and Cons

Motorola Smartphone Pros:

  • Inexpensive and a Good Value
  • Long Battery life
  • Near stock Android experience
  • Good durability and build quality
  • Moto Actions and Gestures
  • Typically generous storage and expandable storage options
  • Standard 3.5mm headphone jack still included

One of the main benefits of Motorola smartphones is the balance of cost with features, and they generally do a great job delivering excellent value. The versions released by Tracfone often come with a significant price discount compared to unlocked phones, helping keep the price below $200 for most new phones. Motorola phones also typically have a stock Android experience which many users prefer, and have good durability and build quality.

While the amount of storage varies from one phone model to another, their latest device in the Power line comes with 128GB internal storage plus expandable storage. Many of the phones in the Stylus lineup also feature 128GB storage. 

Now for some of the drawbacks to Motorola phones from Tracfone.

Motorola Smartphone Cons:

  • Most phones lack NFC (Several of the new devices for 2024 now include NFC)
  • Increase in bloatware in recent phones
  • Limited software update policy (Only one major Android update)
  • Camera quality is mediocre in most cheaper phones
  • Slow battery charging speeds
  • Many Motorola phones from Tracfone come with only 4GB RAM
To keep prices low, Motorola's budget phones often come with less powerful processors, lower resolution screens and mediocre cameras. This has led to some users purchasing Motorola's more mid-level devices (which come with better features) a year or two after they are released, when the price drops significantly. 

Other drawbacks of Motorola include a lack of NFC on most of the phones released by Tracfone, limited Android update policy, and rather slow battery charging speeds.

We generally consider Motorola phones to be a great option, especially some of the devices that have a good balance of performance and price. However, some recent phones from Samsung, like the A14 5G, as well as Tracfone offering the Pixel 6a, have brought some good competition.

Top 5 Motorola Smartphones from Tracfone

The best Motorola phones offer a good balance of price and performance, and should handle common tasks such as web browsing, social media apps, and even some gaming. Below are the best of Motorola for 2023 and follow the links for more information.

Top 5 Unlocked Motorola Smartphones

Using unlocked phones on Tracfone is very popular and these are the top phones.

  1. Moto G Stylus 5G 2024
  2. Moto G Power 5G 2024
  3. Motorola Edge 2023
  4. Moto G Stylus 5G 2023
  5. Moto G Power 5G 2023

With unlocked phones from Motorola, there are a few more options, and many of them come with more RAM, of 6GB or more, which will help with multitasking.

That concludes our pros and cons and top Motorola smartphone picks. We hope this information was helpful.

Leave a comment or join us on Facebook to share our thoughts and keep up with all the latest posts, news and other info.

Looking for more smartphone options? Check out the 10 Best Tracfone Android smartphones or have a look at our Top Smartphones under $100 from Tracfone.

Don't miss out on the latest Deals and Discounts on Tracfone smartphones.

Also check out our Beginners Guide to Tracfone if you're new or just want to understand some of the basics of how it all works.

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June 13, 2024

Is Tracfone Going Away in 2024?

 Is Tracfone Going Away in 2024? Verizon's Consolidation Plans

tracfone changes and updates

There are plenty of questions surrounding the future of Tracfone and Tracfone's family of brands since the acquisition by Verizon in 2021. One of the main questions many users have is, will Tracfone be going away? And specifically, will it be going away in November 2024?

The short answer is, no, but some of Tracfone's brands are likely being closed down in the near future, and changes and updates are coming for Tracfone customers.

We will dive into more information about those questions, and go into why November 2024 is a relevant date.

We shared some details in our post on the Future of Tracfone in 2024 and also covered some updates and news for the year. This is for information purposes only, and is subject to change, especially if Tracfone or Verizon adjust their plans.

The Verizon Acquisition and Its Impact

In November 2021, Verizon completed its acquisition of Tracfone, a move that has since fueled uncertainty among users. The primary driver behind this acquisition was Verizon's strategy to strengthen its foothold in the prepaid mobile market. Tracfone, with its large customer base and reputation for budget-friendly plans, was an attractive addition to Verizon’s portfolio.

Included in the acquisition were Tracfone's family of brands such as StraightTalk, Total Wireless, Net10 and several more. Tracfone (and it's brands) had about 21 million subscribers at the time of the acquisition, making it the largest prepaid company in America, but it has since lost about 2 million subscribers for a variety of reasons, some of which involve the Verizon acquisition.

Verizon was required to agree to some conditions before the FCC would approve their acquisition:

Conditions of Verizon's Acquisition by the FCC 

The FCC approved Verizon's $6.25 billion acquisition of TracFone Wireless in 2021, with a variety of conditions, including some to protect consumers. The main conditions required of Verizon are:

  • Participation in the Federal Lifeline program which offers discounted home, phone and internet
  • Maintaining Tracfone's offerings through November 2024 (and November 2026 for California customers)
  • Maintaining access to Tracfone's family of brands such as Net10, Go Smart and Page Plus through November 2024 (and November 2026 for California customers)

What this means is, the FCC required Verizon to keep things the pretty much the same at Tracfone and the other brands, for at least three years so that customers would have time to change or adjust cell phone plans and wouldn't get caught by major price changes or plan closures.

