Showing posts with label Cell Phone Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cell Phone Reviews. Show all posts

June 4, 2020

Samsung Galaxy A20 (S205DL) Tracfone Review

Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A20 (S205DL) Specs and Review

Welcome to TracfoneReviewer with the latest news, reviews and Tracfone promo codes!
Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A20 Review
Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A20

Featuring a 6.4" touchscreen, Octa-core processor, 32 GB storage and much more, the Samsung Galaxy A20 is a feature packed phone with great capabilities and one many users are looking forward to.

Newly released for Tracfone in June 2020, the Galaxy A20 is the big brother to the A10e which is already available. These two phones from Samsung share a number of the same features including octa-core processor, Android 9 Pie, and internal storage of 32 GB. But the A20 has a much larger screen, 4,000 mAh battery and 3 GB RAM. 

Tracfone offers a variety of different phones from top manufacturers and it has been some time since Tracfone released their last Samsung device (other than the A10e), the Galaxy J7 Crown. One of the big changes in the new Galaxy device is the increase in storage from 16 GB to 32 GB which will make many users very happy to see.

A number of new phones have been released by Tracfone over the last few months, including the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX, and you can keep up with all the new phones in our Latest List of Tracfone Smartphones.

Let's take a look at the pro's and con's for the new Galaxy A20:

Samsung Galaxy A20 Quick Facts:

What we Like:
-32GB Storage
-large 6.4" screen with HD display
-Android 9.0 Pie (with update to Android 10)
-3 GB RAM
-Dual rear facing cameras

What we Don't Like:
-Expensive
-Low resolution screen

While the A20 is a little expensive for some, it does bring a number of great features together in one device, including several many users were disappointed not to see in the Galaxy A10e. 

Will it all be worth the price tag? Time for the full list of features on specs on the S205DL A20.

Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A20 Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs
  • Android 9.0 Pie (With update to Android 10)
  • 4G LTE (Verizon)
  • Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
  • Bluetooth 5
  • Alarm Clock
  • GPS
  • MP3 Player
  • Standard 3.5mm Headphone Jack
  • Hearing Aid Compatible
  • Access to over 1 Million Apps on Google Play
  • Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
  • SMS/MMS
  • USB Charger
  • Compatible with Samsung Gear Smartwatches
  • Facial recognition for unlocking
Samsung Galaxy A20 Technical Specs
Size: 6.23" x 2.93" x 0.31" in (5.96 oz)
Camera: 13 MP Rear Camera with 5 MP Ultra-wide and 8 MP Front Camera with LED Flash, Autofocus
Screen: 6.4" HD Super AMOLED Infinity display (720x1560 resolution)
Processor: Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A73 & 6x1.35 GHz Cortex-A53)
Memory: 3 GB
Storage: 32 GB internal storage, supports up to 512 GB MicroSD Card
Battery: 4,000 mAh battery (non-removable) with talk time up to 28.8 hrs, standby 17 days

Many consumers are familiar with the Samsung brand as they are a global manufacture and the largest consumer electronics maker (by revenue) in the world. They are based in South Korea and have a broad lineup of smartphones with their high end device, the Samsung Galaxy S10, a contender for one of the best phones in the world.

The Galaxy A20 does get some of the classic design elements of Samsung phones with a familiar layout for the charging and headphone ports and it also features an edge-to-edge Infinity Display.

Now let's get into the details with our review of the A20.

Samsung Galaxy A20 Review (S205DL)

Touchscreen
The display is a large, 6.4" screen with edge-to-edge coverage and just a very small bezel at the top and bottom of the phone. It has a resolution of 1560x720 with a screen ratio at 19.5:9 and pixel density of 268. While the pixel density is not as good as many of Tracfone's other smartphones, it isn't that noticeable and the screen is actually very bright and clear, thanks to the Super AMOLED Infinity display which also gives it some great viewing angles. 

This phone follows the current trend of making smartphones with a larger screen but only really increasing how tall the device is to allow users to still grip the phone comfortably.

The A20 has one of the largest screen sizes available from Tracfone and is a great option for those who enjoy watching lots of videos or other media on their phone.

Samsung Galaxy A20 Review and Specs
Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A20 (S205DL) Review

Internal Specs - Processor, RAM and Storage

Featuring an Octa-core processor, 3 GB RAM and 32 GB internal storage, the Galaxy A20 is one of only a few smartphones currently available from Tracfone with these specs. The Moto G7 Optimo MAXX being one of the other options.

The internal storage of 32 GB gives consumers about 21 GB usable space after the OS and other apps that come pre-installed. The A20 will also accept a microSD card up to 512 GB.

Many users will be happy to see the 3 GB RAM that come with the Galaxy A20 which help it with multitasking and gaming.

And finally, the Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A73 & 6x1.35 GHz Cortex-A53) processor performs most tasks very well and keeps up with the majority of apps and games without any problems.

Camera
The Galaxy A20 features dual rear cameras with a 13 MP main camera and 5 MP wide angle with AF, LED flash, panorama and HDR. On the front is an 8 MP camera for selfies. The cameras perform well, but are not up to the same quality as higher-end devices. For a phone with an impressive camera and a reasonable price, consider the Pixel 3a.

Video with 1080p@30fps is available from both the front and rear cameras.

Battery
Battery life for the A20 is good with a 4,000 mAh non-removable battery. Most users will get a full day of use out of the phone and some low to moderate use will lead to two days of battery. Fast charging allows this phone to be fully charged in just 2 hours.

Android OS
The Galaxy A20 comes with Samsung One UI which adds a unique look and feel on top of the Android 9.0 Pie operating system. Some of the unique features you get include optional theme and icon packs from Samsung.

Android Pie comes with a number of new features and improvements over previous versions including gesture navigation, app usage statistics and time limits, and adaptive battery for improved performance.

Users are reporting the Galaxay A20 also gets an automatic update to Android 10.

Tracfone has now also released the Samsung Galaxy A01, which comes with Android 10. Take a look to learn more.

Check out the Best Apps for Android Phones.

Design
Samsung has given the A20 a sleek and polished look that makes it appear much more expensive than it is and follows a number of design trends from the more expensive Samsung Galaxy S10. The back of the phone is made from plastic but looks very good. On the right side of the phone are the traditional volume and power buttons with the 3.5mm headphone jack and USB Type C on the bottom.

The bezels on the touchscreen are kept to a minimum with just a bit of space at the bottom of the phone and the overall design is clean and simple. We have a fingerprint sensor on the back, and the phone has facial recognition software for unlocking.

Conclusion
With a number of great features and strong performance, the Galaxy A20 will be a popular choice from many Tracfone users and especially those who enjoy a lot of videos or other media on their phone. 

The devices large size and weight might make it less desirable as a backup or emergency device. 

Comparison - Galaxy A20 vs A10e vs Moto G7 Optimo MAXX

The Galaxy A20 shares a number of similarities with the Galaxy A10e including the processor, storage, and operating system. But the A20 comes with the larger screen, more RAM and dual rear cameras.

The A20 offers a little more for the price compared to the A10e, but be aware of the larger form factor.

The Moto G7 Optimo MAXX is the closest competitor to the A20. The MAXX has a smaller, 6.2" screen, but comes with the same RAM, storage, Android OS, and fingerprint sensor. The Optimo MAXX also has a larger, 5,000 mAh battery and is less expensive, but only has a single rear camera.

