Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi 12C: A Practical Comparison
Both devices target budget-conscious buyers but with different priorities—Motorola leans into productivity with its stylus and higher-res display, while Xiaomi emphasizes raw performance and battery endurance. Here’s how they stack up in real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12C | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 168.8 × 76.4 × 8.8 mm | Xiaomi is slightly slimmer and lighter (192g vs. 217.5g), making it easier to handle. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 192g | Motorola feels heftier due to the stylus mechanism. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Rear-mounted | Both offer basic but reliable biometric security. |
Takeaway: The Moto G Stylus is bulkier due to its stylus integration, while the Redmi 12C is more pocket-friendly.
Display
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12C | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.71" IPS LCD | Nearly identical screen sizes; minimal difference in usability. |
| Resolution | 1080×2400 (387 PPI) | 720×1650 (268 PPI) | Moto’s Full HD+ screen is noticeably sharper for text and media. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Neither offers high refresh rates—smoothness is average. |
Takeaway: If display clarity matters (for reading, video, or stylus use), the Moto G Stylus wins.
Performance
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12C | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | MediaTek Helio G85 (12nm) | Redmi’s Helio G85 is more powerful for gaming and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | ~171,000 | ~225,154 | Xiaomi is ~32% faster in benchmarks—better for demanding apps. |
| RAM Options | 4GB | 3/4/6GB | Redmi’s 6GB variant helps with multitasking. |
Takeaway: The Redmi 12C is the better performer for gaming and apps, while the Moto prioritizes 5G connectivity.
Camera
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12C | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.7) + 16MP ultrawide | 50MP (f/1.8) | Moto has better low-light performance and a useful ultrawide lens. |
| Selfie Cam | 20MP (f/2.0) | 5MP | Motorola’s selfie cam is significantly better for video calls. |
| Video | 1080p@60fps, 120fps slow-mo | 1080p@30fps, no slow-mo | Motorola offers more flexible video recording. |
Takeaway: The Moto G Stylus is the better choice for photography and videography.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12C | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi lasts longer on a charge (25% more capacity). |
| Charging | 10W | 10W | Both charge slowly; no fast-charging advantage. |
Takeaway: The Redmi 12C wins for battery life, but neither is a speed demon for charging.
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Superior Display (1080p vs. 720p) – Sharper for media and stylus use.
✅ Better Cameras (ultrawide + 20MP selfie) – More versatile for photography.
✅ Included Stylus – Useful for notes, doodling, or precise touch input.
✅ 5G Connectivity – Future-proofs the device for faster networks.
Xiaomi Redmi 12C Strengths
✅ Faster Performance (Helio G85) – Better for gaming and multitasking.
✅ Bigger Battery (5000mAh) – Lasts longer on a single charge.
✅ Lighter & More Compact – Easier to handle one-handed.
✅ Newer Software (Android 12 vs. 11) – More up-to-date features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Choose the Moto G Stylus 5G if:
✔ You want a stylus for productivity or creativity.
✔ You prioritize camera quality and video recording.
✔ You prefer a sharper display for reading/media.
✔ You need 5G support (though speeds depend on carrier).
Choose the Redmi 12C if:
✔ You care more about battery life.
✔ You want better performance for gaming.
✔ You prefer a lighter, more compact phone.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I need a stylus or better cameras? → Moto G Stylus 5G
- Is battery life and raw performance more important? → Redmi 12C
- Do I value screen sharpness or a lighter phone? → Moto (display) vs. Redmi (weight)
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G—but only if I actually needed the stylus. The higher-res display and better cameras make it a more versatile device for content consumption and creativity.
However, if I were a heavy multitasker or gamer who wanted longer battery life, the Xiaomi Redmi 12C is the smarter buy. It’s faster, more efficient, and lighter, making it a better daily driver for most users.
Bottom Line:
- For productivity & media: Moto G Stylus 5G ✅
- For endurance & performance: Redmi 12C ✅
Would you prioritize the stylus or the battery? Let me know in the comments! 🚀
