Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro: In-Depth Comparison
Both phones cater to budget-conscious buyers, but they target different priorities. The Moto G Stylus 5G focuses on productivity with its built-in stylus, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro prioritizes performance, display quality, and camera versatility. Here’s how they stack up.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 169.5 × 77.5 × 9.4 mm | 163 × 76 × 8 mm | The Moto is bulkier (6.8" display + stylus slot), while the Redmi is more compact. |
| Weight | 217.5g | 187g | Redmi is 30g lighter, making it easier for one-handed use. |
| Build Protection | Unknown screen protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Redmi offers better scratch resistance. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear-mounted | Side-mounted (power button) | Redmi’s sensor is faster and more ergonomic. |
Takeaway:
- The Redmi is sleeker and more durable.
- The Moto G Stylus is bulkier due to the stylus but offers unique note-taking functionality.
Display
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.8" IPS LCD | 6.67" AMOLED | Moto’s screen is slightly bigger but lower quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Redmi feels much smoother in scrolling, gaming, and UI animations. |
| Brightness | Unknown (likely ~400-500 nits) | 900 nits (peak) | Redmi is far better in sunlight. |
| Contrast & Colors | IPS LCD (good but less vibrant) | AMOLED (deeper blacks, vivid) | AMOLED is superior for media consumption. |
Takeaway:
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro has the superior display in every way—only the Moto’s size is a minor advantage.
Performance
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 480 5G (8nm) | Dimensity 1080 (6nm) | Redmi’s chip is far more powerful and efficient. |
| AnTuTu Score | 171,000 | 573,200 (~3.3x faster) | Redmi handles gaming, multitasking, and future updates better. |
| RAM Options | 4GB | 6GB/8GB/12GB | More RAM = smoother multitasking on Redmi. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 128GB/256GB (non-expandable) | Redmi offers more storage options. |
Takeaway:
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro is significantly faster—better for gaming and longevity.
- The Moto G Stylus 5G is underpowered for its price in 2024.
Camera
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.7 (0.8µm pixels) | 50MP, f/1.88 (Sony IMX766, 1.0µm) | Redmi has a larger sensor, better low-light performance. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/1.9 | Moto has higher resolution, but Redmi’s wider aperture helps in dim light. |
| Macro & Depth | 2MP (mostly useless) | 2MP (also weak) | Neither is great—just marketing specs. |
| Selfie | 20MP | 16MP | Moto has higher resolution, but Xiaomi’s processing is better. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@60fps, no stabilization | 4K@30fps, OIS + EIS | Redmi is far better for video. |
| DxOMark Score | N/A | 102 (Good for mid-range) | Confirms Redmi’s camera superiority. |
Takeaway:
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro has a better main camera, stabilization, and video.
- The Moto G Stylus 5G wins in ultrawide resolution but lacks in processing.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Moto G Stylus 5G | Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi lasts significantly longer. |
| Charging Speed | 10W (slow) | 67W (full charge in ~40 min) | Redmi charges 6x faster. |
Takeaway:
- The Redmi wins in both battery life and charging speed.
2. Key Insights
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G Strengths
✅ Built-in stylus – Great for note-taking and sketching.
✅ Larger display – More screen real estate.
✅ Higher-resolution ultrawide camera (though quality is debatable).
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro Strengths
✅ Far better performance (3x faster in benchmarks).
✅ Superior AMOLED 120Hz display.
✅ Better cameras (main sensor, video, OIS).
✅ Larger battery & 67W fast charging.
✅ More RAM options (up to 12GB).
Trade-Offs
- The Moto G Stylus 5G is thicker, heavier, and slower—only worth it if you need the stylus.
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro lacks expandable storage and a headphone jack (if that matters to you).
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Best For Moto G Stylus 5G:
✔ Note-takers & artists who need a stylus.
✔ Users who prefer stock Android (near-stock vs. Xiaomi’s MIUI).
Best For Redmi Note 12 Pro:
✔ Gamers & power users (better chipset, 120Hz screen).
✔ Photography enthusiasts (better main camera & video).
✔ Anyone who wants longer battery life & fast charging.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I need a stylus? → Moto G Stylus 5G.
- Do I care more about performance, display, or camera? → Redmi Note 12 Pro.
- Is fast charging important? → Redmi Note 12 Pro (67W vs. 10W).
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Student taking notes: Moto G Stylus 5G.
- Mobile gamer: Redmi Note 12 Pro.
- Photography lover: Redmi Note 12 Pro.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d go with the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro.
Why?
- It’s objectively better in performance, display, battery, and cameras.
- The Moto G Stylus 5G’s only unique advantage is the stylus, but its sluggish chipset and weak charging make it hard to justify unless you absolutely need a stylus at this price.
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro is simply the better all-rounder for most users.
If you don’t need the stylus, the Redmi is the clear winner. 🚀
