The Galaxy S22 series, launched by Samsung in early 2022, includes a variety of models catering to different needs and budgets. While the Galaxy S22 is the standard model, the Galaxy S22 Ultra stands out as the most advanced and feature-rich version in the lineup. As of late 2024, Certified Refurbished Galaxy S22 models are priced at $200+, while Certified Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra models are priced at $350+, according to our UpTrade Price Tracker. Both phones offer great value depending on your needs and budget. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between these two models and help you decide if they’re worth buying in 2024.
| Specification | Galaxy S22 | Galaxy S22 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | February 2022 | February 2022 |
| Display | 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz | 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz |
| Processor | Exynos 2200 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Exynos 2200 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 |
| Operating System | Android 15 | Android 15 |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP (wide), 12MP (ultra-wide), 10MP (telephoto) | 108MP (wide), 12MP (ultra-wide), 10MP (periscope telephoto), 10MP (telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 40MP |
| Battery Life | 3,700 mAh | 5,000 mAh |
| 5G Support | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP68 (up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes) | IP68 (up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes) |
| Weight | 168 grams | 228 grams |
| Build | Glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus+), glass back, aluminum frame | Glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus+), glass back, aluminum frame |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Yes (under-display, ultrasonic) | Yes (under-display, ultrasonic) |
The Galaxy S22 offers a compact 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering crisp visuals in a manageable size. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a phone that’s easy to use with one hand. On the other hand, the Galaxy S22 Ultra boasts a larger 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, also with a 120Hz refresh rate. It supports higher resolution and better HDR performance, making it more immersive for gaming, media consumption, and multitasking. If screen size and display quality are important to you, the S22 Ultra is worth considering.
Both the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra are powered by the same high-performance processors: Exynos 2200 (international) or Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (US). This ensures top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and handling demanding apps. While the base performance is similar, the S22 Ultra benefits from more RAM in higher storage models (up to 12GB), enhancing multitasking capabilities compared to the S22, which maxes out at 8GB of RAM.
The camera setup is one of the key differentiators between the two models:
For selfies, the S22 Ultra has a 40MP front camera, offering sharper image quality compared to the 10MP front camera of the S22.
The Galaxy S22 has a 3,700 mAh battery, which is sufficient for moderate daily use, but heavy users might need to recharge by evening. In contrast, the Galaxy S22 Ultra comes with a larger 5,000 mAh battery, offering longer battery life, especially during intensive tasks like gaming or video streaming. Both models support 45W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging.
The Galaxy S22 and S22 Ultra share a similar design, with Gorilla Glass Victus+ front and back and an aluminum frame, giving them a premium look and feel. The S22 Ultra is bulkier, weighing 228 grams, while the S22 is more compact at 168 grams, making it more comfortable for one-handed use.
A key design feature exclusive to the S22 Ultra is the integrated S Pen, which adds functionality for note-taking, drawing, and other precision tasks. This makes the S22 Ultra particularly appealing to users who need a stylus-equipped phone.
The Galaxy S22 comes with 128GB and 256GB storage options, which should suffice for most users. Meanwhile, the S22 Ultra offers additional flexibility with storage options up to 1TB, catering to users who require more space for photos, videos, and apps. Higher storage models of the S22 Ultra also come with 12GB of RAM, whereas the S22 maxes out at 8GB.
Both models are IP68-rated, making them resistant to dust and water. They can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes, ensuring durability for everyday use and minor spills.
Both the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra remain excellent choices in 2024. Here’s a breakdown of why you might choose one over the other:
In 2024, both the Certified Refurbished Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra offer great value, priced at $200+ and $350+, respectively. The Galaxy S22 is ideal for users who want a compact, high-performance device at a lower price, while the S22 Ultra caters to those who desire the best possible camera, larger display, longer battery life, and S Pen support. Your choice will ultimately depend on your specific needs and budget.
When looking to purchase a Galaxy S22 or Galaxy S22 Ultra, you have several options:
At UpTrade, we simplify finding the best deals on Certified Refurbished Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra models. UpTrade does not sell the phones directly but partners with UpTrade Certified Sellers like Amazon, Samsung, and Best Buy, who have met strict criteria to ensure device quality.
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