Moto G Pure (XT2163DL) Review

Moto G Pure (XT2163DL) Review

The Moto G Pure comes with a large, 6.5" screen, Android version (11) and solid overall  features for a budget smartphone. 

The Pure, released at the end of 2021, also has a very affordable price which makes it even more enticing. But there is competition from another great budget device, the Moto G Play, which was also released at the beginning of 2021, and has many of the same features, but a few key differences. 

If the Pure is intended to replace the Play, is it worth it? We'll include a look at which of these two devices is better, in this full review of the Moto G Pure from Tracfone.

Don't forget to keep up with all the latest smartphones released from Tracfone to know what is newly available.

Now, let's look at the pro's and con's list:

Moto G Pure Quick Facts
What we Like:
-Large screen
-Latest Android OS
-Great price (under $100)

What we Don't Like:
-MediaTek processor
-Base-level internal storage and RAM

For a budget phone to be useable for most people, it generally needs at least 32 GB internal space and 3 GB RAM and the Moto G Pure brings those base numbers at a sub $100 price. 

The updated Android 11 OS is also a good feature, but the downside to this smartphone is the mediocre MediaTek processor. How does the Pure stack up, especially compared to the Moto G Play it seems to be replacing? Let's look closer at the full specs and features:

Tracfone Moto G Pure (XT2163DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs

• Android 11
• 4G LTE compatible (Verizon)
• Access to the Google Play Store with over 1 Million Apps
• WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
• GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO
• Bluetooth 5
• Alarm Clock
• MP3 Player
• Standard 3.5mm headphone jack
• Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
• SMS/MMS
• USB Type-C 2.0 connection
• USB Charger (10W Fast Charging)
• Fingerprint reader
• Water-repellent coating
• Hearing Aid Compatible

Moto G Pure (XT2163DL) Specs
Size: 6.59 x 2.98 x 0.35 in (6.63 oz)
Camera: Dual rear camera - 13 MP main camera, 2 MP depth sensor. 5 MP front camera
Screen: 6.5" HD touchscreen with 720x1600 resolution (270 ppi)
Processor: Octa-core (MediaTek MT6762G Helio G25) Processor
Memory: 3 GB
Storage: 32 GB and dedicated MicroSDXC card slot
Battery: 4,000 mAh with about 36 hrs usage time (non-removable)

Motorola was originally 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.

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, that has continued with now a large lineup of Moto G phones released every 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 Power is also available unlocked and can be used with any service provider.

Based on the specs sheet, the Moto G Pure will continue this trend but let's take a closer look in our full review

Tracfone Moto G Pure Review (XT2163DL)

Touchscreen
A generous 6.5" IPS LCD screen comes with the Moto G Pure with a resolution of 720x1600 and ratio of 20:9. The pixel density is 270 ppi which is to be expected from a budget phone. More expensive devices typically have full HD screens with 350 ppi and up, which delivers a sharper, clearer image. But the screen on the Pure is adequate and the colors and brightness are both good for watching videos and more.

The top of the screen has a center notch for the front facing camera.

Performance - Storage, RAM and Processor
The Moto G Pure comes with the base level amount of RAM and storage for a phone to still be useable for most people these days with 3 GB RAM and 32 GB internal storage. This allows for reasonably good performance overall and enough storage to hold a variety of apps and media. There is also a dedicated MicroSD card slot for additional storage.

The MediaTek Helio G25 Octa-core processor in the Pure is definitely a corner Motorola cut to keep the cost down. It's performance is acceptable for most activities, including gaming, but users may experience some lag and other issues.

It is surprising that the somewhat older, Moto G Play (2021) features a better processor in the form of the Snapdragon 460. It delivers better performance, better battery life, and also benefits form most developers optimizing games for Snapdragon processors. For those looking for a device for gaming and other resource intensive activities, it would be better to look at a more robust device. 

Camera
A dual rear camera at 13 MP and 2 MP is featured as the main shooter on the Pure along with a 5 MP front facing camera. They capture adequate images, and even offer portrait mode thanks to the depth sensor, but don't expect too much form them, especially in low light conditions. Both the front and rear facing cameras can shoot full HD video.

Check out our Smartphone Photography Tips to get the most from any cell phone camera!

Battery Life
Long battery life continues to be a standard for Motorola devices and the Pure has almost 2 days of life on a single charge thanks to the 4,000 mAh non-removable battery. 

Android OS
A highlight of the Pure is the Android 11 OS it comes with which is the latest version at this time. Tracfone will sometimes update older models when a new OS version is available, but they are inconsistent and it is best to look for devices that already come with the latest version.

Android 11 brings a number of new features as well as security and efficiency improvements. Some of the features include chat bubbles, screen record function, and improved media controls.

The Moto G Play, by comparison, has Android 10. But it may get an upgrade to 11 in the future.

Design
The overall design is quite good for the pure, with a higher than average screen to body ratio of 80% compared to other low-end devices. There is some empty space at the top and bottom of the device. On the back is the fingerprint reader, which is a nice feature to have. The bottom of the device has the speaker, charging port (USB Type-C 2) and 3.5mm headphone jack. 

The Pure also comes with Bluetooth 5 for connecting to other devices. 

While the construction is all plastic for the Moto G Pure, it is still feels solid and features a water repellant coating. We still recommend a cover or case to help protect it from any possible drops or falls.

Conclusion
The Moto G Pure has all the basics covered that most users want from a budget phone. It has the latest Android OS, Enough performance to handle daily use, and battery life for up to two days.

And at under $100 from Tracfone it is hard to beat as a low cost device.

That being said, for users who want a good camera, or want more storage for additional apps, consider spending a little more and give this device a pass.

Moto G Play VS Moto G Pure
The Moto G Pure is undeniable similar to the slightly older Moto G Play. They share the same storage, RAM, and screen. They have very similar form factor, and almost the same cameras (the Play has slightly wider aperture). Where they differ is the Play has the better Snapdragon 460 processor and a larger, 5,000 mAh battery, and the Pure has the newer Android OS.

It is a close call, but we would actually suggest the Moto G Pure, because it is currently available for a little less than the Play.

