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Motorola

Motorola Moto E (1st Gen)

May 13, 2014 6/10 Rating
In brief: The Moto E (1st Gen) was Motorola's entry-level Android smartphone, launched in 2014, aiming to provide a reliable smartphone experience at an ultra-affordable price point. It was designed for first-time smartphone owners and budget-conscious consumers, particularly in emerging markets. The device offered solid basic features and a near-stock Android experience, making it a compelling option for its cost.
Display4.3-inch qHD IPS LCD with Gorilla Glass 3
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 200 dual-core
Main Camera5 MP fixed-focus, no flash
Battery1980 mAh non-removable
Starting from $50 in International

💰 Motorola Moto E (1st Gen) Price in United States

The international price (India, USA, UK & most other countries) is around $50, based on current retailer listings.

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Very low initial price point
  • Solid build quality for its class
  • Good display for the price with Gorilla Glass 3
  • Near-stock Android and promised updates
  • Expandable storage

Cons

  • No front-facing camera
  • Rear camera is fixed-focus and lacks a flash
  • Limited internal storage (4GB, with little usable space)
  • Only 3G connectivity, no 4G LTE
  • Occasional performance slowdowns
★ Our Verdict

The Moto E (1st Gen) was a groundbreaking budget phone for its time, offering excellent value and a decent Android experience, but its limitations in camera, storage, and connectivity are significant by modern standards.

The Moto E (1st Gen) is now a vintage smartphone, primarily suitable for collectors or those seeking a very basic, nostalgic device. It will struggle with modern apps and web browsing due to its limited RAM, small internal storage, and outdated processor. Furthermore, its 3G-only connectivity means slower internet speeds compared to contemporary devices. While its original price was a major selling point, current availability is likely limited to used markets, and its practical utility as a daily driver in 2026 is minimal. Consider it only if you have very specific, low-demand use cases or appreciate its historical significance as a pioneer in the budget smartphone segment. For everyday use, even the cheapest new smartphones will offer a significantly better experience.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Motorola Moto E (1st Gen) handset
  • Wired wall charger (often with non-detachable micro USB cable)
  • Wired headset (region dependent)
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Safety and Warranty Information

Original warranty typically covered manufacturing defects for a limited period, usually one year, as per Motorola's standard policy at the time.

❓ Questions & Answers

When was the Moto E (1st Gen) released?

The Motorola Moto E (1st Gen) was officially announced and released on May 13, 2014.

Does the Moto E (1st Gen) have a front camera?

No, the Moto E (1st Gen) does not feature a front-facing camera. It only has a 5 MP rear camera.

What operating system did the Moto E (1st Gen) run?

The Moto E (1st Gen) launched with Android 4.4.2 KitKat and was upgradable to Android 5.1 Lollipop.

Is the Moto E (1st Gen) still good for daily use?

Due to its age, limited internal storage, 1GB RAM, and 3G-only connectivity, the Moto E (1st Gen) is not recommended for daily use in 2026, as it will struggle with modern applications and internet speeds.

Can the storage on the Moto E (1st Gen) be expanded?

Yes, the Moto E (1st Gen) includes a microSDHC card slot, allowing users to expand the storage by up to 32 GB.

What was the original price of the Moto E (1st Gen)?

Upon its release, the Moto E (1st Gen) was priced at approximately $129 USD without a contract.