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

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

Refurbished price:$264.99

Versus $899.00 new

See options
Galaxy S22+ 5G • Unlocked
Galaxy S22+ 5G • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$160.00

Versus $999.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, both released in February 2022, are advanced Android smartphones from the same generation. While sharing a common operating system and core design language, they cater to different user preferences through variations in display size, camera capabilities, and the inclusion of an integrated stylus in the Ultra model.

Scores

Durability

Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G were launched in February 2022, meaning they share a similar starting point for software support.

  • Software Updates: Both devices initially ran Android 12 and are expected to receive several years of major Android operating system updates, potentially up to Android 16, along with ongoing security updates. This commitment to long-term software support contributes to a practical lifespan of several years for both models.
  • Build Quality: Both smartphones feature a robust construction with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front and back, along with an aluminum frame. They also carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes.
  • Repairability: While specific repairability scores can vary, both devices are designed with modern smartphone construction, which typically involves specialized tools and expertise for repairs. The use of durable materials aims to reduce the frequency of necessary repairs.

Release Year

2022

2022

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G are equipped with a powerful processor designed to handle demanding applications and multitasking.

  • Everyday Responsiveness: Users can expect smooth navigation, quick app launches, and efficient handling of multiple applications simultaneously on both devices. The processing power ensures a responsive experience for daily tasks, from browsing and social media to productivity apps.
  • Gaming and Demanding Apps: For graphically intensive games and professional applications, both phones deliver strong performance, allowing for fluid gameplay and efficient processing. The Ultra model may offer slightly more headroom for sustained peak performance due to its larger form factor and potentially better thermal management.
  • Battery Usage: The Galaxy S22 Ultra features a 5000 mAh battery, while the Galaxy S22 Plus has a 4500 mAh battery. In typical usage, the S22 Ultra generally offers a longer battery life, often lasting over 12 hours in continuous video playback tests, compared to the S22 Plus which typically achieves around 10 hours. Both support fast wired charging and wireless charging.

Memory

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, offering smooth visuals and vibrant colors.

  • Display Size and Resolution: The S22 Ultra boasts a larger 6.8-inch display with a Quad HD+ resolution (3088 x 1440 pixels), resulting in a higher pixel density of approximately 500 ppi. The S22 Plus has a 6.6-inch display with a Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080 pixels) and a pixel density of around 390 ppi. The Ultra's higher resolution provides a sharper viewing experience, particularly for detailed content.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: Both displays can reach a peak brightness of 1750 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. This high brightness, combined with Vision Booster technology, helps maintain clarity and color accuracy in various lighting environments.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The adaptive 120Hz refresh rate on both models allows for fluid scrolling and responsive interactions. The S22 Ultra's display can dynamically adjust its refresh rate down to 1Hz, while the S22 Plus can go down to 48Hz, contributing to power efficiency.

Resolution

1440 x 3088

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems on the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and Galaxy S22 Plus 5G offer distinct capabilities, with the Ultra model providing a more versatile and advanced setup.

  • Rear Camera System: The S22 Ultra features a quad-camera array, including a 108 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultrawide lens, and two 10 MP telephoto lenses offering 3x and 10x optical zoom, respectively. This allows for significant optical zoom capabilities, reaching up to 100x digital 'Space Zoom'. The S22 Plus has a triple-camera system with a 50 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultrawide lens, and a 10 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. Both offer improved low-light performance compared to previous generations.
  • Front Camera and Video: The S22 Ultra is equipped with a 40 MP front camera, while the S22 Plus has a 10 MP front camera. Both devices can record video up to 8K resolution at 24fps and 4K at 30/60fps, with features like Super Steady video.
  • Audio Experience: Both models include stereo speakers, providing an immersive audio experience for media consumption. Microphone quality is generally clear for calls and video recording.

Main camera

108 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

40 megapixels

10 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond their core functionalities, both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G offer a range of features that enhance user interaction and connectivity.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connections. They feature a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, but neither includes a 3.5mm headphone jack. The S22 Ultra also supports Ultra-Wideband (UWB).
  • Unique Features and Sensors: A key differentiator is the integrated S Pen in the Galaxy S22 Ultra, offering precise input for writing, drawing, and navigation, reminiscent of the Galaxy Note series. Both phones include in-display fingerprint sensors for secure unlocking and NFC for contactless payments.
  • Physical Characteristics: The S22 Ultra is larger and heavier, measuring 163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9 mm and weighing 228 grams. The S22 Plus is more compact and lighter at 157.4 x 75.8 x 7.6 mm and 195 grams. These differences impact one-handed use and pocketability.

Weight

8 oz

7 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.8

6.6

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Galaxy S22 Ultra often highlights its exceptional camera system, particularly the versatile zoom capabilities, and the convenience of the integrated S Pen for productivity and creative tasks. The large, high-resolution display is also frequently praised for its clarity and brightness. Some common criticisms include its substantial size and weight, which can make one-handed use challenging for some users, and occasional reports of the device running warm during intensive use.

For the Galaxy S22 Plus, users generally appreciate its balanced size, bright display, and solid overall performance for everyday tasks. The camera system is considered capable for most situations, and its battery life is often described as sufficient for a full day of use. Criticisms sometimes point to its battery life not being as extended as some competitors, and some users might desire the higher resolution display found in the Ultra model.

Users prioritizing an expansive, high-resolution display, advanced camera features with significant zoom, and the unique functionality of an integrated stylus will find the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G well-suited to their needs. This device is particularly beneficial for professionals who utilize stylus input or photography enthusiasts seeking maximum versatility. Conversely, users who prefer a slightly more compact and lighter device with a still-excellent display and a capable camera system for general use may lean toward the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G. It offers a strong flagship experience without the added bulk and specialized features of the Ultra. Both models represent quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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