For those who want a little more performance and battery life, the Play is a good option. But it may be worthwhile to go with something even more powerful, like the Moto G Power or Stylus, for just under $200.

Where to Buy the Tracfone Moto G Pure

The Pure is available from a variety of online retailers:

Get the Moto G Pure on Amazon
Find the Moto G Pure with airtime bundle on HSN
View the Moto G Pure on eBay
Buy the Moto G Pure with airtime bundle on QVC

For a little more flexibility, there is also the unlocked version of the Moto G Pure available on Amazon but it is more expensive. It can be used with almost any network provider.

For additional information see the Moto G Pure User Manual and Device Tutorials.

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.


Thanks for visiting!

Moto G Power 2022 (XT2165DL) Review

Tracfone Moto G Power 2022 Review

Tracfone Moto G Power 2022 Review, Specs and User Manual

The 2022 Motorola Moto G Power features a 6.5" HD touchscreen, 64 GB internal storage, 4 GB RAM, and octa-core processor. It also runs Android 11 and has a 50 MP rear camera.

Long battery life is one of the things that the Moto G Power line is known for and the 2022 version brings a 5,000 mAh battery that will last for several days on a single charge. 

The Moto G Power 2022 was first released at the end of February 2022, and available on Tracfone a few months later.  Will the 2022 version be a good replacement for previews versions? And how will it compare to other devices from Tracfone? We'll cover all of that here in this full review.

Don't forget to keep up with all the latest smartphones released from Tracfone to know what is newly available.

Let's start with the pro's and con's for the 2022 Power.

What we Like:
-Long Battery Life
-90hz refresh rate on screen
-Budget Friendly Price

What we Don't Like:
-Not an upgrade over previous models
-Mediocre Processor
-720p screen

The updated Power comes with plenty of internal storage and memory, but as we'll look into more closely later on, the processor seems to hold the phone back from being a top performer. 

The new phone does, however, boost the refresh rate on the screen up to 90hz which is a nice improvement and overall this phone is already available at a very reasonable price. 

Tracfone Moto G Power 2022 (XT2165DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs

• Android 11
• 4G LTE compatible (Verizon)
• Access to the Google Play Store with over 1 Million Apps
• WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
• GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO
• Bluetooth 5
• Alarm Clock
• MP3 Player
• Standard 3.5mm headphone jack
• Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
• SMS/MMS
• USB Type-C 2.0 connection
• USB Charger (10W Fast Charging)
• Sensors: Fingerprint, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer
• Water-repellent coating
• Hearing Aid Compatible

Moto G Power 2022 (XT2165DL) Specs
Size: 6.58 x 3.01 x 0.37 in (7.16 oz)
Camera: Triple Rear Camera - 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 2 MP (depth), 2 MP (macro), 8 MP front camera
Screen: 6.5" HD touchscreen with 720x1600 resolution (270 ppi)
Processor: Octa-core (MediaTek Helio G37) Processor
Memory: 4 GB
Storage: 64 GB and dedicated MicroSDXC card slot
Battery: 5,000 mAh with about 36 hrs usage time (non-removable)

Motorola was originally 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.

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, that has continued with now a large lineup of Moto G phones released every 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 Power is also available unlocked and can be used with any service provider.

While not all the specs are the most impressive on this version of the Power, it is available at a very reasonable price and we will  take a closer look in our full review.

Tracfone Moto G Power 2022 Review

Touchscreen
The 6.5" touchscreen is a great size for many who like to watch videos or view other media from their phone and the Moto G Power also features a fast, 90hz refresh rate. But the screen itself is only 1600x720 (same resolution as last year's model) and has some sizeable side and bottom borders on the screen which leads to just a 79% screen to body ratio. The Samsung Galaxy A12, by comparison, has the same size screen, same resolution, but a higher screen to body ratio (meaning smaller bezels).

Overall screen performance on the 2022 Power is good, but don't expect too much from it as the overall brightness and color quality are average.

Front, side and rear of the Moto G Power 2022

Performance - Processor, RAM and Storage
Motorola had to cut some corners to keep the price low and unfortunately one major area was the processor on this year's Power. It comes with a MediaTek Helio P37 which is an octa-core processor. But the performance is actually lower compared to the Snapdragon processors in the 2020 and 2021 Moto G Power models. You also get the same amount of RAM and Storage is the past two version (4 GB RAM, 64 GB internal storage). 

So for those who have a 2020 or 2021 Power, is it worth the upgrade? For the performance alone, no, the older versions of the Power have better processors. Some slight stuttering and lag on the 2022 Power are indications of the underperforming processor. This 'step backwards' as many are calling it will certainly be the main reason many will skip the Power. With all that said, however, the processor is still very usable for most tasks on a smartphone and for low to moderate users, it will be more than adequate. 

Camera
On the rear of the phone is a triple camera setup with a main, 50 MP shooter, 2 MP Macro and 2 MP Depth. The macro and depth sensors are not that useful, but the main camera captures decent photos in good lighting. The front selfie camera is 8 MP and can also handle images well enough to share with friends on social media. 

Video can be captured at 1080p 30fps on the front or rear cameras but it tends to be shaky even with stabilization turned on. There is no 4K video capture available on this device.

Battery
One of the best features on the Moto G Power is the large, 5,000 mAh battery which gives all day, and even up to 3 days of life from a single charge. Getting away from the days of charging your phone every few hours is just fine with us. 

Charging up the battery does take a few hours, and uses a standard USB Type-C 2.0 cord.

Android OS
The 2022 Power does feature Android 11 which includes a number of performance and security improvements over past versions. Motorola is expected to provide an update to Android 12 at some point in the future. 

Some of the more interesting features include a built in screen recorder, more useful power button menu, and the ability to access notification history.

Check out our List of the Best Apps to use on Android.

Design
The Power's all-plastic design doesn't feel as cheap as it is and it actually has a nice texture on the rear panel. The back is also where the fingerprint reader is located which has a good response and unlocks the device quickly. The power and volume buttons are both are the right side of the phone and while the top has the 3.5mm headphone jack. The charging port is on the bottom along with the speaker.

