Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Xiaomi Poco X5: In-Depth Comparison
Both phones target the mid-range market but cater to different priorities. The Moto G Stylus 5G emphasizes productivity with its built-in stylus and better camera versatility, while the Poco X5 focuses on performance, display quality, and battery life. Let’s break down the differences in detail.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Poco X5 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 165.9 × 76.2 × 8 mm | Poco X5 is slimmer and lighter, making it more comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 189g | Poco X5 is 28.5g lighter, reducing fatigue during long usage. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted | Poco X5’s side sensor is faster and more ergonomic. |
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Poco X5 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.67" AMOLED | Moto has a slightly bigger screen, but Poco X5’s AMOLED panel offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and power efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Poco X5’s 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and gaming smoother. |
| Brightness | ? (Unknown) | 1200 nits (peak) | Poco X5 is far better in sunlight with superior brightness. |
Performance
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Poco X5 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) | Poco X5’s SD 695 is more efficient and powerful. |
| AnTuTu Score | 171,000 | 422,900 | Poco X5 is ~2.5x faster—better for gaming and multitasking. |
| RAM Options | 4GB | 6GB / 8GB | Poco X5 has more RAM, reducing app reloads. |
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Poco X5 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) | 48MP (f/1.8) | Moto has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light shots. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP | 8MP | Moto’s higher-res ultrawide captures more detail. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP | 13MP | Moto’s higher-resolution front cam is better for selfies/video calls. |
| Extra Features | ToF 3D sensor, Laser AF | Night Mode 2.0 | Moto’s ToF sensor helps with depth sensing, while Poco has better night photography. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Poco X5 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Poco X5 lasts longer and handles gaming/media better. |
| Charging Speed | 10W | 33W | Poco X5 charges 3.3x faster—great for quick top-ups. |
Software & Storage
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Poco X5 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 12 | Poco X5 has newer software out of the box. |
| Storage | 128GB (no expansion) | 128GB / 256GB (no expansion) | Poco X5 offers a 256GB variant, useful for heavy users. |
2. Key Insights: Strengths & Weaknesses
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G
✅ Pros:
- Built-in stylus (great for note-taking, drawing).
- Better camera versatility (16MP ultrawide, ToF sensor).
- Higher-res selfie camera (20MP vs. 13MP).
❌ Cons:
- Slower performance (Snapdragon 480 is dated).
- Worse display (60Hz LCD vs. 120Hz AMOLED).
- Smaller battery, slower charging (4000mAh, 10W).
Xiaomi Poco X5
✅ Pros:
- Much faster chipset (SD 695, ~2.5x better benchmark score).
- 120Hz AMOLED display (better colors, smoother scrolling).
- Bigger battery & faster charging (5000mAh, 33W).
- Lighter & thinner design.
❌ Cons:
- No stylus support.
- Lower-res ultrawide (8MP) and selfie (13MP).
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Moto G Stylus 5G?
✔ Stylus users (note-taking, drawing, precise navigation).
✔ Selfie & videography enthusiasts (better front-facing camera).
✔ Those who value extra camera features (ToF sensor, laser AF).
Who Should Buy the Poco X5?
✔ Gamers & power users (faster chipset, 120Hz AMOLED).
✔ People who want longer battery life (5000mAh + 33W charging).
✔ Users who prefer a sleek, lightweight phone (189g vs. 217.5g).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself These Questions:
- Do I need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Is gaming & smooth UI more important? → Poco X5
- Do I take a lot of photos at night? → Poco X5 (Night Mode 2.0)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- College student taking notes? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Mobile gamer? → Poco X5
- Photography lover? → Tie (Moto for versatility, Poco for night shots).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
If I had to pick, I’d go with the Xiaomi Poco X5 because:
✔ Faster performance (Snapdragon 695 vs. 480).
✔ 120Hz AMOLED screen (better visuals & battery efficiency).
✔ Bigger battery & faster charging (5000mAh + 33W).
The Moto G Stylus 5G is still great if you need the stylus, but for most users, the Poco X5 offers a better overall experience at a similar price.
Winner: Xiaomi Poco X5 🏆
