Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Apple iPhone 13 Pro: A Practical Comparison
These two phones cater to very different audiences—one is a budget-friendly stylus-equipped device, while the other is a premium flagship. Let’s break down how they compare in real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 13 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 146.7 × 71.5 × 7.7 mm | The Moto G is much larger and thicker, making it harder to use one-handed but better for media consumption. The iPhone is more compact and pocket-friendly. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 204g | The iPhone is slightly lighter, which may matter for long-term comfort. |
| Build Quality | Plastic frame, glass front | Stainless steel, Ceramic Shield | The iPhone feels more premium and durable, while the Moto G is more utilitarian. |
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 13 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.1" OLED | The Moto G has a bigger screen, but the iPhone’s OLED panel offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and HDR support. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz (ProMotion) | The iPhone’s 120Hz display makes scrolling and animations noticeably smoother. |
| Brightness | Unknown (likely ~500 nits) | 1200 nits (peak) | The iPhone is far better in sunlight, making outdoor use much easier. |
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 13 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G | A15 Bionic | The iPhone is dramatically faster—benchmarks show it’s 675% more powerful, meaning better gaming, multitasking, and longevity. |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB | The iPhone handles more apps in memory, reducing reloads. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 128GB–1TB (non-expandable) | The iPhone offers more storage options, but neither has microSD. |
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 13 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 12MP (f/1.5, larger sensor) | The iPhone’s smaller but better sensor captures sharper, more detailed photos, especially in low light. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP (f/2.2) | 12MP (f/1.8) | The iPhone’s ultrawide is brighter and more detailed. |
| Telephoto | None | 12MP (3x optical zoom) | The iPhone has a dedicated zoom lens, which the Moto G lacks. |
| Video | 1080p @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps, Dolby Vision | The iPhone is far superior for video, with better stabilization and HDR. |
| Selfie | 20MP (f/2.0) | 12MP (f/2.2) | The Moto G has higher resolution, but the iPhone’s selfies are more color-accurate. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 13 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 3125mAh | The Moto G lasts longer on a charge, but the iPhone’s efficiency helps it compete. |
| Charging | 10W wired | 20W wired, 15W MagSafe | The iPhone charges faster and supports wireless charging, which the Moto G lacks. |
Software & Extras
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 13 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (up to 12) | iOS 15 (up to iOS 18) | The iPhone will get longer software support (5+ years vs. 2-3 for Moto). |
| Stylus Support | Yes (included) | No | The Moto G’s stylus is great for note-taking and drawing, a unique advantage. |
| Security | Rear fingerprint sensor | Face ID | The iPhone’s Face ID is more convenient, but the Moto G’s fingerprint is reliable. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Bigger screen – Better for media and stylus use.
✅ Longer battery life – 4000mAh vs. 3125mAh.
✅ Built-in stylus – Great for note-takers and artists.
✅ Lower price – Much more affordable than the iPhone.
Apple iPhone 13 Pro Strengths
✅ Far better performance – A15 Bionic crushes the Snapdragon 480.
✅ Superior cameras – Better low-light, zoom, and video.
✅ Premium build & display – OLED, 120Hz, Ceramic Shield.
✅ Longer software support – iOS updates for 5+ years.
Trade-Offs
- The Moto G is slower and bulkier but cheaper with a stylus.
- The iPhone is more expensive but faster, better-built, and longer-lasting.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
✔ Budget-conscious users who want a big screen and stylus.
✔ Casual users who don’t need top-tier performance.
✔ Students or artists who benefit from the stylus.
Who Should Buy the iPhone 13 Pro?
✔ Power users who want speed, longevity, and premium features.
✔ Photographers & videographers who need the best camera.
✔ iOS fans who want long-term software support.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Do I want the best performance and camera? → iPhone 13 Pro
- Am I on a tight budget? → Moto G Stylus 5G
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Best for productivity & creativity: Moto G Stylus 5G (stylus advantage).
- Best for gaming & photography: iPhone 13 Pro (A15 Bionic + better cameras).
- Best long-term investment: iPhone 13 Pro (5+ years of updates).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the iPhone 13 Pro.
While the Moto G Stylus 5G is great for budget users who want a stylus, the iPhone 13 Pro is the better all-around device—faster, better cameras, longer software support, and a more premium feel.
However, if I needed a stylus for work or creativity, I’d go with the Moto G Stylus 5G, as no iPhone offers that feature.
Your choice depends on priorities:
- Performance & camera? → iPhone 13 Pro.
- Stylus & battery life? → Moto G Stylus 5G.