This is a budget phone and as such it has a more 'bulky' look and feel to it. 

Conclusion
The 2022 Power is a good device for light to moderate use and can provide excellent battery life. And that is all at a very reasonable price for such a new device.

But, for users looking for the power that previous models brought to the table, this new version doesn't follow the trend and actually takes a step backwards in terms of performance. If performance is a concern, consider the Moto G Stylus 2021 from Tracfone, or even the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G.

The Moto G Power 2022 is not a bad phone, and actually has a lot of great features for a low price. But compared to past models, and other current options, it is not a significant upgrade.

Moto G Power 2022 VS 2020 and 2021 Models

The 2022 Power shares many of the same or similar features to the 2021 Power including similar screen size and resolution, camera, storage and RAM. The main difference is the better snapdragon processor in the 2021 model, and the 90hz fast screen refresh rate in the 2022 model.

Rather surprisingly, the 2020 Power actually has higher resolution screen, and more powerful processor compared to the 2022 version.

So if you already have the 2020 or 2021 Moto G Power, there's not much of a reason to upgrade to the 2022 model. And if you're shopping for one of these three devices, the 2021 or 2020 models have the more powerful processor.

Where to Buy the Moto G Power 2022 from Tracfone

The Moto G Power 2022 is available from several different online sources at the moment, but it is already discounted to under $100 which is a great deal.

Get the Tracfone Moto G Power (2022) with airtime bundle on HSN
Get the Tracfone Moto G Power (2022) with airtime bundle on QVC
Get the Tracfone Moto G Power (2022) from Amazon
Get the Tracfone Moto G Power (2022) from Tracfone

(the Amazon listing says it is the 2021 model, but all the specs and photos match it to the 2022 model)

Moto G Power 2022 User Manual and Device Tutorials

Get the most from your phone with the Moto G Power User Manual and Device Tutorials from Tracfone.

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.


Thanks for visiting!

Samsung Galaxy A13 5G (S136DL) Review

Samsung Galaxy A13 5G Specs, Features and Review

Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A13 5G Specs, Features and Review

One of the cheapest 5G capable devices from Tracfone, the Galaxy A13 5G also features  a 6.5" screen, triple rear camera, 4 GB RAM and 64 GB internal storage. 

To make the most of Tracfone's 5G network access, consumers will need phones that are compatible with the updated frequencies and speeds. And Samsung has been releasing a number of compatible devices, including the Galaxy A32 5G last year, and recently the A53 5G. But the A13 5G is the first device that features a sub $200 price.

The A13 is the successor of last year's A12, which was a solid performing budget device. But the big news is the 5G capability on the A13. Until now, most 5G capable phones for Tracfone (or even unlocked) have been outside the price range of most users..

Let's get straight to our pro's and con's for the A13.

Samsung Galaxy A13 5G Quick Facts

What we Like:
-5G capable for under $200
-Large battery and 15W fast charging
-Fast screen refresh rate
-Good internal performance

What we Don't Like:
-Screen resolution is just 720p
-No water or dust protection mentioned
-Mediocre camera

Many of the features on the A13 are a great improvement over the previous model including the processor, internal storage, RAM, screen refresh rate and 5G capability.

Let's get to the full list of features and specs.

Samsung Galaxy A13 5G (S136DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs

• Android 11 (upgrade to Android 12 likely)
• 5G (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 (USB Type-C 2.0)
• Compatible with Samsung Gear Smartwatches
• Facial recognition for unlocking
• Fingerprint sensor

Samsung Galaxy A13 5G Technical Specs
Size: 6.48 x 3.01 x 0.35 in (6.88 oz)
Camera: Triple rear camera 50+2+2MP and 5MP front camera
Screen: 6.5" HD PLS IPS display (720x1600 resolution)
Processor: Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) MediaTek Dimensity 700 

Memory: 4 GB
Storage: 64 GB internal storage, supports up to 512 GB MicroSD Card
Battery: 5,000 mAh battery (non-removable) with talk time up to 34 hrs, standby 16 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, like the Samsung Galaxy S22, a contender for some of the best phones in the world.

The Galaxy A13 5G 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 Samsung's UI changes. But a budget phone will have to cut some corners, and we will dive into that below.

Now let's get into the details with our review of the A13.

Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A13 5G Review

Touchscreen

Adequate is the best way to describe the 6.5" PLS-LCD screen on the A13. It is not a Super AMOLED screen (like the one on the A53 5G), but it offers a 720x1600 resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. The screen features 270 ppi and a 20:9 ratio. 

In general, this screen is fairly similar to many phones in this price range. It is not the brightest, especially compared to more expensive models, but gets the job done. We would have liked to see higher resolution, but at this price point it is hard to expect it. 

Internal Performance - Processor, RAM and Storage

The MediaTek Dimensity 700 processor is a fast mid-range processor with 5G capability. It features two fast cores, and six power efficient cores. It is a very capable budget to mid-range processor and we're impressed it is included with the A13 at this price.

To complement the processor, the Tracfone Galaxy A13 also has 4 GB RAM and 64 GB internal storage with additional external storage via a microSD card. 

The processor and 5G capability might be one of the most impressive features on the A13 and is more than capable for everyday tasks and gaming. While it is not a top of the line processor, it is a big step up from the MediaTek Processors in the A12, and in several 2022 Motorola Moto G devices (Moto G Power and Stylus). 

Overall the perform acing of the A13 is an improvement over the previous model, and a step up from many similarly priced smartphones currently available. 

Camera

The main camera on the triple rear shooter setup is a 50MP lens that offers good results in normal lighting. There is also a 2MP macro camera, and 2MP depth sensor for portrait style photos. Images from the main camera are adequate for most uses, and don't really standout compared to other phones at this level. Low light and night-time shooting situations may cause the camera to struggle. 

The selfie camera is nothing inspiring, with just 5MP it captures adequate images. Both the front and rear cameras are capable of 1080p at 30fps video recording.

For better photos, check out our list of camera phone photo tips.

Battery Life

Users can expect all day battery life from the A13 thanks to the 5,000 mAh battery and efficient processor. With light use, this device could easily last up to 2 days on a single charge. 

