Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Google Pixel 6: A Practical Showdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how these two 2021 smartphones compare, with a focus on real-world usability.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 158.6 × 74.8 × 8.9 mm | Pixel 6 is more compact and pocket-friendly |
| Weight | 217.5g | 207g | Pixel 6 is slightly lighter (~10g difference) |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 6 is more scratch/drop-resistant |
| Stylus Support | ✅ Included | ❌ No | Moto G Stylus excels for note-takers & artists |
Takeaway:
- The Moto G Stylus 5G is bulkier but includes a built-in stylus, ideal for sketching or note-taking.
- The Pixel 6 is sleeker, more durable, and easier to handle one-handed.
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.4" AMOLED | Moto has bigger screen; Pixel has richer colors |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Pixel 6 feels smoother in scrolling & gaming |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 387 | 411 | Pixel 6 has slightly sharper text & icons |
Takeaway:
- Pixel 6’s AMOLED panel delivers deeper blacks and better viewing angles.
- Moto G Stylus 5G has a larger display but lacks adaptive refresh rate.
Performance
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 (8nm) | Google Tensor (5nm) | Tensor is vastly more powerful & efficient |
| Antutu Score | 171,000 | 721,000 | Pixel 6 handles intensive tasks & gaming better |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB | Pixel 6 multitasks more smoothly |
Takeaway:
- Pixel 6 is significantly faster, making it better for gaming, AI tasks, and future-proofing.
- Moto G Stylus 5G is fine for basic tasks but struggles with heavy apps.
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 50MP (f/1.85) + GN1 sensor | Pixel 6 captures better low-light & detail |
| Ultrawide | 16MP | 12MP | Moto has higher resolution, but Pixel’s processing wins |
| Selfie | 20MP | 8MP | Moto has sharper selfies, but Pixel’s software enhances dynamic range |
| Video | 1080p@60fps (no OIS) | 4K@60fps (OIS + EIS) | Pixel 6 is far superior for video stability & quality |
Takeaway:
- Pixel 6 destroys the Moto in camera quality, especially in computational photography.
- Moto G Stylus 5G has more megapixels but lacks advanced stabilization & processing.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4600mAh | Pixel 6 lasts longer on a charge |
| Charging Speed | 10W (slow) | 23W (faster) + 21W wireless | Pixel 6 charges significantly quicker |
Takeaway:
- Pixel 6 wins in battery life and charging convenience.
- Moto G Stylus 5G’s slow charging is a major drawback.
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✔ Built-in stylus – Useful for note-taking, sketching
✔ Larger screen – Better for media consumption
✔ More megapixels (front & ultrawide) – On paper, higher resolution
Google Pixel 6 Strengths
✔ Far superior performance – Smoother, faster, future-proof
✔ Better display (AMOLED + 90Hz) – More vibrant, smoother scrolling
✔ Top-tier camera processing – Best-in-class computational photography
✔ Faster charging & wireless charging – More convenient daily use
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
- Budget-conscious users who need a stylus (students, artists).
- Those who prioritize screen size over display quality.
- Casual users who don’t need high-end performance.
Who Should Buy the Google Pixel 6?
- Photography enthusiasts who want the best mobile camera.
- Performance seekers (gamers, multitaskers).
- Users who prefer premium software (stock Android, faster updates).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Yes = Moto G Stylus 5G | No = Pixel 6
- Is camera quality a priority? → Pixel 6 wins by a mile
- Do I want long-term performance? → Pixel 6’s Tensor chip is more future-proof
Scenario-Based Recommendation:
- Student on a budget? → Moto G Stylus (note-taking).
- Photographer? → Pixel 6 (computational photography).
- Gamer/multitasker? → Pixel 6 (faster chip, more RAM).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Google Pixel 6.
Why?
- It’s faster, lasts longer, charges quicker, and has a vastly superior camera.
- Unless you absolutely need a stylus, the Pixel 6 is the better all-around device.
- The Tensor chip ensures better long-term software support and AI features.
The Moto G Stylus 5G makes sense only if you must have a stylus—otherwise, the Pixel 6 is the clear winner.