Verizon Moves Towards Consolidation: Shutting Down Net10, Page Plus, and GoSmart

In late 2022, Verizon announced to dealers that they would not be allowing new activations to Net10, Page Plus and GoSmart, while allowing existing customers to continue using the providers.

At this point, the Net10 website prompts users to make the switch to Simple Mobile, making a clear indication of Verizon's plans to shut it down in the near future. Verizon is still required to continue offering services for Net10, Page Plus and GoSmart through November 2024, but it seems very likely they will all be shuttered sometime after that.

Tracfone does include a host of other brands under it, and it seems that Verizon will consolidate some of them. Verizon will also likely rebrand some, as they have already done with Total by Verizon.

The main question many users have is, what will happen to Tracfone? 

At this time, it is highly unlikely Verizon will shut down Tracfone, but they are making some changes that indicate a 'rebranding' and a shift in what made Tracfone popular for many users.

Changes in Tracfone Airtime Plans and Promotional Codes

Historically, Tracfone attracted customers due to the low cost and the wide variety of promotional codes that gave extra minutes for free. These codes provided significant discounts and bonuses, and were consistently made available to users through a variety of methods. Post-acquisition, there has been a shift in how Tracfone operates:

Phasing Out Promotional Codes: Tracfone offers very few promotional codes and there have not been any new codes in quite some time. This shift aligns with Verizon's preference for streamlined, straightforward pricing models, reducing the complexity for consumers. But it leaves Tracfone's loyal customers without the bonus airtime that has long been a staple for the prepaid service provider.

New Airtime Plan Structure: Tracfone is also transitioning to a new airtime plan structure, which they rolled out in 2024 and somewhat resembles many other service providers. These plans, which offer discounts for 3, 6 or 12 month plan purchases, look very similar to some competitors (Mint Mobile) but offer less data, and little room for any promo codes. They are technically similar to the unlimited talk/text plans Tracfone previously offered, but structured in a way to lock users in to a year long plan.

We covered the updated unlimited plan options here.

With these changes, it has left some users disappointed, but there is no indication of any plans for Tracfone to get shut down.

The Reality: Tracfone is Here to Stay

Despite the changes, Tracfone is not going away. Instead, it is evolving and some brands under Tracfone are being consolidated. Verizon's acquisition aims to integrate Tracfone into its broader service offerings, potentially enhancing network coverage and service quality. For customers, this could mean better connectivity and more reliable service, and also possibly higher prices.

No major changes should occur before November 2024, and users should get plenty of notice if affected providers (like Net10) do get shuttered.

After November 2024, we do expect some changes coming to Tracfone, including the possibility that any users on T-Mobile or AT&T may have to migrate to Verizon's network. Tracfone has used a variety of tactics to 'encourage' users to activate with or switch to the Verizon network. We may also see a streamlining of Tracfone's airtime options, following some of the other major prepaid carriers like Mint Mobile, which would likely raise the cost for those that use minimal airtime.

If you have questions about which network your phone currently uses, or if you may be affected, text 'MIGRATE' to 611611 to get more information from Tracfone.

We will continue to update with information as we gather it and 

Leave a comment below with any thoughts or questions and also join us on Facebook to connect with our growing community and get the latest info.

Don't miss out on our monthly list of Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales which also include unlocked phones and Tracfone smartphones.

Keep up with the latest in 5G network access with Tracfone including 5G Coverage maps! And a list of Tracfone 5G phones.

If you're new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide which shares helpful information about how it all works.

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The information provided here by TracfoneReviewer is for general informational purposes only. All information is provided in good faith, however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, and reserve the right to make changes or updates as needed. 

June 11, 2024

Best Unlocked Phones for Tracfone BYOP in 2024

Best Unlocked Smartphones for Tracfone Prepaid - Updated for 2024!

what phones to use with tracfone byop

The best unlocked phone list by TracfoneReviewer 

Tracfone offers a good selection of smartphones to use with their prepaid cell service, including Apple devices, Samsung, and many other smartphones (including several options under $100). However, consumers can also bring almost any unlocked phone to use with Tracfone BYOP program and that means more options, more freedom, and newer phones!

So what's the best phone to bring to Tracfone's BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program? There are many different options, but the phones we have listed below are some of the latest smartphones that offer an excellent balance of value and performance while staying under $500.

For specific details on the requirements for activating a phone with Tracfone, see our Guide to Transferring/Activating a Smartphone with Tracfone or visit our Tracfone BYOP page (which also has a large list of phone options).