It does come with 15W fast charging, but be aware that it might not come with a charging block as Samsung has cut that from this year's models. 

Android OS

The A13 5G comes with Android 11 out of the box which includes some great features such as improved permissions controls and built in screen recording.  The 13 is expected to get Android 12 very soon, and Samsung has promised several security and OS updates in the future. How that will work with a Tracfone branded device is not quite clear.

Grab the best apps for Tracfone users in our full list.

Design

At this price point, plastic is the primary material and the Galaxy A13 5G is no exception. It offers a pretty similar design experience to the previous model the A12, with moderate bezels on the front and a tear-drop style selfie camera. The dual power button and fingerprint reader is quite nice and snappy, and the A13 also includes a standard 3.5mm headphone jack.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy A13 5G covers all the basics for a good, cheap smartphone. The processor, RAM and storage are all a solid combination that provide more than enough performance for most Tracfone users. The screen and cameras are nothing exciting, but adequate and on par with other devices in this price range. 

The major feature for the A13 is the 5G capability. And while 5G networks are still somewhat limited, it does help future proof this phone while also allowing users in certain areas to take advantage.

Samsung's newly released Galaxy A23 5G may be a very attractive option for those considering the A13. The A23 comes with a far superior screen with much higher resolution, features a more powerful processor, and improved cameras. And all of that for just $50 more than the retail price of the A13.

Bottom line - for the price of under $200 from Tracfone - the A13 5G is hard to beat. But for a little more money, there are several other interesting option that offer more, especially the A23 5G (see more options below).

A13 5G Vs A03s

The Samsung Galaxy A03s is the ultra-budget option from Tracfone and shares the same size screen and battery with the A13. But the A03s has less RAM (3GB), less storage (32GB), less powerful processor, less megapixels on the rear camera, and no 5G access. 

The Galaxy A03s is under $100, and sometimes closer to $50, but we would only suggest it to users who hardly do more than talk or text with their phone, and maybe a few social media apps. The Galaxy A13 5G is far more capable for about $100 more (although we've already seen the A13 for just $100 on Amazon Prime Day).

A13 5G Vs A53 5G

Tracfone just released the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G and it comes at a surprisingly reasonable price of under $300. At that price you get quite a few more features. For users that like Samsung, and like plenty of internal storage and a powerful processor, the A53 5G may be worth spending the extra money on. It has a 120Hz Super AMOLED 6.5" screen, Android 12, quad-rear camera, IP\67 waterproof rating, and improved performance. 

There will always be something better, the question is, is it worth it? For some, the added features at just about $100 more for the A53 5G will certainly be worth it. But, if you are not a power user, the A13 should check all the required boxes.

A13 5G Vs Moto G Power (2022)

The Moto G Power 2022 shares a number of similar features with the A13 such as RAM, storage, screen size, Android OS and price. But the A13 comes with a much more powerful processor that also has 5G capability. The 2022 Power has been somewhat lackluster, and the A13 5G would likely be a better buy for most users.

Motorola devices do come with a much cleaner OS, where as Samsung adds in their own UI, so for those that prefer to avoid excess apps and software changes, Motorola is still a good option (just maybe consider some of their other smartphones).

That's it for our review of the A13 5G. It is an impressive phone for the price, and below are the best shopping options to find it for the lowest prices.

Where to Buy the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G

Get the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G on eBay

Find the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G on the Tracfone Website

Get the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G on Amazon

The best deals are usually with an airtime bundle included. The lowest price we've seen for the A13 was $99 on Amazon prime day. 

Samsung Galaxy A13 User Manual and Devices Tutorials

Get the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G User Manual to learn more about the device.

View the Device tutorials to see how to do various actions on the phone.

That concludes our review of the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G. Please leave a comment below with your 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.

Thanks for visiting!

Moto G Stylus 2022 (XT2211DL) Review

 Tracfone Moto G Stylus 2022 Review, Specs and Features

Tracfone Moto G Stylus 2022 (XT2211DL)

With a 6.8" 90Hz touchscreen, 128 GB internal storage and 50 MP rear camera, the 2022 Stylus by Motorola packs in lots of great features. It also comes with Android 11, Octa-core processor and 6 GB RAM.

The Moto G Stylus line has been very popular for several years, not just for the detachable stylus, but for the large screen and great value. The Tracfone version doesn't disappoint with a sub-$200 price from many sources. It is the 'step up' from the Moto G Power line (like the Moto G Power 2022), which usually strikes a balance between performance and affordability.

The unlocked 2022 Stylus was first released in February 2022, and eventually released by Tracfone for their network in mid-2022. 

Let's get straight to our pro's and con's for the Stylus.

Moto G Stylus 2022 (XT2211DL) Quick Facts

What we Like:
-Large, full HD screen
-90Hz screen refresh rate
-Lots of internal storage/RAM
-Responsive fingerprint reader

What we Don't Like:
-Mediocre processor
-Slow charging speed
-No 5G
-Not a big upgrade over previous models

Motorola made an interesting decision to go with the cheaper, and somewhat less powerful, MediaTek Helio G88 processor for the Stylus. This was likely to keep the price down, but may be also motivated by the fact that Motorola recently released the Stylus 5G 2022, which comes with a more powerful snapdragon processor (and a higher price tag), but many of the same other features..

5G networks are still fairly limited, and likely won't be fully implemented for a number of years, but it still is a feature we would have expected to see, along with a more powerful processor. (Learn more about What 5G is, or find out more about Tracfone's 5G network coverage and maps)

Time for the full break down of features and specs on the Stylus.

