Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max: A Practical Comparison
These two phones cater to very different audiences, with the Moto G Stylus 5G offering budget-friendly functionality (including a built-in stylus) and the iPhone 15 Pro Max delivering flagship-tier performance and premium features. 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 Pro Max | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 159.9 × 76.7 × 8.3 mm | iPhone is more compact and slimmer, easier for one-handed use. Moto G is bulkier but has a stylus slot. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 221g | Nearly identical—both feel substantial but not overly heavy. |
| Build Materials | Plastic frame, glass front | Titanium frame, glass front | iPhone’s titanium frame is more premium and durable. Moto G’s plastic keeps costs down. |
Key Insight: The iPhone is sleeker and more premium, while the Moto G prioritizes function (stylus support) over form.
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.7" OLED | Similar screen size, but iPhone’s OLED offers deeper blacks and better contrast. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (387 PPI) | 1290x2796 (460 PPI) | iPhone’s display is noticeably sharper—better for reading text and media. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | iPhone feels smoother in scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | Not specified (likely ~500 nits) | 2000 nits (peak) | iPhone is vastly superior in sunlight visibility. |
Key Insight: The iPhone’s display is in another league—brighter, smoother, and more vibrant. The Moto G’s LCD is decent for the price but can’t compete.
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | A17 Pro (3nm) | iPhone’s A17 Pro is 9x faster in benchmarks—handles heavy apps/games effortlessly. |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB | iPhone multitasks better; Moto G may struggle with many apps open. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 256GB/512GB/1TB | iPhone offers more storage options, but neither has expandable storage. |
Key Insight: The iPhone is a powerhouse—future-proof for years. The Moto G is fine for basics but lags in demanding tasks.
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 48MP (f/1.78, Sony IMX803) | iPhone’s sensor is larger, better in low light. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP (f/2.2) | 12MP (f/2.2) | Moto G has higher resolution, but iPhone’s processing is superior. |
| Telephoto | None | 5x periscope (12MP) | iPhone has a real zoom lens—great for portraits and distant shots. |
| Selfie | 20MP (f/2.0) | 12MP (f/1.9) | Moto G has more megapixels, but iPhone’s selfies look more natural. |
| Video | 1080p@60fps | 4K HDR @ 60fps | iPhone records cinematic-quality video with better stabilization. |
Key Insight: The iPhone dominates in camera versatility and quality, especially for video. The Moto G’s extra lenses (macro, ToF) are gimmicky in comparison.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4441mAh | iPhone lasts slightly longer despite higher performance. |
| Charging Speed | 10W wired | 27W wired + 15W MagSafe | iPhone charges much faster and supports wireless charging. |
Key Insight: The iPhone wins in charging convenience, but both should last a full day.
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths:
✅ Built-in stylus – Great for note-taking and sketching.
✅ Lower price – Far more affordable than the iPhone.
✅ More camera lenses – Ultrawide, macro, and ToF sensors (though quality is mid-range).
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max Strengths:
✅ Blazing-fast performance – Handles anything effortlessly.
✅ Superior display – Brighter, smoother, and more vibrant.
✅ Best-in-class cameras – Especially for video and zoom.
✅ Longer software support – iOS updates for 5+ years vs. Android’s 2-3.
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/note-takers who value the stylus over camera quality.
Who Should Buy the iPhone 15 Pro Max?
- Power users who demand the best performance.
- Photographers/videographers – Best mobile camera system.
- Apple ecosystem users – Seamless integration with Mac, iPad, etc.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do you need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Do you prioritize camera and performance? → iPhone 15 Pro Max
- Are you budget-limited? → Moto G Stylus 5G
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Best for productivity & creativity: iPhone (better apps, performance).
- Best for affordability & stylus use: Moto G.
- Best for long-term use: iPhone (longer software support).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the iPhone 15 Pro Max—it’s simply the better device in every way except price and stylus support. The display, performance, cameras, and software longevity make it worth the premium.
However, if I needed a stylus and couldn’t justify the iPhone’s cost, the Moto G Stylus 5G is a decent budget alternative.
Bottom Line:
- For most users: iPhone 15 Pro Max (if budget allows).
- For stylus lovers on a budget: Moto G Stylus 5G.
