Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Google Pixel 8a: A Practical Comparison
These two phones cater to different audiences—one focuses on productivity with a stylus and a large display, while the other prioritizes AI-powered photography, smooth performance, and Google’s latest software. Here’s how they compare in real-world usage.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Pixel 8a | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 152.1 × 72.7 × 8.9 mm | Pixel 8a is more compact and pocket-friendly; Moto G Stylus is bulkier but offers more screen space. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 188g | Pixel 8a is much lighter—better for one-handed use. Moto G Stylus feels substantial but may tire the wrist over time. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Pixel 8a has better drop resistance, making it slightly more durable. |
Takeaway: If you prefer a big-screen phone with a stylus, the Moto G Stylus 5G fits. If you want a lightweight, compact device, the Pixel 8a wins.
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Pixel 8a | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.1" OLED | Moto G Stylus is better for media and note-taking, while Pixel 8a has richer colors and deeper blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 8a feels much smoother—scrolling, gaming, and animations are more fluid. |
| Resolution & PPI | 1080x2400 (387 PPI) | 1080x2400 (430 PPI) | Pixel 8a is sharper, but both are good for everyday use. |
Takeaway: If you prioritize smoothness and contrast, the Pixel 8a’s OLED and 120Hz make a big difference. If screen size matters more, the Moto G Stylus 5G delivers.
Performance & Software
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Pixel 8a | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 (8nm) | Tensor G3 (4nm) | Pixel 8a is vastly faster—better for multitasking, gaming, and AI processing. |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB | Pixel 8a handles more apps open at once without slowdowns. |
| AnTuTu Benchmark | 171,000 | 876,512 | Pixel 8a is 4x faster—much more future-proof. |
| OS & Updates | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 14 (up to 21) | Pixel 8a gets 7 years of updates—better long-term support. |
Takeaway: The Pixel 8a is far more powerful and will stay relevant longer. The Moto G Stylus 5G is okay for basics but struggles with heavy apps.
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Pixel 8a | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 64MP (f/1.89, OIS) | Pixel 8a has better low-light performance thanks to OIS and Google’s computational photography. |
| Ultrawide Lens | 16MP | 13MP (ultrawide + macro) | Moto G Stylus has a higher-res ultrawide, but Pixel 8a’s AI processing makes it sharper. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP (f/2.0) | 13MP (f/2.2) | Moto G Stylus has higher resolution, but Pixel 8a has better AI enhancements. |
| Video Quality | 1080p@60fps (no OIS) | 4K@60fps (OIS) | Pixel 8a is far superior for video—stabilized and higher resolution. |
Takeaway: If photography is a priority, the Pixel 8a wins—better detail, stabilization, and AI processing. The Moto G Stylus 5G has more lenses but weaker software.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Pixel 8a | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4000mAh | 4500mAh | Pixel 8a lasts longer despite the faster processor. |
| Charging Speed | 10W | 18W | Pixel 8a charges nearly twice as fast. |
| Reverse Charging | No | Yes | Pixel 8a can charge other devices, useful in emergencies. |
Takeaway: The Pixel 8a has better battery life and charging, while the Moto G Stylus 5G falls behind.
2. Key Insights
Why Choose the Moto G Stylus 5G?
✅ Bigger screen & stylus – Great for note-taking, sketching, and media.
✅ More camera lenses – Ultrawide, macro, and depth sensors offer flexibility.
❌ Slower performance – Struggles with heavy apps and gaming.
❌ Worse software support – Only gets updates until Android 12.
Why Choose the Pixel 8a?
✅ Much faster performance – Handles gaming and multitasking effortlessly.
✅ Better cameras & AI features – Superior night mode, portrait mode, and video stabilization.
✅ Longer software support – Guaranteed updates until 2031.
❌ No stylus support – Not ideal for digital note-takers.
3. User Recommendations
Best For Moto G Stylus 5G:
✔ Casual stylus users (notes, doodling).
✔ Budget buyers who want a big-screen phone.
✔ Those who don’t need high-end performance.
Best For Pixel 8a:
✔ Photography enthusiasts.
✔ Users who want a fast, long-lasting phone.
✔ People who prioritize software updates.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Do I care about camera quality and performance? → Pixel 8a
- Do I want a phone that lasts 5+ years? → Pixel 8a
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Google Pixel 8a.
While the Moto G Stylus 5G has a niche stylus feature, the Pixel 8a is better in almost every other way—faster processor, better cameras, longer battery life, and 7 years of updates. Unless you absolutely need a stylus, the Pixel 8a is the smarter long-term investment.
Would you prioritize the stylus or the overall better phone? Let me know your thoughts! 🚀
