Galaxy S22+ 5G • Locked T-Mobile vs Motorola Moto G (2022) • Unlocked

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

Refurbished price:$212.82

Versus $959.99 new

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Motorola Moto G (2022) • Unlocked
Motorola Moto G (2022) • Unlocked
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Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G, released in February 2022, and the Motorola Moto G 5G (2022), launched in April 2022, represent distinct offerings in the smartphone market. While both devices operate on the Android platform, the Galaxy S22+ 5G is positioned as a premium device with advanced features, whereas the Moto G 5G (2022) focuses on delivering essential smartphone functionality. Key differentiators lie in their display technology, processing power, and camera capabilities.

Scores

Durability

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

  • Release and Software Support: The Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G was released in February 2022, and typically receives four major Android operating system updates and five years of security updates, extending its software longevity. The Motorola Moto G 5G (2022), released in April 2022, generally receives fewer major OS updates, often one major Android update and two years of security patches, which means its software support period is shorter.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S22+ 5G features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, along with Gorilla Glass Victus+ for enhanced screen protection, contributing to its robust build. The Moto G 5G (2022) has a water-repellent coating, offering some splash protection, but lacks an official IP rating and uses a plastic back and frame, making it less resistant to environmental factors and physical damage.
  • Expected Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software updates and a more durable physical construction for a longer practical lifespan may find the Galaxy S22+ 5G more suitable. The Moto G 5G (2022) offers a solid experience for its intended use but may see its software become outdated sooner.

Release Year

2022

2022

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of these two smartphones varies significantly, impacting how smoothly they handle daily tasks and demanding applications.

  • Processing Power: The Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G is equipped with a high-end processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications, complex multitasking, and graphic-intensive games with fluidity. In contrast, the Motorola Moto G 5G (2022) utilizes a mid-range processor, which provides adequate performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, social media, and light gaming, but may exhibit occasional stutters or slower loading times with more intensive applications.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S22+ 5G typically comes with 8GB of RAM, facilitating seamless transitions between multiple open applications. It offers internal storage options of 128GB or 256GB, which are not expandable. The Moto G 5G (2022) is available with 4GB or 6GB of RAM and storage options of 64GB or 256GB, with the added benefit of expandable storage via a microSD card.
  • System Responsiveness: Overall system responsiveness is notably quicker on the Galaxy S22+ 5G, with apps launching rapidly and animations appearing smooth. The Moto G 5G (2022) offers a functional experience, though users may perceive a slight delay in certain operations compared to the more powerful Galaxy device.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience offered by these devices differs considerably due to their display technologies and specifications.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G features a 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which delivers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. Its FHD+ resolution (2340 x 1080 pixels) ensures sharp and detailed visuals. The Motorola Moto G 5G (2022) comes with a 6.5-inch IPS LCD, offering good color reproduction but with less contrast and brightness compared to an AMOLED panel. Its HD+ resolution (1600 x 720 pixels) results in less sharp images.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S22+ 5G boasts high brightness levels, making it comfortable to view content even in bright outdoor conditions, and an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate for exceptionally smooth scrolling and animations. The Moto G 5G (2022) has a 90Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother experience than standard 60Hz displays, but its lower peak brightness can make outdoor visibility challenging.
  • Viewing Experience: For users who prioritize a premium visual experience with vivid colors, high clarity, and fluid motion, the Galaxy S22+ 5G's display is a significant advantage. The Moto G 5G (2022) offers a functional screen suitable for general media consumption, but without the same level of detail or vibrancy.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

720 x 1600

Audiovisual

The camera systems on these smartphones cater to different photography needs and expectations.

  • Rear Camera Capabilities: The Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G features a versatile triple-lens rear camera system, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This setup allows for detailed photos, wide-angle shots, and clear zoomed-in images. The Motorola Moto G 5G (2022) also has a triple-lens system, comprising a 50MP main sensor, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The macro and depth sensors offer specialized functions but do not contribute to overall image quality as significantly as the telephoto and ultrawide lenses on the Galaxy.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S22+ 5G excels in various lighting conditions, producing detailed and well-exposed images, and offers advanced features like 8K video recording. While generally good in daylight, some users have noted that its low-light performance can sometimes struggle with white balance. The Moto G 5G (2022) performs adequately in good lighting but often struggles in low-light environments, producing less detailed and noisier images. Its video recording is limited to 1080p at 30 frames per second.
  • Front Camera and Audio: The Galaxy S22+ 5G includes a 10MP front camera, capable of capturing clear selfies and supporting high-quality video calls. The Moto G 5G (2022) has a 13MP front camera. For audio, the Galaxy S22+ 5G provides a rich media consumption experience with its speaker output, while the Moto G 5G (2022) has a single speaker that is loud but may lack richness in sound.

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate these two smartphones in terms of connectivity, design, and user convenience.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices are 5G capable, ensuring access to faster mobile network speeds. The Galaxy S22+ 5G supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, offering advanced wireless connectivity. The Moto G 5G (2022) supports Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac. Both utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. A notable difference is the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack on the Moto G 5G (2022), which is absent on the Galaxy S22+ 5G.
  • Biometrics and Build: The Galaxy S22+ 5G features an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor and face recognition for secure unlocking. Its build materials include an Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back, contributing to a premium feel and enhanced durability. The Moto G 5G (2022) uses a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and relies on a plastic construction for its body.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The Galaxy S22+ 5G measures 157.4 x 75.8 x 7.6 mm and weighs 195g. The Moto G 5G (2022) is slightly larger and heavier at 165.4 x 75.8 x 9.4 mm and 204g. These differences can impact one-handed use and overall pocketability.

Weight

7 oz

7 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.6

6.5

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

T-Mobile

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback for the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G often praises its vibrant display, powerful performance, and capable camera system, particularly for daylight photography and video recording. Some common criticisms include its battery life, which some users find to be average, and occasional issues with low-light camera performance. The Motorola Moto G 5G (2022) is frequently lauded for its exceptional battery life, often lasting up to two days on a single charge, and the inclusion of a headphone jack and expandable storage. However, users often point to its mediocre display resolution and brightness, as well as its less impressive camera performance, especially in challenging lighting conditions, as areas for improvement.

Users prioritizing a premium smartphone experience with a high-quality display, robust performance for demanding tasks, and advanced camera features, including optical zoom and 8K video, may find the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G better suited to their needs. This device is ideal for professionals, content creators, or anyone who values a flagship-level experience. Conversely, users who prioritize extended battery life, expandable storage, and a traditional headphone jack, and whose primary usage involves everyday tasks and casual photography, may lean towards the Motorola Moto G 5G (2022). This device is a practical choice for students or individuals seeking reliable functionality without the need for top-tier specifications. Both devices offer a pathway to smartphone ownership, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option can be an eco-friendly alternative.

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