Galaxy S21 5G • Unlocked vs Galaxy S22 5G • Locked AT&T

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, primarily software support and physical resilience.

• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S21 5G, released in January 2021, launched with Android 11. Samsung committed to providing four generations of Android OS updates and five years of security updates for the S21 series. This means the S21 likely received updates up to Android 15, with security support extending into 2026. The Galaxy S22 5G, launched in February 2022, started with Android 12. It is also slated for four OS updates and five years of security updates, projecting support up to Android 16 and security updates into 2027.
• Physical Durability: Both models feature an IP68 rating, indicating resistance to dust and water immersion. The Galaxy S21 5G utilizes Corning Gorilla Glass Victus on its front display and has a plastic back, while the Galaxy S22 5G upgrades to Gorilla Glass Victus+ for both its front and back panels, potentially offering enhanced scratch and drop resistance.
• Repairability: Both devices generally offer similar repairability profiles typical of modern smartphones, with components that can be replaced by skilled technicians.

The performance of a smartphone is largely determined by its internal components, impacting everything from app responsiveness to multitasking capabilities.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S21 5G is equipped with a previous-generation flagship processor, paired with 8GB of RAM. This configuration handles everyday applications and moderate multitasking smoothly. The Galaxy S22 5G features a newer-generation flagship processor, also with 8GB of RAM. This newer processor generally offers improved efficiency and faster processing for demanding applications and gaming.
• Storage Options: Both the Galaxy S21 5G and Galaxy S22 5G are available with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. Neither model includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S21 5G houses a 4000 mAh battery, while the Galaxy S22 5G has a smaller 3700 mAh battery. User experiences suggest that despite the S22's newer, more efficient processor, its smaller battery capacity can lead to more frequent charging for heavy users compared to the S21.

Both the Galaxy S21 5G and S22 5G offer high-quality visual experiences, though with slight variations in size and brightness.

• Display Technology and Size: Both devices feature a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Galaxy S21 5G has a 6.2-inch display, while the Galaxy S22 5G is slightly more compact with a 6.1-inch display.
• Resolution and Refresh Rate: Both models offer a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels for S21, 1080 x 2340 pixels for S22) and an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate. This ensures smooth scrolling and fluid visuals, enhancing the viewing experience for content and everyday use.
• Brightness Levels: Both the S21 and S22 offer a peak brightness of 1300 nits, providing good visibility even in bright outdoor conditions.

The camera systems on both the Galaxy S21 5G and S22 5G are capable, with the S22 introducing notable enhancements to its main sensor and telephoto capabilities.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S21 5G features a triple-camera setup with a 12MP wide-angle lens, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens offering 3x hybrid optical zoom. The Galaxy S22 5G also has a triple-camera system, but it includes a 50MP wide-angle main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The S22's larger main sensor and dedicated optical telephoto zoom can result in more detailed images and improved low-light performance.
• Front Camera and Video: Both devices are equipped with a 10MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. Both models support 8K video recording at 24 frames per second, allowing for high-resolution video capture.
• Audio Experience: Both smartphones feature stereo speakers, providing an immersive audio experience for media consumption.

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these smartphones.

• Connectivity: Both the Galaxy S21 5G and S22 5G support 5G networks, ensuring access to faster mobile data speeds. They also include Wi-Fi 6 for efficient wireless internet connectivity. The S21 features Bluetooth 5.0, while the S22 offers the slightly newer Bluetooth 5.2, potentially providing minor improvements in wireless accessory connectivity. Both utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
• Biometric Security: For secure unlocking, both devices incorporate an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.
• Physical Design and Materials: The Galaxy S21 5G measures 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm and weighs around 169-171 grams. The Galaxy S22 5G is slightly more compact and lighter at 146 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm and approximately 167-168 grams. The S21 features a plastic back with an aluminum frame, while the S22 offers a more premium feel with a glass back and an aluminum frame.