The Motorola Moto X is the latest handset from the established handset manufacturer now owned by Google. The handset is marketed as a super customisable phone that allows buyers to customise it to their taste, but is only available in the US.

The handset measures 129.3 x 65.3 x 10.4 mm and weighs 130g, bringing it in line with other smartphones on the market. The base design is smart and the phone fits nicely in the hand. In base guise, the case is white, but if you’re on AT&T, you can customise it to one of hundreds of options, including faux wood, carbon fibre and just about every colour you can think of. It’s a neat marketing trick that offers personalisation that isn’t currently available anywhere else.

The hardware behind the Moto X is mid-range but capable. The 4.5-inch Amoled screen runs at 720p and 312ppi and gives very credible colour and detail. While not as accomplished as the market leaders, you wouldn’t notice the shortfall in daily use. One of the highlights of the Motorola Moto X is battery life. Unlike other smartphones, you can actually get a full day’s use out of this phone. The 2200mAh battery is more than capable, although it will still need charging daily.

The hardware highlight of the Moto X is the camera, which is fast, responsive and takes decent images for a camera phone. The software could do with some work though as options are limited and exposure can sometimes be a hit and miss affair. Otherwise, this is a good, little camera.

Unusually, the Moto X comes with Android 4.2.2 and not the latest Android 4.3. That aside, Android Jelly Bean is a solid OS with lots to offer. It is established, well-supported and also has plenty ofcompatible apps.

The Motorola Moto X is a solid mid-range phone for those who like to add their own personality to their devices.

A technology enthusiast who has his own blog at www.itnewsblog.com.