Wood Grain Back Cover for Moto X: Coming to Moto Maker?
Yes, wood grain back covers are coming to Moto Maker for the Moto X. Motorola announced the wood options (walnut, bamboo, ebony, and teak) in late 2013, and they became available to order in early 2014. This article explains what wood backs are offered, how they work with Moto Maker, what they cost, and what to consider before choosing one.
Background: The Moto X and Moto Maker
The original Moto X (2013) was one of the first smartphones to offer deep customization through Moto Maker, an online configurator that let buyers choose colors, accents, storage, and even a custom message on the back. Initially, the back options were plastic in a range of colors. Wood was a natural next step because Motorola wanted to differentiate the Moto X from the sea of identical glass-and-metal slabs. The wood backs were made from real wood veneer, not a printed pattern, and each one is unique because of the natural grain.
Motorola partnered with a company called Moto Maker to source and craft the wood. The wood is layered and treated to be durable enough for daily use, but it is still real wood, so it can scratch, dent, or absorb moisture if not cared for. The wood backs were initially exclusive to the Moto X, but later Motorola offered them on other devices like the Moto G and Moto Z series through Moto Maker as well.
How Wood Backs Work in Moto Maker
When you order a Moto X through Moto Maker, you choose the back panel from a grid of options. Wood backs appear as a separate category, usually with a small preview image. After you select a wood type, you can still choose the front color (black or white) and the accent color (the trim around the camera and the speaker grille). The wood back is applied to the phone at the factory, not by you or a carrier.
Each wood back is cut from a veneer that is about 0.6 mm thick, then laminated onto a plastic substrate. The result is a back that feels warm and slightly textured, not glossy. The wood is sealed with a matte finish to resist fingerprints and light moisture. Because it is real wood, no two backs are identical; the grain pattern and color vary slightly from unit to unit.
Wood Options and Pricing
Motorola offered four wood types for the Moto X (2013 and 2014):
- Walnut – dark brown with a straight grain, the most subtle and formal option.
- Bamboo – light tan with a pronounced, linear grain; bamboo is technically a grass, not a wood, but it is durable and eco-friendly.
- Ebony – nearly black with a fine, tight grain; the most premium-looking option.
- Teak – golden-brown with a rich, wavy grain; teak is naturally water-resistant.
At launch, wood backs cost an additional $25 to $50 over the standard plastic back, depending on the device and promotion. For example, on the 2013 Moto X, wood was a $25 upgrade; on the 2014 Moto X, it was $25 for bamboo and $50 for the others. The price was added to the phone’s base price, which started around $399 off-contract. Carriers sometimes offered the phone for $99 on a two-year contract, but the wood upgrade fee still applied.
Durability and Common Problems
Wood backs are not as tough as plastic or metal. The most common issues reported by users:
- Scratches – the wood can scratch if you drop it on rough surfaces or slide it across a table.
- Dents – a hard impact can leave a small dent, especially on softer woods like bamboo.
- Warping or cracking – extreme heat or moisture can cause the wood to warp or crack, though this is rare with normal use.
- Finish wear – the matte sealant can wear off over time, making the wood feel rougher and more prone to staining.
Motorola did not claim any special water resistance for the wood backs. The phone itself is not waterproof, so you should avoid getting it wet. If the wood gets wet, dry it immediately with a soft cloth. Do not use harsh cleaners or alcohol, as they can strip the finish.
How to Choose a Wood Type
Choosing a wood back is mostly about aesthetics, but there are practical differences:
- Color matching – pick a wood that complements the front color and accent. Walnut and ebony look good with black fronts; bamboo and teak pair well with white fronts.
- Grain pattern – if you want a uniform look, choose walnut or ebony. If you like a lively, natural pattern, bamboo or teak are better.
- Durability – teak is the most water-resistant, while bamboo is the most prone to dents. Ebony is hard but can show scratches more easily because of its dark color.
- Uniqueness – every wood back is unique, so if you want a one-of-a-kind phone, wood is the way to go.
Alternatives to Wood Backs
If you like the natural look but want more durability, consider these alternatives:
- Leather backs – Motorola also offered leather options on some Moto X models. Leather is softer and can develop a patina over time, but it is also prone to scratches and moisture damage.
- Carbon fiber – a synthetic option that looks technical and is very light, but it is not real carbon fiber; it is a printed pattern on plastic.
- Standard plastic – the most durable and least expensive option. Plastic backs are available in many colors and are easy to replace if damaged.
- Third-party skins – companies like dbrand sell vinyl skins that mimic wood grain. They are cheaper, removable, and protect the original back, but they do not have the same texture or feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the wood back real wood?
Yes, it is a real wood veneer. Motorola used actual walnut, bamboo, ebony, and teak veneers, not a printed pattern. The veneer is thin and laminated onto a plastic substrate for strength.
Can I get a wood back on a Moto X today?
No, Moto Maker is no longer available for the Moto X. Motorola discontinued the customization service for older models. You can only find wood-back Moto X phones on the used market or as refurbished units.
Does the wood back affect wireless charging or NFC?
No, the wood veneer is thin and does not interfere with wireless charging or NFC. The phone’s internal antennas are designed to work through the back panel, and wood is transparent to radio waves.
How do I clean a wood back?
Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to wipe off fingerprints and dust. If needed, slightly dampen the cloth with water and wipe gently, then dry immediately. Avoid alcohol, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners.
Will the wood back crack if I drop my phone?
It can crack or dent if the impact is hard enough, but the plastic substrate underneath provides some structural support. A drop on a hard surface can damage any phone back, wood or not. Using a case is the best way to protect it.
Are wood backs more expensive to replace?
Yes, if you need to replace a damaged wood back, it is more expensive than a plastic one because it is a specialty part. On the used market, a wood-back Moto X may sell for a premium compared to a standard model.
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