Both are very comparable phones, but with the lower price compared to the A20, the Moto G7 Optimo Maxx may just edge out the Samsung device for many users.

Where to Buy the Samsung Galaxy A20

The A20 is currently available from a third party online retailer. We will update as more sources become available.

Learn more about this device with the A20 device tutorials and user manual.

This concludes our review of the Galaxy A20, we hope you found it useful! Leave a comment below with any thoughts or questions.

If you are new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide!

Join us over on Facebook for the latest news and posts or send us a message for more direct help questions.

Take a look at some of our recent posts, including a Guide for Making your Airtime Last Longer and Everything you Need to Know about Data Cards.

And don't miss out on the best Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales!

Thanks for visiting!

May 19, 2020

Tracfone LG Classic Flip Phone (L125DL) 4G LTE

Tracfone LG Classic Flip (L125DL) Features and Specs

tracfone lg flip 125dl specs

Tracfone releases a new LG flip phone with 4G LTE capability.

The LG Classic Flip has 8 GB internal storage, 1 GB RAM, 2 MP camera, 2.8" color display and runs AOSP 8.1 with T9 text input.

While most Tracfone users now use a smartphone, some still prefer the older flip phone option for the simplicity, longer battery life, and compact size.

With the closing of 3G CDMA networks at the end of 2020, older flip phones, won't work with Tracfone service. Tracfone also has not offered any good flip phones in recent years, with the only options from companies like ZTE and Alcatel.

Now the LG Classic Flip, released in May 2020, is available with 4G LTE service coverage and we will cover all the details, features and specs on this flip phone below.

LG Classic Flip L125DL Features and Specs

  • Operating System: Android Open Source Project (AOSP)  8.1 with T9 text input
  • Network Coverage: 4G LTE (Verizon)
  • GPS
  • Bluetooth
  • MP3 Player
  • FM Radio
  • MMS/SMS
  • Hearing Aid Compatible
  • Email/Internet
  • Handsfree speaker
  • Alarm Clock
LG Classic Flip Specs
Size: 4.25'' x 2.17'' x 0.7'' inches (4.48 oz)
Camera: 2 MP fixed focus Camera
Screen: 2.8'' QVGA Main Display (240 x 320) + 0.9'' Mono Sub Display (32 x 128)
Memory: 1 GB
Storage: 8 GB (about 4.3 GB usable)
Battery: 1470 mAh battery (removable)

The LG L125DL is a return to the classic flip phone (as the name suggests) and as such, it has rather basic specs including just a 2 MP fixed focus camera and only about 4 GB usable internal storage.

But most consumers who buy this phone won't be concerned with the camera or storage, but rather the simplicity of the device and durability.

Using Android Open Source Project (AOSP) 8.1 allows for some great functionality including T9 text input for faster typing and texting on the dial pad.

The phone is also capable of using 4G LTE and VoLTE service making it compatible with Tracfone after the 3G network closure at the end of 2020.

LG is well known as a cell phone manufacture, and although they now focus on smartphones, they are known for a number of popular slip phones including the LG 440G from several years ago.

The LG L125DL looks to be a remake of that classic phone, but with plenty of improvements and modernization.

Tracfone has offered other flip phones from Alcatel and ZTE, but none of them had the same quality or durability as older flip phones. Now with this new LG Classic Flip we think it will be a great option for consumers who want to get back to a simple cell phone.

Where to Buy the LG Classic Flip L 125DL

The LG L125DL is now available directly from Tracfone on their website.

View the LG Classic Flip L125DL for $39

BONUS - Get $15 off the purchase of this phone with code 99138 (for a limited time)

Learn more about the L125DL with the User Manual or the Device Tutorials.

Let us know your thoughts on this new flip phone from LG in the comments below!

Or join us over on Facebook for the latest news and posts and send us a message for more direct help questions.

If you are new to Tracfone, Start with our Beginners Guide!

Take a look at some of our recent posts, including a Guide for Making your Airtime Last Longer and Everything you Need to Know about Data Cards.

And don't miss out on the best Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales!

Thanks for visiting!

April 30, 2020

Moto G7 Optimo MAXX (XT1955DL) Tracfone Review

Moto G7 Optimo MAXX (XT1955DL) Review - Android Tracfone

Welcome to TracfoneReviewer where we share the latest news, review and Tracfone Promo Codes!
tracfone moto g7 power xt1955dl
Tracfone Moto G7 Optimo MAXX

Tracfone just released another great smartphone option in the form of the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX in late April 2020 and this phone brings a large screen, and long battery life.

Featuring a 6.2" touchscreen, the G7 Optimo MAXX also comes with an Octa-core processor, 32 GB internal storage, 12 MP camera and Android 9 Pie.

The G7 Optimo MAXX is more commonly known as the Moto G7 Power, due to the huge, 5,000 mAh battery that gives all day, and even multi-day capability on a single charge.

Tracfone also recently released the Moto G7 Optimo, known more commonly as the G7 Play, which has a smaller screen and smaller battery, but other wise many of the same features. For all the new devices from Tracfone, see our Latest List of Tracfone Smartphones.

The G7 Optimo MAXX (or Power, as the unlocked version is called) was actually released by Motorola back in March 2019, along with the Moto G7 and Moto G7 Play. We have already shared a full review of the Unlocked Moto G7 for use with Tracfone BYOP for those interested.

Let's Start getting into the details of the G7 Optimo MAXX with our top Pro's and Con's list.

Moto G7 Optimo MAXX Quick Facts

What we Like
-32 GB internal storage
-3 GB RAM
-Large screen
-Great battery life
-Reasonable price
-Octa-core processor

What we Don't Like
-Somewhat low-res display and pixel density

As you can see, there is a lot to like about the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX. It comes with a number of features many users like, including the large screen and long battery life.

It does trade off some sharpness on the display, due mostly the the size, that might be noticeable for some.

Not many of Tracfone's smartphone options come with 32 GB storage and 3 GB RAM which are both critical for most avid smartphone users but the MAXX delivers. Let's see what else this phone has with the full list of features and specs.

Tracfone Moto G7 Optimo MAXX (XT1955DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs
  • Android 9 Pie
  • 4G LTE with 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
Moto G7 Optimo MAXX (XT1955DL) Specs
Size: 6.33" x 2.99" x 0.37" in (6.98 oz)
Camera: 12 MP Rear Camera, 8 MP Front Camera
Screen: 6.2" HD+ touchscreen with 720x1570 resolution (279 ppi)
Processor: 1.8 Ghz Octa-core (Qualcomm Snapdragon 632)
Memory: 3 GB
Storage: 32 GB and supports up to 512 GB via MicroSD card
Battery: 5,000 mAh with 45 hrs usage time (non-removable)

Motorola was first founded as an American telecommunications company back in 1928. But 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.

It was during their ownership by Google that 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, that has continued with now the latest version, the Moto G8, just released.

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 G7 Optimo MAXX will continue this trend but let's take a closer look in our full review.

