Introduction
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra was one of the most advanced Android smartphones when it launched in 2022. It combined the power of the Galaxy S series with the built-in S Pen from the Galaxy Note lineup, creating a true flagship experience. With its 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, 108MP camera, and premium design, it remains an impressive smartphone even in 2026.
However, buying a smartphone in 2026 isn't just about hardware. Software support has become one of the most important factors, especially if you plan to keep your phone for several years. Unfortunately, Samsung has excluded the Galaxy S22 Ultra from the latest One UI 9 (Android 17), meaning it has reached the end of its Android OS upgrade cycle.
According to the UpTrade Price Tracker, Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra models start at around $260+ in 2026. Surprisingly, that's slightly higher than the $240+ starting price in 2025, largely because inventory has become more limited. At this price, we believe there are much better values available.
In this guide, we'll explain why we don't recommend buying the Galaxy S22 Ultra in 2026, compare it with newer Samsung flagships, and help you decide whether the Galaxy S23 Ultra or Galaxy S24 Ultra is the better investment.
Quick Verdict
| Category |
Verdict |
| Overall Recommendation |
❌ Not Recommended |
| Certified Used / Refurbished Price |
Starts at around $260+ |
| Latest Android Version |
Does not support One UI 9 (Android 17) |
| Security Updates |
Limited remaining security support |
| Best Overall Alternative |
Galaxy S23 Ultra starting at $380+ |
| Best Long-Term Alternative |
Galaxy S24 Ultra starting at $500+ |
The Galaxy S22 Ultra is still a powerful smartphone with an excellent display, premium cameras, and a built-in S Pen. However, Samsung has ended Android OS upgrades for the device by excluding it from One UI 9 (Android 17), making it difficult to recommend for buyers who want the latest software and long-term support.
For most buyers, we recommend the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Starting at around $380+, it offers a much faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, Galaxy AI features, continued software support, and better overall performance. Considering the Galaxy S22 Ultra now starts at $260+, spending about $120 more is well worth it.
If your budget allows, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is the best long-term investment. Starting at around $500+, it features Samsung's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor, a brighter display, enhanced cameras, Galaxy AI, and seven years of software support, making it one of the best Certified Used and Refurbished Android phones you can buy in 2026.
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra in 2026
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra remains one of the best-built Android smartphones ever released. It features a premium design, a built-in S Pen, a stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, and a versatile quad-camera system that continues to produce excellent photos. For everyday use, the Galaxy S22 Ultra still feels like a flagship phone.
However, flagship hardware alone doesn't make it a good buy in 2026. Samsung has ended Android OS upgrades for the Galaxy S22 Ultra by excluding it from One UI 9 (Android 17). Although it will continue receiving security updates for a limited time, its software lifespan is coming to an end. Combined with its rising refurbished price, we believe there are much better values available.
If you're shopping for a Certified Used or Refurbished Samsung phone, spending more on the Galaxy S23 Ultra or Galaxy S24 Ultra provides significantly better long-term value.
Price and Availability
According to the UpTrade Price Tracker, Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra models start at around $260+ in 2026. Interestingly, that's slightly higher than the $240+ starting price in 2025.
The price increase is mainly due to declining inventory. As fewer refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra devices remain available, prices have stabilized instead of continuing to fall. While $260 is still much cheaper than the phone's original retail price, it also narrows the price gap between the Galaxy S22 Ultra and newer models like the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
At only about $120 more, the Galaxy S23 Ultra offers considerably better long-term value, making it the smarter purchase for most buyers.
Software Support
The biggest reason we don't recommend buying the Galaxy S22 Ultra in 2026 is software support.
Samsung has excluded the Galaxy S22 Ultra from One UI 9 (Android 17), meaning it has reached the end of its Android OS upgrade cycle. Although Samsung is expected to continue providing security updates for a limited period, the phone will no longer receive new Android features or major One UI releases.
For buyers planning to keep their phone for several years, choosing a model that still receives Android OS upgrades is the smarter long-term decision. That's why we recommend the Galaxy S23 Ultra or Galaxy S24 Ultra instead.
Chipset and Performance
The Galaxy S22 Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor in the U.S. and the Exynos 2200 in some international markets. Paired with up to 12GB of RAM, it still delivers flagship-level performance for web browsing, multitasking, gaming, video editing, and productivity.