Tracfone Moto G Stylus 2022 (XT2211DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs

• Android 11 (Upgrade to Android 12 sometime in the future likely)
• 4G LTE compatible (Verizon)
• Access to the Google Play Store with over 1 Million Apps
• WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
• GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO
• Bluetooth 5
• Alarm Clock
• MP3 Player
• Standard 3.5mm headphone jack
• Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
• SMS/MMS
• USB Type-C 2.0 connection
• USB Charger (10W Fast Charging)
• Sensors: Fingerprint, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer
• Water-repellent coating
• Hearing Aid Compatible

Moto G Stylus 2022 (XT2211DL) Specs
Size: 6.70 x 2.99 x 0.37 in (7.62 oz)
Camera: Triple Rear Camera - 50 MP (wide), 8 MP (ultrawide), 2 MP (depth), 16 MP front camera
Screen: 6.8" full HD touchscreen with 1080x2460 resolution (396 ppi)
Processor: 2.0 Ghz Octa-core (MediaTek Helio G88) Processor
Memory: 6 GB
Storage: 128 GB and dedicated MicroSDXC card slot
Battery: 5,000 mAh with about 37 hrs usage time (non-removable)

Motorola was originally 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.

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, that has continued with now a large lineup of Moto G phones released every 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 Power is also available unlocked and can be used with any service provider.

Time to take a closer look at all the features on this year's Stylus.

Tracfone Moto G Stylus 2022 Review

Touchscreen

The 6.8" IPS LCD screen on the Stylus has a 90Hz refresh rate and full HD resolution of 1080x2460. This gives the device a pixel density of about 396 ppi, which leads to a nice, sharp screen. The phone also has a pretty good screen-to-body ratio of about 84%, which just means the bezels are relatively small, especially compared to the 2022 Moto G Power, which had a 79% ratio.

The screen looks very good overall, and operates well with the included stylus. In direct sunlight, it does struggle a little to be bright enough, which is pretty typical for devices in this price range. The saturation and colors on the Stylus look very good, and make any images or videos also seem colorful and vibrant.

Performance - Processor, RAM and Storage

The 2022 Stylus comes with 128 GB internal storage and 6 GB RAM as well as a MediaTek Helio G88 octa-core processor. While the storage and RAM are both great features, the processor is a little underperforming.

If the internal storage isn't enough, there is also a dedicated MicroSD card slot in the SIM tray for even more storage. 

The 6 GB RAM included on the Stylus does a lot to help with multitasking and resource intensive apps. 

Motorola opted to cut some corners by including the MediaTek G88 processor in the 2022 Stylus. While the processor does handle most apps, web browsing and games well, it is just not as performance oriented as some of the processors in past Motorola devices. The 2021 Stylus, by comparison, has the Snapdragon 678, which outperforms the Helio G88 in most areas. The 2022 Stylus does handle almost all tasks very well, but for those upgrading from an older Stylus model, keep this in mind.

For those that want the higher performance, the Moto G Stylus 2022 5G (coming soon to Tracfone) has the Snapdragon 695 5G, which outperforms the Helio G88 by quite a lot, and features 5G capabilities.

Camera

The triple rear camera setup consists of a 50 MP main lens, 8 MP ultrawide lens and 2 MP depth sensor. On the front is a 16 MP selfie camera. Images and video from the rear camera are both adequate, and have nice colors. The ultrawide lens is a great feature, although the image quality isn't quite as the main camera.

For video, the Stylus only has 1080p at 30 FPS. It would have been nice to see some additional features, such as 60 FPS, but we don't get that here.

Get our 8 Simple Tips for Better Cell Phone Photos!

Battery

Long battery life is a favorite feature on Motorola devices and the 2022 Stylus does not disappoint with a 5,000 mAh battery that easily lasts all day with moderate usage. With gaming or video usage, you might find it goes through the battery a bit faster because of the large screen.

It will take quite a bit of time to recharge the Stylus because it only has 10W fast charging so plan to leave it on the charger for several hours. This is a minor inconvenience, but when many of Motorola's older phones can charge much more quickly, we're surprised to see this downgrade. 

Android OS
The 2022 Stylus does feature Android 11 which includes a number of performance and security improvements over past versions. Motorola is expected to provide an update to Android 12 at some point in the future. 

Some of the more interesting features include a built in screen recorder, more useful power button menu, and the ability to access notification history.

Check out our List of the Best Apps to use on Android.

Design

The all-plastic back and sides on the Stylus keep it just short of feeling like a premium phone, but it is very sleek and well designed (other than the bump-out for the rear cameras).

On the bottom of the phone are the 3.5mm headphone jack, USB Type-C charging port, and solo speaker. There is also the small port for the stylus, which 'clicks' in or out of it's storage location. It generally stays pretty secure when stored away and the feel and weight of it is great for drawing or adding notes.

The volume rocker and power button are on the right side. 

The integrated power button/fingerprint reader on the side of the phone works well and is snappy most of the time when reading the fingerprint. It seems to be a more convenient location vs the back of the phone on tome of Motorola's older devices.

We would suggest at least a simple plastic or rubber case to help protect the device. The phone does have a water repellent coating, but there's no mention of gorilla glass protection for the screen.

Conclusion - Should You Buy? (Plus Other Options)

The 2022 Stylus is a solid device overall and one of the cheapest options with a large, full HD screen and stylus. Plus, the Tracfone version is already over $100 cheaper than the unlocked device. There is plenty of internal storage and RAM, and the processor performs just fine for the majority of everyday tasks.

For some, however, the Stylus may be one to skip, especially for those looking for 5G network capability, or a powerful processor for heavy gaming or other resource intensive apps. Those who already have the 2020 or 2021 Stylus may also consider skipping the 2022 Stylus, or opting for the 2022 Stylus 5G (coming to Tracfone soon).

The Samsung Galaxy A13 5G offers somewhat similar features and price (although less RAM, storage and screen resolution) but comes with 5G network capability and may be a worthwhile option to consider, particularly for users who want 5G, and are looking to keep the price low.

The Galaxy A53 5G offers even more than the Stylus, with a beautiful Super AMOLED HD screen, powerful processor with 5G network capability, IP67 protection and more. It is available from Tracfone for just about $100 more than the Stylus.

For those that don't need the extra internal storage or stylus, the 2022 Moto G Power is a modest but solid device that can be found from Tracfone for around $100.

Finally, for some users the unlocked version of the Moto G Stylus 2022 may be a consideration. You get the freedom to quickly switch to different SIM cards and other carriers. However, the price for the unlocked 2022 Stylus is listed at $300 (But currently on sale for $200) and at that price, there are several options with similar prices that offer a little more performance and features. 

