Motorola’s Edge series has carved a niche for itself in the competitive mid-range smartphone market, offering balanced performance and clean software at an attractive price point. The Edge 40 Neo carries this torch forward, boasting a vibrant design, a capable camera system, and long battery life. But does it stand out in an increasingly crowded field? Let’s dive in and explore the phone’s strengths and weaknesses.
Design That Pops:
The Edge 40 Neo immediately grabs attention with its unique design. Available in four Pantone-approved colors, including the calming “Peach Fuzz” and the sleek “Black Beauty,” the phone exudes a modern and sophisticated feel. The curved “Endless Edge” pOLED display adds a touch of elegance, while the back panel, crafted from either vegan leather or acrylic depending on the color, feels premium. It’s a phone that’s sure to turn heads.
Display Delight:
The 6.55-inch pOLED display is a visual treat. Its FHD+ resolution delivers sharp visuals, and the 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and gameplay. Watching movies and playing games on this display is an absolute pleasure. The display also supports HDR10 content, further enhancing the viewing experience.
Performance Punch:
Under the hood, the Edge 40 Neo packs the MediaTek Dimensity 7030 processor, coupled with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM. This combination provides solid everyday performance, handling most tasks with ease. Multitasking is smooth, and even demanding games run reasonably well. While not a powerhouse, the phone delivers enough oomph for most users.
Camera Capable:
The triple-camera system on the back consists of a 50MP main sensor, an ultrawide sensor, and a depth sensor. In good lighting conditions, the main sensor captures detailed and vibrant photos. The ultrawide sensor is decent, but low-light performance could be better. The front-facing 32MP camera is great for selfies and video calls.
Battery Beast:
The Edge 40 Neo boasts a massive 5000mAh battery, and it shows. With moderate usage, the phone can easily last a full day, and even heavy users will likely reach the evening with juice to spare. The 68W TurboPower charging further sweetens the deal, offering a quick top-up when needed.
Software Serenity:
Motorola continues its tradition of offering near-stock Android on the Edge 40 Neo. This means a clean, bloatware-free experience and timely updates. The phone ships with Android 13 and is promised two years of OS updates and three years of security patches, ensuring you stay up-to-date and protected.
The Not-So-Good:
While the Edge 40 Neo has a lot to offer, it’s not without its shortcomings. The lack of a headphone jack might be a dealbreaker for some, and the plastic build, despite the premium feel of the back panel, might not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the camera system, while decent, isn’t class-leading, and the lack of optical zoom might be a concern for photography enthusiasts.
Verdict:
The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is a solid mid-range contender with a beautiful design, a vibrant display, and long battery life. The clean software experience and powerful performance make it a compelling option for users who prioritize value and simplicity. However, the lack of a headphone jack, plastic build, and average camera system might deter some buyers. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your priorities and budget. If you seek a stylish and capable phone with a unique design and clean software, the Edge 40 Neo is definitely worth considering.