Tracfone Moto G7 Optimo MAXX Review

Touchscreen
One of the two big selling points on the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX is the 6.2" HD+ IPS LCD touchscreen that has a resolution of 720x1570 and a pixel density of about 279ppi. The screen ratio is stretched up to 19.5:9, meaning it packs in the large screen by making the phone taller, rather than wider which is good for ergonomics.

With such a large screen we would have hoped it would have a little higher resolution to help with the sharpness. The Moto G7, for example, has the same size screen but a full HD resolution of 1080 x 2270 pixels which leads to a pixel density of over 400. This simply means the screen on the G7 is a little sharper and clearer.

That being said, the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX does have a nice bright screen that looks good and it features Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for extra protection. We also suggest a case or cover for extra precautions.

Shop Moto G7 Optimo MAXX (Power) covers and cases on Amazon

Internal Specs - Storage, Processor and RAM
Performance on the G7 Optimo MAXX is actually very good thanks mostly to the powerful 1.8 Ghz Octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 632. The Optimo MAXX actually has the same processor as the Moto G7 Optimo (Play), but the Optimo MAXX (power) has more RAM at 3 GB which will help with multitasking ability (keeping lots of apps open at once). It is nice to see another smartphone option from Tracfone with adequate specs to keep up with most user's needs.

For storage the MAXX has 32 GB with about 21 GB available out of the box. This is the same as the newly released Samsung Galaxy A10e and the Moto G6. There is an external MicroSD card slot for up to 512 GB extra storage.
Tracfone moto g7 optimo maxx user manual
Tracfone Moto G7 Optimo MAXX Review

Camera

We don't see anything too fancy or surprising when it comes to the camera on the Optimo MAXX. It has a single 12 MP shooter with f2.0 aperture and PDAF (Phase-Detect Auto-Focus). Panorama, LED flash and HDR all come with the phone and the front camera is a 8 MP selfie lens also with LED flash.

There is full HD video recording capabilities from both the front and rear cameras.

The cameras are more than capable for capturing moments to share with friends and family but you don't get portrait mode and the quality in poor lighting conditions won't be as good as more expensive devices.

Want to take better photos? We created a guide with 8 tips for better cell phone pictures to help.

Battery
The battery is another big selling point for the MAXX as it comes with a 5,000 mAh Li-Po battery that is non-removable. That's a lot larger than most batteries, even double the size of some, which means this phone will easily last all day, and for many, it will last two days.

Official specs indicate standby time of 28 days, with talk time of 45 hrs. And if the long battery life wasn't enough, the phone also has Motorola's TurboCharging technology via the USB Type-C charger which can add several hours of battery life with just a 15 minute charge.

Android OS
Motorola typically leaves the Operating System (OS) on their phones mostly stock, which means you get less bloatware and more storage space.

The phone features Android 9 Pie, which comes with a number of new features and improvements over previous versions including gesture navigation, app usage statistics and time limits, and adaptive battery for improved performance.

Tracfone has occasionally updated the software version on their smartphones, but in many cases their phones are stuck with what they come with, so it is best to get a phone with the latest OS, which at this time is Android 9.

Design
On the front of the phone we see a smaller bezel compared to the last version, the G6, but we do have a large notch where the front facing camera is located. On the back is where the fingerprint reader sits below the rear camera, and the headphone jack is at the top while the charging connection is at the bottom of the phone.

The G7 Optimo MAXX has a polycarbonate back which should be pretty durable and scratch resistant. Overall the phone looks sleek and updated but is noticeably thicker than many phones due to the larger battery. For most, it still fits comfortably in the hand. Just be aware that fitting this device in a small pocket might not work as well.

Conclusion
The Moto G7 Optimo MAXX from Tracfone, or more commonly known as the G7 Power, is a great option because of the solid performance specs, incredible batter life, and large screen. It is also very reasonably priced for the features and performance it comes with. Anyone who spends more than a few hours a day on their device or is constantly running low on battery, will appreciate the extremely long life of this phone.

Users who don't want or need such a large phone or the performance features, could consider the smaller Moto G7 Optimo or other such devices.

Another great option from Tracfone is the Samsung Galaxy A20. It has a larger, 6.4" screen, Octa-core processor, 3 GB RAM, 32 GB storage and runs Android 9 (some users also getting an update to Android 10). It is a great option for those who prefer Samsung phones, but it is a little more expensive than the G7 Optimo MAXX. Read our full review of the Samsung Galaxy A20 to learn more.

Moto G7 Optimo (Play) VS Moto G7 Optimo MAXX (Power)

Tracfone released both these phones for use on their network and they share some of the same features while also having a few key differences. Let's quickly break that down for you.

The G7 Optimo MAXX has a larger screen (6.2" vs 5.7"), 1 GB more RAM, larger battery (5,000 mAh vs 3,000) and slightly better camera. The Optimo and Optimo MAXX have the same processor, storage and Android OS. They are also both available for about the same price from Tracfone.

For users who don't mind the larger form factor and screen, the Optimo MAXX is the clear choice. But some users may prefer the smaller G7 Optimo, and it still makes for a great option.

Where to Buy the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX

The G7 Optimo MAXX is currently available from some online retailers, and will we update as we find more availability.

View the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX with airtime bundle on HSN for $119 $89 (limited time deal)
Get the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX with airtime bundle on QVC for $104
Get the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX from Amazon for $106
View the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX from Tracfone for $119

We will continue to update as more options are available.

Moto G7 Optimo MAXX User Manual and Tutorials

Learn more with the User Manual or view the device tutorial to learn more about specific technical questions or leave a comment below!

This concludes our review of the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX, we hope you found it useful!

---

If you are new to Tracfone, Start with our Beginners Guide!

Join us over on Facebook for the latest news and posts or send us a message for more direct help questions.

Take a look at some of our recent posts, including a Guide for Making your Airtime Last Longer and Everything you Need to Know about Data Cards.

And don't miss out on the best Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales!

Thanks for visiting!

April 14, 2020

Moto E6 (XT2005DL) Tracfone Review

Tracfone Moto E6 (XT2005DL) Features, Specs and Review

Welcome to TracfoneReviewer where we share the latest news, review and Tracfone Promo Codes!

moto e6 specs tracfone
Tracfone Moto E6 Review
An updated, ultra-budget friendly smartphone from the popular Motorola brand has been released by Tracfone in early 2020 in the form of the Moto E6.

The Moto E6 comes with a large, 5.5" HD touchscreen, Android 9 Pie, 13 MP camera, and 1.4 Ghz octa-core processor. It really packs in a lot of features into a very low price point.

The Moto E6 settles in as the next phone in a long line of Moto E devices (that was first launched back in 2014) and we will cover all the specs and features including how it stacks up to the predecessor, the Moto E5 which is also available from Tracfone.

There have been several new smartphones recently released, with the Moto G7 Optimo also released around the same time as the E6, in early March 2020. For all the new devices from Tracfone, see our Latest List of Tracfone Smartphones.

The Moto E6 was first released by Motorola in 2019, and can be found on Amazon unlocked for use with GSM or CDMA service on Tracfone BYOP. However, the price quite a bit higher than the Tracfone version.

Let's start getting into the details of the Moto E6 with our top Pro's and Con's list.

