I’ve been mulling this over, like someone who finds satisfaction in a dependable device that doesn’t ask for much. Let’s get real: the Moto G9 Play isn’t trying to be a status symbol. Launched in 2020 as a modest budget contender, is it still relevant four, almost five years later, especially when towering flagships dominate the scene?
What the Moto G9 Play Still Does Well
Performance & Daily Use
- The Snapdragon 662 paired with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage was solid mid-range territory at launch—and still holds up for basic tasks. Apps load a bit slower, but it’s seldom laggy to the point of frustration.
- Benchmarks? Not jaw-dropping, but respectable for day-to-day use. Geekbench 5 clocks it around 1,376—noticeably better than its predecessors.
- Fans on Reddit back this up: “The G9 Play fixes many cons of the previous Play models… Snapdragon 662 + 4 GB RAM + 64 GB storage + Wi-Fi 5 + NFC, 20 W charger”.
Battery Life
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The 5,000 mAh battery remains a standout. Light to moderate users routinely end the day with over 40% left—pretty much the modern equivalent of “two-day battery life”.
Cameras
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The 48MP main sensor delivers decent daylight shots; don’t expect much in low light, but the “Night Vision” mode does somewhat redeem the experience.
Software & Utility
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Clean Motorola interface with smart gestures and Peek UI gives useful glances at notifications—unobtrusive but effective.
Flagship Phones: How Do They Eclipse the G9 Play?
All the exemplified devices, including the OnePlus 13, iPhone 16, Google Pixel 10, and a Moto device including Motorola Edge 60 Pro, boast even more powerful newer processors, high-refresh slick OLED displays, advanced cameras, and better software longevity — they receive 3–7 years of updates.
Concerning 2025, more Moto G phones stay below the $200 mark and also combine certified batteries and substantial battery life with more vivid usable in the daylight and only slightly improved actual performance — their Dimensity 6300 chip.
The Core Question: Still Worth It?
Yes — with a but.
- It is yes, if someone wants to primarily use their phone as a reliable workhorse, do not mind the relatively drab display, extended battery longevity, and doesn’t need top-tier performance.
- It is not, if someone will buy their next phone for their primary use: 2025 standards offer more vibrant OLEDs, faster chips, years of updates, 5G, and top cameras.
Even a fiscally responsible 2025 customer will be better off with a new Moto G phone: it will offer better daylight legibility, updates, and future-proof specs.
A Closer Look at the Display
And I’m not the type to bury the lede — I care a lot about displays.
- 6.5-inch IPS LCD, HD+ (1600×720): That’s ~269 pixels per inch. It was fine in 2020, but next to FHD or OLED peers, it now looks dated and visibly grainy.
- Brightness & Sharpness: This would make day time viewing difficult. Fine details or text don’t pop. TechRadar also noted it’s outclassed by sharper screens from Xiaomi and Realme alternatives.
- Colour & Responsiveness: Colour isn’t especially rich, and there’s no high refresh rate. It still gets the job done — video plays reasonably well, and the low resolution maximizes performance in games.
So while it’s serviceable — dampening the experience but not quite the immersion of even a mid-tier 2025 flagship. As for viewing angles and legibility, they’re not bad but they are unremarkable. If the display is your window to the world, this one feels like a shade half-lowered.
Final Thoughts
The Moto G9 Play (2020) feels a bit like a dependable old friend: it doesn’t wow, but nor does it let you down. In 2025, it’s still good if what you put at the top of your priorities is battery life and simple, reliable operation — and a low cost. But if your eyes crave crisp colour, sharp visuals and future readiness — today’s market offers far better choices.
If you’re in the position to upgrade, especially for reading or media, look for at least a 1080p panel and improved brightness — your eyes will thank you daily.
Motorola Moto G9 Play Screen Protectors
The Moto G9 Play may be a budget-friendly smartphone, but that doesn’t mean its display should go unprotected. In 2025, longevity matters more than ever — and keeping that 6.5-inch screen safe from scratches, smudges, and daily wear is essential if you want your device to keep up.
At ScreenShield, we’ve designed a range of screen protectors specifically for the G9 Play, each crafted in-house for a perfect fit:
- Nano Glass (Clear or Anti-Glare) screen protector: Here is our best protection possible and crystal clear clarity on the Clear, where also outdoor use is possible without reflections for the Anti-Glare!
- Premium Film (Clear or Anti-Glare/Anti-Viral) screen protector: Ultra-thin, scratch-resistant, great for a lighter touch.
- Anti-Bacterial screen protector: Your screen remains clean in everyday use.
- Blue Light Blocking screen protector: Blue light blocking technology curbs eye strain so you can stay up for the long reads or binge watch.
Proudly Aussie-owned and operated out of Melbourne, ScreenShield has spent years refining materials to create screen protectors that don’t just cover your device — they improve the way you use it. Free nationwide shipping makes it easy to keep your Moto G9 Play protected, no matter where you are.