For more devices from Tracfone, head over to our List of the Latest Tracfone Smartphones.

Where to Buy the Moto G Stylus 2022

The Tracfone Stylus 2022 is available from several online retailers, with a variety of prices. Here are the best sources and prices we've found.

Get the Moto G Stylus 2022 with airtime bundle from QVC (Sale price - $132)

Find the Moto G Stylus 2022 with airtime bundle from eBay (Price - $161)

Get the Moto G Stylus 2022 from Amazon (About $199)

Find the Moto G Stylus 2022 from Tracfone (About $169)

Moto G Stylus 2022 User Manual and Device Tutorials

Get more information about the Stylus and some of the basic tutorials here:

Moto G Stylus 2022 User Manual

Moto G Stylus 2022 Device Tutorials

That's it for our review of the Stylus, we hope you found this information useful. Please leave a comment with any thoughts or questions, or reach us on our Facebook page for faster response.

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!

Best Unlocked Phones for Tracfone BYOP in 2023

Best Unlocked Smartphones - Updated for 2023!

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 choose to purchase their own unlocked phone to bring to Tracfone's BYOP program, and sometimes that means more options, and more freedom.

Bringing your own phone allows for many more smartphone options, and also allows for flexibility to switch to other carriers while keeping the phone.

So what's the best phone to bring to Tracfone's BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program? Are there any phones besides the smartphones from Tracfone that I can use with Tracfone prepaid service? Which phones will be compatible with Tracfone? Well we've got a list of our top picks to choose from with a range of prices.

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 and cost. These are some of our best suggestions of phones we believe 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 a little more power and performance compared to most Tracfone smartphones, plus a wider selection of devices. In our list, we only include phones priced between $100-$450 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

Pixel 6a 5G - $450
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). At a list price of $450, it is more than many Tracfone customers might want to spend, but compared to $1000 high-end devices it sacrifices very little and is half the price. It is one of our top picks for those willing to spend the money.

Get the Google Pixel 6a 5G on Amazon $450 now $339

Samsung Galaxy A53 5G
Newly available in mid-2022, the Galaxy A53 5G is a very competitive mid-level smartphone. It features the impressive Samsung Super AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate, 128 GB internal storage, and solid rear camera setup. The Exynos 1280 processor and 6 GB RAM provide great performance. Tracfone also offers this device, but it is locked to their network. 

Get the unlocked Samsung Galaxy A53 5G on Amazon $399

Moto G Stylus 5G (2022) - $250
Motorola seems to be constantly releasing new phones, and while some recent devices have been a little lackluster, the 2022 Moto G Stylus 5G offers some strong performance at a fair price. It comes with a 6.8" full HD screen, Android 12, and 50 MP rear camera. For performance, it features the Snapdragon 695 5G processor and either 6 or 8 GB RAM, and 128 or 256 GB internal storage. For those that like Motorola's no-nonsense approach to bloatware and excess pre-installed apps, this is a solid mid-level 5G capable device and fully compatible with all the major networks. 

Get the Moto G Stylus 5G (2022) on Amazon $250

Moto G Stylus (2022) - $179
A big screen and long battery life are standard for the Moto G line of phones, and the Stylus (2022) offers that plus lots of updated features. It has a 6.8" full HD screen, 128 GB internal storage, 6 GB RAM and triple rear camera setup. The MediaTek Octa-core processor it comes with is good, but a downgrade from the Snapdragon processor in the 2021 model (See the 2021 Stylus below at sub $200 price or the Snapdragon in the 2022 Stylus 5G above.) For those that like the huge screen (with improved refresh rate), latest Android OS updates, and other new features, the Stylus 2022 is a good option. With a recently reduced price of under $200, it is that much more attractive.

Get the Moto G Stylus (2022) on Amazon $179

Get the Moto G stylus (2022) on Motorola $179

Google Pixel 5 5G - $299
The Pixel 5 was released towards he end of 2020, but offers some excellent features at a discounted price. It has a OLED 6" full HD touchscreen, Snapdragon 765 processor, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB internal storage and dual rear camera. While it is a slightly older device, it packs a lot of top tier features for the price, including 5G network compatibility.

Find the Google Pixel 5 on Amazon $299

Moto G Stylus (2021) - $199
While it is last year's model along with the Power below, it does still pack quite the performance with a Snapdragon 678 that outperforms the 2022 model. It also has 128 GB internal storage, 4 GB RAM, quad rear camera setup and 6.8" screen. There's a lot to like about this device and it is also now available at a sale price of just under $200. For just $20 more than the Power, it might be a great option for those that also like the larger screen and extra internal storage.

Get the Moto G Stylus (2021) on Amazon $199

Moto G Power (2021) - $129
Simple, but powerful, featuring a 6.6" HD touchscreen, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB internal storage and Snapdragon 662 processor, the Moto G Power 2021 is one of the best smartphone under $200 for 2021. Yes, it is odd that this almost 2 year old device would still be so capable, especially with the Moto G Power 2022 recently released, but the 2021 version actually features a more powerful processor, and is less expensive, making it more desirable for the majority of budget shoppers. 

Get the Moto G Power (2021) on Amazon $129

That concludes our list of the the best budget friendly 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 if you need some info on activating or switching your phone to Tracfone, read our full Guide to Activating or Transferring to a Tracfone Smartphone.

Thanks for visiting!

Samsung Galaxy A53 5G (S536DL) Review

Samsung Galaxy A53 5G Review, Specs and Features

The A53 5G comes with a 6.5" full HD touchscreen, Octa-core Exynos processor, 128 GB storage and 6 GB RAM. Plus it has Android 12 and a quad-rear camera setup capable of 4K recording.

Tracfone released the A53 to use with their prepaid service along with several other Samsung Galaxy models in mid 2022 and it sits at the top of their budget lineup.

It also is available unlocked, but the Tracfone version comes with a sizable discount to the retail price. 

The Galaxy A53 replaces the previous year's A52 smartphone, which Tracfone never offered. Instead Tracfone released the Galaxy A32 5G. Before that, Tracfone did offer the A51 and A50 devices. So for Tracfone, the A53 5G is the replacement for the A32 5G and A51.

