Moto G Stylus 2025 Review: The Ultimate Budget Stylus Phone

The smartphone market continues to evolve with innovative features and cutting edge technology. Motorola has made a significant impact with its latest release, the Moto G Stylus 2025.

This device brings premium features to the mid range segment, combining advanced stylus capabilities with impressive hardware specifications. The Moto G Stylus 2025 stands out as a compelling option for users who want stylus functionality without spending flagship prices.

In this comprehensive review, we will explore the various aspects of this device, from design and display to performance and camera capabilities, helping you decide if this is the right smartphone for your needs.

Key Takeaways

The Moto G Stylus 2025 is priced at $399, offering exceptional value with features typically found in more expensive devices
Features a 6.7 inch Super HD pOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 3,000 nits peak brightness, delivering a vibrant visual experience
Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor with 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage, ensuring smooth performance for daily tasks

Includes a built in stylus with 6.4x more responsiveness than the previous model, enhancing productivity and creativity
Camera system features a 50MP main sensor with OIS and a 13MP ultrawide lens, capable of capturing detailed photos even in low light
Impressive 5000mAh battery with 68W TurboPower charging that provides power for the day with just 15 minutes of charging

Supports 15W wireless charging, a rare feature in this price range
Durable design with IP68 water and dust resistance and MIL STD 810H certification
Runs on Android 15 with Motorola’s clean interface and AI enhancements like Sketch to Image

Available in PANTONE Surf the Web blue color with a distinctive eco leather back panel

Design and Build Quality

The Moto G Stylus 2025 represents a significant upgrade in design compared to its predecessors. Motorola has focused on creating a device that not only looks premium but also feels durable in hand. The phone features an eco leather back panel that provides a comfortable grip and adds a touch of sophistication. This material choice not only enhances the aesthetics but also makes the device more resistant to fingerprints and smudges, a common issue with glass backed phones.

The build quality is remarkably sturdy, with the device earning a MIL STD 810H rating for durability. This certification means the phone has been tested against extreme temperatures, drops, and falls. Additionally, the Moto G Stylus 2025 boasts an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, ensuring protection against accidental spills and immersion in water up to certain depths. This level of protection is rarely found in mid range devices and adds significant value to the overall package.

The phone’s dimensions are well balanced at 162.15 x 74.78 x 8.29 mm, making it comfortable to hold despite the large display. Weighing 191 grams, it feels substantial without being too heavy. The stylus is neatly tucked away in the bottom corner of the device, easily accessible when needed but not disrupting the clean lines of the design when stored.

Available in the PANTONE Surf the Web color, the blue hue stands out in a market dominated by black and silver options. This distinctive color choice, combined with the leather like texture on the back, gives the Moto G Stylus 2025 a unique identity that sets it apart from competitors.

Display Performance

The display on the Moto G Stylus 2025 is truly impressive for a device in this price range. Motorola has equipped this phone with a 6.7 inch Super HD (1220p) pOLED display that delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks. The resolution is higher than many competing devices, including some that cost twice as much. This results in sharper text and more detailed images that enhance the overall viewing experience.

One of the standout features is the 120Hz refresh rate that provides smooth scrolling and fluid animations. This high refresh rate makes everything from browsing social media to playing games feel more responsive and enjoyable. The display also supports an impressive 3,000 nits peak brightness, making it easily visible even in bright outdoor conditions. This level of brightness is typically only found in premium flagship devices.

The screen is protected by durable glass that resists scratches and minor impacts. The bezels surrounding the display are relatively thin, maximizing the screen to body ratio and giving the phone a modern appearance. The front facing camera is housed in a small punch hole at the top center of the screen, minimizing disruption to the display area.

Content consumption on this device is a pleasure. Whether you’re watching videos, browsing photos, or reading articles, the colors are rich and accurate, with good viewing angles that maintain image quality even when the phone is not viewed head on. The display is also optimized for stylus use, with precise touch response that makes writing and drawing feel natural and intuitive.