We are choosing these phones based on a variety of factors including popularity, value, cost and performance. These are some of our best suggestions of phones that will fit most user's needs. In the end, each person needs to understand what they want out of a phone, and choose a phone according to that.

Most Tracfone users decide to use BYOP because they want a phone with the latest features and more performance compared to most Tracfone smartphones, plus a wider selection of devices. In our list, we only include phones priced between $100-$499 as the majority of our readers are looking for a phone in that price range.

Now let's take a look at the list!

Best Unlocked Smartphones to use with Tracfone
Organized by price

Google Pixel 8a - $499
Google's latest in their 'budget' smartphone lineup. The Pixel 8a offers a 6.1" full HD OLED screen, 8GB RAM, 128GB or 256GB internal storage, 64MP rear camera and Android 14. The device comes unlocked with 5G network capability and both eSIM and NanoSIM options. The Pixel 8a offers many  high end features but at a more reasonable cost. There is no external SD card slot, and charging speeds are on the slow side, with 18W wired, 7.5W wireless. The Pixel 8a is new for 2024 and replaces the 7a from last year.

Google Pixel 8a on Amazon

Samsung Galaxy A35 5G - $399
An updated mid-level model with several high-end features and looks while staying moderately priced, the A35 5G will be a popular option for Samsung fans. It has a 6.6" full HD Super AMOLED screen with excellent brightness, Exynos 1380 processor, 6GB RAM and 128GB storage (other variations have 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage). The A35 also features expandable storage, Android 14 and 50MP triple rear camera setup. There is no wireless charging, but it does include IP67 waterproof rating. The A35 5G includes a handful of similarities to last year's Galaxy A54, and adds on with a few updates. Tracfone also offers this device, locked to their network.

Samsung Galaxy A35 5G on Amazon

Google Pixel 6a - $299
The Pixel line of smartphones from Google have been an extremely popular lineup due to their excellent specs and relatively affordable price compared to high-end smartphones. The Google Pixel 6a 5G features all the specs of a great phone, including a full HD 6.1" screen, Google's Tensor processor, 6 GB RAM, and 128 GB internal storage. It also has a some impressive features on the dual 12MP rear camera, the latest Android OS (12, with future upgrades), and 5G capability. It is compatible on all the major networks, including Tracfone (Verizon). The 6a is now a few years old, but still a competitive option with the reduced price and Google's solid update policy.

Get the Google Pixel 6a 5G on Amazon $450 now $299


best unlocked smartphones for tracfone pixal 6a

Motorola Moto G Power 5G (2024) - $279 (list price $299)
The latest device in Motorola's popular budget phone line, the Moto G Power 5G (2024) builds on previous models and offers several great upgrades we don't always see at this price point It has solid performance thanks to a Mediatek Dimensity 7020 which is a nice improvement over the 2023 model, and comes with 128 GB internal storage, 8 GB RAM, and an external MicroSD slot. The 5,000 mAh battery provides up to 2 days of use, and can be recharged wired (30W) or wirelessly (15W).  The Power comes with a headphone jack, NFC and runs Android 14. The 50MP rear camera is okay, but there is no wide-angle shooter that offers some nice features. At the $200-$300 price point, there are many different great options such as the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G and Google Pixel 6a 5G (often on sale at $299) but the 2024 Power is a competitive option.

Get the Moto G Power 5G (2024) on Amazon

OnePlus Nord N30 5G - $249
A competitive budget phone with a growing fanbase, the Nord N30 features a 6.72" full HD screen, 8GB RAM, 128GB storage and Snapdragon 695 5G processor. It comes with Android 13, and an update to 14, as NFC, 5G and 3.5mm headphone jack. The Nord N30 has a 108MP triple rear sensor, and large, 5,000 mAh battery with 50W charging speed. There is no waterproof rating, and the device has been available since mid-2023, but the features are quite competitive for the price.

Get the OnePlus Nord N30 on Amazon

Motorola Moto G 5G (2024) - $179
A budget version of the 2024 Power, the Moto G includes some similar features, and a much lower price. It offers a 6.6" HD screen with 120hz refresh rate, 4GB RAM, 128GB storage and runs Android 14. The Moto G also includes 5G network compatibility, NFC and a 3.5mm headphone jack for those that still prefer a wired connection. There is no wireless charging, nor a waterproof rating, but this device is already discounted from the original retail price ($199).

Get the Moto G 5G 2024 on Amazon

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G - $199
The budget option from Samsung has a few updates over the previous model, but maintains an affordable price point. It comes with a 6.5" full HD Super AMOLED screen, 4GB RAM, 128GB storage (some versions have up to 8GB RAM, 256GB storage) and Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ processor.  The A15 runs Android 14 and includes NFC and 5G network compatibility. For fans of Samsung, this device offers an excellent screen and reasonable performance at a great price. It is also available from Tracfone as a locked device.

