Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Motorola Moto G23: A Practical Comparison
Choosing between these two Motorola phones depends on whether you prioritize stylus functionality, display sharpness, and camera versatility (G Stylus 5G) or battery life, performance, and a smoother display (G23). Below, we break down the key differences to help you decide.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G23 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 162.7 × 74.7 × 8.2 mm | G23 is more compact and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 184.3g | G23 is 33g lighter, better for one-handed use. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted | G23’s side sensor is more ergonomic. |
Takeaway: The G23 is sleeker and lighter, making it easier to carry, while the G Stylus 5G is bulkier due to the stylus integration.
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G23 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.5" | G Stylus 5G has a larger screen for media & notes. |
| Resolution | 1080×2400 (FHD+) | 720×1600 (HD+) | G Stylus 5G is sharper (387 PPI vs. 270 PPI)—better for reading. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | G23 offers smoother scrolling & animations. |
Takeaway:
- G Stylus 5G = Better clarity (great for stylus use, reading).
- G23 = Smoother motion (better for gaming, scrolling).
Performance
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G23 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Helio G85 (12nm) | G23’s Helio G85 is 32% faster (AnTuTu: 225K vs. 171K). |
| RAM Options | 4GB | 4GB / 8GB | G23’s 8GB variant handles multitasking better. |
| Storage | 128GB (fixed) | 64GB / 128GB | G Stylus 5G has more base storage. |
Takeaway:
- G23 wins in raw performance (better for gaming, apps).
- G Stylus 5G has more base storage but weaker chipset.
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G23 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 50MP (f/1.8) | Similar daylight quality; G Stylus 5G has better low-light potential. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP (vs. G23’s 5MP) | 5MP | G Stylus 5G captures much wider, detailed shots. |
| Selfie | 20MP (f/2.0) | 16MP (f/2.5) | G Stylus 5G has sharper selfies. |
| Extra Features | ToF sensor, Laser AF | RAW shooting | G Stylus 5G has better autofocus; G23 allows RAW editing. |
Takeaway:
- G Stylus 5G has stronger camera versatility (ultrawide, ToF, better selfies).
- G23 has a slight resolution bump but weaker secondary cameras.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G23 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | G23 lasts 25% longer on a charge. |
| Charging Speed | 10W (slow) | 30W (fast) | G23 charges 3x faster. |
| Battery Tech | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer (G23) retains capacity better over time. |
Takeaway:
- G23 dominates battery life & charging speed.
- G Stylus 5G has mediocre endurance.
2. Key Insights
Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Superior display (sharper, bigger—better for stylus notes).
✅ Better camera versatility (ultrawide, ToF, stronger selfie cam).
✅ Built-in stylus (great for artists, note-takers).
Moto G23 Strengths
✅ Faster performance (Helio G85 > Snapdragon 480).
✅ 90Hz display (smoother animations, better gaming).
✅ Bigger battery & faster charging (5000mAh + 30W).
✅ Newer software (Android 13 vs. Android 11 on G Stylus 5G).
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
- Note-takers & artists (stylus is a rare feature at this price).
- Photography enthusiasts (better ultrawide, selfie cam).
- Users who prefer a sharp display for reading, media.
Who Should Buy the Moto G23?
- Gamers & power users (90Hz, faster chipset, 8GB RAM option).
- Battery-conscious users (5000mAh + 30W charging).
- Those who want a lighter, more modern phone (newer OS, slimmer).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Yes = G Stylus 5G | No = G23.
- Is battery life more important than screen sharpness? → Yes = G23 | No = G Stylus 5G.
- Do I care about gaming/smoothness more than camera versatility? → Yes = G23 | No = G Stylus 5G.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Moto G23.
- The 90Hz display, better battery, and faster chipset make it the more future-proof choice for most users.
- The stylus on the G Stylus 5G is niche, and its weaker battery & slower performance hold it back.
- If you really need the stylus, the G Stylus 5G is still decent—but the G23 is the better all-rounder.
Winner: Moto G23 (better performance, battery, and value).
Runner-up: Moto G Stylus 5G (only if you must have a stylus).
