Galaxy S10+ • Unlocked vs Galaxy S22 5G • Locked AT&T

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support are key factors.

• Release Timeline: The Galaxy S10 Plus was released in March 2019, making it a device from an earlier generation. The Galaxy S22 5G, released in February 2022, benefits from a more recent launch, which typically translates to a longer period of manufacturer support.
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S22 5G launched with Android 12 and was promised four major Android OS upgrades, extending its support to Android 16, along with five years of security updates ending in 2027. The S10 Plus, having launched with Android 9.0 Pie, has likely reached or is nearing the end of its major OS update cycle, though security updates may continue for a period.
• Physical Durability: Both models feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion. The Galaxy S22 5G incorporates newer Gorilla Glass Victus+ on its front and back, offering enhanced scratch and drop resistance compared to the Gorilla Glass 6 found on the S10 Plus.

The performance of a smartphone is largely determined by its internal components, influencing how smoothly apps run and how efficiently tasks are handled.

• Processing Capabilities: The Galaxy S22 5G features a more recent generation processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications and multitasking with greater responsiveness. The Galaxy S10 Plus, while powerful for its release era, utilizes an older generation processor that still provides a capable experience for everyday use and gaming.
• Multitasking and Storage: Both devices offer 8GB of RAM in their base configurations, with the S10 Plus also having a 12GB RAM option. The S10 Plus provides expandable storage via a microSD card slot, supporting up to 512GB, alongside internal options up to 1TB. The S22 5G offers internal storage options up to 256GB but lacks a microSD card slot for expansion.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S10 Plus is equipped with a 4100 mAh battery, which was noted for providing a full day of heavy use when new. The Galaxy S22 5G has a smaller 3700 mAh battery. While newer processors can be more power-efficient, some users have reported that the S22 5G's smaller battery capacity may lead to more frequent charging, especially with heavy usage or 5G connectivity.

The visual experience on a smartphone is significantly shaped by its display technology and characteristics.

• Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S10 Plus features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Galaxy S22 5G comes with a slightly smaller 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which is a newer generation of Samsung's display technology.
• Resolution and Refresh Rate: The S10 Plus boasts a higher resolution of 3040 x 1440 pixels (QHD+), providing a very sharp image, but with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The S22 5G has a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels (FHD+), which is still clear, but it features an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, resulting in smoother scrolling and more fluid animations.
• Brightness and Clarity: Both displays support HDR10+ for enhanced contrast and color. The S22 5G offers a higher peak brightness of up to 1300 nits, which can improve visibility in bright outdoor conditions compared to the S10 Plus.

Both smartphones offer versatile camera systems designed to capture a range of photographic and video content.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S10 Plus features a triple rear camera setup with a 12MP wide-angle lens, a 12MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 16MP ultrawide lens. The Galaxy S22 5G also has a triple rear camera system, but with a higher resolution 50MP wide-angle sensor, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens.
• Photography Performance: The S22 5G's larger main sensor and improved image processing contribute to better low-light performance and more detailed images overall. Both devices include optical image stabilization (OIS) on their main and telephoto lenses to reduce blur.
• Video Recording and Front Camera: Both phones are capable of recording 4K video at 60 frames per second, with the S22 5G also supporting 8K video recording at 24 frames per second. For selfies, the S10 Plus has a dual front camera (10MP wide and 8MP depth sensor), while the S22 5G features a single 10MP front camera.

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate these two Galaxy smartphones.

• Connectivity and Ports: A significant difference is the S22 5G's support for 5G networks, offering faster mobile data speeds where available, while the S10 Plus is limited to 4G LTE. The S10 Plus includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature absent on the S22 5G, which relies solely on its USB-C port for wired audio and charging.
• Biometric Security and Design: Both devices feature an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The S22 5G has a slightly more compact and lighter design compared to the S10 Plus, which might appeal to users preferring a smaller form factor.
• Build Materials: The S10 Plus uses Gorilla Glass 6 for its front and back panels, whereas the S22 5G upgrades to the more durable Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both sides, offering enhanced protection against drops and scratches.