Galaxy S22 5G • Locked AT&T vs Galaxy S22+ 5G • Locked T-Mobile

Galaxy S22 5G • Locked AT&T
Galaxy S22 5G • Locked AT&T
Starting at

Refurbished price:$164.99

Versus $799.99 new

See options
Galaxy S22+ 5G • Locked T-Mobile
Galaxy S22+ 5G • Locked T-Mobile
Starting at

Refurbished price:$212.82

Versus $959.99 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G and the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G, both released in February 2022, are part of the same flagship smartphone series, offering a premium Android experience. While they share many core features and design elements, their primary distinctions lie in physical size, display brightness, and battery capacity. Both devices run on the Android operating system, providing a consistent software experience across the line.

Scores

Durability

Both the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+ were launched in early 2022, meaning they share a similar position in their product lifecycle.

  • Software Support: Samsung has committed to providing four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates for these models, extending their software longevity until approximately 2027.
  • Expected Lifespan: Users can anticipate a practical lifespan of several years, supported by ongoing software and security updates, ensuring continued functionality and protection.
  • Repairability: Both devices received a low repairability score of 3 out of 10 from iFixit, primarily due to the extensive use of strong adhesive for the back panels and battery, making repairs challenging for users.

Release Year

2022

2022

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of both the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+ is driven by the same generation of advanced processors, ensuring a consistent experience across the board.

  • Processing Power: Both models handle demanding applications, multitasking, and graphic-intensive games smoothly, providing a responsive user experience.
  • Memory and Storage: Each device comes with 8GB of RAM and offers internal storage options of 128GB or 256GB, which is sufficient for most users' apps and media. Neither model includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
  • Battery Performance: The Galaxy S22+ features a larger 4,500 mAh battery, which generally translates to longer usage times compared to the Galaxy S22's 3,700 mAh battery. In real-world tests, the Galaxy S22+ typically offers around 10.5 hours of continuous video streaming, while the Galaxy S22 provides approximately 9 hours under similar conditions.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

Both smartphones feature high-quality displays, but there are notable differences in size and brightness that impact the viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: Both the Galaxy S22 and S22+ utilize a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels) and an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant colors and smooth scrolling.
  • Screen Size: The Galaxy S22 offers a more compact 6.1-inch display, making it easier for one-handed use, while the Galaxy S22+ provides a larger 6.6-inch screen for a more expansive viewing area.
  • Brightness Levels: The Galaxy S22+ boasts a higher peak brightness of 1,750 nits, offering superior visibility in bright outdoor conditions, whereas the Galaxy S22 reaches a peak of 1,300 nits.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems on the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+ are identical, providing a consistent photography and videography experience across both models.

  • Rear Camera System: Both devices are equipped with a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This configuration allows for detailed photos, expansive landscape shots, and clear zoomed-in images.
  • Photography Performance: Users can expect strong performance in various lighting conditions, with improvements in low-light photography compared to previous generations. The cameras produce images with accurate colors and good detail.
  • Video Capabilities: Both models support video recording up to 8K resolution at 24 frames per second, along with various other modes for different creative needs. The microphone quality is suitable for calls and general recording, and the stereo speakers provide a clear audio experience for media consumption.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

10 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core specifications, several practical elements differentiate the user experience between these two Galaxy S22 models.

  • Connectivity: Both phones support 5G networks, ensuring fast mobile data speeds. The Galaxy S22 includes Wi-Fi 6, while the Galaxy S22+ features the slightly newer Wi-Fi 6E standard, offering potentially faster and more stable connections in compatible environments. Both also support Bluetooth 5.2.
  • Physical Design: The Galaxy S22 is more compact and lighter, weighing around 167 grams, making it easier to handle for extended periods. The Galaxy S22+ is larger and heavier at approximately 195 grams, which might be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial device. Both feature a durable Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front and back.
  • Charging and Ports: The Galaxy S22 supports 25W wired charging, while the Galaxy S22+ supports faster 45W wired charging. However, real-world tests indicate that the actual difference in full charging time between 25W and 45W for the S22+ is minimal. Both devices feature a USB-C port and lack a traditional headphone jack.

Weight

7 oz

7 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.1

6.6

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

AT&T

T-Mobile

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback for both the Galaxy S22 and S22+ often highlights their premium build quality, vibrant displays, and capable camera systems. Common praise points include the bright and smooth AMOLED screens and the consistent performance for everyday tasks and gaming. Criticisms frequently revolve around the battery life of the standard S22, which some heavy users find insufficient for a full day. While the S22+ offers improved battery endurance, some users still report it as average rather than exceptional. The charging speed, despite the S22+ supporting 45W, has also been a point of discussion, with many finding the real-world difference from 25W to be negligible.

Users prioritizing a compact form factor and easy one-handed use may find the Galaxy S22 well-suited to their needs. Those who prefer a larger screen for media consumption or productivity, along with better battery life and a brighter display, might lean towards the Galaxy S22+. Both devices offer a robust Android experience with strong software support from Samsung. For those considering these models, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can be a sustainable choice, providing access to these features while extending the product's lifecycle.

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