Stylus Functionality

The built in stylus is the defining feature of the Moto G Stylus 2025, and Motorola has made significant improvements over previous generations. The new stylus offers 6.4x more responsiveness compared to last year’s model, resulting in a more natural writing and drawing experience. This enhanced sensitivity allows for more precise input, making tasks like note taking, sketching, and photo editing more intuitive.

When you remove the stylus from its housing, the phone automatically launches a quick menu of stylus compatible apps, providing convenient access to note taking and drawing tools. The stylus itself is lightweight yet sturdy, with a comfortable length that makes it easy to use for extended periods. The tip provides just the right amount of resistance against the screen, creating a pen to paper like feel that many digital styluses fail to achieve.

One of the most exciting new features is the AI powered Sketch to Image functionality. This innovative tool allows users to transform simple sketches into detailed, professional looking images using artificial intelligence. For example, you can draw a basic outline of a landscape, and the AI will convert it into a more refined image with added details and colors. This feature is perfect for creative professionals and hobbyists who want to quickly visualize concepts without advanced drawing skills.

The stylus also supports Google’s Circle to Search feature, allowing users to circle any text or image on the screen to perform a quick search without switching apps. This seamless integration makes research and information gathering more efficient. Additional stylus functions include smart text selection, screen capture annotation, and handwriting to text conversion, all of which enhance productivity and creative expression.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Moto G Stylus 2025 packs impressive hardware that delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks and more demanding applications. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, this device offers a significant step up from its predecessor. This chipset provides a good balance between performance and power efficiency, handling everything from basic web browsing to more intensive gaming with ease.

The phone comes with 8GB of RAM, which is generous for a mid range device and ensures smooth multitasking. Whether you’re switching between multiple apps or running memory intensive applications, the system maintains its responsiveness without noticeable slowdowns. Storage options include 128GB or 256GB configurations, providing ample space for apps, photos, videos, and other media. The storage is also expandable via microSD card, giving users flexibility to add more space if needed.

Benchmark results show that the Moto G Stylus 2025 performs admirably for its price point. In day to day use, apps launch quickly, and navigation throughout the interface feels smooth and lag free. For gaming, the device handles popular titles like Call of Duty Mobile and Asphalt 9 with consistent frame rates, though not at the highest graphic settings that flagship phones can support.

Connectivity options are comprehensive, including 5G support for fast mobile data, Wi Fi 6E for improved wireless networking performance, and Bluetooth 5.3 for reliable connections to accessories. The inclusion of NFC allows for contactless payments through services like Google Pay. The phone also retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, an increasingly rare feature that many users still appreciate for wired audio connections.

Camera System

The camera system on the Moto G Stylus 2025 represents a significant upgrade from previous models, featuring a dual camera setup with advanced sensors and AI enhancements. The primary camera uses a 50MP Sony LYTIA 700C sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), which helps capture sharp, detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. This is the first time this particular Sony sensor has been used in a Moto G Stylus phone, signaling Motorola’s commitment to improving camera performance in its mid range lineup.

Complementing the main sensor is a 13MP ultrawide camera with a 120 degree field of view, perfect for capturing expansive landscapes or large group shots. This secondary camera also supports phase detection autofocus (PDAF), allowing for faster and more accurate focusing when compared to typical fixed focus ultrawide lenses found in other mid range phones.

The camera software includes moto ai Photo Enhancement Engine that automatically analyzes multiple frames, blends exposures, and preserves details to create better photos in various scenarios. This AI assistance is particularly effective in low light photography, where the system can brighten images without introducing excessive noise. Portrait mode produces pleasant background blur with good edge detection around subjects, creating professional looking photos with minimal effort.

Video recording capabilities are also impressive, with support for 4K resolution at 30fps or 1080p at 60fps. The inclusion of OIS helps maintain steady footage when recording while moving. Additional features include slow motion video, time lapse recording, and a night video mode that enhances visibility in dark environments.