Moto E6 Quick Facts

What we Like
-Large screen
-Excellent price
-Octa-core processor
-Android 9 Pie
-Great battery life

What we Don't Like
-Only 2 GB RAM
-Only 16 GB storage

Some of the top points to highlight are the powerful Octa-core processor and amazing battery life, often well beyond a single day. It is also priced very low, with several retailers listing it for below $50 with airtime bundles and more.

One of the drawbacks, however, is that the Moto E6 only comes with 2 GB RAM and 16 GB internal storage, which might limit the multitasking ability of the phone or how will it will handle resource intensive apps and games, and also how many apps and media that can be loaded on the phone at one time.

The big brother to the Moto E6, the Moto G7 Optimo, has 32 GB internal storage as well as some other upgrades, and the Samsung Galaxy A10e is another option with 32 GB storage for those who might want that extra space.

tracfone Moto E6 (XT2005DL)

Tracfone Moto E6 (XT2005DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs
  • Android 9 Pie
  • 4G LTE with CDMA (Verizon)
  • Access to over 1 million apps on Google Play
  • WiFi 802 11 b/G/n
  • GPS
  • Bluetooth 4.2
  • Alarm Clock
  • MP3 Player
  • Standard 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
  • SMS/MMS
  • USB Charger
  • Hearing Aid Compatible
Moto E6 (XT2005DL) Specs
Size: 5.89" x 2.84" x 0.33" in (5.61 oz)
Camera: 13 MP Rear Camera, 5 MP Front Camera
Screen: 5.5" HD touchscreen with 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio
Processor: 1.4 Ghz Octa-core (Qualcomm Snapdragon 435)
Memory: 2 GB
Storage: 16 GB and supports up to 512 GB via MicroSD card
Battery: Removable Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery

Motorola was originally an American telecommunications company founded way back in 1928. But 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. Then, just two years later, the Motorola mobile phone segment was again sold, this time to Lenovo in 2014.

The Moto E lineup was created as an even more budget friendly option compared to the Moto G line, and it has been consistently positioned at a price of around $100.

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.

Let's get into the details on the Moto E6 with our full review

Tracfone Moto E6 Review

Touchscreen
The E6 brings a 5.5" IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 720 x 1440 pixels. It uses the popular 18:0 ratio, meaning the phone is taller than some, but is not too wide to still easily fit in the hand. Pixel density is about 296 ppi, which is good and gives a nice, crisp screen.

Overall the screen is a great size and resolution, delivering a solid picture with no complaints for a phone at this price. But we do miss out on any Gorilla Glass protection, so might be best to invest in a good screen protector or case.

View Moto E6 Covers and Cases on Amazon.

moto e6 fewtures specs review tracfone

Performance - Processor, Storage and RAM
The 1.4 Ghz octa-core processor from Qualcomm is a decent performer but the phone only comes with 2 GB RAM and 16 GB internal storage which will really limit the apps and media that can be kept on the device, and the ability to multitask and use more demanding apps or games.

There is a MicroSD slot for additional storage, up to 256 GB, so that may help with the storage problems for some.

For most smartphone users,, 16 GB internal storage just isn't enough, and we find this a major drawback for this phone. If you have previously had issues with running out of storage on your phone, consider a device with 32 or 64 GB storage to help resolve that problem.

Camera
One of the surprising features on the Moto E6 is the 13 MP rear camera with LED flash, HDR, panorama and more. It actually performs very well for the price thanks in part to a larger sensor compared to the previous model.

The front camera has a 5 MP sensor and also has many of the same features.

Want to take better photos? We created a guide with 8 tips for better cell phone pictures to help.

Battery
There are some consumers who will be very happy to see that the Moto E6 comes with a removable 3,000 mAh battery that has enough power to last a full day on a single charge with moderate usage. This is thanks to both software improvements and the efficient processor.

The battery charger is a standard Micro USB connection. It would be nice to see Motorola upgrade to the newer, USB-C which many phones now use.

Android OS
Motorola is well known for leaving the Operating System (OS) on their phones mostly stock, which means you get less bloatware.

The phone features Android 9 Pie, which comes with a number of new features and improvements over previous versions including gesture navigation, app usage statistics and time limits, and adaptive battery for improved performance.

Tracfone has occasionally updated the software version on their smartphones, but in many cases their phones are stuck with what they come with, so it is best to get a phone with the latest OS, which at this time is Android 9.

Get the most from Android with our List of the Best Android Apps for Tracfone users.

Design
The design of the Moto E6 is not particularly interesting with a plastic shell and rather large bezels on the front screen.  The phone also lacks a fingerprint sensor, which has become a very popular security measure, and only comes in two colors, black and dark blue.

Yet it fits well in the hand, and for the price, we can't expect too much from the design side.

Conclusion
The Moto E6 brings a nice size screen, good camera and processor, and all-day battery at a very reasonable price. While the storage and RAM are not the best, if you don't need it then this phone packs a lot for the price and is one of the best phones available from Tracfone for under $50 at this time.

Moto E6 vs Moto G7 Optimo
The Moto G7 Optimo, also released at about the same time, brings a number of improvements over the Moto E6 as one would expect for a phone that is more than double the price. The G7 has a larger screen, better processor, more internal storage, and fingerprint reader. However, both phones come with 2 GB RAM , Android 9, and 3,000 mAh battery, with the G7's battery non-removable.

We would suggest the Moto G7 Optimo for users who spend more time on their phone, or need the extra storage space.

Moto E6 vs Moto E5
Looking at the E6 versus the phone it replaces, we see they both share similar performance specs and the E5 actually has a fingerprint sensor. But the E6 has a number of small upgrades, like the improved camera, newer Android version, and removable battery.

We find the E6 a better choice simply for the updated OS, which brings a lot of improvements and security measure over older versions.

Where to Buy the Tracfone Moto E6

Find the Tracfone Moto E6 available form a variety of online retailers:

View the Moto E6 on Amazon (with $50 gift card for new activations)
Get the Moto E6 on eBay (with $30 airtime bundle)
See the Moto E6 on Walmart

And view device tutorials and more on the Tracfone Website.

This concludes our review of the Tracfone Moto E6, we hope you found it useful!

---

If you are new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide!

Join us over on Facebook for the latest news and posts or send us a message for more direct help questions.

Take a look at some of our recent posts, including a Guide for Making your Airtime Last Longer and Everything you Need to Know about Data Cards.

And don't miss out on the best Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales!

Thanks for visiting!

March 18, 2020

Moto G7 Optimo (XT1952DL) Tracfone Review

Moto G7 Optimo (XT1952DL) Review - Android Tracfone

Welcome to TracfoneReviewer where we share the latest news, review and Tracfone Promo Codes!


Tracfone moto g7 optimo xt 1952DL
Tracfone Moto G7 Optimo Review
Another generation of the incredibly popular Moto G line of budget smartphones has been released by Tracfone in the form of the Moto G7 Optimo.

The Moto G7 Optimo (AKA Moto G7 Play) has a 5.7" HD+ touchscreen, Octa-core processor, 32 GB storage, and Android 9.0 Pie. The G7 Optimo has a lot of potential to be a great, everyday smartphone for many Tracfone users.

The G7 Optimo comes as the successor to the popular Tracfone Moto G6 which shares some similarities such as screen size and storage, but the G7 Optimo also has several upgrades such as a newer processor and updated Android OS.

