iPhone SE (2022) • Locked T-Mobile vs Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022) • Unlocked

iPhone SE (2022) • Locked T-Mobile
iPhone SE (2022) • Locked T-Mobile
Starting at

Refurbished price:$124.00

Versus $429.00 new

See options
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022) • Unlocked
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022) • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$102.00

Versus $499.99 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone SE 2022 and the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 are both smartphones released in the spring of 2022, offering distinct approaches to mobile technology. While the iPhone SE 2022, running on iOS, emphasizes a compact design with powerful internal components, the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2022, an Android device, focuses on a larger display, integrated stylus functionality, and extended battery life.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors. Both phones were launched in 2022, with the iPhone SE 2022 released in March and the Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 in April.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone SE 2022 launched with iOS 15.4 and is expected to receive iOS updates until approximately 2028 to 2030, potentially including iOS 26. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2022, which shipped with Android 12, typically receives a more limited commitment to major OS upgrades, often just one.
  • Repairability and Durability: The iPhone SE 2022 features a Ceramic Shield front and an aerospace-grade aluminum and glass design, offering IP67 water and dust resistance. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 has a plastic body. While specific repairability scores vary, Apple generally provides longer-term software support, which can contribute to a longer practical lifespan for the device.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software support and a more durable build for everyday accidents may find the iPhone SE 2022 to offer a longer practical lifespan. However, the physical durability of the Moto G Stylus 5G 2022's plastic body might be more forgiving to drops for some users.

Release Year

2022

2022

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

No

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of these two smartphones is influenced by their internal components, impacting everything from app responsiveness to battery endurance in daily use.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a powerful current-generation processor, which allows for smooth operation across demanding applications, quick app loading, and efficient multitasking. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 features a processor that handles everyday tasks and gaming competently, providing a responsive experience for its segment.
  • Storage and Multitasking: The iPhone SE 2022 is available with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of internal storage and 4GB of RAM. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 offers 128GB or 256GB of storage, expandable via microSDXC, and comes with 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB of RAM depending on the variant, which aids in managing multiple applications simultaneously.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone SE 2022 has a 2018 mAh battery, with user experiences varying from lasting a full day for moderate use to needing a charge by evening for heavy users. It supports fast charging and wireless charging. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 boasts a larger 5000 mAh battery, consistently delivering excellent battery life, often extending to one and a half to two days of use. It supports fast charging, though a faster charger may need to be acquired separately, and does not support wireless charging.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on these devices differs significantly due to their display technologies, sizes, and refresh rates.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The iPhone SE 2022 features a 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1334x750 pixels, resulting in 326 pixels per inch (PPI). The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 offers a larger 6.8-inch IPS LCD display with a higher resolution of 2460x1080 pixels, providing a sharper image at 395 PPI.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone SE 2022's display has a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits, offering good visibility in various lighting conditions. It has a standard refresh rate. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 features a 120Hz refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience. However, its brightness can be a limitation for outdoor use.
  • Viewing Experience: The iPhone SE 2022 provides a compact viewing experience with its smaller screen, suitable for one-handed use. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022's expansive display is well-suited for media consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks, especially when utilizing its integrated stylus.

Resolution

750 x 1334

1080 x 2460

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both phones cater to different photography needs, with variations in hardware and software capabilities.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a single 12MP wide camera featuring optical image stabilization (OIS) and an f/1.8 aperture. It benefits from advanced computational photography features like Smart HDR 4 and Deep Fusion, producing good images in well-lit conditions. However, it lacks a dedicated Night Mode, which can result in noisy or grainy photos in low-light environments. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 features a triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with OIS that uses pixel binning to output 12.5MP images, an 8MP ultra-wide camera that also functions as a macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. It performs well in daylight, but its overall camera performance, particularly in low light, is considered middling.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: The iPhone SE 2022 can record video up to 4K at 60 frames per second (fps) and has a 7MP front-facing camera. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 records video up to 1080p at 60fps and includes a 16MP front-facing camera.
  • Audio Experience: The iPhone SE 2022 offers stereo audio recording and playback. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is absent on the iPhone SE 2022.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

7 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several practical features and design elements differentiate these two smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0. The iPhone SE 2022 uses a Lightning port for charging and data transfer. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 features a USB-C port and retains a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometrics and Special Features: The iPhone SE 2022 utilizes Touch ID, an integrated fingerprint sensor within its home button, for secure authentication. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 includes a side-mounted fingerprint reader for biometric security. A notable distinguishing feature of the Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 is its integrated stylus, offering enhanced functionality for note-taking and navigation.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone SE 2022 has compact dimensions of 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and weighs 144g, making it easy for one-handed use and pocketability. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 is a larger device, measuring 168.9 x 75.8 x 9.3 mm and weighing 215g, which contributes to its expansive screen but also its heft.

Weight

3 oz

7 oz

Screen size (inches)

4.7

6.8

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

T-Mobile

Unlocked

User feedback for the iPhone SE 2022 often highlights its compact size, powerful performance for its form factor, and the reliability of Touch ID as significant advantages. Common criticisms include its dated design with thick bezels, battery life that may not suffice for heavy users, and the absence of features like Night Mode or an ultra-wide camera. Conversely, the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 is frequently praised for its large 120Hz display, exceptional battery life, the utility of its built-in stylus, and expandable storage. However, users often express concerns about its limited software update commitment, middling camera performance, especially in low light, and a screen that can be difficult to view outdoors.

Users prioritizing a compact, powerful device with long-term software support and a familiar operating system may prefer the iPhone SE 2022. This device is well-suited for those who value portability and robust core performance for everyday tasks and appreciate the security of Touch ID. On the other hand, users who prioritize a large display for media consumption, extended battery life, and the added functionality of an integrated stylus may find the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2022 to be a more suitable option. It caters to individuals who need ample screen real estate and the convenience of a stylus for productivity or creative tasks, and who are comfortable with a larger device. Both models are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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