Okay, let's dive deep into the Motorola Moto G (2022) and the Moto G Stylus 5G (2023), breaking down the specs, and more importantly, what they mean for you. I’ll be your guide, blending technical precision with a real-world perspective.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these two Motorola phones stack up, along with the practical implications for everyday use:
Feature | Motorola Moto G (2022) | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) | Real-World Implications |
---|---|---|---|
Design | |||
Dimensions | 165.4 × 75.8 × 9.4 mm | 162.8 × 73.8 × 9.2 mm | The Stylus 5G is a bit smaller, which may be better for one-handed use. |
Weight | 204g | 202g | Virtually identical in weight, both feel substantial. |
Display | |||
Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Minimal size difference, the Stylus 5G is slightly larger |
Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | The Stylus 5G display is noticeably sharper, better for text and video. |
Pixel Density | 270 PPI | 399 PPI | The Stylus 5G offers a more detailed and crisp visual experience. |
Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use standard LCD panels, good color accuracy but not OLED blacks. |
Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Stylus 5G will provide smoother animations and scrolling. |
Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is the same for both (but this is likely an error as modern phones have nits of brightness). |
Performance | |||
Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4 nm) | The Stylus 5G is significantly faster, leading to smoother app loading and overall better performance. |
AnTuTu Score | 389,300 | 565,000 | The Stylus 5G scores 45% higher. Noticeably better performance. |
GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 710 | Stylus 5G will offer better gaming performance. |
Battery Life | |||
Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer a full day of use on a single charge. |
Charging | 10W fast charging | 20W fast charging | The Stylus 5G will charge faster, getting you back to 100% quicker. |
Camera | |||
Standard Camera | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm) | 50MP (f/1.88, 1/1.55", 1.0µm) | Stylus 5G has larger sensor and larger pixels. Will perform better in low light and produce less noise |
Selfie Camera | 13MP (f/2.2, 1.12µm) | 16MP (f/2.5) | Stylus 5G has higher resolution, but Moto G (2022) has wider aperture. |
Portrait Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | The Moto G (2022) offers a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | The Moto G (2022) offers a dedicated macro sensor for close-up photos. |
Wide + Macro Lens | None | 8MP (f/2.2, 1.12µm) | The Stylus 5G has a combined wide-angle and macro camera, more versatile for creative shots |
Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps | The Stylus 5G can record in 4K, offering far superior video quality. |
Video Stabilisation | No | Yes, Optical (OIS) | Stylus 5G's OIS provides much smoother videos. |
Slow Motion | No, 30fps | Yes, 240 fps | Stylus 5G offers more robust slow-motion recording options |
Software | |||
OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | Stylus 5G comes with a newer OS out of the box. |
Connectivity | |||
Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Stylus 5G has support for newer, faster Wi-Fi. |
Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.2 | The Stylus 5G has a more recent Bluetooth standard. |
GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL | GPS, A-GPS, SUPL, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Stylus 5G has more precise and reliable GPS using more satellites. |
Storage | |||
Internal | 64 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Stylus 5G offers significantly more storage space. |
RAM | 6 GB | 4 GB, 6 GB or 8 GB | The Stylus 5G can come with more RAM for heavy multitasking. |
Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for extra storage via SD Card. |
Audio | |||
Audio | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Stylus 5G has enhanced audio quality with stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos. |
Security | |||
Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both provide basic biometric security through fingerprint sensors. |
Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Hall, Geomagnetic | The Moto G (2022) has additional environmental sensors, while the Stylus has Hall and Geomagnetic Sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G (2022):
- Strengths: The Moto G (2022) offers a triple camera setup with dedicated depth and macro lenses for creative photography. It also includes a barometer which can be helpful for hiking and outdoor activities. The phone is also slightly more compact.
- Competitive Advantages: This is a very affordable phone that delivers an alright experience.
- Limitations: Lower-resolution display, slower processor, and basic audio quality. No expandable storage, older Bluetooth, and limited video recording capabilities.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023):
- Strengths: The standout features include the Stylus for productivity and creativity, a much sharper 120Hz display, a faster Snapdragon chipset, better cameras, 4K video recording with stabilization, and dual speakers with Dolby Atmos. Also, a more recent version of android, bluetooth, and wifi technology. More storage options, too.
- Competitive Advantages: This phone targets those who prioritize speed, display quality, and multimedia creation.
- Limitations: No dedicated depth or macro lens, no barometer. The phone is also less compact and uses a slightly different sensor suite.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Moto G (2022):
- User Profile: Budget-conscious users who need a basic smartphone for everyday tasks like calls, texts, and web browsing. Suitable for those who want a compact phone with a decent camera and some extra sensor capabilities.
- Use Cases: Basic social media, casual photography, and simple games. Good for those who need a straightforward, reliable device.
- Price-to-Value: Strong value for the money, offering all the essentials for a low price.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023):
- User Profile: Users who desire a more premium experience with a better display, faster performance, and enhanced multimedia capabilities. Suitable for those who enjoy creative pursuits or need a phone for work and productivity.
- Use Cases: Note-taking with the Stylus, watching high-quality videos, playing graphics-intensive games, and creating better quality multimedia. A versatile device that balances productivity with entertainment.
- Price-to-Value: A high price, but offers significant improvements in performance, display, and multimedia quality.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How much do you value display quality? If crisp visuals and smooth scrolling are important, the Stylus 5G is the obvious choice.
- Do you prioritize creative expression or professional needs? The Stylus 5G and the stylus and better camera will be more useful. If you only need the phone for basics, the Moto G (2022) is more than adequate.
- What's your budget? If you have a strict budget, the Moto G (2022) will offer good value. If you're willing to spend more for a better experience, the Stylus 5G offers clear upgrades across the board.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Budget-Conscious User: The Moto G (2022) offers good value and all the essentials.
- For the Multimedia Enthusiast: The Stylus 5G is the better choice with its 4K video, stereo speakers, and better display.
- For the Casual User: The Stylus 5G offers a more enjoyable experience with its performance, while the Moto G (2022) still gets the job done.
- For the Productivity Driven User: The Stylus 5G with a stylus is a clear choice.
My Choice
If it were my money and I were choosing between these two, I would go for the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023). The primary reason is that the difference in day-to-day experience is huge. The better screen, faster chipset, better main and selfie camera, enhanced audio, and especially the 4K recording makes it more suitable as a modern device. The ability to use a stylus is a bonus for anyone who needs it and helps distinguish this phone. The increased storage and RAM options are also critical for a long-lasting device.
While the Moto G (2022) is a solid budget device, the technology is simply too dated compared to the 2023 Stylus. The improvements offered by the Stylus 5G far outweigh its higher price, making it the better choice overall for anyone looking for a capable and enjoyable smartphone. It provides a much more fluid experience and can be a better companion.