iPhone SE (2022) • Unlocked vs Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) • Unlocked

iPhone SE (2022) • Unlocked
iPhone SE (2022) • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$120.64

Versus $429.00 new

See options
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 SE 2022 and the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 are distinct smartphone offerings, each catering to different user preferences and operating system ecosystems. Released in March 2022, the iPhone SE 2022 provides a compact experience with Apple's iOS, while the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023, launched in May 2023, offers a larger Android interface with an integrated stylus. The primary differentiators lie in their form factor, software approach, and the inclusion of a stylus in the Motorola device.

Scores

Durability

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

  • Release Timeline and Software Support: The iPhone SE 2022, released in March 2022, typically receives major iOS updates for approximately 5 to 7 years, with security updates extending even further, potentially until 2028-2030. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023, launched in May 2023, generally receives one major Android OS update (to Android 14) and three years of security updates, expected until June 2026.
  • Durability Features: The iPhone SE 2022 features an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, indicating it can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 has a water-repellent design, offering protection against splashes but not rated for immersion.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software support and a higher degree of water resistance may find the iPhone SE 2022 offers a longer practical lifespan in terms of receiving the latest features and security patches. The Motorola device provides a solid experience for its expected support window.

Release Year

2022

2023

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance in daily use is a key factor for any smartphone, impacting everything from app responsiveness to multitasking capabilities.

  • Processor Capabilities: The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a powerful current-generation processor, enabling smooth operation for demanding applications and multitasking. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 features a processor that delivers solid performance for everyday tasks and can handle most applications without significant slowdowns.
  • System Responsiveness and Multitasking: Users of the iPhone SE 2022 generally experience highly responsive navigation and quick app loading times, even with multiple applications running simultaneously. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 provides a capable experience for switching between apps and general usage, with users reporting satisfactory performance for daily tasks.
  • Storage and Battery Behavior: Both devices offer various storage options. The iPhone SE 2022's battery often requires daily recharging, and heavy users might need to charge it more frequently. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 is noted for its strong battery life, often lasting a full day or even into a second day for many users.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is the primary interface for smartphone interaction, and differences in technology and specifications can significantly affect the viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The iPhone SE 2022 features a 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels, offering clear visuals. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 comes with a larger 6.6-inch IPS LCD display, providing a Full HD+ resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels for a more expansive and detailed viewing area.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone SE 2022 offers a peak brightness of 625 nits, which contributes to good visibility in various lighting conditions. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 has a refresh rate of 120Hz, resulting in smoother scrolling and more fluid animations compared to the iPhone SE 2022's standard 60Hz refresh rate.
  • Viewing Experience: The iPhone SE 2022's compact screen is well-suited for one-handed use, while the Moto G Stylus 5G 2023's larger display provides more screen real estate for media consumption and productivity tasks, especially when utilizing its integrated stylus.

Resolution

750 x 1334

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many users, influencing the quality of photos and videos captured in various environments.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a single 12-megapixel wide camera with optical image stabilization, which performs well in good lighting conditions and records video up to 4K at 60 frames per second. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 features a dual-camera setup, including a 50-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization and an 8-megapixel ultrawide/macro lens, offering more versatility in shot composition.
  • Low-Light and Everyday Photography: While the iPhone SE 2022 produces good images in bright light, it lacks a dedicated Night Mode, which can result in darker and grainier photos in low-light scenarios. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 takes good pictures in daylight, but its performance in dim light is less consistent.
  • Front Camera and Audio: The iPhone SE 2022 has a 7-megapixel front camera, suitable for video calls and selfies in good lighting. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 offers a 16-megapixel front camera. Both devices provide stereo speakers, with the Motorola device supporting Dolby Atmos for an enhanced audio experience.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

7 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 for faster mobile data speeds. The iPhone SE 2022 uses a Lightning port for charging and data transfer and supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 features a USB-C port, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is absent on the iPhone SE 2022.
  • Sensors and Biometrics: The iPhone SE 2022 utilizes Touch ID for secure authentication, integrated into its home button. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 typically employs a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone SE 2022 is a compact and lightweight device, measuring 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and weighing 144g, making it easy for one-handed use. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 is larger and heavier at 162.89 x 73.85 x 9.19 mm and 202g, accommodating its bigger display and integrated stylus. The Motorola device's integrated stylus offers a unique input method for note-taking and navigation.

Weight

3 oz

202 oz

Screen size (inches)

4.7

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 SE 2022 often praises its powerful performance, the familiarity and security of Touch ID, and its compact form factor, which many find refreshing in a market dominated by larger devices. Common criticisms include its dated design with significant bezels, the smaller display, and battery life that frequently requires daily charging. For the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023, users frequently highlight the utility of its integrated stylus, the expansive display, and its impressive battery life as key advantages. Some users note that while the cameras are capable in good lighting, they may not match the performance of higher-end devices in challenging conditions.

Users prioritizing a compact device with a long software support lifespan and robust processing power for demanding applications may find the iPhone SE 2022 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, individuals who value a larger display for media consumption, an integrated stylus for productivity, and extended battery life may lean toward the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023. Both devices offer distinct advantages, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can provide an eco-friendly alternative for making an informed choice.

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