Sony Xperia 1 IV vs. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024): A Detailed Comparison
Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Sony Xperia 1 IV and the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024), dissecting their specs and uncovering what they truly offer in real-world usage.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Sony Xperia 1 IV | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 165 x 71 x 8.2 | 162.6 x 74.8 x 8.3 | Xperia 1 IV is slightly taller and slimmer. Moto G Stylus is a bit wider and thicker. |
| Weight (g) | 185 | 190 | Negligible weight difference in practical use. |
| Build Materials | Glass, aluminum | Plastic frame, glass front | Xperia 1 IV offers a more premium feel. Moto G Stylus prioritizes practicality and durability. |
| Stylus | No | Yes | Moto G Stylus caters to note-takers, artists, and those who prefer precise on-screen interaction. |
| Display | |||
| Type | OLED | pOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. pOLED can be slightly more power-efficient. |
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | Moto G Stylus provides a larger viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1644 x 3840 | 1080 x 2400 | Xperia 1 IV boasts a significantly sharper display with higher pixel density (643 ppi vs. 395 ppi), resulting in crisper visuals. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 | Xperia 1 IV packs a flagship-level processor, delivering significantly faster performance for demanding tasks and gaming. |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB | Xperia 1 IV offers more RAM for smoother multitasking and handling demanding applications. |
| Storage | 256GB/512GB | 256GB | Both offer ample storage for apps, photos, and videos. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP | 50MP | Moto G Stylus has a higher resolution main sensor. Image quality depends on factors beyond resolution, including sensor size and processing. |
| Telephoto | Yes (variable) | No | Xperia 1 IV offers true optical zoom for capturing distant subjects without loss of detail. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacity suggests comparable battery life, but real-world usage will vary depending on individual usage patterns. |
| Fast Charging | 30W | 30W | Both offer fast charging capabilities for quicker top-ups. |
| | |
2. Key Insights
- Performance Powerhouse: The Xperia 1 IV is a clear winner in performance, thanks to its flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and ample RAM. This translates to blazing-fast speeds, seamless multitasking, and smooth gaming.
- Display Prowess: While both phones have 120Hz refresh rates, the Xperia 1 IV's higher resolution and OLED display deliver a noticeably sharper and more vibrant visual experience.
- Creative Companion: The Moto G Stylus 5G shines with its integrated stylus, offering a unique advantage for note-taking, sketching, and precise on-screen navigation.
- Value Proposition: The Moto G Stylus 5G provides excellent value for its price, offering a large display, 5G connectivity, a stylus, and decent performance for everyday tasks.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xperia 1 IV: Ideal for power users, mobile gamers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who demands top-tier performance and a premium display. The variable telephoto lens provides a unique photographic capability not found in many phones.
- Moto G Stylus 5G: Best suited for budget-conscious users, students, artists, and those who prioritize the stylus functionality for note-taking and creative tasks.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- What is your budget? The Xperia 1 IV is a high-end flagship, while the Moto G Stylus 5G falls in the mid-range category.
- What are your performance needs? For demanding tasks and gaming, the Xperia 1 IV's superior processing power is essential.
- How important is a stylus? If note-taking or drawing are priorities, the Moto G Stylus 5G is the obvious choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally select the Sony Xperia 1 IV. While significantly more expensive, its superior performance, stunning display, and unique camera capabilities are compelling. As a tech enthusiast who values a premium mobile experience, I'm willing to invest in the cutting-edge technology and craftsmanship that the Xperia 1 IV offers. The variable telephoto lens, in particular, is a feature that greatly intrigues me as a photography enthusiast. The Moto G Stylus 5G is a compelling device for its price, but the Xperia 1 IV better aligns with my personal needs and preferences.
