Motorola Edge 70 Pro review: Nearly premium, limited surprises

In the bustling realm of mid-range smartphones, brands like OnePlus, Redmi, and Poco dominate the landscape. Yet, Motorola has been steadily gaining attention with its sophisticated and AI-driven devices. Recently, the company unveiled the Edge 70 Pro, a model that complements the Edge 70 and Edge 70 Fusion series, targeting the mid-range consumer. The Motorola Edge 70 Pro boasts a sleek, quad-curved design and a textured back that exudes a premium feel. It comes equipped with a triple-camera system, a stunning 144Hz display, and is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Extreme processor. Priced at Rs 38,999, the question arises: does it stand out amid fierce competition? After two weeks of intensive testing across various usage scenarios—heavy multitasking, gaming, and photography—we delve into its strengths and weaknesses. One of the first things that catches the eye is the Edge 70 Pro's design. Motorola has consistently embraced slim profiles, but this model introduces fresh aesthetics and textures, enhancing its premium appearance. Available in finishes like satin-luxe, fabric, and marble, the Pantone Tea variant we reviewed is particularly striking. Measuring just 6.99mm thick and weighing 190 grams, it houses a robust 6500mAh battery. Despite its polycarbonate frame, the phone feels solid and secure in hand. Moreover, it features MIL-STD-810H certification and IP68/IP69 ratings, ensuring durability against dust and water. However, the omission of a phone case in the box might disappoint some buyers. The display is another highlight, featuring a 6.8-inch 'Extreme' AMOLED panel with a 1.5K resolution and up to 144Hz refresh rate. It supports HDR10+ and boasts a peak brightness of 5,200 nits, delivering vibrant visuals. While the spec sheet touts a 144Hz refresh rate, everyday use typically runs at 120Hz, with select games able to utilize the higher rate. We tested BGMI, and it performed admirably at both 120Hz and 90Hz. Camera capabilities are crucial for many users, and the Edge 70 Pro does not disappoint in daylight. Its dual-camera setup includes a 50MP main camera and a 50MP ultrawide lens. Although the absence of a telephoto lens is noted, the camera captures detailed images, albeit with a tendency towards oversaturation. Portrait shots exhibit accurate edge detection with a natural background blur, but colors can appear artificial. The low-light performance is commendable, producing clear images with minimal noise. Performance-wise, the Edge 70 Pro is driven by the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Extreme processor, paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It performs well in daily tasks and gaming, though it does heat up under prolonged use, which may impact performance. For casual users who engage in streaming and social media, it remains a reliable choice. Battery life is another strong suit, with the 6,500mAh battery easily lasting a full day of varied use. It supports 90W TurboPower charging, reaching a full charge in about an hour. In conclusion, the Motorola Edge 70 Pro presents an appealing mix of design, display quality, and battery longevity. While it excels in several areas, it does have shortcomings in camera consistency and thermal management during intensive activities. Ultimately, it offers a commendable mid-range experience, although consumers may find competitive alternatives from brands like Oppo, OnePlus, or Redmi for more demanding usage.