Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Huawei nova 12i: In-Depth Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Huawei nova 12i | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm, 217.5g | 163.3 × 74.7 × 8.4 mm, 199g | The nova 12i is more compact and lighter, making it easier to handle. The Moto G Stylus is bulkier but includes a built-in stylus. |
| Display | 6.8" IPS LCD, 60Hz, 387 PPI | 6.7" IPS LCD, 90Hz, 391 PPI | The nova 12i’s 90Hz refresh rate offers smoother scrolling, but both have similar sharpness and color quality. |
| Performance | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm), 4GB RAM, 171K AnTuTu | Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm), 8GB RAM, 289K AnTuTu | The nova 12i is significantly faster (69% higher benchmark score) and has double the RAM, making it better for multitasking and gaming. |
| Battery | 4000mAh, 10W charging | 5000mAh, 40W charging | The nova 12i lasts longer and charges much faster (40W vs. 10W). |
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) + 16MP ultrawide + 2MP macro + ToF | 108MP (f/1.9) + 2MP depth | The Moto G Stylus has more versatile lenses (ultrawide, macro), while the nova 12i has a higher-resolution main sensor. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP (f/2.0) | 8MP (f/2.0) | The Moto G Stylus has a sharper front camera, better for selfies and video calls. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 128GB/256GB (non-expandable) | The nova 12i offers a 256GB option, which is better for heavy media users. |
| Software | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | EMUI (no Google services) | The Moto G Stylus runs stock Android with full Google support, while the nova 12i lacks Google apps. |
| Connectivity | 5G support | 4G only | The Moto G Stylus is future-proofed with 5G, while the nova 12i is limited to 4G. |
| Security | Rear-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | The nova 12i’s side-mounted sensor is more convenient. |
| Extras | Stylus support, ToF sensor | None | The Moto G Stylus is better for note-taking and precise input. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths:
✅ Stylus functionality – Great for note-taking, sketching, and precise navigation.
✅ Better camera versatility – Ultrawide and macro lenses add flexibility.
✅ 5G support – More future-proof for network upgrades.
✅ Stock Android with Google services – Smoother updates and app compatibility.
Huawei nova 12i Strengths:
✅ Faster performance – Better chipset and double the RAM for smoother multitasking.
✅ Superior battery life – 5000mAh + 40W charging means all-day endurance.
✅ 90Hz display – Smoother scrolling and animations.
✅ Higher-resolution main camera – 108MP sensor captures more detail in good lighting.
Trade-Offs & Limitations:
- The nova 12i lacks Google services, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.
- The Moto G Stylus has slower charging (10W vs. 40W) and weaker performance.
- The nova 12i has no ultrawide camera, while the Moto G Stylus lacks a depth sensor.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G?
✔ Stylus users – Ideal for note-takers, artists, or those who prefer precision input.
✔ 5G adopters – Better for users in regions with strong 5G coverage.
✔ Google-dependent users – Requires full access to Google apps (Maps, Play Store, etc.).
Who Should Buy the Huawei nova 12i?
✔ Performance-focused users – Better for gaming, multitasking, and speed.
✔ Battery-conscious buyers – Longer endurance and much faster charging.
✔ Huawei ecosystem users – Comfortable with Huawei’s AppGallery and alternatives.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Key Questions to Ask:
- Do you need a stylus or 5G? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Do you prioritize battery life and performance? → Huawei nova 12i
- Are Google services essential for you? → Moto G Stylus 5G
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student/Artist? → Moto G Stylus (for note-taking).
- Gamer/Multitasker? → nova 12i (better chipset & RAM).
- Long trips? → nova 12i (bigger battery & fast charging).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Huawei nova 12i—but with a caveat.
Why?
- The performance gap is huge (Snapdragon 680 vs. 480, 8GB vs. 4GB RAM).
- The battery life and charging speed are far superior.
- The 90Hz display makes everyday use smoother.
However, if I relied on Google apps or wanted a stylus, I’d go for the Moto G Stylus 5G despite its weaker performance.
For most users, the nova 12i is the better phone—unless Google services or a stylus are non-negotiable.
