Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Google Pixel Fold: A Practical Comparison
Two very different phones—one a budget-friendly stylus-equipped workhorse, the other a premium foldable powerhouse. Let’s break down how they compare in real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel Fold | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard slab phone | Foldable (book-style) | Pixel Fold offers tablet-like multitasking, but Moto G Stylus is simpler and more durable. |
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 139.7 × 158.7 × 5.8 mm (folded) | Pixel Fold is wider but thinner when folded; Moto G Stylus is taller and thicker. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 283g | Moto G Stylus is much lighter—better for extended one-handed use. |
| Durability | Unknown screen protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel Fold has better screen protection, but folding mechanisms always carry durability concerns. |
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel Fold | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 7.6" OLED (unfolded) | Pixel Fold offers a mini-tablet experience; Moto G Stylus is a large standard phone. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1840x2208 | Pixel Fold's panel is sharper, ideal for media and multitasking. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel Fold feels smoother for scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | Not specified | 1500 nits (peak) | Pixel Fold is much better outdoors in sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel Fold | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G | Google Tensor G2 | Tensor G2 is vastly more powerful—better for AI tasks, gaming, and future-proofing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 171,000 | 793,800 | Pixel Fold is 4.6x faster—handles heavy apps and multitasking effortlessly. |
| RAM | 4GB | 12GB | Pixel Fold demolishes Moto G Stylus in multitasking—no app reloads. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 256GB/512GB | Pixel Fold offers more storage, crucial for power users. |
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel Fold | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 48MP (f/1.7) | Similar resolution, but Pixel Fold has better processing (Google’s computational photography). |
| Ultrawide | 16MP | 10.8MP | Moto G Stylus has higher resolution, but Pixel Fold likely has better dynamic range. |
| Telephoto | None | 10.8MP | Pixel Fold offers optical zoom—great for portraits and distant shots. |
| Selfie | 20MP | 8MP | Motorola has higher resolution, but Pixel Fold uses its main cameras when unfolded. |
| Video | 1080p@60fps | 4K@60fps HDR | Pixel Fold is far superior for videography. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel Fold | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4821mAh | Pixel Fold has a larger battery, but foldables drain faster—expect similar endurance. |
| Charging | 10W | 30W | Pixel Fold charges 3x faster. |
| Battery Tech | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer (Pixel Fold) is slightly more efficient and durable. |
Extras
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Google Pixel Fold | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stylus Support | Yes | No | Moto G Stylus is great for note-takers and artists. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted | Pixel Fold’s is quicker and more ergonomic. |
| Software | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 13 (up to 14) | Pixel Fold gets longer updates and exclusive Google features. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Budget-friendly – Significantly cheaper.
✅ Built-in stylus – Great for note-taking, sketching, and precise input.
✅ Lighter & simpler – More pocketable and durable than a foldable.
Google Pixel Fold Strengths
🔥 Foldable versatility – Tablet-like screen when unfolded.
🚀 Elite performance – Tensor G2 + 12GB RAM = flagship-level speed.
📸 Superior cameras – Google’s computational photography shines.
🔋 Faster charging & more storage – Better for power users.
Trade-Offs
- Pixel Fold is expensive – You pay a premium for the foldable factor.
- Moto G Stylus has weaker performance – Struggles with demanding apps/games.
- Foldable durability concerns – Hinges and folding screens are inherently less rugged.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
🔹 Budget-conscious users – Best value for stylus functionality.
🔹 Students & note-takers – The built-in stylus is a rare feature at this price.
🔹 Basic users – If you just need calls, texts, and light apps, this suffices.
Who Should Buy the Pixel Fold?
💰 Tech enthusiasts willing to splurge – For early adopters of foldables.
📱 Multitaskers & media consumers – The unfolded screen is fantastic for productivity.
📸 Photography lovers – Google’s camera processing is unmatched.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Questions to Ask Yourself
- Do I need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Do I want cutting-edge performance & a folding screen? → Pixel Fold
- Am I willing to pay a premium for future-proof specs? → Pixel Fold
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Best Budget Phone with a Stylus: Moto G Stylus 5G
- Best Foldable with Top-Tier Performance: Pixel Fold
- Best Battery & Charging: Pixel Fold
- Best for Note-Taking & Drawing: Moto G Stylus 5G
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
If budget is no issue, I’d go for the Google Pixel Fold—its foldable screen, superior performance, and camera system make it a far more future-proof and versatile device.
However, if I needed a stylus or wanted to save money, the Moto G Stylus 5G is a solid budget-friendly pick.
My choice? Pixel Fold—because having a tablet and phone in one is too compelling to ignore. 🚀