Tracfone has released several new smartphones recently, with the Moto E6 also released around the same time as the G7 Optimo, in early March 2020. And a month alter the Moto G7 Optimo MAXX was also released. For all the new devices from Tracfone, see our Latest List of Tracfone Smartphones.

The G7 Optimo (or Play, as the unlocked version is called) was actually released by Motorola back in March 2019, along with the Moto G7 and Moto G7 Power. We have already shared a full review of the Unlocked Moto G7 for use with Tracfone BYOP for those interested.

Let's Start getting into the details of the G7 Optimo with our top Pro's and Con's list.

Moto G7 Optimo Quick Facts

What we Like
-32 GB internal storage
-Reasonable price
-Octa-core processor

What we Don't Like
-Only 2 GB RAM

Key points to highlight are the inclusion of 32 GB internal storage and the powerful Octa-core processor. It is also very reasonably priced, with several retailers initially listing it for below $150.

One of the drawbacks, however, is that the G7 Optimo only comes with 2 GB RAM which might limit the multitasking ability of the phone or how will it will handle resource intensive apps and games.

The older, Moto G6 actually has 3 GB RAM. But other newer phones like the Samsung Galaxy A10e, only feature 2 GB RAM. Before we get to far into the details, let's get into the full specs and features to see exactly what this phone offers.

Tracfone Moto G7 Optimo (XT1952DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs
  • Android 9 Pie
  • 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
Moto G7 Optimo (XT1952DL) Specs
Size: 5.80 x 2.81 x 0.31 in (5.26 oz)
Camera: 13 MP Rear Camera, 8 MP Front Camera
Screen: 5.7" HD+ touchscreen with 720x1512 resolution (294 ppi)
Processor: 1.8 Ghz Octa-core (Qualcomm Snapdragon 632)
Memory: 2 GB
Storage: 32 GB and supports up to 512 GB via MicroSD card
Battery: 3000 mAh with 40 hrs usage time (non-removable)

Motorola was originally an American telecommunications company founded way back in 1928. But 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. Then, just two years later, the Motorola mobile phone segment was again sold, this time to Lenovo in 2014.

It was during their ownership by Google that 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, that has continued seamlessly with now the latest version, the Moto G8, just released.

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 G7 Optimo will continue this trend but let's take a closer look in our full review.

Tracfone Moto G7 Optimo Review

Touchscreen
The centerpiece on the G7 Optimo is the 5.7" HD+ IPS LCD touchscreen which has a resolution of 1512x720 and a pixel density of about 294. The screen ratio is 18:9, which is a popular form factor leading to a larger screen without making the phone too wide.

Overall it is a nice and bright screen with plenty of resolution for crisp and clear images. Just don't expect the same quality as higher end phones which have twice or even four times the resolution. The screen has Gorilla Glass 3 protection for added durability and protection. In our tests with Gorilla Glass 3, it survives drops and dings much better than many other more expensive options. Still, it is always smart to get a cover or case for your phone.

Shop Moto G7 Optimo (Play) covers and cases on Amazon

Internal Specs - Storage, Processor and RAM
Performance on the G7 Optimo is actually very good thanks mostly to the powerful 1.8 Ghz Octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 632. The Optimo actually has the same processor as the Moto G7 Power, but the Optimo has less RAM at just 2 GB which can lead to less multitasking ability (keeping lots of apps open at once). We keep hoping Tracfone will offer more smartphones with more RAM, but so far the Moto G6 and Moto G7 Optimo MAXX are some of the only options. For those who need more RAM for gaming or more resource intensive apps, the unlocked Moto G7 is also a great option.

For storage the G7 Optimo has 32 GB with about 21 GB available out of the box. This is the same as the newly released Samsung Galaxy A10e and the Moto G6. There is an external MicroSD card slot for up to 512 GB extra storage.

Camera
We don't see anything too fancy or surprising when it comes to the camera on the Optimo. It has a single 13 MP shooter with f2.0 aperture and PDAF (Phase-Detect Auto-Focus). Panorama, LED flash and HDR all come with the phone and the front camera is a 8 MP selfie lens also with LED flash.

There is full HD video recording capabilities from both the front and rear cameras.

The cameras are more than capable for capturing moments to share with friends and family but you don't get portrait mode and the quality in poor lighting conditions won't be as good as more expensive devices.

Want to take better photos? We created a guide with 8 tips for better cell phone pictures to help.

Battery
While the battery on the Moto G7 Optimo is on the relatively small side at 3,000 mAh, battery life is actually quite good thanks to a combination of factors including the efficient processor, smaller screen and operating system improvements. What this means is the G7 Optimo can easily last through the day on a single charge and even into the next day with low to moderate usage.

And if the long battery life wasn't enough, the phone also has Motorola's TurboCharging technology via the USB Type-C charger which can add several hours of battery life with just a 15 minute charge.

Android OS
Motorola is well known for leaving the Operating System (OS) on their phones mostly stock, which means you get less bloatware.

The phone features Android 9 Pie, which comes with a number of new features and improvements over previous versions including gesture navigation, app usage statistics and time limits, and adaptive battery for improved performance.

Tracfone has occasionally updated the software version on their smartphones, but in many cases their phones are stuck with what they come with, so it is best to get a phone with the latest OS, which at this time is Android 9.

Design
On the front of the phone we see a smaller bezel compared to the last version, the G6 Play, but we do have a large notch where the front facing camera is located. On the back is where the fingerprint reader sits below the rear camera, and the headphone jack is at the top while the charging connection is at the bottom of the phone.

Tracfone Moto G7 0ptimo review
Tracfone Moto G7 Optimo Front, Side and Back

The G7 Optimo has a polycarbonate back which should be pretty durable and scratch resistant. Overall the phone looks sleek, updated and fits comfortably in most user's hands thanks to the smaller form factor.

Conclusion
For users who want a durable, long-lasting smartphone with good performance, the Moto G7 Optimo makes a good option. The low RAM might be a concern for some power users, but for most it won't be too much of an issue. The excellent processor combined with the nice screen and other features make this a phone that will be a popular option to upgrade to from older devices.

Moto G7 Optimo (Play) VS Moto G7 Optimo MAXX (Power)

Tracfone released both these phones for use on their network and they share some of the same features while also having a few key differences. Let's quickly break that down for you.

The G7 Optimo MAXX has a larger screen (6.2" vs 5.7"), 1 GB more RAM, larger battery (5,000 mAh vs 3,000) and slightly better camera. The Optimo and Optimo MAXX have the same processor, storage and Android OS. They are also both available for about the same price from Tracfone.

For users who don't mind the larger form factor and screen, the Optimo MAXX is the clear choice. But some users may prefer the smaller G7 Optimo, and it still makes for a great option.

Moto G7 Optimo vs Moto G6
Looking at some of the specs it would seem that the G6 and G7 Optimo are fairly similar. And they are in some ways, with the same size screen, same amount of storage, and both have octa-core processors. However, the G7 Optimo has a newer, more powerful processor, newer Android OS, and significantly improved battery performance.

Both are good options, but the newer Moto G7 Optimo makes a lot more sense for anyone buying a new phone, especially at the current price.

Where to Buy the Tracfone Moto G7 Optimo

Moto G7 Optimo
The G7 Optimo is currently available from Tracfone, and will we update as we find more availability.

