Here’s a structured comparison of the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2021) and Samsung Galaxy A55 (2024), focusing on real-world usability and trade-offs:
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 161.1 × 77.4 × 8.2 mm | Galaxy A55 is more compact and slimmer, easier for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 213g | Negligible difference in hand feel. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus | A55 is more durable against scratches/drops. |
| Stylus Support | Yes (included) | No | Moto G Stylus is better for note-taking/drawing. |
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Galaxy A55 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.6" AMOLED | Moto has a larger screen, but A55’s AMOLED offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and power efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | A55 feels smoother in scrolling/gaming. |
| Brightness | Not specified | Not specified | AMOLED typically performs better outdoors. |
Performance
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Galaxy A55 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 (8nm) | Exynos 1480 (4nm) | A55’s newer 4nm chip is far more efficient and powerful. |
| AnTuTu Score | 171,000 | 713,393 | A55 is 3x faster—better for gaming, multitasking, and future-proofing. |
| RAM/Storage | 4GB/128GB | 8GB or 12GB/128GB or 256GB | A55 offers more RAM (better for heavy apps) and optional 256GB storage. |
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Galaxy A55 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 50MP (f/1.8, Sony IMX906) | A55 has a larger sensor (1/1.56") and better processing, leading to superior low-light shots. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP (f/2.2) | 13MP (f/2.2) | Moto has higher resolution, but A55’s sensor is likely better tuned. |
| Selfie | 20MP (f/2.0) | 32MP (f/2.2) | A55’s higher resolution and AI processing yield sharper selfies. |
| Video | 1080p@60fps | 4K@30fps + EIS | A55 supports 4K video with stabilization, better for vlogging. |
| DXOMARK Score | N/A | 108 (Main) | A55’s camera is objectively better tested. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Galaxy A55 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | A55 lasts significantly longer (25% bigger battery). |
| Charging Speed | 10W | 25W | A55 charges 2.5x faster (less downtime). |
Software & Extras
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Galaxy A55 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 14 (up to 18) | A55 has longer software support (4+ years of updates). |
| Audio | Basic | Stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos | A55 offers better multimedia experience. |
| Wi-Fi/Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 5, BT 5.0 | Wi-Fi 6, BT 5.3 | A55 has faster, more stable connectivity. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Built-in stylus – Great for note-taking, sketching, or precise editing.
✅ Larger display – Better for media consumption.
✅ Ultrawide camera advantage – 16MP vs. 13MP (though real-world quality may vary).
Samsung Galaxy A55 Strengths
✅ Far superior performance – 3x faster CPU/GPU, better for gaming and future-proofing.
✅ Better display – AMOLED + 120Hz refresh rate.
✅ Superior cameras – Larger sensor, 4K video, and better computational photography.
✅ Longer battery life & faster charging – 5000mAh + 25W vs. 4000mAh + 10W.
✅ Longer software support – Android 14 with updates until 2028.
Trade-Offs
- Stylus vs. Performance – If you need a stylus, the Moto is the only choice. Otherwise, the A55 is better in every other way.
- Price – The A55 is likely more expensive (though worth it for the upgrades).
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
- Budget users who need a stylus (students, artists).
- Casual users who don’t need high performance.
Who Should Buy the Galaxy A55?
- Power users who want smooth performance and longevity.
- Photography enthusiasts (better cameras, 4K video).
- Multimedia lovers (AMOLED, stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G.
- Do I want better performance, cameras, and battery? → Galaxy A55.
- Am I keeping this phone for 3+ years? → A55 (better updates & chipset).
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Student on a budget who takes notes → Moto G Stylus.
- Gamer/Photographer → Galaxy A55.
- General user who wants longevity → Galaxy A55.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Samsung Galaxy A55.
Why?
- Performance gap is massive (3x faster in benchmarks).
- AMOLED + 120Hz makes everything smoother.
- Cameras are objectively better (larger sensor, 4K video).
- Battery life and charging are superior (5000mAh + 25W).
- Longer software support (up to Android 18).
The only reason to pick the Moto G Stylus 5G is if you absolutely need the stylus. Otherwise, the Galaxy A55 is the clear winner in every other category.
Would you prioritize the stylus or overall performance? Let me know your thoughts! 🚀
