Galaxy S22 5G • Locked T-Mobile vs OnePlus 12 • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, released in February 2022, and the OnePlus 12, launched globally in February 2024, are both Android smartphones offering distinct experiences. While the Galaxy S22 emphasizes a compact design and a refined software experience, the OnePlus 12 focuses on cutting-edge performance and a larger display. Both devices operate on the Android platform, but they feature different custom user interfaces: Samsung's One UI and OnePlus's OxygenOS, respectively.

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

• Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G was released in February 2022, making it an older model compared to the OnePlus 12, which launched globally in February 2024. This two-year difference impacts their remaining software support and overall lifespan. [1, 3, 26]
• Software Longevity: The Galaxy S22 5G was promised 4 major Android OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates, with support expected to end within 2027. It is currently receiving quarterly security updates. [26, 31, 32] The OnePlus 12, being newer, offers 4 years of Android updates, extending its major OS support until at least Android 18, along with 5 years of security patches. [4, 7, 8, 11]
• Durability Features: The Galaxy S22 5G features an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, indicating a high level of protection against immersion. [29] The OnePlus 12 carries an IP65 rating, which protects against water jets and dust but not full immersion. [1, 5, 19, 29] Both devices utilize Gorilla Glass for screen protection, with the OnePlus 12 featuring the newer Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on its display. [3, 29]

The performance capabilities of these smartphones are influenced by their internal components and how they handle various tasks.

• Processing Power: The OnePlus 12 is equipped with a more recent generation processor, allowing it to handle demanding applications and multitasking with greater efficiency and responsiveness. [1, 16, 18] The Galaxy S22 5G, while capable for everyday use, features an earlier generation processor. [9, 13, 26]
• Multitasking and Storage: The OnePlus 12 offers higher RAM configurations, typically 12GB or 16GB, which contributes to smoother multitasking and app retention in memory. [1, 3, 5] The Galaxy S22 5G comes with 8GB of RAM. [13, 26] Both devices offer ample internal storage options, though neither supports expandable storage via microSD cards. [3, 5, 13, 26]
• Battery Behavior: The OnePlus 12 includes a larger battery capacity, which users report translates to excellent battery life, often lasting through a full day of heavy use. [1, 14, 22] The Galaxy S22 5G has a smaller battery, and some users have noted that it may require more frequent charging, especially with intensive use. [28, 35, 37]

The visual experience on both devices is delivered through their respective displays, each with distinct characteristics.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The OnePlus 12 features a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a higher resolution, offering sharper images and more screen real estate. [1, 2, 3, 5] The Galaxy S22 5G has a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a Full HD+ resolution, providing a clear and vibrant viewing experience in a more compact form factor. [13, 15, 26, 30]
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both phones offer a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. [3, 6, 13, 26, 30] The OnePlus 12 boasts a significantly higher peak brightness, which can improve visibility in bright outdoor conditions. [3, 6, 18] The Galaxy S22 5G also provides a bright display, suitable for various lighting environments. [30]
• Viewing Experience: The larger screen of the OnePlus 12 is well-suited for media consumption and productivity tasks, while the Galaxy S22 5G's more compact display is often preferred by users who prioritize one-handed use and portability. [19, 28]

The camera systems on both smartphones aim to capture high-quality images and videos, though they approach this with different hardware and software optimizations.

• Rear Camera Systems: The OnePlus 12 features a triple camera setup co-developed with Hasselblad, including a 50MP main sensor, a 64MP periscope telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 48MP ultrawide lens. [1, 3, 5, 16] The Galaxy S22 5G also has a triple rear camera system, comprising a 50MP main lens, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. [13, 15, 27]
• Photography Performance: Users generally praise the primary and telephoto cameras of the OnePlus 12 for their quality, though some note that ultrawide and selfie performance in low light could be improved. [1, 14, 22] The Galaxy S22 5G is known for taking good photos, but some users have reported a slower shutter speed. [28, 35]
• Video and Audio: Both devices are capable of recording high-resolution video. The OnePlus 12 offers features like Hasselblad Color Calibration and Dolby Vision for video. [3] The Galaxy S22 5G also provides strong video recording capabilities. [30]