Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Motorola Moto G (2022): A Practical Comparison
Both phones cater to budget-conscious users, but they take different approaches—one leans into productivity with a stylus, while the other focuses on smoother performance and a newer OS. Let’s break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 165.4 × 75.8 × 9.4 mm | Stylus 5G is slightly larger, which may feel bulkier in hand. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 204g | G (2022) is noticeably lighter (~13.5g difference). |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted | Side-mounted is more convenient for quick unlocks. |
Takeaway:
- The G (2022) is more compact and lighter, making it easier for one-handed use.
- The Stylus 5G is bulkier but includes a built-in stylus for note-taking and sketching.
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.5" | Stylus 5G offers more screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (FHD+) | 720x1600 (HD+) | Stylus 5G is sharper (387 PPI vs. 270 PPI). |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | G (2022) feels smoother in scrolling and animations. |
| Panel Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Similar color accuracy and brightness. |
Takeaway:
- Stylus 5G wins in sharpness and size—better for media consumption.
- G (2022) has a smoother 90Hz refresh rate, improving scrolling and UI fluidity.
Performance
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Dimensity 700 is faster and more efficient. |
| AnTuTu Score | 171,000 | 389,300 | G (2022) is 128% faster—better for gaming and multitasking. |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB | G (2022) handles more apps in the background. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 64GB (non-expandable) | Stylus 5G has double the storage, useful for media hoarders. |
Takeaway:
- G (2022) is the performance king—better chipset, more RAM, and smoother overall experience.
- Stylus 5G has more storage but weaker hardware.
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 50MP (f/1.8) | Similar daylight performance; Stylus 5G has slightly better low-light potential. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP (f/2.2) | ❌ None | Stylus 5G offers more versatility for landscapes. |
| Selfie | 20MP (f/2.0) | 13MP (f/2.2) | Stylus 5G has a sharper front camera. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@60fps, 120fps slow-mo | 1080p@30fps | Stylus 5G records smoother video. |
Takeaway:
- Stylus 5G has a better camera setup—ultrawide lens, higher-res selfies, and better video.
- G (2022) lacks versatility but has a slightly higher-res main sensor.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | G (2022) lasts significantly longer on a charge. |
| Charging Speed | 10W | 10W | Both charge slowly—expect ~2+ hours for a full charge. |
Takeaway:
- G (2022) wins in battery life—25% larger capacity means all-day endurance.
- Neither supports fast charging, so power users may find charging sluggish.
2. Key Insights
Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths:
✅ Bigger, sharper display – Better for media and stylus use.
✅ More versatile cameras – Ultrawide lens and better selfies.
✅ Built-in stylus – Great for note-taking and creative work.
✅ More storage (128GB) – Better for storing photos, videos, and apps.
Moto G (2022) Strengths:
✅ Faster performance – Better for gaming and multitasking.
✅ 90Hz display – Smoother scrolling and animations.
✅ Larger battery (5000mAh) – Longer endurance.
✅ Newer OS (Android 12) – More up-to-date software.
Trade-Offs:
- Stylus 5G sacrifices performance and battery life for the stylus and better cameras.
- G (2022) lacks expandable storage and an ultrawide camera but offers better speed and efficiency.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
✔ Students & note-takers – The stylus is great for annotating PDFs or sketching.
✔ Media consumers – Bigger, sharper screen for videos and reading.
✔ Casual photographers – Better camera versatility with ultrawide and higher-res selfies.
Who Should Buy the Moto G (2022)?
✔ Gamers & power users – Faster chipset and 6GB RAM handle demanding apps better.
✔ Battery-conscious users – 5000mAh lasts longer on a single charge.
✔ Those who prefer smoother UI – 90Hz refresh rate makes everything feel snappier.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Yes? Stylus 5G. No? G (2022).
- Is battery life a priority? → Yes? G (2022). No? Stylus 5G.
- Do I care about camera versatility? → Yes? Stylus 5G. No? G (2022).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For productivity & creativity → Stylus 5G (stylus + better cameras).
- For gaming & long battery life → G (2022) (faster chipset + 5000mAh).
- For general use (social media, calls, browsing) → G (2022) (better performance and battery).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Moto G (2022).
Why?
- Performance matters more to me than a stylus—the Dimensity 700 is a big upgrade.
- 90Hz display makes everyday scrolling smoother.
- 5000mAh battery means less charging anxiety.
The Stylus 5G is great for creatives, but the G (2022) is the better all-rounder—faster, longer-lasting, and more future-proof.
Your choice depends on priorities:
- Stylus & cameras? → Moto G Stylus 5G.
- Speed & battery? → Moto G (2022).
Both are solid budget picks—just pick the one that fits your lifestyle! 🚀