Here's our quick pro's and con's list for the A53.

Samsung Galaxy A53 5G Quick Facts

What we Like:
-120hz fast screen refresh rate
-Gorilla Glass 5 screen protection
-Dust/waterproof rating
-Long battery life

What we Don't Like:
-No wall charger included
-No headphone connection
-Mediocre Processor

For budget phone users, there's a few things missing that might be a surprise, primarily the 3.5mm headphone jack that has been gone from flagship phones for a while, but still comes standard on low-end devices. The other missing part is the wall charging block which Samsung has stopped including with their phones. 

These 'missing' pieces are pretty easy to forget about when we see that the A53 does come with really nice features like an IP67 waterproof rating, Gorilla Glass 5 protection on the beautiful display, and a rear camera setup that is a step above any budget devices.

How do all the features stack up and does it make the A53 5G worth the extra spend over other models? Let's start with the full list of specs and features.

Samsung Galaxy A53 5G (S536DL) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs

• Android 12
• Samsung One UI 4.1
• 5G (Verizon)
• Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
• Bluetooth 5.1
• Alarm Clock
• GPS
• MP3 Player
• Hearing Aid Compatible
• Access to over 1 Million Apps on Google Play
• Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
• SMS/MMS
• USB Charger (USB Type-C 2.0)
• Compatible with Samsung Gear Smartwatches
• In-display Fingerprint sensor

Samsung Galaxy A53 5G Technical Specs
Size: 6.28 x 2.94 x 0.32 in (6.67 oz)
Camera: Quad rear camera 64+12+5+5MP and 32MP front camera
Screen: 6.5" HD Super AMOLED, 120Hz, 800 nits display (1080x2400 resolution)
Processor: Octa-core Exynos 1280

Memory: 6 GB
Storage: 128 GB internal storage, supports up to 1 TB MicroSD Card
Battery: 5,000 mAh battery (non-removable) with 25W fast charging

Most 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, like the Samsung Galaxy S22, a contender for some of the best phones in the world.

Samsung phones are well known for their quality, something that can't always be said for some of the other brands Tracfone offers. Samsung also often offers several years of OS updates and security fixes.

The Galaxy A53 5G does get some of the classic design elements of Samsung phones with a familiar layout for the charging port, beautiful screen, and it also features Samsung's UI changes. But a budget phone will have to cut some corners, and we will dive into that below.

Now let's get into the details with our review of the A53.

Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A53 5G Review

Touchscreen

The 6.5" full HD Super AMOLED screen is one of the exciting features on the A53 5G. It has a resolution of 1080x2400, 20:9 screen ratio, and 120hz fast refresh rate. The pixel density is very good at about 405 ppi, making for crisp, clear images and text.

The Super AMOLED screen is a feature we usually only see in more expensive Samsung devices and offers brighter, more vivid display colors while also reducing power consumption. The in-display fingerprint reader for biometric security functions well and adds another feature generally found in flagship models.

The A53 also comes with Gorilla Glass 5 screen protection as well as IP67 waterproof rating for increased durability and resistance to water damage. 

The screen on the A53 5G is about as good as it gets for a phone in this price range and renders very good colors, detail and brightness. 

Performance - RAM, Storage and Processor

With 6 GB RAM, 128 GB storage and an Exynos 1280 octa-core processor, the A53 5G offers excellent performance and storage capabilities. And, in case more storage is needed, there is an expandable storage slot.

For the processor, Samsung opts to use their in-house developed Exynos 1280 in the A53 which has 2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55. It offers a good balance between performance and battery life, and also offers 5G network compatibility. It is only slightly better in some ways, than the Snapdragon 695 processor in the Galaxy A23 5G, and we would generally prefer a Snapdragon processor.

Most actions and processes on this device are smooth and reliable, but there are occasional hiccups that are likely due to the processor. We would have preferred to see a more powerful Snapdragon processor.

Camera

The quad-rear camera setup in the A53 offers a lot of features and megapixels, starting with the main, 64MP shooter. The other rear cameras include a 12MP ultra-wide sensor, 5MP macro and 5MP depth 

Image quality is quite good, with sharp, clear shots. And even in moderate lighting, the A53 performs well due to the Optical Image Stabilization.

On the front of the phone is a 32MP selfie camera that captures solid images, but nothing spectacular. 

For video, there is 4K at 30fps on both the front and rear cameras, a great feature to have, and something we don't see on any lower priced phones.

Overall the cameras on the A53 are a nice step up from just about any other budget phone, especially from Tracfone. For better camera quality, consider an iPhone, Google Pixel, or other flagship phones.

Check out our 8 Tips for Better Cell Phone Pictures.

Battery

Most budget phones offer good battery performance and the Galaxy A53 delivers that as well thanks to a 5,000 mAh battery. The additional combination of the more power efficient screen and processor means that the A53 will generally last two days on a single charge with low usage.

25W fast charging helps recharge the large battery quickly, and is a nice feature to have. Many budget devices only have 10W or 15W charging, which is a bit slow.

Android OS

The Galaxy A53 5G comes with Android 12 OS and will likely get an upgrade to Android 13 when that becomes available to Samsung devices. Samsung boasts software support for the A53 for several years, and hopefully the Tracfone version will also take advantage of these updates.

Android 12 comes with a host of design, performance and security updates over previous versions that make it safer and more useable. Some of the updates include more privacy control, the ability to limit apps from using your exact location, and improved accessibility options.

As a Samsung device, the A53 also comes with One UI 4.1 which has features like Smart Calendar, Samsung Pay, Smart Widgets, extra brightness toggle, and pro camera features. For those who are fans of Samsung's additional UI features, the A53 will feel very familiar. But for those who prefer a more stock Android experience, consider devices from Motorola or Google.

Design

Bridging the gap between budget and high-end devices, the A53 takes some features from both when it comes to design. It has a matte plastic back and polished plastic sides which seem to hold up pretty well. The rear camera bump has been reduced a little to not stick out as much as before. And the screen to body ratio of 85% is pretty good and leaves only small bezels on the front.

