Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. OnePlus Nord 2 5G: A Practical Comparison
Both phones target budget-conscious buyers but take different approaches—Motorola leans into productivity with a stylus and larger display, while OnePlus prioritizes performance and premium features. Let’s break down the key differences and who each phone suits best.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | OnePlus Nord 2 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 159.1 × 73.3 × 8.3 mm | Nord 2 is more compact and pocket-friendly; Moto G Stylus is bulkier but offers a larger screen. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 189g | Nord 2 is 28.5g lighter, making it easier for one-handed use. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 5 | Nord 2 has better drop resistance; Moto G Stylus lacks confirmed protection. |
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | OnePlus Nord 2 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.43" AMOLED | Moto G Stylus has a bigger screen (better for media), but Nord 2’s AMOLED offers deeper blacks and better contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Nord 2 feels smoother in scrolling and gaming; Moto G Stylus feels standard. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 387 PPI | 409 PPI | Nord 2 has slightly sharper text and images, but the difference is minor. |
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | OnePlus Nord 2 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Dimensity 1200 (6nm) | Nord 2 is far more powerful—better for gaming, multitasking, and future-proofing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 171,000 | 714,400 | Nord 2 is over 3x faster—expect smoother performance in demanding apps. |
| RAM Options | 4GB | 6GB/8GB/12GB | Nord 2 is better for heavy users; Moto G Stylus may struggle with multitasking. |
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | OnePlus Nord 2 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 50MP (f/1.8, Sony IMX766) | Nord 2 has a better sensor (IMX766)—sharper low-light shots. Moto G Stylus has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.25) | Moto G Stylus has higher resolution, but Nord 2’s sensor may balance detail better. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP (f/2.0) | 32MP (f/2.45, Sony IMX615) | Nord 2 has a higher-res front camera, but Moto G Stylus has a wider aperture (better for group selfies). |
| Video Recording | 1080p@60fps | 4K@30fps + EIS | Nord 2 is better for vlogging with 4K and stabilization. |
| Extra Lenses | Macro + ToF 3D | Mono (B&W) | Moto G Stylus has more versatility (macro shots, depth sensing), but Nord 2’s main camera is superior. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | OnePlus Nord 2 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4500mAh | Nord 2 has 13% more battery—expect slightly longer endurance. |
| Charging Speed | 10W (slow) | 65W (very fast) | Nord 2 charges in ~30 mins; Moto G Stylus takes 2+ hours. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer (Nord 2) is more efficient and durable over time. |
Software & Extras
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | OnePlus Nord 2 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS Support | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 11 (up to 13) | Nord 2 gets longer software support. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Nord 2 has faster, more stable Wi-Fi in crowded areas. |
| Audio | Basic | Stereo speakers + ANC mic | Nord 2 is better for calls and media. |
| Stylus Support | Yes | No | Moto G Stylus is better for note-taking and drawing. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Bigger screen + stylus – Great for productivity, sketching, and note-taking.
✅ More versatile cameras – Extra macro and depth sensors add flexibility.
✅ Better ultrawide camera – 16MP vs. 8MP on Nord 2.
OnePlus Nord 2 5G Strengths
✅ Much faster performance – 3x higher benchmark scores, better for gaming.
✅ Superior display – AMOLED + 90Hz makes everything smoother.
✅ Faster charging – 65W vs. 10W (huge difference).
✅ Better main camera – Sony IMX766 sensor outperforms in low light.
Trade-Offs
- Moto G Stylus is bulkier and has a slower chipset.
- Nord 2 lacks a stylus and has a weaker ultrawide camera.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Choose the Moto G Stylus 5G if you:
✏️ Need a stylus for notes, drawing, or precise editing.
📺 Prefer a bigger screen for media consumption.
📸 Want more camera versatility (macro, depth sensing).
Choose the OnePlus Nord 2 5G if you:
🎮 Play games or multitask heavily (much faster processor).
🔋 Want fast charging (65W is a game-changer).
📱 Prefer a premium AMOLED display with smoother scrolling.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Do I care more about speed and display quality? → Nord 2 5G
- Is fast charging important to me? → Nord 2 5G
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student/Artist? → Moto G Stylus (stylus is useful).
- Gamer/Power User? → Nord 2 (better performance).
- Casual User? → Nord 2 (better all-rounder).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord 2 5G.
While the Moto G Stylus 5G has niche appeal with its stylus and larger screen, the Nord 2 is the better overall phone—faster performance, better display, superior charging, and a more capable main camera. Unless you really need the stylus, the Nord 2 offers far better value for most users.
Winner: OnePlus Nord 2 5G 🏆