The 32MP front facing camera delivers detailed selfies with natural skin tones and good dynamic range. It also supports portrait mode effects and various beauty enhancements that can be adjusted according to personal preference. Overall, the camera system on the Moto G Stylus 2025 performs admirably for its price point, delivering results that can compete with more expensive devices in most everyday scenarios.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery performance is a standout feature of the Moto G Stylus 2025, with Motorola making significant improvements in both capacity and charging technology. The device houses a large 5000mAh battery that easily provides over 40 hours of use on a single charge under normal usage conditions. This extended battery life ensures that even heavy users can get through a full day without reaching for a charger.

What truly sets this phone apart in the mid range segment is its charging capabilities. The Moto G Stylus 2025 supports 68W TurboPower charging, a substantial upgrade from the 45W charging available in the previous model. This powerful charging technology can provide enough power for the day with just 15 minutes of charging, which is especially useful for those quick top ups before heading out. A full charge from 0 to 100% takes approximately 45 minutes, which is impressively fast for a battery of this size.

Even more surprising for a phone at this price point is the inclusion of 15W wireless charging support. This feature is typically reserved for premium devices and offers added convenience for users who prefer cable free charging. The ability to simply place the phone on a compatible charging pad represents a significant quality of life improvement that enhances the overall user experience.

The battery management software is also well optimized, with several power saving modes that can extend battery life when needed. The Adaptive Battery feature learns usage patterns over time and optimizes power consumption accordingly, while the Battery Saver mode restricts background activities and reduces performance to conserve energy. The battery health features also help maintain the battery’s longevity by preventing overcharging and optimizing charging patterns overnight.

Software Experience

Running on Android 15 out of the box, the Moto G Stylus 2025 offers a clean, near stock Android experience with thoughtful Motorola enhancements. The interface is intuitive and user friendly, without the excessive bloatware that plagues some competing devices. This approach results in a smooth, responsive system that’s easy to navigate for both Android newcomers and experienced users.

Motorola’s software additions are focused on enhancing usability rather than changing the core Android experience. The Moto Actions feature allows users to access commonly used functions through simple gestures, such as chopping twice to turn on the flashlight or twisting the wrist to quickly launch the camera. These intuitive shortcuts save time and make everyday tasks more convenient.

The Moto Display provides useful information at a glance without fully waking the phone, showing notifications, time, and battery status when you pick up the device or wave your hand over the screen. This feature strikes a good balance between convenience and battery conservation.

AI features are a significant part of the software experience on the Moto G Stylus 2025. Beyond the previously mentioned Sketch to Image functionality, the device includes AI photo editing tools that can enhance images, remove unwanted objects, and even extend the frame beyond what was originally captured. The AI typing suggestions learn from your writing style to provide more accurate predictive text, while AI battery optimization extends battery life by learning your usage patterns.

Motorola has committed to providing three years of major Android updates and four years of security patches for the Moto G Stylus 2025, which is an excellent support policy for a mid range device. This extended software support ensures that the phone will remain secure and up to date with the latest features for years to come.

Audio and Multimedia Experience

The audio capabilities of the Moto G Stylus 2025 are impressive for a device in this price range, making it an excellent choice for media consumption. The phone features stereo speakers that produce clear, loud sound with decent bass response for a smartphone. These speakers support Dolby Atmos technology, which creates a more immersive audio experience when watching videos or playing games.

For personal listening, the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack provides flexibility for users who prefer wired headphones or want to connect to external audio systems without adapters. The audio output through this port is clean with good volume levels. For wireless audio, the device supports high quality Bluetooth codecs like aptX HD and LDAC, ensuring excellent sound quality when paired with compatible wireless headphones.

The multimedia experience is further enhanced by the vibrant pOLED display, which makes watching videos and browsing photos more enjoyable. The phone handles HDR content well, with good contrast and color reproduction that brings scenes to life. The 120Hz refresh rate also benefits video playback, resulting in smoother motion that’s particularly noticeable in action sequences.

The combination of the large, high quality display and capable audio system makes the Moto G Stylus 2025 a compelling portable entertainment device. Whether you’re streaming movies, playing games, or listening to music, the phone delivers a multimedia experience that exceeds expectations for its price point. The stylus also adds unique functionality for media creation, allowing users to edit photos with precision or create digital artwork on the go.