Get the Moto G7 Optimo on Amazon for $119

View the Moto G7 Optimo at Tracfone for $119.

View the device tutorial to learn more about specific technical questions or leave a comment below!

This concludes our review of the Moto G7 Optimo, we hope you found it useful!

---

If you are new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide!

Join us over on Facebook for the latest news and posts or send us a message for more direct help questions.

Take a look at some of our recent posts, including a Guide for Making your Airtime Last Longer and Everything you Need to Know about Data Cards.

And don't miss out on the best Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales!

Thanks for visiting!

February 25, 2020

BLU View 1 (B100DL) Tracfone Review

BLU View 1 Review - Tracfone Smartphone

TracfoneReviewer shares the latest news, reviews and promo codes!

blu view 1 specs features review
Tracfone BLU View 1 Review
The BLU View 1 is a newly released (late 2019) Android powered smartphone available through Tracfone and we will be sharing the full list of features, specs and more in this review.

The highlights for the BLU View 1 include the 5.5" touchscreen, Android 9.0 Pie, and compatibility with GSM or CDMA networks on Tracfone prepaid service.

Tracfone offers a wide variety of cell phones to use with their prepaid service. All the phones from Tracfone are locked to their service and cannot be used with other service providers (Learn how to unlock your Tracfone here).

Some of the other recent smartphones from Tracfone include the Samsung Galaxy A10e, LG Journey, and LG Solo. We will be comparing the BLU View 1 to these devices further on. See all the new phones in our Latest List of Tracfone Smartphones.

Let's start with our pro's and con's for the BLU View 1.

BLU View 1 Quick Facts

What we Like:
Low price
Large screen
Android 9.0 Pie

What we Don't Like:
Only 16 GB Storage
Low Screen Resolution
Slow Processor

The BLU View 1 leans heavily towards the budget friendly side of the scale with many retailers listing it for $50-60. But that comes with some cuts on features and it seems that the screen and performance were some of the areas BLU cut back on to keep the cost low.

Let's take a closer look at the full list of features and specs on the BLU View 1 to see exactly what it offers.

BLU View 1 Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs
  • Android 9.0 Pie
  • 4G LTE on CDMA or GSM (Depends on ZIP code)
  • Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
  • Bluetooth 4.1
  • Alarm Clock
  • GPS
  • MP3 Player
  • Standard 3.5mm Headphone Jack
  • Hearing Aid Compatible
  • Access to over 1 Million Apps on Google Play
  • Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
  • SMS/MMS
  • USB Charger
Samsung Galaxy A10e Technical Specs
Size: 5.6'' (H) x 2.8'' (W) x 0.4'' (D) inches - 5.4 oz
Camera: 8 MP Rear Camera with LED Flash,  5 MP Front Camera
Screen: 5.5" screen 18:9 ratio (480x960 resolution)
Processor: Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53
Memory: 2 GB
Storage: 16 GB internal storage (supports up to 64 GB MicroSD Card)
Battery: 2,500 mAh battery (removable) with talk time up to 13 hrs, standby 20 days

BLU is a cell phone manufacture based in Miami, FL that specializes in low-cost smartphones. They have been around since 1985, and launched their own brand, BLU, in 2010.

Time for a more detailed look at some of the important features on the BLU View 1 with our review.

BLU View 1 Tracfone Review

Touchscreen
The BLU View 1 comes with a large 5.5" screen in the popular 18:9 ratio which are both great features on this phone. The resolution on the screen, however, is not great, at just 480x960 pixels which is about 195 pixels per inch. By comparison, the Galaxy A10e has 295 PPI and the average for smartphones is 300 PPI. The higher the PPI the more detailed images will be on the screen.

Overall the screen is large, but not the most impressive when it comes to quality and clarity.

Internal Specs - Storage, Processor and RAM
Most Tracfone smartphones come with 16 GB storage and 2 GB RAM, and the BLU View 1 follows this trend. But most users would prefer a larger storage capacity, at 32 GB, which allows for many more apps, photos, songs and more to be kept on the device. The actual internal storage on the BLU View 1 after the Operating System and pre-installed apps is closer to 6 GB. Additional storage is available with a microSD card.

As for the processor, it is a Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 which balances performance with energy consumption. It is not the best for resource intensive games or apps.

Camera
The 8 MP rear camera on the BLU View 1 comes with an LED flash and 1080p recording capability. There is also a front facing selfie camera with 5 MP. Overall the cameras are adequate, but can be slow and struggle in lower lighting.

Check out our 8 Tips for Taking Better Cell Phone Pictures

Battery
At 2500 mAh, the battery is on the smaller side but still enough power to get through most of a day with low to moderate usage. On the bright side, the battery is removable in case you want to replace it at some point.

Android OS
The operating system on the BLU View 1 is Android 9.0 Pie which features a number of nice improvements over previous versions. Some of those improvements include gesture navigation, app usage statistics and time limits, and adaptive battery for improved performance.

Tracfone does not typically allow phones they sell to get OS updates so it is usually best to get a phone with a more recent version of Android to keep it secure and free from any risks. In some cases Tracfone has offered OS updates.

Design
Compared to some of the other recent phones form Tracofne including the Samsung Galaxy A10e, the BLU View 1 is nice, but just not as sleek. It has large bevels around the screen, and is a little thicker than many.

Conclusion
This phone comes in at a very reasonable price, but the lack of any impressive features leave it better suited for users looking for a backup device or a phone they won't use for too much beyond calling and texting. The BLU View 1 just doesn't have the performance to keep up with more resource intensive applications and the screen while large, just isn't the best quality.

For some other options with more performance, storage and improved screen, consider the Samsung Galaxy A10e or even the Moto G6 which has been available for a couple years now.

Where to Buy the BLU View 1

Find the BLU View 1 from a variety of retailers online:

See the BLU View 1 on Amazon
See the BLU View 1 on Tracfone Website
See the BLU View 1 on HSN with airtime bundle

View the device tutorial to learn more about specific technical questions or leave a comment below!

This concludes our review of the BLU View 1, we hope you found it useful!

If you are new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide!

Join us over on Facebook for the latest news and posts or send us a message for more direct help questions.

Take a look at some of our recent posts, including a Guide for Making your Airtime Last Longer and Everything you Need to Know about Data Cards.

And don't miss out on the best Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales!

Thanks for visiting!

November 21, 2019

LG Journey (L322DL) Tracfone Review

LG Journey Review - Tracfone Smartphone

Welcome to TracfoneReviewer where we share news, reviews and promo codes!

lg journey specs review
Tracfone LG Journey (L322dl) Review
Another LG phone has been released by Tracfone for the fall of 2019 just in time for the holiday season.

The LG Journey features a 5.45" HD touchscreen, Android 9 Pie, and quad-core processor with 16 GB storage. This review contains the full list of features and specs, as well as a closer look at some of the main features on this phone.

The Journey could be considered the replacement for the older but still popular LG Rebel 4. However, we see that the LG Journey only has 2 GB RAM and 16 GB internal storage. It does have additional storage capability via an external MicroSD card but many consumers are looking to have at least 32 GB storage if not more.

