Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Moto G42: A Practical Comparison
Both phones cater to budget-conscious users but with different strengths—one offers a stylus and 5G, while the other focuses on display quality and battery life. Let’s break down the key differences and who each device suits best.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 160.4 × 73.5 × 8 mm | G42 is smaller and lighter (175g vs. 217.5g), making it easier to handle. G Stylus is bulkier but has a built-in stylus. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted | G42’s side sensor is more convenient for unlocking while holding the phone. |
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.4" AMOLED | G42’s AMOLED screen offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and power efficiency. G Stylus has a larger but lower-quality LCD. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (387 PPI) | 1080x2400 (411 PPI) | G42 has slightly sharper text due to higher PPI. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Neither has a high refresh rate, so scrolling is standard. |
Performance
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm) | G42’s Snapdragon 680 is 46% faster (AnTuTu 249K vs. 171K), but lacks 5G. G Stylus has 5G but weaker performance. |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB / 6GB | G42’s optional 6GB RAM helps with multitasking. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 64GB / 128GB (non-expandable) | Both lack microSD, so G Stylus’s base 128GB is better. |
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 50MP (f/1.8) | G42 has slightly higher resolution, but G Stylus’s wider aperture helps in low light. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.2) | G Stylus has a much better ultrawide (16MP vs. 8MP). |
| Selfie | 20MP (f/2.0) | 16MP (f/2.2) | G Stylus has a higher-res selfie cam. |
| Video | 1080p@60fps, 120fps slow-mo | 1080p@30fps, no slow-mo | G Stylus offers better video flexibility. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | G42 has 25% more battery, lasting longer per charge. |
| Charging Speed | 10W | 20W | G42 charges twice as fast. |
Extras
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Moto G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stylus Support | Yes | No | G Stylus is better for note-taking and drawing. |
| Audio | Basic | Dolby Atmos, stereo speakers | G42 has better sound quality. |
| 5G Support | Yes | No | G Stylus is future-proofed for 5G networks. |
2. Key Insights
Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Built-in stylus – Great for note-takers, artists, or productivity users.
✅ 5G support – Better for future network compatibility.
✅ Better ultrawide & selfie cameras – More versatile photography.
✅ Higher base storage (128GB) – No need to worry about space.
Moto G42 Strengths
✅ Superior AMOLED display – Better colors, contrast, and battery efficiency.
✅ Faster performance – Smoother multitasking and app usage.
✅ Bigger battery & faster charging – Lasts longer and refuels quicker.
✅ Lighter & more compact – Easier to handle one-handed.
Trade-Offs
- G Stylus 5G has weaker performance and a bulkier design.
- G42 lacks 5G and a stylus, which may be dealbreakers for some.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
✔ Students & creatives – The stylus is great for notes and sketches.
✔ 5G early adopters – If you want future network support.
✔ Photography enthusiasts – Better ultrawide and selfie cameras.
Who Should Buy the Moto G42?
✔ Media consumers – AMOLED screen and Dolby Atmos enhance videos/music.
✔ Battery life seekers – 5000mAh + 20W charging is a big advantage.
✔ Performance-focused users – Faster chipset and optional 6GB RAM.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need a stylus or 5G? → G Stylus 5G
- Do I prioritize display quality and battery life? → G42
- Do I take a lot of wide-angle photos? → G Stylus 5G
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Best for productivity & creativity: G Stylus 5G
- Best for media & battery life: G42
- Best for future-proofing (5G): G Stylus 5G
- Best for performance & daily use: G42
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Moto G42.
While the G Stylus 5G has niche advantages (stylus, 5G, better ultrawide camera), the G42’s AMOLED display, faster performance, and superior battery life make it the better all-rounder for most users. Unless you really need a stylus or 5G, the G42 is the smarter buy.
But if you’re a note-taker or want 5G, the G Stylus 5G is still a solid choice.
Which one fits your needs better? 🚀