Get the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G on Amazon

That concludes our list of the the best smartphones to use with Tracfone. We hope this list serves to provide some ideas of different phones available to use with Tracfone BYOP.

We want to hear from you! Share your current/favorite phone you use with Tracfone in the comments below!

Also join in on the discussion on our Facebook page where more than 3500 followers already get the latest news and information in their feed.

Don't miss out on our monthly list of Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales which also include unlocked phones and Tracfone smartphones.

Also take a look at our list of the Latest Tracfone Smartphones to see what is new from Tracfone.

And we just shared the 10 Most Common Tracfone Questions Answered.

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June 5, 2024

8 Tips to Take Better Cell Phone Pictures

Improve Your Smartphone Photos Plus Best Smartphone Cameras from Tracfone

camera phone photo tips
8 Camera Phone Tips
All =phones include a camera which is very convenient for snapping photos of friends, family and daily life, but can be annoying when the photos don't turn out very well.

Cell phone cameras are improving, especially for high end smartphones, and more and more people are relying on them to record important events and memories.

But we have all probably experienced trying to capture a moment only to see the image turn out poorly. Well we are sharing our best tips to help you capture better photos with any cell phone camera.

Obviously, more expensive smartphones tend to have much better quality cameras which makes taking a good photo easier, and below are some of our top picks from Tracfone.

Top 5 Best Camera Phones from Tracfone:

  1. Google Pixel 6a
  2. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
  3. iPhone SE 3rd Gen
  4. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
  5. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G
Budget phones are still capable of capturing good photos and these tips will help you do that!

8 Tips to Improve Your Cell Phone Photography

1. Use the 3x3 Camera Grid
how to take better photos with your cell phone
Rule of Thirds - Cell Phone Camera Tips
Just about every camera app should have an option in the settings to display a 3x3 grid over the screen. This is helpful for a number of reasons, particularly photography's 'Rule of Thirds' which says that the intersecting points of the 3x3 grid is where you should put the main subjects in your photo. Additionally the grid is helpful for keeping the horizon level.

See the image on the right and how the grid helps line up the islands in the photo and keep the horizon level.

2. Clean your Lens!
Many a photo has been ruined by a smudged or dirty lens and quick wipe before you go to take a shot can go a long way in avoiding one possible reason your photo didn't turn out as well as you were hoping.  The edge of a t-shirt or other soft cloth is great for this and don't forget to wipe the lens on the front of the phone for selfies.

3. Avoid using Flash (when possible)
Many phones now also have a flash which is helpful for lighting up night scenes. However, flash can also leave parts of the photo overexposed and nasty shadows. Try turning the flash off and shooting with the available light first, and use flash as a last resort. Your photos should look more natural and people in your images will appreciate not getting blinded.

4. Look for Good Lighting and Use It
Photography is all about light but you don't need to be a great photographer to understand light, simply look for ways to have the subject in your photo positioned so they make use of the light available. For example, if you are inside a room with a window, try positioning the subject so that the light from the window falls on their face and naturally brightens it. Try to avoid bright lights behind your subject as they will tend to cause your subject to be too dark.

Taking a moment to reposition your subject before shooting can go a long way towards creating a better image.

If you are taking pictures of a landscape, sunrise and sunset are the preferred times to shoot as the light is the most unique and softer than mid day.

5. Zoom with your Feet
Although cell phone cameras have zoom, don't use it (as much as possible). It is much better to move your feet and get closer rather than using the phone to zoom as the quality of the image will degrade significantly.

6. Tap to Focus
Most cameras allow you to tap/touch to focus on a specific subject in the photo and this is great for shooting any closeups. Additionally, this may help your camera expose more properly for the subject you are shooting.

7. Hold it Steady!
Keeping the camera steady goes a long way to getting a sharp image. Hold the phone with both hands when possible, and even try bringing your elbows in towards your body to add more stability. You can also try setting the phone on a table or railing to help stabilize further.

Another great tip is to set your camera's timer for two seconds to further avoid shaking the camera.

8. Edit your Photos - Lightroom Mobile
Going beyond an Instagram filter and actually editing your photo can make a noticeable difference and sometimes recover details in an over or under exposed image.

There are lots of free and paid apps for photo editing, but we have found the free LightRoom Mobile app is very robust while also fairly simple and gives users significant control over photo editing.

Bonus Tip! Try Third Party Camera Apps
Did you know you can download other camera apps to take over form the standard camera app that came with your phone? This can be really fun and helpful if you are looking for certain features or just want to try something new.

That's it for our cell phone photography tips, we hope these will help you shoot better images! Leave a comment below with any questions or your own tips!

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Looking to upgrade your phone? See the best Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales on smartphones and unlocked devices or visit our Latest Tracfone Smartphone List for all the new phones available.