Performance is not the reason to avoid the Galaxy S22 Ultra. It remains a very fast phone. However, newer Galaxy Ultra models feature significantly more powerful and efficient processors that improve battery life, gaming performance, AI capabilities, and overall responsiveness.
Display
The Galaxy S22 Ultra features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Quad HD+ resolution and an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz. It continues to deliver vibrant colors, deep blacks, excellent contrast, and smooth scrolling that rival many newer flagship smartphones.
Its large display also works perfectly with the built-in S Pen, making it one of the best phones for note-taking, drawing, and productivity. While the display is still outstanding, Samsung has further improved brightness and durability on newer Galaxy Ultra models.
Camera
The Galaxy S22 Ultra includes a versatile quad-camera system featuring a 108MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and two 10MP telephoto cameras with 3x and 10x optical zoom. It continues to capture detailed photos, excellent portraits, and impressive zoom shots in most lighting conditions.
Even in 2026, the camera system remains one of the Galaxy S22 Ultra's biggest strengths. However, newer Galaxy Ultra models benefit from improved image processing, enhanced low-light photography, better video stabilization, and Galaxy AI-powered editing features.
Battery Life
The Galaxy S22 Ultra packs a 5,000mAh battery with 45W wired charging, fast wireless charging, and Wireless PowerShare. Battery life is still good for most users, but the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor is less power efficient than newer Snapdragon chips.
Because refurbished devices are now several years old, battery health should also be considered. While Certified Used and Refurbished phones are tested before being sold, newer Galaxy Ultra models generally provide longer battery life thanks to more efficient processors.
S Pen Experience
The Galaxy S22 Ultra marked the return of Samsung's built-in S Pen after the Galaxy Note series ended. Whether you're taking handwritten notes, sketching ideas, signing documents, or editing photos, the S Pen remains one of the phone's standout features.
The good news is that Samsung has continued this experience with both the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Galaxy S24 Ultra. If you enjoy using the S Pen, upgrading to either model allows you to keep the same productivity features while gaining longer software support, faster performance, and newer Galaxy AI capabilities.
Best Overall Alternative: Galaxy S23 Ultra
If you're considering the Galaxy S22 Ultra, we believe the Galaxy S23 Ultra is the better overall choice in 2026. Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S23 Ultra models start at around $380+, which is about $120 more than the Galaxy S22 Ultra. While that may seem like a noticeable price increase, the additional investment delivers substantially better long-term value.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra retains everything people love about the Galaxy S22 Ultra, including the built-in S Pen, premium design, large Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, and versatile quad-camera system. It also introduces the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, improved battery life, Galaxy AI features, and continued Android OS and security updates.
Considering the Galaxy S22 Ultra no longer supports One UI 9 (Android 17), the Galaxy S23 Ultra is the smarter purchase for most buyers looking for a premium Samsung flagship in 2026.
Galaxy S22 Ultra vs Galaxy S23 Ultra Specs Comparison
| Feature |
Galaxy S22 Ultra |
Galaxy S23 Ultra |
| Release Year |
2022 |
2023 |
| Certified Used Price (2026) |
$260+ |
$380+ |
| Software Support |
Does not support One UI 9 (Android 17) |
Supports One UI 9 (Android 17) and continues to receive security updates |
| Chipset |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| CPU |
Octa-core |
Octa-core |
| RAM |
8GB / 12GB |
8GB / 12GB |
| Storage |
128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Display Technology |
Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Display Size |
6.8-inch |
6.8-inch |
| Resolution |
3088 × 1440 |
3088 × 1440 |
| Refresh Rate |
Adaptive 1–120Hz |
Adaptive 1–120Hz |
| Peak Brightness |
Up to 1,750 nits |
Up to 1,750 nits |
| Main Camera |
108MP |
200MP |
| Ultra-wide Camera |
12MP |
12MP |
| Telephoto Cameras |
10MP (3x) + 10MP (10x) |
10MP (3x) + 10MP (10x) |
| Front Camera |
40MP |
12MP |
| Video Recording |
Up to 8K |
Up to 8K |
| Battery Capacity |
5,000mAh |
5,000mAh |
| Wired Charging |
45W |
45W |
| Wireless Charging |
15W |
15W |
| Reverse Wireless Charging |
Yes |
Yes |
| S Pen |
Built-in |
Built-in |
| Water Resistance |
IP68 |
IP68 |
| 5G |
Yes |
Yes |
| Wi-Fi |
Wi-Fi 6E |
Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth |
5.2 |
5.3 |
| Galaxy AI |
No |
Yes |
Key Differences
Software Support
The biggest reason to choose the Galaxy S23 Ultra is software support. While the Galaxy S22 Ultra no longer supports One UI 9 (Android 17), the Galaxy S23 Ultra continues to receive Android OS upgrades and security updates. This means you'll continue receiving new Samsung features and better app compatibility for years to come.