As we mentioned earlier, there is no 3.5mm headphone jack, only the USB Type-C 2.0 port. So headphones will need to be wireless or get an adapter. 

The A53 5G does feature IP67 waterproof rating, which means it should withstand up to 1 meter in water for up to 30 minutes. While we wouldn't put it to the test, this does indicate it should be capable surviving accidental dips in water without needing a bag of rice to revive it.

On the right side are the volume and power buttons in a familiar place and the fingerprint sensor is integrated into the screen, which is a neat feature

Conclusion 

The Galaxy A53 5G is a very capable smartphone that offers a handful of premium features while keeping the price reasonable. The large, beautiful screen, great camera setup, and waterproof rating are all enticing features. Plus, the Tracfone version is already discounted over $200 off the retail price.

For the retail price of the unlocked version (about $450), there are some other very good options available, specifically the Google Pixel 6a, that we would likely recommend. The unlocked Pixel 6a is about the same price, but offers a better processor, better camera, and cleaner Android experience. The A53 does have the larger screen, and better battery life.

The Bottom Line: The Samsung Galaxy A53 5G from Tracfone is hard to beat for the features and price. But not every Tracfone user will want to spend the money when there are several other options from Tracfone that are $50-$100 cheaper and still offer solid performance and features (and even 5G compatibility). For those that want performance, great camera, and are willing to spend a little more, look no further than the A53 5G from Tracfone.

Alternatives to the Galaxy A53 5G:

There are several other good options available from Tracfone, and budget-conscious shoppers may want to consider some of these as they offer good performance at a lower price.

The Samsung Galaxy A23 5G is almost as good as the A53, minus a few nice upgrades, for about $50 less. It offers a little less RAM (4GB) and storage (64GB) but has a Snapdragon processor that is just about as good as the one in the A53. The A23 does not have any waterproof rating, and the camera setup is a little less capable. The screen is actually a little larger, at 6.6" and is full HD with 120hz refresh rate but is not a Super AMOLED display. The A23 does retain a 3.5mm headphone jack. For some, the A23 5G will be more than capable, and comes at a lower price.

Samsung's A13 5G is another option, and one that is about $100 less than the A53. But that comes with a significant drop in features including a much less powerful processor, lower resolution screen, less RAM, storage and less capable cameras setup. The A13 does still offer 5G network capability, and is one of the cheapest options from Tracfone at this time that offers that. We generally suggest the A13 for light to moderate smartphone users, who won't be playing resource intensive games or planning to download large numbers of different apps.

Motorola is often a big competitor in the budget phone space, and the Moto G Stylus 2022 is an option, and can be found for about $50 less than the A53. It has the same amount of RAM and storage, but an inferior processor and camera setup. And it doesn't have 5G capability. For 5G network capability, the Moto G Stylus 2022 5G is an option, and it packs a more powerful processor, but it is actually the same as the one in the A23 5G. The Galaxy A53 5G is a little less expensive from Tracfone, and offers a little more.

Best Prices on the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G

The A23 is not as widely available as some Samsung devices, but here are the top options we've found:

Get the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G on eBay - $219

Get the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G on Amazon - $219

Get the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G on the Tracfone Website - $219

Get the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G with airtime bundle on HSN - $279

Samsung Galaxy A53 5G User Manual and Device Detailed Information

View the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G User Manual and Tutorials

View the Galaxy A53 5G Detailed Information

That concludes our review of the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G. Please leave a comment below with your 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.

If you're shopping around for other plans, take a look at the Best Alternatives to Tracfone. 

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!

Best Cheap Smartphones (Under $100) for 2023

 Top Budget Smartphones from Tracfone under $100 (Updated 2023)

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 2023, 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 List - Our Top Picks

Moto G Power (2022)
The updated model from the popular Motorola line of phones, the 2022 Moto G Power offers a 6.5" screen, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, large, 5,000 mAh battery, and octa-core processor. It comes with Android 11 and a 50MP rear camera system. While it is a little underpowered compared to previous models, it is still a great device and the price quickly dropped below $100 for such a recently released device (originally retailed for just under $200). Read our Moto G Power 2022 review to learn more.

Moto G Power 2022 on Amazon - $75 (Note: Listing says it is the 2021 model, but it is actually the 2022)

Moto G Stylus (2021)
Go big on a budget with this mid-level smartphone that offers a 6.8" screen, 4GB RAM, 128GB storage and octa-core Snapdragon processor. Yes, it's about 2 years old, but it is the most powerful phone in this list and under $100 (at least for now). The Stylus 2021 also features a 48MP quad camera system and 4,000 mAh battery. It comes with Android 10, but there should be an upgrade to at least Android 11 available. The Snapdragon 678 processor in the phone is actually more powerful than the processor in the 2022 version, so for those that want power, this is a great budget option.

Moto G Stylus 2021 on Amazon - $99

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

Moto G 5G (2022) (Limited Deal)
Offering a 6.5" HD screen, octa-core processor, Android 12 and 5G network capability, the Moto G 5G (2022) is a budget smartphone with good specs and available from Tracfone at a surprisingly low price. It also ahs 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, and 50MP triple rear camera setup. Take a closer look with our Moto G 5G review. This phone retails for much higher usually, but is sometimes on sale for just $99!

Moto G 5G 2022 on HSN (with airtime bundle) - $99 (Limited time deal!)

More Cheap Phones to Consider:
These are some additional options, but we would recommend one of the phones above. However, some of these devices are under $50, and even less, for the ultra-budget conscious. 

BLU View 2
Featuring a 5.5" screen, 32 GB internal storage, Android 11 and a quad-core processor, the BLU View 2 is one of the cheapest smartphones available from Tracfone that still has enough capability to run most basic apps and such. Check out our BLU View 2 review for more information about the phone.

BLU View 2 on Amazon ($29)

Moto G Pure
The Pure has a 6.5" screen, 32 GB internal storage and runs Android 11. It is a low-end device, but one that covers all the basics and performs very well for a budget phone.

Moto G Pure on Amazon ($49)

For a flip phone device, the Alcatel My Flip 2 is a feature phone with 4G LTE and available from for $19 from Tracfone.

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.

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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