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June 4, 2024

Tracfone Smartphone Deals and Sales - June 2024

Best Tracfone Deals and Discounts June 2024

best tracfone cheapest prices

Shop this list of the lowest prices on Tracfone smartphones and airtime bundles from around the web. We track and update these deals each month for our readers to save money and get great discounts!

Prices, bundles and deals change often online and it can be hard to know where the best deal can be found. Often deals we list here include airtime bundles, and others just the phone. (The best value usually includes airtime bundles!).

Prices and availability change quickly, and we update this list as often as we can. If you are looking for a new phone, also check out our List of the Latest Tracfone Smartphones. The Moto G 2024 and Moto G Power 2024 have both recently become available.  

We've included new smartphones just released on Tracfone last month!


Best Deals on Tracfone Smartphones - Updated for June 2024


These are the lowest prices from around the web on some of the latest and greatest smartphones from Tracfone.

(New) Moto G Power 5G 2024
6.7" full HD screen, 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, dual 50MP camera. Learn more in our review of the 2024 Power.

(New) Moto G 5G 2024
6.6" HD screen, 4GB RAM, 128GB storage, dual 50MP camera. Learn more in our review of the Moto G 2024.

(New) Moto G Play 2024 - $49
6.5" HD screen, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage and 50MP rear camera. Learn more in our Review of the Play

(New) Samsung Galaxy A25 5G - $199
6.5" Super AMOLED screen, 128GB storage, 6GB RAM, Triple rear camera and 5G

(New) Samsung Galaxy A15 5G - $119 (limited time deal)
6.5" Super AMOLED screen, 128GB internal storage, 4GB RAM, triple rear camera and 5G

Google Pixel 6a - $219
6.1" screen, 128GB internal storage, 6GB RAM, Tensor processor, dual 12MP cameras and 5G
QVC with airtime bundle ($200 value) $269 | HSN with airtime bundle ($200 value) $219

Moto G Power 5G (2023) - $79
6.5" full HD screen, 4GB RAM/128 GB internal storage, 5G network access, great battery life. (Read our full review of the Moto G Power 5G)
Target (Discount available for new activations)
Amazon (on sale for $99)

Samsung Galaxy A14 5G - $79
6.6" full HD screen, 4GB RAM/64GB storage, 5G network access, NFC, newly released (Read our full review of the Galaxy A14 5G)

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G - $259
6.4" Super AMOLED touchscreen, 6 GB RAM/128 GB storage (Read our review of the A54 5G)
HSN with airtime bundle ($200 value) | Amazon (device only)

Moto G Stylus (2022) - $127
6.8" touchscreen, 4 GB RAM/128 GB storage, (Read our full review of the Stylus)

Top Phones and Deals on Unlocked Smartphones (For Tracfone BYOP)


Oneplus Nord N30 5G (Unlocked) - $249 ($50 off)
6.7" display, 108MP camera, Snapdragon 695 processor and 8GB RAM/128GB storage

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G (Unlocked) $199
6.5" Super AMOLED screen, 128GB internal storage, 4GB RAM, triple rear camera and 5G

Moto G Power 5G (2023) (Unlocked) - $199 ($100 off)
6.5" screen, 6 GB RAM/256 GB storage, 5G network compatible

That concludes our deals and sales list and hope these help you get the best price on a new smartphone!

Leave a comment below with any thoughts or questions and also join us on Facebook to connect with our growing community and get the latest info.

We just shared our thoughts on whether Alcatel, TCL and ZTE phones from Tracfone are any good, and some of the information we share might be surprising.

All the phones in our list above are VoLTE capable according to Tracfone, but you may want to take a look at updates to our post about Tracfone Closing their 3G CDMA network and how it may affect you.

Keep up with the latest in 5G network access with Tracfone including 5G Coverage maps! And a list of Tracfone 5G phones.

If you're new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide which shares helpful information about how it all works or we just created, The 10 Most Common Tracfone Questions Answered.

And finally don't miss out on our Tracfone Promo Code list with many different codes to get free minutes when adding airtime!

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June 3, 2024

Moto G 5G 2024 (XT2417D) Tracfone Review

Tracfone Moto G 5G Review (XT2417D) Specs, Features and Review

Tracfone moto g 5g review xt2417d

The Moto G has a 6.6" HD screen, 4GB RAM, 128GB internal storage and runs Android 14. It also features NFC, 5G network compatibility and a retail price from Tracfone of under $100.

It is newly available from Tracfone  and is one of several new Motorola devices made available at budget friendly prices in mid 2024 from the prepaid service provider.

Tracfone has also released the Moto G Play 2024, and the Moto G Power 2024 this year, and the Moto G sits in between these devices in terms of specs and price. Keep up with all new Tracfone devices in our Latest list of Tracfone SmartphonesLatest list of Tracfone Smartphones

Let's start with some of the main pros and cons on the Moto G.

