Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy A04s: A Practical Comparison
Both phones target budget-conscious users but cater to different needs—Motorola leans into productivity with its stylus and sharper display, while Samsung offers a smoother refresh rate and better battery life. Let’s break down the key differences and who each device suits best.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 164.7 × 76.7 × 9.1 mm | Moto G is slightly larger and heavier (217.5g vs. 195g), which may feel bulkier in hand. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 195g | A04s is lighter, better for one-handed use. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted | Side-mounted (A04s) is more convenient for unlocking while holding the phone. |
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.5" PLS LCD | Moto G’s larger screen is better for media and stylus use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (387 PPI) | 720x1600 (270 PPI) | Moto G’s display is much sharper—better for reading and videos. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | A04s feels smoother in scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | Unknown (likely ~400 nits) | Unknown (likely similar) | Neither excels in outdoor visibility. |
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G | Exynos 850 | Moto G is 46% faster (Antutu 171K vs. 117K)—better for multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G52 | Moto G handles light gaming better (e.g., COD Mobile on low settings). |
| RAM/Storage | 4GB/128GB (fixed) | 3-4GB/32-128GB | Moto G has more base storage; A04s offers flexibility in cheaper variants. |
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) + 16MP ultrawide + 2MP macro + ToF | 50MP (f/1.8) + 2MP depth + 2MP macro | Moto G has better versatility (ultrawide + ToF for depth). |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP (f/2.0) | 5MP (f/2.2) | Moto G’s selfie cam is far superior—better for video calls. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@60fps + 120fps slow-mo | 1080p@30fps + 34fps slow-mo | Moto G offers smoother video and better slow-motion. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | A04s lasts longer—better for heavy users. |
| Charging Speed | 10W | 15W | A04s charges slightly faster (but both are slow by modern standards). |
Software & Extras
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 12 (up to 14) | A04s has longer software support (Samsung promises 2 major updates). |
| Stylus Support | Yes (built-in) | No | Moto G is better for note-taking and precise input. |
| 5G Support | Yes | No | Moto G is future-proofed for faster networks. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Wins If You Value:
✅ Productivity – Stylus is great for notes, sketches, and precise control.
✅ Display Quality – Sharper 1080p screen vs. A04s’ 720p panel.
✅ Performance – Faster chipset, better GPU, and more RAM.
✅ Camera Versatility – Ultrawide + better selfie cam.
Samsung Galaxy A04s Wins If You Value:
✅ Battery Life – 5000mAh vs. 4000mAh (25% larger).
✅ Smoothness – 90Hz refresh rate feels nicer in daily use.
✅ Software Support – Ships with Android 12, likely getting Android 14.
✅ Lighter & More Compact – Easier to handle one-handed.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Choose the Moto G Stylus 5G If You:
- Need a stylus for notes, drawing, or precise navigation.
- Watch a lot of videos (better display).
- Want better performance for light gaming or multitasking.
- Take many selfies or use ultrawide shots.
Choose the Galaxy A04s If You:
- Prioritize battery life (lasts longer on a charge).
- Prefer smoother scrolling (90Hz refresh rate).
- Want longer software updates (Samsung’s update policy is better).
- Like a lighter, more compact phone.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Is battery life my top priority? → Galaxy A04s
- Do I care more about display sharpness or smoothness?
- Sharpness (text/media clarity) → Moto G
- Smoothness (scrolling/animations) → A04s
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Student/Artist: Moto G (stylus + better display).
- Casual User: A04s (better battery + lighter).
- Budget Gamer: Moto G (faster chipset).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G—its sharper display, stylus support, and better performance make it the more versatile device. While the A04s has a smoother screen and better battery, the Moto G’s advantages in productivity and media consumption outweigh those benefits for me.
However, if battery life and software updates are your top concerns, the Galaxy A04s is the smarter long-term choice.
Your turn—what matters more to you? 🚀
