Here’s a structured comparison of the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G and Motorola Edge 30, focusing on real-world usability and trade-offs:
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Edge 30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 159.4 × 74.2 × 6.8 mm | Edge 30 is slimmer and lighter (155g vs 217g), easier for one-handed use. G Stylus is bulkier but includes a built-in stylus. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 3 | Edge 30 offers better scratch resistance. |
| Stylus Support | Yes | No | G Stylus wins for note-taking or sketching. |
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Edge 30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.5" AMOLED | G Stylus has a larger screen, but Edge 30’s AMOLED offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and power efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 144Hz | Edge 30 feels smoother for scrolling/gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (387 PPI) | 1080x2400 (405 PPI) | Nearly identical sharpness, but AMOLED makes colors pop. |
Performance
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Edge 30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Snapdragon 778G+ (6nm) | Edge 30 is 2.5x faster (AnTuTu: 609K vs 171K). Better for gaming/multitasking. |
| RAM/Storage | 4GB/128GB | 6-8GB/128-256GB | Edge 30 handles heavy apps better; more storage options. |
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Edge 30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 50MP (f/1.8, OIS) | Edge 30 has better low-light performance and stabilization. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP | 50MP (macro/ultrawide) | Edge 30’s hybrid lens is more versatile. |
| Selfie | 20MP | 32MP | Edge 30 wins for sharper selfies. |
| Video | 1080p@60fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | Edge 30 supports higher-quality video with HDR/EIS. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Edge 30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4020mAh | Similar endurance, but Edge 30’s 33W charging refuels faster. |
| Battery Tech | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer (Edge 30) is lighter and more durable. |
Extras
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Edge 30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Audio | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Stereo | Edge 30 has richer sound for media. |
| Software | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 12 (up to 13) | Edge 30 gets longer OS support. |
| Wi-Fi/Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 5, BT 5.0 | Wi-Fi 6, BT 5.2 | Edge 30 offers faster wireless connectivity. |
2. Key Insights
Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths:
- Built-in stylus for note-taking/drawing.
- Larger display (6.8") for media consumption.
- Ultrawide + macro cameras for versatility.
Edge 30 Strengths:
- Superior performance (Snapdragon 778G+ crushes the 480).
- 144Hz AMOLED display (smoother, more vibrant).
- Better cameras (OIS, 4K video, 50MP ultrawide).
- Faster charging (33W vs 10W).
- Newer software (Android 12, longer support).
Trade-Offs:
- Stylus vs Performance: If you need a stylus, the G Stylus is the only choice. Otherwise, the Edge 30 is better in almost every way.
- Bulk vs Portability: The G Stylus is heavier and thicker, while the Edge 30 is sleek and lightweight.
3. User Recommendations
Choose the Moto G Stylus 5G if:
- You need a stylus for work/creativity.
- You prefer a larger screen for media.
- Your budget is tighter (assuming it’s cheaper; pricing not provided).
Choose the Edge 30 if:
- You want flagship-level performance for gaming/multitasking.
- You value AMOLED + 144Hz for smooth visuals.
- You prioritize camera quality (OIS, 4K video).
- You prefer a lighter, more modern design.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I need a stylus?
→ Yes: G Stylus 5G. No: Edge 30.
- Is performance a priority?
→ Yes: Edge 30 (Snapdragon 778G+ is far superior).
- Do I care about camera quality?
→ Yes: Edge 30 (OIS, 50MP sensors, 4K video).
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Student/Artist: G Stylus 5G (stylus for notes).
- Gamer/Photographer: Edge 30 (performance + cameras).
- Casual User: Edge 30 (better all-rounder).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Motorola Edge 30—it’s the better phone for most users. The Snapdragon 778G+, 144Hz AMOLED, OIS cameras, and 33W charging make it a far more future-proof device. The G Stylus 5G’s stylus is niche, and its slower chipset feels dated. Unless you really need the stylus, the Edge 30 is the clear winner.
Why? Performance, display, and cameras matter more to me than a stylus, and the Edge 30 excels in all three. The lighter design and faster charging are bonuses.
