Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023)

Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) Review

The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) is a mid-range smartphone released in June 2023, targeting users who value a stylus experience without breaking the bank. It features a large display, 5G connectivity, and a capable processor, aiming to be a versatile daily driver.

Key Features

• Display: 6.6-inch IPS LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1080 x 2400 resolution (399 ppi).
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4 nm) Octa-core CPU and Adreno 710 GPU.
• RAM/Storage: Multiple configurations available, up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage (North American market specific).
• Cameras: 50MP main camera with OIS, 8MP ultrawide/macro lens, and a 16MP front-facing camera.
• Stylus: Integrated stylus for note-taking and drawing.
• Battery: 5000 mAh battery with 20W fast charging.
• OS: Android 13.
• Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, USB Type-C 2.0 with OTG.
• Other: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, and a barometer.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Integrated Stylus: Offers a convenient input method for writing, drawing, and navigation.
• Smooth Display: 120Hz refresh rate provides a fluid user experience.
• 5G Connectivity: Supports fast mobile data speeds where available.
• Decent Performance: Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 offers a noticeable improvement over previous Moto G Stylus models, handling everyday tasks and some gaming smoothly.
• Large Battery: 5000mAh battery ensures all-day battery life for most users.
• Stereo Speakers with Dolby Atmos: Enhances the audio experience for media consumption.
• Versatile Camera System: 50MP main camera with OIS is solid for its class, with a useful ultrawide/macro lens.

Cons:

• IPS LCD Display: While smooth, it lacks the vibrancy and contrast of OLED displays.
• Charging Speed: 20W fast charging is decent, but not as rapid as some competitors.
• No Expandable Storage: Lacks microSD card support, limiting storage capacity.
• USB 2.0: The inclusion of an outdated USB 2.0 port limits data transfer speed, and display output capabilities.
• Plastic Build: While reasonably durable, it lacks the premium feel of metal or glass.
• Limited Software Support: Motorola's software support can be shorter than some competitors.

User Experience

The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) provides a comfortable and responsive user experience. The 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations smooth, contributing to a more enjoyable interaction. The inclusion of the stylus is a significant draw, allowing for quick note-taking, detailed drawing, and precise navigation. The Android 13 software is relatively clean, with a few Motorola-specific additions. The device performs well for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and media consumption. While it can handle some games, demanding titles may require lowered graphics settings for smooth gameplay. The battery life is commendable, easily lasting a full day with moderate use. The stereo speakers, enhanced by Dolby Atmos, offer a good listening experience, and is a welcome inclusion for the device.

Hardware & Design

The phone measures 162.8 x 73.8 x 9.2 mm and weighs 202g, making it a moderately large device. The build consists of a plastic frame and back, making it less premium to the touch than glass or metal options. It is available in Cosmic Black and Rose Champagne colors. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is reliable and quickly unlocks the device. The integrated stylus is a key feature, and is neatly stored in the phone's chassis when not in use. The camera module on the back is subtle, and does not protrude too much. The display features a hole-punch notch for the selfie camera, giving it a modern look. While the design is functional, it is not particularly striking or unique. The lack of expandable storage is a notable omission, however with 256GB of on-board storage, the device should have enough space for most users.

Conclusion

The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) offers a unique value proposition in the mid-range market with its integrated stylus and 5G connectivity. It provides a balanced mix of performance, battery life, and features, making it a strong contender for users seeking a phone with stylus support at an affordable price. While it has some drawbacks, such as an IPS LCD screen and plastic build, it provides good overall functionality, and a notable step-up from the prior generation. The target audience of the phone are those who value the included stylus for creativity, productivity, or enhanced ease of use.