Moto G 2024 Pros and Cons

What we Like:
-Large screen with 120hz refresh rate
-Plenty of storage and MicroSD card slot
-NFC and 5G
-Very affordable price

What we Don't Like:
-Mediocre cameras
-Slow charging speed (18W)
-No waterproof rating or screen protection
-Bloatware preinstalled and poor update policy

The Moto G 5G offers an interesting and competitive package for budget-conscious users, providing adequate performance and several modern features like NFC, at an affordable price. 

At first glance, it seems to strike a nice balance between features and price, with several of the same features as the more expensive Moto G Power, but a few downgrades in some areas as well. Is this combination of features worth it for the price? That's what were here to find out.

Now for the full list of features and technical specifications.

Tracfone Moto G 5G 2024 (XT2417D) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs

  • Android 14
  • 5G compatible (Verizon)
  • Access to more than 1 million apps on the Play Store
  • WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
  • GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO
  • Bluetooth 5.3
  • Alarm Clock
  • MP3 Player
  • Standard 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
  • SMS/MMS
  • USB Type-C 2.0 connection
  • USB Charger
  • Sensors: Fingerprint, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
  • Water-repellent design
  • Hearing Aid Compatible

Moto G 5G 2024 (XT2417D) Specs
Size: 6.47 x 2.95 x 0.32 in (6.84 oz)
Camera: Dual Rear Camera - 50MP, f/1.8, (wide), 2MP (macro), 8MP front camera
Screen: 6.6" HD IPS LCD screen with 1612x720 resolution and 120hz refresh rate
Processor: Octa-core (Snapdragon 4 Gen 1) Processor
Memory: 4 GB
Storage: 128 GB and dedicated MicroSDXC card slot (1TB)
Battery: 5,000 mAh with about 36 hrs usage time (non-removable)

About Motorola
Motorola has a long history and was originally founded as an American telecommunications company back in 1928. In 2011, after several years of significant losses and challenges, the company was split and the mobile phone segment of the company was sold to Google. Two years later, the Motorola mobile phone segment was sold again, this time to Lenovo.

During the ownership by Google, the popular Moto G line was first released, as an unlocked, budget smartphone that still packed features to keep up with all the daily needs of users. Since transitioning to Lenovo, the Moto G line has continued with a number of variations released each year.

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. The Moto G 2024 is also available unlocked and can be used with any service provider.

The Moto G offers a competitive option in-between Motorola's other budget smartphones . Let's get to the full review.

Tracfone Moto G 5G 2023 Review

Touchscreen
The 6.6" IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate provides a smooth viewing experience. While the resolution is lower compared to other models, like the Power, the high refresh rate helps to ensure fluid motion for everyday use.

The screen to body ratio of 84% is on par with similar devices, but the pixel density of just 267ppi is a bit low and users will likely notice some pixelization when looking closely at the phone. For comparison, the Samsung Galaxy A15 has a full HD screen (and Super AMOLED technology) with 396ppi density that leads to a more clear and crisp viewing experience, plus a much brighter screen.

Beyond the low resolution, the brightness is also not the best, making the screen a little challenging to see in direct sunlight.

Users who enjoy consuming a lot of media content or games may want to consider spending a little more for a higher resolution screen.

tracfone smartphone specs moto G 2024

Performance
Equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor and 4GB of RAM, the Moto G 2024 handles daily tasks, multitasking, and moderate gaming efficiently, although there are moments of sluggishness. 

The Snapdragon processor is a nice inclusion for the Moto G, even if it isn't rated as the most powerful processor. We would have liked to see more than 4GB RAM, but that is typical for a phone in this price range, and even the more expensive Galaxy A15 5G includes the same amount of RAM.

We are happy to see the Moto G delivers on storage space, with 128GB internal, and a dedicated MicroSD card slot with up to 1TB additional storage. For those that like to keep a lot of music, photos or videos, our best tip is to grab an SD card and never have to worry about storage again.

Overall, the performance is better than expected, with smooth transitions and fairly good multitasking between apps, just don't expect too much from the device and be ready for some occasional sluggishness. 

The 2024 Power has a better processor, and twice as much RAM, but low to moderate users likely won't notice too much of a difference on daily tasks and apps. For those planning on gaming or other resource intensive apps, go with the Power.

Camera
The dual rear camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor with PDAF and a 2MP macro sensor which most users will likely not find very useful. We would have much rather seen the 8MP ultrawide camera that comes with the Moto G Power. Also lacking on the Moto G is any image stabilization, which the Power also includes. 

The main camera is capable of capturing decent photos in various conditions as long as there is fairly good lighting. It does use pixel binning, downsizing images to 12.5MP to help boost the details.

The 8MP front camera is suitable for selfies and video calls, just don't expect too much from it beyond that.

