Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Apple iPhone 15 Plus: A Practical Comparison
These two phones cater to very different audiences—one is a budget-friendly stylus-equipped Android device, while the other is a premium iPhone with cutting-edge performance. Let’s break down how they compare in real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 160.9 × 77.8 × 7.8 mm | iPhone is slimmer and shorter, making it easier to handle. Moto G is bulkier but has a built-in stylus. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 201g | iPhone is 16.5g lighter, better for one-handed use. |
| Build Quality | Plastic back | Glass back, aluminum frame | iPhone feels more premium, but Moto G may be more durable for drops. |
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.7" OLED | Similar size, but iPhone’s OLED is richer in contrast and colors. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (387 PPI) | 1290x2796 (460 PPI) | iPhone is sharper—better for reading text and media. |
| Brightness | Not specified | 2000 nits (peak) | iPhone is far superior outdoors—easier to see in sunlight. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Neither has a high refresh rate, so scrolling is similar. |
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | A16 Bionic (4nm) | iPhone is vastly faster—better for gaming, multitasking, and future-proofing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 171,000 | 1,470,000 | iPhone is 8.6x faster—handles demanding apps effortlessly. |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB | iPhone has better multitasking—fewer app reloads. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 128GB/256GB/512GB | iPhone offers more storage options, but neither has expandable storage. |
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 48MP (f/1.6, larger sensor) | iPhone has better low-light performance and computational photography. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP (f/2.2) | 12MP (f/2.4) | Moto G has a higher-res ultrawide, but iPhone’s processing is superior. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP (f/2.0) | 12MP (f/1.9) | Moto G has higher resolution, but iPhone’s selfies look more natural. |
| Video | 1080p@60fps | 4K@60fps (HDR, Cinematic Mode) | iPhone is far better for video—smoother, more dynamic range. |
| DxOMark Score | Not tested | 145 (Photo: 147, Video: 153) | iPhone is one of the best smartphone cameras available. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4383mAh | iPhone has a slightly larger battery, but efficiency matters more. |
| Charging Speed | 10W wired | 20W wired + 15W MagSafe | iPhone charges twice as fast and supports wireless charging. |
| Battery Life | Decent (Snapdragon 480 is efficient) | Excellent (A16 Bionic is power-efficient) | iPhone will last longer under heavy use. |
Software & Extras
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (up to 12) | iOS 17 (up to iOS 18+) | iPhone gets longer software support (5+ years vs. 1-2 for Moto G). |
| Stylus Support | Yes (included) | No | Moto G is better for note-taking and drawing. |
| Security | Rear fingerprint sensor | Face ID | iPhone’s Face ID is more convenient, but Moto G has a fingerprint reader. |
| Audio | Basic speaker | Stereo speakers, better mic | iPhone has better call quality and media playback. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Built-in stylus – Great for note-taking, sketching, and precise control.
✅ More versatile rear cameras – Ultrawide + macro lenses offer flexibility.
✅ Lower price – Much more affordable than the iPhone 15 Plus.
Apple iPhone 15 Plus Strengths
✅ Blazing-fast performance – A16 Bionic is 8x faster in benchmarks.
✅ Superior display – OLED, higher resolution, and much brighter.
✅ Better cameras – Computational photography, 4K HDR video, and Night Mode.
✅ Longer software support – iOS updates for 5+ years vs. Android’s 1-2.
✅ Premium build & features – MagSafe, Face ID, better speakers.
Trade-Offs
- Moto G Stylus 5G is slower, bulkier, and has weaker cameras, but the stylus is a unique advantage.
- iPhone 15 Plus is far more expensive but offers better performance, longevity, and ecosystem benefits.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
- Budget-conscious users who want a big screen and stylus for notes/drawing.
- Casual users who don’t need top-tier performance.
- Those who prefer Android and expandable storage (though this model lacks it).
Who Should Buy the iPhone 15 Plus?
- Power users who want long-term performance and software support.
- Photography & videography enthusiasts – better camera and 4K video.
- Apple ecosystem users (Mac, iPad, AirPods integration).
- Those who prioritize premium build and display quality.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Do I want the best performance and cameras? → iPhone 15 Plus
- Am I budget-constrained? → Moto G Stylus 5G
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student on a budget? → Moto G Stylus (note-taking, affordability).
- Content creator? → iPhone 15 Plus (better camera, video, performance).
- Long-term user? → iPhone 15 Plus (5+ years of updates).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the iPhone 15 Plus—it’s the better all-around device with superior performance, cameras, display, and software support. The Moto G Stylus 5G is a great budget option, but the iPhone’s longevity, ecosystem, and premium experience make it worth the extra cost.
However, if I needed a stylus for work or creativity, I’d consider the Moto G Stylus 5G—but I’d also look at newer alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra for a better stylus experience.
Bottom Line:
- Best overall experience? → iPhone 15 Plus
- Best budget stylus phone? → Moto G Stylus 5G (but consider alternatives).
