Motorola Moto G Stylus (2026) in for review

Motorola has sent us the Moto G Stylus (2026) for review, giving us our first hands-on look at the company's latest mid-range offering that combines stylus functionality with everyday smartphone features.

The Moto G Stylus (2026) is now available for purchase in the US through Amazon, Best Buy, and Motorola.com at a price of $500. The phone ships with just a USB cable in the box, meaning you'll need to supply your own charger and case separately.

One of the first things that stands out about the device is its textured back panel. Motorola has clearly put thought into the design, creating a finish that feels nicer than basic silicone cases while also being durable enough to handle everyday bumps and bruises without requiring immediate protection.

The Stylus Experience

The defining feature of this phone is, of course, the built-in stylus. Motorola has taken clear inspiration from Samsung's Galaxy S Ultra series, with the stylus slotting neatly into the bottom of the device. The stylus includes a button that activates a special menu for quick access to pen-related functions, plus a clicky button on the opposite end that serves as a satisfying fidget feature.

Using the stylus on the screen proves to be a smooth experience. While it's digital rather than pen-on-paper, the responsiveness is snappy enough for comfortable writing and drawing. The stylus functionality genuinely enhances multitasking capabilities, allowing for quick notes, screen annotations, and precise input when needed.

Incremental Upgrades

Comparing the 2026 model to its predecessor reveals that Motorola has taken a conservative approach to updates. The most notable changes include:

• IP69 rating (up from IP68)
• UFS 3.1 storage (up from UFS 2.2)
• 200mAh battery increase to 5,000mAh total

Everything else remains essentially unchanged. The phone still uses the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 SoC, comes with 8GB of RAM, features the same 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, and retains the identical camera setup of 50MP main, 13MP ultrawide, and 32MP selfie shooter.

This conservative update strategy isn't necessarily a negative point. In fact, it means the previous year's model is now available at a reduced price, giving budget-conscious buyers a solid alternative.

First Impressions

The Moto G Stylus (2026) appears to be a solid mid-range option for users who value stylus functionality without wanting to pay flagship prices. The combination of a responsive stylus, capable performance from the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, and a smooth 120Hz AMOLED display creates a compelling package at the $500 price point.

The lack of included accessories might be a drawback for some, but the quality of the built-in design elements, particularly the textured back, helps offset this omission.

We'll be spending more time with the Moto G Stylus (2026) to put it through its paces in our full review. Stay tuned for comprehensive testing of battery life, camera performance, and overall user experience.