None of the cameras on the Moto G are particularly inspiring, but other than the macro lens, they work well enough to send and share with family and friends and at this price range, it is hard to expect too much. 

For a better camera phone, consider one of Samsung's recent options, or go even better with the Google Pixel 6a.

Battery
Featuring a 5,000 mAh battery, it promises extended usage time, easily lasting through a full day of heavy use or up to two days of moderate use. The efficient processor and lower resolution screen combine to extend battery life even longer.

Recharging is accomplished using the USB Type-c 2.0 connection at 18W, which is a little slow for our preferences. 

The Moto G Power comes with a lot more features when it comes to recharging, including both 15W wireless charging, and 30W wired charging. Most users recharge their phone overnight, but it is still nice to have options sometimes.

Android
The Moto G 2024 comes with Android 14 and a handful of Motorola's custom software features.

Android 14, introduced in late 2023, brings a host of enticing features including enhanced battery performance, expanded customization options, improved font scaling, and a range of upgraded security features. This up-to-date Android experience not only enriches functionality but also bolsters overall device security. 

Motorola is only committed to one Android OS update, and 3 years of security updates, which is a drawback for users who don't plan to buy a new phone every year. Samsung, by contrast, offers software updates for up to 4 years for many of their devices.

Motorola has recently started including a fair amount of bloatware in their budget smartphones which is a major annoyance to users. The home screen comes preloaded with a handful of folders, and includes preinstalled apps such as Walmart, TikTok, Indeed and more. These apps and folders can be removed, but it is disappointing to see this from a company that was previously known for a very clean, stock version of Android that was very enjoyable for many users.

Design
The Moto G 5G 2024 sports a sleek design with a glass front, silicone polymer back (eco leather), and a plastic frame. It is slightly lighter and more compact than the Moto G Power 5G 2024, making it more comfortable to handle. 

The water-repellent design adds a layer of protection against minor spills and splashes. There is no additional waterproof rating or screen protection, so best to pick up a case to hep protect the phone.

The side-mounted fingerprint sensor and stereo speakers enhance usability and audio experience. And for those who still prefer a wired connection, there is a standard 3.5mm headphone jack.

The design is a nice update from last year, and the inclusion of the vegan leather back cuts down on fingerprints, but can attract some dust and hair.

Conclusion

The Moto G 5G 2024 is a fairly well-rounded low cost smartphone offering enough performance, a plenty of storage, and excellent battery life. Its 5G connectivity, NFC, and affordable price make it an attractive choice for users seeking modern features without spending a lot. The mediocre cameras, low resolution screen and low amount of RAM may be enough to motivate some users to opt for a more expensive option that solves these issues.

When compared to its sibling, the Moto G Power , the Power is about $70 more, but it includes a more powerful processor, twice as much RAM, full HD screen, wireless charging and some improvements to the camera. For those that rely on their phone a lot, the Power will likely be worth the price.

Next to the Moto G Play, the Moto G is just a little more expensive for a lot more features including 5G, NFC, more storage, batter processor, and better screen. 

Samsung offers some competitive options, including the Galaxy A15 5G which has a stunning 6.5" full HD Super AMOLED display and better camera performance. Both devices have fairly similar performance, while the Moto G has a lower price. 

The Bottom Line: The Moto G is a capable smartphone with a handful of great features like NFC, 5G and plenty of storage, all for a very reasonable retail price. It certainly cuts corners in some areas, including a very mediocre camera setup, some bloatware, and a lower resolution screen, yet with a price of just $99, it is hard to beat if those drawbacks can be overlooked. 

Where to Buy the Moto G 5G 2024

We expect the Moto G to be available with an airtime bundle soon and will update when that becomes available.

Moto G 5G 2024 available on the Tracfone Website with a retail price of $99

The Power is also available unlocked, and can be used with Tracfone BYOP. 

The Moto G 5G 2024 (unlocked) is available from Amazon

Moto G 2024 User Manual and Device Tutorials

Get the most from your phone with the Moto G 2024 User Manual, About Phone/Device Tutorials from Tracfone.

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June 2, 2024

Best Tracfone Smartphones Under $100 for 2024

 Top Budget Smartphones from Tracfone under $100 (Updated 2024)

Best cheap tracfone cell phone

Whether its a backup device, gift to a family member, or just looking for a good deal, sometimes you want to shop the cheapest options available here's the best options.

We've already shared our picks for the Best Unlocked phone list for Tracfone BYOP and our Top 5 Tracfone Smartphones so now it is time for our list of the best ultra-budget phones available from Tracfone.

These smartphones are the best options under $100, now updated for 2024, and include both some recently released low-end devices along with some older, but more powerful phones that are now available at a super low price.

Be sure to keep up with all the Latest Tracfone Smartphones for new and soon to be released phones. Now let's get to the list.

