Galaxy S22 5G • Locked T-Mobile vs iPhone 14 • Locked Verizon

Galaxy S22 5G • Locked T-Mobile
Galaxy S22 5G • Locked T-Mobile
Starting at

Refurbished price:$212.99

Versus $783.99 new

See options
iPhone 14 • Locked Verizon
iPhone 14 • Locked Verizon
Starting at

Refurbished price:$299.00

Versus $599.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, released in February 2022, and the Apple iPhone 14, launched in September 2022, are both compact flagship smartphones from their respective manufacturers. While both devices offer a premium mobile experience, they differ in their operating systems, with the Galaxy S22 running Android and the iPhone 14 running iOS, and in their approach to camera systems and display technology.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors. The Galaxy S22 5G was released in February 2022, while the iPhone 14 followed in September 2022.

  • Software Longevity: Samsung typically provides four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates for its flagship devices. For the Galaxy S22, this means major OS updates were expected until 2025 (Android 16 being the last major release) and security updates until early 2027. Apple is known for its extended software support, with iPhones generally receiving iOS updates for around five to seven years after their initial release. The iPhone 14 is expected to receive iOS updates until approximately 2028.
  • Repairability: Both devices feature glass backs and aluminum frames, contributing to their premium feel and offering a degree of durability. The iPhone 14 introduced some internal design changes aimed at improving repairability compared to previous models. Both models carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating they can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users seeking the longest possible software support and access to the latest operating system features may find the iPhone 14 offers a slightly longer practical lifespan in this regard. However, both devices are built with robust materials designed for daily use.

Release Year

2022

2022

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating applications to managing multiple processes simultaneously. Both the Galaxy S22 5G and the iPhone 14 deliver responsive experiences, though they achieve this through different hardware and software optimizations.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S22 5G is equipped with a processor designed to handle demanding applications and multitasking efficiently, providing a smooth experience for gaming and productivity. The iPhone 14 utilizes a powerful chip that ensures fluid navigation, quick app launches, and capable performance across various tasks, including video editing and graphic-intensive games.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: The Galaxy S22 5G typically comes with 8GB of RAM, which assists in keeping multiple applications open and switching between them without significant delays. The iPhone 14 features 6GB of RAM, optimized by iOS to manage background processes effectively, allowing for smooth multitasking.
  • Storage Options: Both devices offer base storage configurations of 128GB and 256GB. The iPhone 14 also provides a 512GB option for users who require more space for apps, photos, and videos. Neither model supports expandable storage via a microSD card.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both the Galaxy S22 5G and iPhone 14 offer vibrant and clear viewing experiences, albeit with some distinctions in their underlying technology and capabilities.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S22 5G features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its deep blacks and vivid colors. The iPhone 14 also has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, which provides excellent contrast and color accuracy.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: The Galaxy S22 5G boasts an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz, contributing to smoother scrolling and more fluid animations. It can reach a peak brightness of 1300 nits, offering good visibility in bright conditions. The iPhone 14 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate but offers a peak brightness of 1200 nits, ensuring content remains clear even outdoors.
  • Resolution and Clarity: Both phones provide sharp visuals suitable for reading, browsing, and media consumption. The Galaxy S22 5G has a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, while the iPhone 14 features a resolution of 1170 x 2532 pixels.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both the Galaxy S22 5G and iPhone 14 are equipped with capable camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos in various conditions, though they approach imaging with different sensor configurations and software enhancements.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S22 5G features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main wide-angle lens, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This configuration allows for flexibility in capturing different perspectives and distant subjects. The iPhone 14 utilizes a dual-camera system with a 12MP main wide-angle lens and a 12MP ultrawide lens. Its main sensor features a larger aperture and sensor-shift optical image stabilization for improved low-light performance.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S22 5G is noted for its detailed images, good dynamic range, and effective night mode, which benefits from pixel-binning technology. The iPhone 14 delivers consistent image quality with natural colors and strong low-light capabilities, and its Cinematic Mode allows for depth-of-field effects in video.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: Both devices are capable of recording high-resolution video. The Galaxy S22 5G can record up to 8K video at 24fps, while the iPhone 14 supports 4K video recording at up to 60fps. For selfies and video calls, both phones feature 10MP (Galaxy S22) or 12MP (iPhone 14) front-facing cameras that capture clear and detailed images.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several practical features and design elements differentiate the user experience of the Galaxy S22 5G and iPhone 14.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data speeds and feature modern Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards. The Galaxy S22 5G uses a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, while the iPhone 14 continues to use Apple's Lightning port. Neither device includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S22 5G incorporates an in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking and authentication. The iPhone 14 relies on Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system, for biometric security.
  • Design and Build Materials: The Galaxy S22 5G has an aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back, offering a durable and premium feel. It weighs approximately 167 grams. The iPhone 14 features an aerospace-grade aluminum frame and a Ceramic Shield front cover, which provides enhanced drop protection, along with a glass back. It weighs around 172 grams.

Weight

7 oz

6 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.1

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

T-Mobile

Verizon

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G and iPhone 14 both offer compelling smartphone experiences, each with distinct strengths that cater to different user preferences. User feedback for the Galaxy S22 often praises its compact size, vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display, and versatile camera system with optical zoom. However, some users have noted concerns regarding its battery life, particularly for heavy usage.

The iPhone 14 is frequently lauded for its consistent camera performance, robust build quality with Ceramic Shield, and the long-term software support provided by Apple. Some common observations include its 60Hz display refresh rate, which is lower than some Android counterparts, and battery life that, while generally reliable, may not always last a full day for very intensive users.

Users prioritizing a high refresh rate display and the flexibility of a triple-camera system with optical zoom may find the Galaxy S22 5G well-suited to their needs. Conversely, individuals who value extended software longevity, a strong ecosystem, and consistent imaging performance, particularly in video, might lean towards the iPhone 14. Both devices represent solid choices in the compact smartphone segment. For those looking for an eco-friendly alternative, considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can be a sustainable choice.

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