Top Performance without Breaking the Bank: Motorola Moto Edge+ (2023)
Many smartphones claim outstanding capabilities for less than $1,000, but few can compete with the Motorola Moto Edge+ (2023). Now priced at an impressive $399.99, down from its original $649.99, this unlocked phone is at its most affordable ever, according to price-monitoring services. Such a significant reduction represents an excellent opportunity for a device that PCMag has chosen as an Editor’s Choice. It features an elegant Interstellar Black finish, 8GB of RAM, and a robust 512GB storage capacity. The phone’s aesthetic shines through with its curved edges surrounding an impressive 6.7-inch nearly bezel-less display along with a matte Gorilla Glass Victus back, designed for enhanced grip and minimal fingerprints. Additionally, it carries an IP68 rating, protecting it against moisture and dust.

In terms of performance, this device excels across various applications, thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. Routine tasks are handled with ease, multitasking is seamless, and even graphically demanding games such as Genshin Impact are playable, albeit not at the highest settings. The screen refresh rate of 165Hz enhances scrolling and makes gaming more engaging. However, the display resolution, while effective, falls short of sharpness compared to higher-end screens (1080p, pOLED with 395ppi); users transitioning from devices like the Pixel 7 Pro might notice this difference. Still, the brightness (up to 1300 nits) and vibrant colors make for an enjoyable viewing experience. Although there is no headphone jack, the stereo speakers provide impressive sound quality, and with Bluetooth 5.3 support, connecting to wireless headphones is hassle-free. The call quality impresses with strong 5G and 4G signal reception across major U.S. networks.
The camera system on the Motorola Moto Edge+ is noteworthy as well. Featuring a 60MP front camera for high-quality selfies, it is complemented by a rear camera trio consisting of a 50MP wide, 50MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto lens that excel in producing crisp images and stable 4K or 8K video recording. With tools like Night Vision, a Pro mode, and an efficient portrait mode, capturing stunning shots is straightforward. Coupled with Motorola’s user-friendly Android interface, engaging gesture controls (My UX), and enterprise-grade ThinkShield security, this phone meets the demands of both everyday users and business professionals. Although its display resolution isn’t the highest available, it stands out as one of the top choices among flagship Android smartphones currently on the market.