Connectivity and Additional Features

The Moto G Stylus 2025 offers a comprehensive set of connectivity options that ensure you stay connected in various environments. The phone supports 5G connectivity across multiple bands, providing fast data speeds where 5G coverage is available. The inclusion of Wi Fi 6E support allows for faster and more stable wireless connections with reduced latency when connected to compatible routers.

For short range connections, the device utilizes Bluetooth 5.3, which offers improved range, speed, and reliability compared to older versions. This makes the phone excellent for connecting to wireless earbuds, smartwatches, and other accessories. The presence of NFC enables contactless payments through Google Pay and easy pairing with compatible devices.

Location services are handled through a combination of GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou satellite systems, ensuring accurate positioning across the globe. This multi system approach provides better location accuracy in challenging environments like urban areas with tall buildings.

Additional features include a side mounted fingerprint sensor that’s quick and reliable for device authentication. The sensor is conveniently placed on the power button, making it easy to unlock the phone as you pick it up. The device also supports face unlock for additional convenience, though it’s not as secure as the fingerprint method.

The Moto G Stylus 2025 includes a haptic feedback system that provides subtle, precise vibrations throughout the interface. This enhances the tactile experience when typing or interacting with the phone. For storage expansion, the phone supports microSD cards up to 1TB, allowing users to significantly increase their available storage for photos, videos, and other media.

Value and Pricing

At a price point of $399, the Moto G Stylus 2025 offers exceptional value for money. This mid range device includes several features typically found in smartphones costing significantly more, making it an attractive option for budget conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise on quality and performance.

When comparing the device to competitors in the same price range, the Moto G Stylus 2025 stands out with its stylus functionality, which is rare at this price point. The only real competitor with similar stylus capabilities would be devices from Samsung’s Note series, which are generally priced much higher. The combination of the responsive stylus and AI enhanced stylus features creates a unique selling proposition that many users will find compelling.

The phone’s hardware specifications are impressive for the price, with the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of storage providing plenty of power and space for most users. The 5000mAh battery with 68W fast charging and 15W wireless charging represents excellent value, as these charging speeds are typically reserved for more expensive devices.

The pOLED display with its 120Hz refresh rate and 3,000 nits peak brightness is another area where the Moto G Stylus 2025 punches above its weight. Many phones in this price range still use LCD panels with lower refresh rates and brightness levels. The IP68 water and dust resistance and MIL STD 810H certification for durability add further value, providing peace of mind that the device can withstand daily wear and tear.

When considering the overall package, including hardware, software features, camera capabilities, and the unique stylus functionality, the Moto G Stylus 2025 represents one of the best values in the mid range smartphone market today. It’s an especially good choice for students, creative professionals, and anyone who would benefit from the precision input that a stylus provides.

Conclusion

The Moto G Stylus 2025 successfully bridges the gap between affordable smartphones and premium devices, offering a compelling package that will satisfy most users’ needs. With its responsive stylus, vibrant display, capable camera system, and impressive battery life, this device stands as a testament to Motorola’s commitment to delivering value at the mid range price point.

While it may not match the absolute top tier performance of flagship devices costing twice as much, the Moto G Stylus 2025 provides an excellent balance of features and affordability. The inclusion of premium elements like wireless charging, water resistance, and a high refresh rate display demonstrates Motorola’s understanding of what features matter most to consumers.

For those who value the precision and versatility that a stylus provides, this phone represents an excellent choice without the premium price tag of other stylus equipped devices. The AI enhancements throughout the system add genuine utility, from creative tools like Sketch to Image to practical features like improved photo processing.

The Moto G Stylus 2025 is particularly well suited for students taking notes, creative professionals sketching ideas on the go, and productivity focused users who appreciate the additional precision of stylus input. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone who wants a capable, well rounded smartphone that won’t break the bank.

In the increasingly competitive mid range smartphone market, the Moto G Stylus 2025 stands out as a device that doesn’t just meet expectations for its price point but exceeds them in several key areas. It represents one of the best values in the smartphone market today and deserves serious consideration from anyone shopping in this price range.