Tracfone offers a wide selection of smartphones from various manufacturers and the LG Journey release coincides with several other smartphones including the LG Solo and Samsung Galaxy A10e. To keep up with all the new phones coming from Tracfone, see our Latest List of Tracfone Smartphones.

Let's see some of the quick pro's and con's for the LG Journey before we get into the full list of features and specs.

LG Journey Quick Facts

What we Like
5.45" HD touchscreen
Android 9.0 Pie

What we Don't Like
2 GB RAM
16 GB Storage
Quad-core processor

The lack of internal storage could be a problem for many users as the actual available storage after the Operating System (OS) is installed is closer to 8 GB which can quickly be filled with apps, pictures and music. The LG Solo also only has 16 GB storage which is disappointing. We are hoping to see another LG phone with 32 GB storage soon, perhaps in the form of the LG Stylo 5.

There are several other Tracfone smartphones with 32 GB storage available now including the Moto G6 and Samsung Galaxy A10e so if that's an important feature, check those devices out.

The LG Journey is a low-cost device, and as such there will be some corners that have to be cut.  Let's look at the full specs to learn more.

Tracfone LG Journey (L322DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features, followed by the technical specs.
  • Android 9.0 Pie
  • 4G LTE Coverage
  • WiFi
  • GPS
  • Accelerometer
  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • Fingerprint sensor
  • Alarm Clock
  • FM Radio
  • Access to over 1 Million Apps on Google Play Store
  • Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
  • SMS/MMS
LG Journey Technical Specs
  • Size: 5.78'' x 2.81'' x 0.32'' and 5.18 OZ
  • Camera: 8MP Rear Camera (Flash, Autofocus, Burst shot) and 5MP Front Camera
  • Screen: 5.45" HD+ FullVision™ display with 1440x720 resolution
  • Processor: 1.4 Ghz Quad-core (Qualcomm MSM8917)
  • Memory: 2 GB
  • Storage: 16 GB (Up to 2 TB additional storage via Micro SD card)
  • Battery: 3000 mAh (non-removable) with 14hrs talk time, 13 days standby
The manufacturer of the Journey is one of the largest electronics companies in the world with cell phones one of their strengths. LG has a variety of different phones ranging from budget to flagship and a number of them are compatible with the Tracfone BYOP program (such as the new, LG G8).

Looking through the specs on the L322DL Journey we see some nice improvements over previous LG models including the large touchscreen with a slim bezel and latest Android OS. However, a number of the specs, such as the RAM, ROM, battery and camera don't appear to be a significant improvement over last years models such as the Rebel 4, and there are some interesting differences compared to the recent LG Solo.

Let's get into the full review to find out.

Tracfone LG Journey Review

Touchscreen
The touchscreen is a 5.45" HD display with rich, bright colors. It has a resolution of 1440x720 with a pixel density of about 296 which means the display is sharp and clear.

Most smartphones are moving towards larger screens by increasing the vertical size of the phone but not changing the width and the LG Journey follows this trend. Overall the screen is a nice feature on this phone and overall a good size for most users.

tracfone lg journey l322dl
Tracfone LG Journey Review
Internal Specs - RAM, Memory, Processor
When it comes to the performance and storage on the Journey, it will accomplish most everyday tasks and run most apps but don't expect to use it for any resource intensive apps or games.

The Journey comes with a 1.4 Ghz Quad-core processor which can handle a wide variety of tasks and functions without much of a problem but isn't really built for running anything too demanding.

Rather disappointingly, the Journey only has 2 GB RAM and 16 GB internal storage. Most other smartphones from Tracfone also only have 2 GB RAM (whereas most unlocked phones in the $150-200 price range have 3 GB) but the low amount of internal storage (about 8 GB after the OS and other pre-loaded apps are taken into account) doesn't leave much room for storing apps and media.

If running out of storage space has been a problem for you before, or you like to load a lot of photos, music or other media, then the Journey might not be a good choice. There is a MicroSD card slot for up to 32 GB additional external storage.

Camera
We don't see anything too fancy with the camera but it does shoot 5 MP photos with the front camera, and 8 MP images with the rear facing camera. It also comes with autofocus, flash and a handful of other features like 'food mode', 'auto mode' and 'Portrait'. The LG Solo also features the same camera setup.

For video the camera is capable of recording full HD in 1080p.

Battery
With the 3000 mAh non-removable battery the LG Journey will run through the day with a talk time rating of 14 hours and when on standby, 13 days. the combination of a slightly smaller screen and newer operating system lead to the Journey achieving better battery performance compared to the LG Solo.

Android OS
Currently the latest version of the operating system, the LG Journey come with Android 9.0 Pie. This version has a number of visual and performance upgrades over previous versions. It is very good that Tracfone is offering this device with the latest Android version.

It is usually best to have the latest Android OS on your phone for both the security fixes and also to access the latest features and improvements.

Overall Design
The design of the Journey is slim and sleek, following the general tradition of most LG smartphones. It does not have a fingerprint reader unfortunately (which the Solo does include).

Volume and power buttons are located on the side of the phone with the charging and 3.5mm headphone jack on the bottom.

Conclusion
Most budget phones are a trade-off with certain features left out to reduce the cost and the LG Journey certainly cuts corners when it comes to the performance and storage. But otherwise the Journey has a nice, large screen, latest Android version, very adequate photo capabilities and is available from several retailers bundled with airtime for a pretty good price.

For users who don't need the storage or performance, the LG Journey might make a nice upgrade to the LG Rebel or other older devices from Tracfone

Buy the LG Journey with airtime bundle from HSN or QVC for $69

Also find the Journey on the Tracfone website and from BestBuy without airtime.

And take a look at phone tutorials for the Journey and the User Guide.

Let's take a quick look at how it stacks up to a couple of other Tracfone devices.

LG Journey Compared to the LG Solo, LG Rebel 4 and Samsung Galaxy A10e

The LG Rebel 4 was released over a year ago (in 2018) but shares several of the same specs as the LG Journey including the same amount of RAM, storage, and camera megapixel count. They also share the 1.4 Ghz quad-core processor.

The Journey improves on the Rebel with a larger screen, newer Android OS, and newer Bluetooth version.

Looking at the new LG Solo that was just released we see that the Journey has the newer Android (S (9.0 Pie) and newer Bluetooth, but smaller screen and only a quad-core processor to the Solo's octa-core. Otherwise these two phones are very similar.

Compared to the newly released Samsung Galaxy A10e, the Samsung devices as more storage, at 32 GB, the same Android OS (9.0 Pie) and a larger screen. They both have the same amount of RAM and megapixel count for the cameras.

The A10e retails for a bit more, but the extra internal storage and larger screen might be worth it for some.

That concludes our review of the LG Journey from Tracfone. We hope you found it useful and leave a comment with any thoughts or questions.

If you are new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide!

Join us over on Facebook for the latest news and posts or send us a message for more direct help questions.

Take a look at some of our recent posts, including a Guide for Making your Airtime Last Longer and Everything you Need to Know about Data Cards.

And don't miss out on the Black Friday Deals or check our monthly Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales!

Thanks for visiting!

November 12, 2019

LG Solo LTE (L423DL) Tracfone Review

LG Solo Review - Tracfone Smartphone

Welcome to TracfoneReviewer! We share news, reviews and Tracfone promo codes!

