iPhone 12 Pro • Unlocked vs Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) • Unlocked

iPhone 12 Pro • Unlocked
iPhone 12 Pro • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$261.00

Versus $799.00 new

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Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) • Unlocked
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$106.00

Versus $237.99 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 12 Pro, released in October 2020, and the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023), launched in June 2023, are distinct smartphones catering to different user preferences. While the iPhone 12 Pro operates on Apple's iOS ecosystem, the Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) runs on Android, offering a different software experience. Key differentiators include their display technologies, camera systems, and the inclusion of a built-in stylus on the Motorola device.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and physical resilience.

  • Release Timeline and Software Support: The iPhone 12 Pro, released in late 2020, has received consistent iOS updates, with its operating system currently at iOS 26.4 as of March 2026, indicating a strong commitment to software longevity. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023), released in mid-2023, launched with Android 13, and while it receives updates, its long-term OS support duration is typically shorter compared to Apple's flagship devices.
  • Physical Durability: The iPhone 12 Pro features a Ceramic Shield front cover, designed to offer enhanced drop protection, and a stainless steel frame, contributing to its robust build. It also carries an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, allowing submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) has a water-repellent design, which provides protection against splashes but is not rated for full water immersion. Its construction includes a glass front with a plastic frame and back.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Users can expect the iPhone 12 Pro to remain functional and receive software updates for a considerable period due to Apple's extended support. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) offers a solid practical lifespan for its category, though its software update cycle may conclude sooner.

Release Year

2020

2023

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance in daily use, from app handling to multitasking, is a crucial aspect of any smartphone.

  • Processing Capabilities: The iPhone 12 Pro is equipped with a powerful processor that handles demanding applications and multitasking smoothly, providing a responsive user experience. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) features a processor that delivers solid performance for everyday tasks, with apps loading quickly and general navigation feeling fluid.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: With 6GB of RAM, the iPhone 12 Pro manages multiple applications efficiently, allowing for seamless transitions and sustained performance during heavy usage. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) comes with either 4GB or 6GB of RAM, which supports smooth multitasking for most users, though some graphically intensive games at higher settings might show occasional stuttering.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 12 Pro has a 2815 mAh battery, which in some tests provided around 9 to 11 hours of browsing time, but heavy usage, especially with 5G, can lead to more frequent charging. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) is powered by a larger 5000 mAh battery, offering extended usage, with some reports indicating up to two full days of battery life under typical conditions.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is the primary interface for user interaction, and its quality significantly impacts the viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone 12 Pro features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. Its resolution of 2532x1170 pixels results in a sharp image with 460 pixels per inch. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) has a larger 6.6-inch IPS LCD, with a resolution of 2400x1080 pixels and 399 pixels per inch, providing a clear and expansive viewing area.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone 12 Pro's display can reach 800 nits of typical brightness and up to 1200 nits for HDR content, ensuring good visibility even in bright environments. It operates at a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) offers a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience, though its brightness levels may appear somewhat washed out in direct sunlight.
  • Viewing Experience: The iPhone 12 Pro's OLED panel excels in color accuracy and contrast, making it well-suited for media consumption and detailed work. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023)'s larger LCD, combined with its higher refresh rate, provides a spacious and smooth experience, particularly beneficial for browsing and general content viewing.

Resolution

1170 x 2532

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, influencing how they capture and share moments.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 12 Pro boasts a versatile triple 12MP camera system, including Ultra Wide, Wide, and Telephoto lenses, along with a LiDAR scanner. This setup enables features like improved low-light photography, enhanced portrait mode, and 2x optical zoom in and out, with up to 10x digital zoom. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) features a dual-camera setup with a 50MP main sensor and an 8MP ultrawide lens. It performs respectably for its class in everyday photography.
  • Photography and Video Quality: The iPhone 12 Pro delivers high-quality photos with good detail and color accuracy, even in challenging lighting conditions, thanks to features like Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 3. It also supports Dolby Vision HDR video recording up to 60 frames per second, offering professional-grade video capabilities. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) captures clear images suitable for social media and casual use, though its overall camera performance is considered adequate rather than exceptional.
  • Front Camera and Audio: Both devices feature capable front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls. The iPhone 12 Pro has a 12MP front camera. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) includes a 16MP front camera. For audio, both offer decent speaker output for media consumption and clear microphone quality for calls. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity, enabling faster mobile data speeds. The iPhone 12 Pro uses Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0, while the Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) supports Wi-Fi (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.1. The iPhone 12 Pro utilizes a Lightning port for charging and data transfer. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) features a USB-C 2.0 port and retains a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometrics and Sensors: The iPhone 12 Pro relies on Face ID for secure facial recognition. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) incorporates a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication. Both devices include standard sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, proximity sensors, compasses, and barometers.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone 12 Pro has a premium feel with its stainless steel frame and glass back, measuring 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 mm and weighing 189g. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) is larger and slightly heavier at 162.8 x 73.8 x 9.2 mm and 202g, featuring a glass front with a plastic frame and back. A distinctive feature of the Motorola device is its integrated stylus, offering functionality for note-taking and navigation.

Weight

7 oz

202 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.1

6.8

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C

User feedback for the iPhone 12 Pro often highlights its exceptional camera capabilities, robust performance for demanding tasks, and the vibrant, color-accurate OLED display. Some common criticisms revolve around its battery life, particularly with consistent 5G usage, and the 60Hz refresh rate of its display compared to newer devices. For the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023), users frequently praise its impressive battery longevity, the large display, and the practical utility of the integrated stylus. Conversely, common concerns include its camera performance, which is generally considered average, and the expectation of fewer major OS updates compared to higher-end smartphones.

Users prioritizing a premium build, advanced camera features, and a powerful, long-supported operating system may find the iPhone 12 Pro well-suited to their needs. Its compact size and high-quality display make it ideal for those who value a refined user experience and strong ecosystem integration. On the other hand, individuals who prioritize extended battery life, a larger display with a high refresh rate, and the unique functionality of a built-in stylus for productivity or creative tasks may lean toward the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023). This device is also a practical choice for those who prefer the Android operating system and expandable storage options.

Both devices offer distinct advantages, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can be an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new.

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