Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G • Unlocked vs Galaxy S24 • Unlocked

Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G • Unlocked
Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$264.99

Versus $899.00 new

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Galaxy S24 • Unlocked
Galaxy S24 • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$342.00

Versus $766.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, released in February 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S24, launched in January 2024, represent different generations within Samsung's flagship smartphone lineup. While both offer a premium Android experience with Samsung's One UI, they cater to slightly different user preferences. The S22 Ultra distinguishes itself with an integrated S Pen and a larger display, whereas the S24 focuses on a more compact design, enhanced screen brightness, and a suite of new AI-powered features.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G was introduced in February 2022, making it an earlier model compared to the Galaxy S24, which arrived in January 2024. This two-year difference impacts their respective positions in the product lifecycle.
  • Software Support: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G typically receives four major Android OS updates and five years of security updates from its release date. In contrast, the Galaxy S24 benefits from Samsung's extended commitment, promising seven years of both OS and security updates, offering a significantly longer period of official software support.
  • Durability Features: Both devices feature robust construction. The S22 Ultra incorporates Gorilla Glass Victus+ for screen protection and an Armor Aluminum frame. The S24 advances this with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an Enhanced Armor Aluminum frame, contributing to its resilience. Both models also carry an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, indicating protection against immersion in fresh water.

Release Year

2022

2024

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily operations, from multitasking to demanding applications. Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and the Galaxy S24 deliver capable performance, though with generational differences.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G provides strong performance for its generation, handling demanding apps and multitasking smoothly. The Galaxy S24, being a newer device, features an updated processor that offers enhanced speed and efficiency, particularly noticeable in complex tasks and the execution of its integrated AI features.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The S22 Ultra 5G was available with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options extending up to 1TB, providing ample space and memory for power users. The standard Galaxy S24 typically comes with 8GB of RAM and storage options up to 512GB, which is sufficient for most users' needs.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G is equipped with a 5000 mAh battery, designed to provide substantial power for a full day of varied use. The Galaxy S24 features a 4000 mAh battery. Despite the smaller capacity, the S24's newer, more efficient internal components and display technology contribute to optimized power consumption, often resulting in comparable or improved practical battery life for many users.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience is a key aspect of smartphone usage, and both devices offer high-quality displays with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and the Galaxy S24 utilize Dynamic AMOLED 2X display technology, known for its vibrant colors and deep blacks. The S22 Ultra features a 6.8-inch display with a Quad HD+ resolution (3088 x 1440 pixels), offering a very sharp and expansive viewing area. The Galaxy S24 has a more compact 6.2-inch display with a Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080 pixels), providing clear visuals in a smaller form factor.
  • Brightness Levels: For outdoor visibility, the Galaxy S24 offers a significant advantage with a peak brightness of 2600 nits, making content highly legible even in bright sunlight. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G reaches a peak brightness of 1750 nits, which is still bright for most conditions but less intense than its successor.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both models feature an adaptive refresh rate that can scale from 1Hz to 120Hz. This dynamic adjustment ensures smooth scrolling and responsiveness when needed, while conserving power during static content viewing.

Resolution

1440 x 3088

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Photography capabilities are a major consideration for many users, and both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and the Galaxy S24 offer advanced camera systems with different strengths.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G boasts a versatile quad-camera setup, including a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and two 10MP telephoto lenses offering 3x and 10x optical zoom for extensive reach. The Galaxy S24 features a triple-camera system with a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
  • Front Camera: For selfies and video calls, the S22 Ultra 5G is equipped with a 40MP front camera, capable of capturing highly detailed images. The Galaxy S24 features a 12MP front camera, which delivers clear and capable results for everyday use.
  • Video Recording and Features: Both devices support 8K video recording, allowing for high-resolution video capture. The Galaxy S24 introduces several AI-enhanced photography features, such as advanced editing suggestions and generative editing capabilities, which can assist in refining images after they are taken.

Main camera

108 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

40 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

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

  • Integrated S Pen: A significant differentiator, the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G features an integrated S Pen, allowing for precise note-taking, drawing, and remote control functionalities directly from the device. The standard Galaxy S24 does not include S Pen support.
  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices offer modern connectivity, including 5G network support and Wi-Fi 6E for fast wireless internet. The S22 Ultra uses Bluetooth 5.2, while the S24 features the slightly newer Bluetooth 5.3 standard. Both rely on a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
  • Biometric Security and Design: For secure unlocking, both smartphones incorporate an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor. In terms of physical design, the S22 Ultra 5G is a larger and heavier device, measuring 163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9 mm and weighing 228g. The Galaxy S24 offers a more compact and lighter build at 147 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm and 167g or 168g, making it easier for one-handed use.
  • Galaxy AI Features: The Galaxy S24 introduces a suite of "Galaxy AI" features, including tools like Circle to Search, Live Translate for calls, Chat Assist for writing, and Generative Edit for photo manipulation, enhancing productivity and communication.

Weight

8 oz

6 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.8

6.2

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and Galaxy S24 each present a compelling package, tailored to different user priorities. Users often praise the S22 Ultra for its expansive display, the versatility of its integrated S Pen, and its comprehensive camera system with extensive zoom capabilities. Some users, however, might find its larger size and weight less convenient for everyday handling. The S24, on the other hand, is frequently lauded for its more compact form factor, significantly brighter display, and the promise of extended software support. Its new AI features are also a point of interest for those seeking enhanced smart functionalities. Some users might note its smaller battery capacity compared to the S22 Ultra, though its efficiency often compensates for this, and its camera system, while excellent, offers less optical zoom range than the S22 Ultra.

Users prioritizing an integrated stylus for productivity, a larger, high-resolution display for media consumption, and a camera system with advanced optical zoom capabilities may find the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users who value a more compact and lighter device, a display with superior outdoor visibility, a longer commitment to software updates, and the latest AI-powered features will likely lean towards the Galaxy S24. Both devices offer a robust Android experience, and choosing between them depends on which specific features align best with individual usage patterns. For those looking for an eco-friendly and quality-assured option, considering a refurbished model of either device can be a sustainable choice.

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