Tracofne lg solo
Tracfone LG Solo (L423DL) Review
The LG Solo, released by Tracfone in the fall of 2019, is an Android powered smartphone with a large, 5.7" touchscreen and Octa-core processor. In this review we will share the full list of features and specs, as well as a closer look at some of the important aspects of this phone.

Tracfone offers a variety of smartphones from the top manufactures and it has been about a year since the last LG smartphone became available, the LG Rebel 4, and we will share some interesting comparisons between these devices and where the LG Solo stands.

One area that is concerning with the LG Solo is that it only has 2 GB RAM and 16 GB internal storage. It does have additional storage capability via an external MicroSD card but many consumers are looking to have at least 32 GB storage if not more.

Tracfone continues to follow their trend of releasing a selection of new devices each fall. And we expect several more phones to be released in the near future. We've already seen the Samsung Galaxy A10e debut, which will be compared further on in this review. To keep up with all the new phones coming from Tracfone, see our Latest List of Tracfone Smartphones.

Let's see some of the quick pro's and con's for the LG Solo before we get into the full list of features and specs.

LG Solo LTE Quick Facts

What we Like
Large, 5.7" touchscreen
Octa-core processor (Snapdragon 450)

What we Don't Like
2 GB RAM
16 GB Storage
Android 8.1 Oreo

The lack of internal storage could be a problem for many users as the actual available storage after the Operating System (OS) is installed is closer to 10 GB which can quickly be filled with apps, pictures and music. In fact, one of the negatives for the LG Rebel 4 which we reviewed a year ago was the same lack of storage.

There are several other Tracfone smartphones with 32 GB storage available now including the Moto G6 and Samsung Galaxy A10e.

The LG Solo is a budget smartphone, and as such there will be some corners that have to be cut. But at the current retail price of $119 on the Tracfone website, is this phone worth upgrading to from your current device? Let's look at the full specs to learn more.

Tracfone LG Solo LTE (L423DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features, followed by the technical specs.
  • Android 8.1 Oreo
  • 4G LTE Coverage
  • WiFi
  • GPS
  • Accelerometer
  • Bluetooth 4.2
  • Fingerprint sensor
  • Alarm Clock
  • FM Radio
  • Access to over 1 Million Apps on Google Play Store
  • Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
  • SMS/MMS
LG Solo LTE Technical Specs
  • Size: 6.02'' x 2.83'' x 0.32'' and 5.11 OZ
  • Camera: 8MP Rear Camera (Flash, Autofocus, Burst shot) and 5MP Front Camera
  • Screen: 5.7" HD IPS 1440x720 display
  • Processor: 1.8 Ghz Octa-core (Qualcomm Snapdragon 450)
  • Memory: 2 GB
  • Storage: 16 GB (Up to 2 TB additional storage via Micro SD card)
  • Battery: 3000 mAh (n0n-removable) with 12hrs talk time, 10 days standby
The manufacturer of the Solo LTE is one of the largest electronics companies in the world with cell phones one of their strengths. LG has a variety of different phones ranging from budget to flagship and a number of them are compatible with the Tracfone BYOP program (such as the new, LG G8).

Looking through the specs on the Solo we see some nice improvements over previous LG models including the larger, IPS touchscreen and octa-core processor. However, a number of the specs, such as the RAM, ROM, battery and camera don't appear to be a significant improvement over last years models such as the Rebel 4.

Let's get into the full review to find out.

Tracfone LG Solo LTE Review

Touchscreen
Starting off with one of the key features on the Solo, the touchscreen is a 5.7" IPS HD display with rich, bright colors. It has a resolution of 1440x720 with a pixel density of about 282 which means the display is sharp and clear.

Most smartphones are moving towards larger screens by increasing the vertical size of the phone but not changing the width and the LG Solo follows this trend. Overall the screen is a nice feature on the Solo.

Internal Specs - RAM, Memory, Processor
There's some good news and some bad news when it comes to the internal specs and let's start with the good.

The Solo comes with a Snapdragon 450 1.8 Ghz Octa-core processor which can handle a wide variety of tasks and functions without much of a problem on most apps or games.

However, the bad news is the Solo only has 2 GB RAM and 16 GB internal storage. Most other smartphones from Tracfone also only have 2 GB RAM (whereas most unlocked phones in the $150-200 price range have 3 GB) but the low amount of internal storage (about 10 GB after the OS and other pre-loaded apps are taken into account) doesn't leave much room for storing apps and media.

The bottom line is, if you already have a phone with 16 GB internal storage and are running low, the Solo might not be a good choice. There is a MicroSD card slot for up to 2 TB additional external storage.

Camera
We don't see anything too fancy with the camera but it does shoot 5 MP photos with the front camera, and 8 MP images with the rear facing camera. It also comes with autofocus, flash and a handful of other features like 'food mode' and 'auto mode'.

For video the camera is capable of recording full HD in 1080p.

Battery
With the 3000 mAh non-removable battery the LG Solo will run through the day with low to moderate usage although the performance compared to other devices like the Moto G6 is not quite as good. This is likely due to the large screen and the older operating system which does not include certain battery saving technology.

Android OS
In a bit of a disappointment the LG Solo only comes with Android 8.1 Oreo. This version has been out for more than a year and it is unlikely Tracfone would update the OS. Several other Tracfone devices either come with Android 9.0 or were upgraded to 9.0.

It is usually best to have the latest Android OS on your phone for both the security fixes and also to access the latest features and improvements.

Overall Design
The design of the Solo follows what we have seen from most other LG devices with a slim and sleek build. It features a fingerprint reader, plus fast charging capability.

Conclusion
Most budget phones are a trade-off with certain features left out to reduce the cost but the LG Solo seems to cut corners in a few too many ways to justify the cost. The low amount of internal storage makes it less useful for most users, while the outdated operating system means less features.

For the cost, it is hard to recommend the LG Solo LTE.

View the LG Solo LTE on the Tracfone website for $119 $99

It is also available from Target for $109

Find more details about the Solo with the phone tutorials and user manual.

Let's take a quick look at how it stacks up to a couple of other Tracfone devices.

LG Solo Vs. LG Rebel 4 Vs. Samsung Galaxy A10e Comparison

The LG Rebel 4 was released over a year ago (in 2018) but shares several of the same specs as the LG Solo including the same amount of RAM, storage, and camera megapixel count, the same Android Operating System version (8.1 Oreo) and the same Bluetooth version.

The Solo does have an improved processor, and larger screen, but otherwise we don't see many differences or upgrades from the older, LG Rebel 4.

Compared to the newly released Samsung Galaxy A10e, the Samsung devices as more storage, at 32 GB, newer Android OS (9.0 Pie) and a slightly larger screen. They both have the same amount of RAM and megapixel count for the cameras.

The A10e retailed for a little more, but the extra internal storage and newer OS version are worth it in our book.

That concludes our review of the LG Solo LTE from Tracfone. We hope you found it useful and leave a comment with any thoughts or questions.

If you are new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide!

Join us over on Facebook for the latest news and posts or send us a message for more direct help questions.

Take a look at some of our recent posts, including a Guide for Making your Airtime Last Longer and Everything you Need to Know about Data Cards.

And don't miss out on the best Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales!

Thanks for visiting!