Which is better for gaming?

The XT2211-1. Its Helio G88 and 6 GB of RAM beat the older 4 GB XT2043, though neither is a gaming phone.

The XT2211-1 is the newer model with more RAM, so it should stay usable longer. The XT2043 is a 2020 phone and is closer to the end of its update life.

Is the XT2211-1 worth stepping up to?

Yes for most people. You get double the RAM, a bigger screen, dual SIM and a better front camera.

Does the stylus work the same on both?

Yes. Both are Moto G Stylus models with a built-in stylus and a dedicated slot.

Which is easier to use with one hand?

The XT2043. Its 6.4-inch screen is noticeably smaller than the 6.8-inch screen on the XT2211-1.

Do both take a microSD card?

Yes. Both have expandable storage, and both keep the headphone jack.

Motorola Moto G Stylus vs Motorola Moto G Stylus (2022)

The XT2211-1 is the better phone of the two. It has 6 GB of RAM instead of 4, a larger 6.8-inch screen, dual SIM, a 16 MP front camera and 4K video, and it weighs less. The XT2043 is the older 2020 model with a 6.4-inch screen and 4 GB of RAM; its edge is a listed IP water resistance rating and a slightly lighter body than its size suggests. For most shoppers the newer XT2211-1 is the one to take.

Choose the Moto G Stylus XT2043 if you want the smaller 6.4-inch body and a listed water resistance rating.
Choose the Moto G Stylus XT2211-1 if you want more RAM, a bigger screen, dual SIM and a stronger front camera.

Prices

Motorola Moto G Stylus: $139.95 at Cell2Get (checked today)
Motorola Moto G Stylus (2022): $170.00 at eBay (last seen Nov 1)
Difference: the Motorola Moto G Stylus is $30.05 cheaper than the Motorola Moto G Stylus (2022) at the latest prices (Nov 1 and Nov 9)