Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. TCL 40 SE: A Practical Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 167.9 × 76.5 × 8.5 mm | TCL is slightly more compact and thinner, making it easier to handle. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 190g | TCL is 27.5g lighter, better for long-term use. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted | Side-mounted (TCL) is more convenient for unlocking while holding the phone. |
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.75" | Nearly identical screen size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (FHD+) | 720x1600 (HD+) | Moto G Stylus has sharper text & images (387 PPI vs. 260 PPI). |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | TCL offers smoother scrolling & animations. |
| Brightness | Not specified | 900 nits | TCL is far better in sunlight—great for outdoor use. |
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Helio G37 (12nm) | Moto has better efficiency & 5G support. |
| AnTuTu Score | 171,000 | 160,000 | Moto is slightly faster, but both are budget-tier. |
| RAM Options | 4GB | 4GB / 6GB | TCL offers a 6GB variant for better multitasking. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 128GB / 256GB | TCL has a higher-capacity option. |
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 50MP (f/1.85) | Moto has a wider aperture (better low light). |
| Ultrawide Lens | 16MP (f/2.2) | None | Moto has better versatility for landscapes. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP (f/2.0) | 8MP (f/2.0) | Moto’s higher-res selfies are much sharper. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@60fps | 1080p@30fps | Moto allows smoother video capture. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5010mAh | TCL has 25% more battery, likely lasting longer. |
| Charging Speed | 10W | 18W | TCL charges faster (18W vs. 10W). |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer (TCL) is slightly more efficient. |
Software & Extras
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS Version | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 13 | TCL has newer software out of the box. |
| Stylus Support | Yes | No | Moto is better for note-taking & drawing. |
| Audio | Basic mono speaker | Stereo speakers | TCL has better sound for media. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Better display (FHD+ vs. HD+, sharper text/media)
✅ Superior camera system (ultrawide lens, better selfies, 60fps video)
✅ Includes a stylus (great for productivity & creativity)
✅ 5G support (future-proof for faster networks)
TCL 40 SE Strengths
✅ Longer battery life (5010mAh vs. 4000mAh)
✅ Faster charging (18W vs. 10W)
✅ Smoother display (90Hz vs. 60Hz)
✅ Newer software (Android 13 vs. Android 11)
✅ Lighter & more compact (easier one-handed use)
Trade-Offs
- Moto G Stylus has better cameras & stylus but worse battery life & charging.
- TCL 40 SE has better battery & display smoothness but weaker cameras & no 5G.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G?
✔ Note-takers & artists (stylus is a big advantage)
✔ Photography enthusiasts (better cameras, ultrawide lens)
✔ Users who prioritize display sharpness (FHD+ vs. HD+)
✔ Future 5G adopters
Who Should Buy the TCL 40 SE?
✔ Battery life-focused users (5010mAh + 18W charging)
✔ Media consumers (90Hz display, stereo speakers)
✔ Those who prefer lightweight phones (190g vs. 217.5g)
✔ Budget buyers who want newer software (Android 13)
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself These 3 Questions:
- Do I need a stylus or better cameras? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Is battery life & smoothness more important? → TCL 40 SE
- Do I care about 5G or future software updates? → Moto for 5G, TCL for newer OS
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student/Artist? → Moto G Stylus (stylus + better note-taking)
- Casual User? → TCL 40 SE (better battery, smoother UI)
- Photographer? → Moto G Stylus (better camera versatility)
- Media Binger? → TCL 40 SE (90Hz + stereo speakers)
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G—but only if the stylus is a must-have. The better cameras, ultrawide lens, and 5G support make it more versatile for long-term use.
However, if battery life and smoothness matter more, the TCL 40 SE is the better daily driver—especially for media consumption.
Best Value?
- For productivity & creativity → Moto G Stylus 5G
- For endurance & media → TCL 40 SE
Both are solid budget choices—just prioritize what fits your lifestyle! 🚀