Best Cheap Tracfone Smartphones Under $100!

Moto G 5G 2024
Newly available in 2024, the Moto G has a 6.6" HD screen, Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor, 4GB RAM and 128GB storage. It runs Android 14, and includes NFC and 5G network compatibility. The 50MP rear camera works well enough for a phone in this price range, and there is a 2MP macro, 8MP front camera. The Moto G 5G is a competitive option with a retail price of $99 that has a few drawbacks, but offers enough performance and features for most users. Learn more in our full Review of the Moto G 2024

Get the Moto G on the Tracfone Website $99

Samsung Galaxy A14 5G
For those looking for 5G network capability, the Galaxy A14 5G is one of the few options in this price range. When it was first released in 2023 it had a retail price closer to $200. But now it is under $100 from many retailers and a solid option. The phone comes with a 6.5" screen, Octa-core processor, 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. It also features a 50MP rear camera and 5,000 mAh battery. It is a capable budget phone that is now even more interesting thanks to the discounted price. The Galaxy A15 5G is now also available, with a more powerful processor and a few other updates, as well as a slightly higher price. Learn more about the Galaxy A14 5G in our Review.

Get the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G with airtime bundle from QVC for $79

Moto G Power 5G 2023
With a 6.5" full HD screen, 128GB storage, Android 13 and 5G network access, the 2023 Power has a lot of great features for the price. It also comes with a 50MP triple rear camera, 120hz screen refresh rate and 5,000 mAh battery. The unlocked version originally retailed for $300, but the Tracfone version can be found for around $100. The phone is a little over a year old, and there is a new version available, but for under $100 it still is an interesting option. Learn more in our full review of the Moto G Power 5G.

Get the Moto G Power 5G from Amazon- $99

Moto G Stylus (2023)
The 2023 Stylus offers a 6.5" screen, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage and octa-core processor. It also features Android 13 and a detachable stylus for writing and drawing. The Stylus line of phones from Motorola have been very popular, but the 2023 version keeps the price low. The processor and screen are not the most exciting features, and we would probably suggest going with the Moto G 2024 (listed above) or spending more on the Moto G Power 2024..

Moto G Stylus 2023 on Amazon - $99

Even Cheaper Phones under $50:

These are some additional smartphones that are under $50 for the ultra-budget conscious. However, we would recommend one of the smartphones above, for the improved performance and security.

Moto G Play 2024
Improved performance at a very reasonable price, the Moto G Play 2024 is newly available from Tracfone and has a 6.5" screen, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage and Snapdragon processor. It is a big improvement over the 2023 Play, although it still lacks certain features like NFC, 5G network capability, and wireless charging. The Play does have Gorilla Glass 3 and is dust and water resistant, along with a price that makes it hard to resist for budget conscious buyers. Learn more about the Play in our Moto G Play 2024 Review.

Find the Moto G Play 2024 on Amazon - $49

Moto G Play 2023
A budget option released in 2023, the Moto G Play has a 6.5" screen, Octa-core processor, 3GB RAM and 32GB internal storage. The Play actually shares many of the same or similar features as the 2022 Power, including the same processor and screen. While the Moto G Play is a very low cost device, it is adequate for most casual smartphone users, but suffers from the low storage and RAM. Learn more in our Review of the Moto G Play 2023. Consider the new 2024 Play which improved on performance and other features while also available for $49.

Get the Moto G Play 2023 from Tracfone for $49

Samsung Galaxy A03s
One of the cheapest Samsung phones available, the A03s offers a 6.5" screen, 3GB RAM, 32GB storage and an octa-core processor. It does come with Android 11 (and likely an upgrade to 12). The best things about the A03s are the large screen, long battery life, and low cost. Get all the details in our Galaxy A03s review.

Samsung Galaxy A03s on Amazon - $49

Note - prices change often, and sometimes Tracfone will discount a $200 smartphone to under $100 if a new model comes out. We'll try to update as needed and as prices/phones change.

Better Smartphones for just Over $100:

If you are willing to spend a little more, you can get a lot more. If you are trying to get the most for your dollar, these phones offer good performance and plenty of other features (including 5G network access) for just slightly more than $100. 

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Released in 2024, this updated model from the popular Samsung line of budget phones offers a lot of impressive features for the price. It comes with a full HD 6.5" super AMOLED screen, 128 GB internals storage, 5G and NFC, and Android 14. The Galaxy A15 also has a 5,000 mAh battery and 25W fast charging. This phone is one of the best devices in this list, but retails for just over $100. For those willing to spend a little more to get great upgrade, consider the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G. Learn more in our review of the Galaxy A15 5G.

Get the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G w/ airtime bundle on HSN for $119
Get the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G w/ airtime bundle on QVC for $119

That's it for our picks of the best under $100 Tracfone smartphones. Leave your top picks or any questions, in the comments below.

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