Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Apple iPhone 16: In-Depth Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | iPhone 16 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 147.6 × 71.6 × 7.8 mm | Moto is larger and heavier (217g vs. 170g), better for stylus use but less pocket-friendly. iPhone is sleek and premium. |
| Weight | 217g | 170g | iPhone feels noticeably lighter and more comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | None | Moto offers quick biometric unlock; iPhone relies on Face ID (not listed, but typical for Apple). |
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | iPhone 16 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.1" OLED | Moto’s larger screen is better for media, but iPhone’s OLED offers deeper blacks and better contrast. |
| Resolution | 1080×2400 (387 PPI) | 1179×2556 (460 PPI) | iPhone has a sharper, more vibrant display. |
| Brightness | Not specified | 2000 nits (peak) | iPhone crushes outdoor visibility—far superior in sunlight. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Neither has a high refresh rate—no advantage here. |
Performance
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | iPhone 16 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Apple A18 (3nm) | iPhone’s A18 is vastly more powerful (925% higher AnTuTu score). |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB | iPhone will handle multitasking and demanding apps much better. |
| Storage | 128GB (no expansion) | 128GB/256GB/512GB | More options on iPhone; no expandable storage on either. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Apple 6-core GPU | iPhone dominates in gaming and graphics performance. |
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | iPhone 16 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.7 | 48MP, f/1.6 (Sony IMX904) | iPhone has a better sensor, wider aperture, and superior processing. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP | 12MP (macro-capable) | Moto has higher resolution, but iPhone’s ultrawide doubles as a macro lens. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP | 12MP | Higher resolution on Moto, but iPhone’s selfies will look more refined. |
| Video | 1080p @ 60fps | 4K HDR @ 60fps | iPhone is vastly superior for video—better stabilization, dynamic range, and slow-mo (240fps). |
| Extra Features | Laser autofocus | Cinematic Mode, Night Mode | iPhone offers pro-grade video tools and better low-light performance. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | iPhone 16 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 3561mAh | Moto has a slight edge, but iPhone’s efficiency may balance it out. |
| Charging Speed | 10W wired | 25W wired + 25W wireless | iPhone charges 2.5x faster and supports wireless charging. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Non-removable + MagSafe | iPhone offers more charging flexibility. |
Software & Extras
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | iPhone 16 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| OS | Android 11 (up to 12) | iOS 18 | iPhone gets longer software support (5+ years vs. Moto’s 2-3). |
| Stylus Support | Yes | No | Moto’s stylus is great for notes and sketches; iPhone lacks this feature. |
| WiFi/Bluetooth | WiFi 5, BT 5.0 | WiFi 6E, BT 5.3 | iPhone has faster, more stable connectivity. |
| Audio | Basic mono speaker | Stereo + Dolby Atmos | iPhone delivers far better sound for media and calls. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Bigger display – Great for media consumption and stylus use.
✅ Built-in stylus – Useful for note-takers and artists.
✅ Higher battery capacity – Marginally longer runtime.
✅ Lower price – Likely much cheaper than iPhone 16.
Apple iPhone 16 Strengths
✅ Blazing-fast performance – A18 chip is 925% faster in benchmarks.
✅ Superior display – OLED, higher brightness, better outdoor visibility.
✅ Better camera system – Pro-grade video, Night Mode, better stabilization.
✅ Longer software support – iOS updates for 5+ years.
✅ Premium build & lighter weight – More comfortable for daily use.
3. User Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
- Budget-conscious users who want a large screen and stylus.
- Casual users who don’t need top-tier performance.
- Note-takers & artists who value the built-in stylus.
Who Should Buy the iPhone 16?
- Power users & gamers needing best-in-class performance.
- Photography & videography enthusiasts (4K HDR, Night Mode, Cinematic Mode).
- Long-term users who want 5+ years of updates.
- Those who prefer premium design and wireless charging.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Key Questions to Ask:
- Do you need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Do you prioritize performance and camera quality? → iPhone 16
- Are you looking for long-term software support? → iPhone 16
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student on a budget? → Moto G Stylus (cheaper, good for notes).
- Content creator? → iPhone 16 (better camera, video, performance).
- Casual user who upgrades rarely? → iPhone 16 (longer updates).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Pick?
🔹 If I were buying today, I’d choose the iPhone 16.
Why?
- Performance gap is massive—A18 chip destroys the Snapdragon 480.
- Better cameras—especially for video and low light.
- Longer software support—crucial for keeping the phone usable for years.
- Superior display—OLED, higher brightness, better colors.
The Moto G Stylus 5G is a great budget option only if you really need the stylus or can’t afford an iPhone. Otherwise, the iPhone 16 is the clear winner in almost every meaningful category.
