Motorola’s Latest Stylus Smartphone: Is the Additional $100 Justifiable?
Motorola has a history of providing stylus-enabled smartphones in the mid-tier market, and the newest model, the Moto G Stylus 2026, continues this trend. With a price increase of $100 over its predecessor, the Moto G Stylus 2025, the new variant brings an active stylus into the mix, featuring advanced capabilities such as pressure sensitivity and tilt detection, similar to Samsung’s S Pen. This upgrade represents a notable enhancement for users who depend on their devices for sketching or making notes.
Design and Display:
The Moto G Stylus 2026 retains a design akin to that of the 2025 version, with minor adjustments around the camera area. Both devices sport a 6.7-inch AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate; however, the 2026 model features a maximum brightness level of 5,000 nits. Furthermore, the 2026 edition offers enhanced water resistance with an IP69 rating, unlike the IP68 rating of the 2025 model.
Performance and Specifications:
Both smartphones utilize the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 SoC, accompanied by 8GB of RAM and storage choices of 128GB or 256GB. The 2026 variant sports a slightly larger 5,200mAh battery and runs on Android 16, guaranteeing two future OS updates. Motorola provides appealing bundles with the 2026 model, including Moto Tags, a Moto Watch, and Moto Buds Loop, which help rationalize the price hike.
Camera:
The camera setup is mostly unchanged, as both models incorporate a 50MP primary sensor, a 13MP ultrawide lens, and a 32MP front-facing camera. The 2026 model introduces new Moto AI features and camera enhancements, enriching the photographic experience.
Conclusion:
The Moto G Stylus 2026 is perfect for users who value stylus capabilities and seek a smartphone that offers S Pen-like functionalities at a more affordable price than Samsung’s premium offerings. Nevertheless, for those who require only fundamental stylus features, the Moto G Stylus 2025 stands as a compelling option, now offered at a discount, rendering it an outstanding bargain. Ultimately, the choice hinges on how much you appreciate the upgraded stylus features and extra bundled accessories.