Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi 12: In-Depth Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 168.6 × 76.3 × 8.2 mm | Redmi 12 is slightly slimmer and lighter (198.5g vs. 217.5g), making it more pocket-friendly. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 198.5g | Redmi 12 is noticeably lighter—better for long-term comfort. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted (power button) | Side-mounted is more intuitive and faster to unlock. |
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.79" IPS LCD | Nearly identical in size—minimal difference. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Redmi 12 offers smoother scrolling and animations, better for gaming/media. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2460 | Nearly identical sharpness (396 PPI vs. 387 PPI). |
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Helio G88 (12nm) | Redmi 12 has a more modern chip (Helio G88 is slightly better for gaming). |
| AnTuTu Score | ~171,000 | ~249,400 | Redmi 12 is 46% faster—better for multitasking and demanding apps. |
| RAM Options | 4GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Redmi 12’s 8GB variant will handle heavy apps better. |
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.7 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Similar performance—Moto’s wider aperture helps in low light. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Moto offers higher-res ultrawide shots (better for landscapes). |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.1 | Moto has a much better front camera (20MP vs. 8MP). |
| Video Recording | 1080p@60fps | 1080p@30fps | Moto supports smoother 60fps video. |
| Additional Features | ToF sensor, Laser AF | 4K video (software-upscaled?) | Moto’s autofocus is faster; Redmi’s 4K video is a plus. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi 12 wins—25% bigger battery for longer endurance. |
| Charging Speed | 10W (slow) | 18W (faster) | Redmi 12 charges noticeably quicker. |
| Reverse Charging | No | Yes (9W) | Redmi 12 can act as a power bank—handy for emergencies. |
Software & Extras
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS at Launch | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 13 (up to 14) | Redmi 12 has a big software advantage—newer OS, longer support. |
| Storage Options | 128GB (no expansion) | 128GB/256GB | Redmi 12 offers more storage flexibility. |
| Stylus Support | Yes | No | Only Moto has stylus—great for note-taking/doodling. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Better front & ultrawide cameras (20MP selfie, 16MP ultrawide vs. 8MP on Redmi 12).
✅ Stylus support—great for creatives or note-takers.
✅ 1080p@60fps video (Redmi 12 caps at 30fps).
✅ Laser autofocus & ToF sensor—better focus accuracy.
Xiaomi Redmi 12 Strengths
✅ Faster performance (Helio G88 + higher AnTuTu score).
✅ Bigger battery (5000mAh) + faster charging (18W).
✅ 90Hz display—smoother scrolling & gaming.
✅ Newer software (Android 13) & longer support.
✅ More RAM options (up to 8GB)—better multitasking.
Trade-Offs
- Moto G Stylus is thicker & heavier—Redmi 12 is sleeker.
- Redmi 12 lacks a stylus and has weaker front/ultrawide cameras.
- Moto has outdated software (Android 11 vs. Redmi’s Android 13).
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Choose the Moto G Stylus 5G if you:
✏️ Want a stylus for notes/drawing—this is its key advantage.
📸 Prioritize camera versatility (better selfies, ultrawide, autofocus).
🎥 Need smoother video recording (60fps vs. 30fps).
Choose the Xiaomi Redmi 12 if you:
⚡ Want better performance & multitasking (faster chipset, more RAM).
🔋 Need longer battery life (5000mAh + faster charging).
🔄 Prefer a smoother display (90Hz vs. 60Hz).
📱 Value newer software (Android 13 + longer updates).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- "Do I need a stylus?" (If yes → Moto G Stylus.)
- "Do I care more about battery life and performance?" (If yes → Redmi 12.)
- "Do I prioritize camera quality or software updates?" (Cameras → Moto, Software → Redmi.)
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Budget gamer? → Redmi 12 (90Hz, Helio G88).
- Note-taker/artist? → Moto G Stylus.
- Social media lover? → Moto G Stylus (better selfie cam).
- Long-term user? → Redmi 12 (better updates, battery).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Xiaomi Redmi 12.
Why?
- Better performance & battery life (key daily-use factors).
- 90Hz display—smoother experience.
- Longer software support (Android 13 vs. Moto’s outdated Android 11).
The only reason to get the Moto G Stylus is if you really need a stylus or a better selfie/ultrawide camera. Otherwise, the Redmi 12 is the smarter buy for most users.
Would you prioritize the stylus or the better performance? Let me know your thoughts! 🚀
