We can state from the outset that the Motorola Razr50 Ultra is a device we find compelling, and for several reasons. Motorola has successfully retained the strengths of its predecessors, the Motorola Razr40 and Razr40 Ultra, while addressing some of their shortcomings. The Razr50 Ultra effectively combines the best aspects of both models. Read on to discover why.
Initial Impressions Revisited
Having recently reviewed the Motorola Razr40 Ultra, the Razr50 Ultra immediately felt familiar. However, closer inspection reveals refinements that might be missed at first glance. Key improvements include the adoption of vegan leather on the rear, previously seen on the Razr40. This is a welcome change, as the Razr40 Ultra was prone to slipping. The Razr50 Ultra offers a more secure grip. The external display has also been slightly enlarged, providing enhanced usability without unfolding the phone. A practical example is displaying a QR code for public transport on the outer screen. One potentially less favorable change is the slight protrusion of the two camera lenses, a departure from the completely flush design of the Razr40 Ultra. However, this is offset by the upgrade to dual 50MP cameras, replacing the 13MP and 12MP sensors of the previous model. Otherwise, the external design remains consistent.
Motorola has also continued its trend of offering its phones in vibrant and visually appealing colors, as seen with the Motorola Edge 50 Neo. This approach is a refreshing departure from the often-uninspired standard color options that typically necessitate a protective case to add personality.
Motorola is investing in stylish colors and quality materials, resulting in a vibrant and appealing aesthetic.
Our recent review of the Motorola Edge 50 Neo noted the absence of a charger in the box, raising concerns about a potential shift in Motorola’s traditionally generous approach to accessories. However, the Razr50 Ultra includes the standard complement of accessories: a charger, cable, pre-applied screen protector, and protective case. Furthermore, Motorola has included a screen protector with an innovative twist.
The included protector functions almost like a premium case, featuring a shoulder strap that transforms the phone into a small bag. While this may not appeal to all users, the innovative design is commendable and facilitates convenient use. For example, the phone can be worn around the neck, with the large outer screen enabling many functions without needing to open the device.
Technical Specifications – Motorola Razr50 Ultra
As mentioned previously, the camera system has been significantly upgraded. The dimensions are nearly identical to the Razr40 Ultra, with only minor variations of a few tenths of a millimeter, and the weight remains the same. The primary enhancement is to the outer display, which is now larger, boasts a higher refresh rate, and offers increased brightness. The phone ships with Android 14 and includes three OS updates, which we consider somewhat limited for a flagship device, especially given that the Edge 50 Neo provides five. The battery capacity has been slightly increased and supports charging up to 45W wired, 15W wireless, and 5W reverse wireless. We are also pleased to see the return of the hand-hovering gesture, which illuminates the outer screen to display notifications when the phone is locked. This feature is particularly useful in low-light conditions or during meetings when discreetly checking for updates.
The Razr50 Ultra features an IPX8 rating (withstanding submersion in 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes), providing enhanced water resistance compared to its predecessor. Achieving this level of protection with a folding mechanism is commendable. While it may not match the ruggedness of a device like the Jabra Elite 8 Active, which can be casually dropped into water, the Razr50 Ultra should withstand accidental exposure to water. In scenarios involving heroic aquatic rescues or hasty escapes from sinking vessels, the phone is likely to survive.
The Camera – Motorola Razr50 Ultra
Previously, we noted that the camera performance could be somewhat inconsistent, requiring a brief processing period to achieve optimal results. This characteristic has been a recurring theme with Motorola devices. However, with the Razr50 Ultra, this issue appears to be less pronounced. We observed improved image capture speeds, which is a positive development, as the image quality is generally excellent, even though the Razr50 Ultra does not offer extensive zoom capabilities. The camera app provides three zoom modes: 1x, 2x, and 4x. Digital zoom is available up to 30x, but the image quality degrades significantly at higher zoom levels. Artifacting becomes noticeable even at 10x zoom as the Moto-AI processes and interpolates the image.
Overall, and consistent with our experience with other Motorola phones, the image quality is very good. Furthermore, the Razr50 Ultra exhibits improved control over the post-processing enhancements, resulting in more natural-looking images compared to its predecessor.
Photo: senses.se
Photo: senses.se
Photo: senses.se
Photo: senses.se
The camera app also includes a variety of features, such as dual capture (which activates all cameras simultaneously for front and rear recording), photo booth, color area (a useful function, though not new), and tilt/shift (a creative feature that manipulates depth of field to make real-world objects appear miniature).
User Experience: Motorola Razr50 Ultra
As alluded to throughout this review, the Razr50 Ultra benefits greatly from the lessons learned from its two predecessors. The build quality feels more robust, the folding mechanism inspires confidence, and aesthetic details like the color-matched metal frame enhance the overall design. The outer screen allows users to pinch to display various panels, facilitating easy switching between widgets, apps, calendar, contacts, timer, weather, games, and other options. Furthermore, the phone can be configured to adapt its functionality based on its orientation, such as in tent or book-stand mode. This is both elegant and practical, and the “always on” display transforms the device into a stylish alarm clock that can be wirelessly charged simultaneously.
We also commend the visually appealing themes available for media playback, which are displayed when interacting with the screen in the aforementioned scenarios.
Of course, the sophisticated Motorola Smart Connect is present, along with the user-friendly Family Space, the concentration-enhancing Moto Unplugged, and the inspiration-driven Moto AI.
Conclusion – Motorola Razr50 Ultra
Our time with the Razr50 Ultra has been overwhelmingly positive. The frustrations of previous models have been resolved, leaving a capable, attractive, and feature-rich phone where Motorola has clearly understood the potential of an external display. It’s worth noting that a phone priced at SEK 14,000 should offer considerable value to justify its cost. The primary differentiating factor is, of course, its foldability, and Motorola has successfully leveraged this feature with an extensively functional external screen. Compared to devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, which limits the outer screen to widgets, the Motorola Razr50 Ultra holds a distinct advantage.
Its stylish and elegant design makes it a pleasure to use. While the price is substantial, the Motorola Razr50 Ultra provides commensurate value.
Motorola provided review units for this evaluation. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial independence. Our reviews are conducted independently with a focus on the interests of our readers and consumers.
Example Images Motorola Razr50 Ultra (Photo: senses.se)