Performance
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy is one of Samsung's biggest year-over-year improvements. Compared with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, it delivers noticeably better CPU and graphics performance while dramatically improving power efficiency. Apps launch faster, games run smoother, and the phone stays cooler under heavy workloads.
Display
Both phones feature outstanding 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with adaptive 120Hz refresh rates. Since Samsung made only minor display improvements between generations, the viewing experience is very similar. If display quality is your only concern, both phones remain excellent.
Camera
The Galaxy S23 Ultra upgrades to a new 200MP main camera that captures significantly more detail than the Galaxy S22 Ultra's 108MP sensor. Samsung also improved image processing, resulting in better low-light photos, improved dynamic range, sharper zoom images, and more natural-looking colors.
Battery Life
Although both phones feature a 5,000mAh battery, the Galaxy S23 Ultra lasts noticeably longer because the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor is much more power efficient. This improvement alone makes the Galaxy S23 Ultra feel like a more modern flagship during everyday use.
Galaxy AI
The Galaxy S23 Ultra supports Samsung's Galaxy AI features, including Circle to Search, Live Translate, Note Assist, Transcript Assist, AI-powered photo editing, and other productivity tools introduced through One UI updates. These features are unavailable on the Galaxy S22 Ultra because it no longer supports the latest version of Android and One UI.
Which One Should You Buy?
Although the Galaxy S23 Ultra costs about $120 more, it is the better overall value. It delivers continued software support, a substantially faster and more efficient processor, Galaxy AI features, a better camera system, and longer battery life. For most buyers shopping for a Certified Used or Refurbished Samsung flagship in 2026, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is the smarter investment.
Best Long-Term Alternative: Galaxy S24 Ultra
If you're planning to keep your next smartphone for several years, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is the best long-term investment. Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S24 Ultra models start at around $500+ in 2026, about $240 more than the Galaxy S22 Ultra. While that's a larger price difference than upgrading to the Galaxy S23 Ultra, the Galaxy S24 Ultra offers Samsung's longest remaining software support and the most future-proof hardware.
Like the Galaxy S22 Ultra, the Galaxy S24 Ultra features a built-in S Pen, a premium design, and an outstanding camera system. However, it also introduces the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor, a brighter and more durable display, a titanium frame, enhanced Galaxy AI features, and seven years of Android OS and security updates.
If you typically keep your phone for four years or more, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is well worth the additional investment. Its longer software lifespan means it will continue receiving new features and security updates long after the Galaxy S22 Ultra reaches the end of support.
Galaxy S22 Ultra vs Galaxy S24 Ultra Specs Comparison
| Feature |
Galaxy S22 Ultra |
Galaxy S24 Ultra |
| Release Year |
2022 |
2024 |
| Certified Used Price (2026) |
$260+ |
$500+ |
| Software Support |
Does not support One UI 9 (Android 17) |
Android OS upgrades through 2031 with security updates |
| Chipset |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy |
| CPU |
Octa-core |
Octa-core |
| RAM |
8GB / 12GB |
12GB |
| Storage |
128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Display Technology |
Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Display Size |
6.8-inch |
6.8-inch |
| Resolution |
3088 × 1440 |
3120 × 1440 |
| Refresh Rate |
Adaptive 1–120Hz |
Adaptive 1–120Hz |
| Peak Brightness |
Up to 1,750 nits |
Up to 2,600 nits |
| Cover Glass |
Gorilla Glass Victus+ |
Corning Gorilla Armor |
| Frame |
Armor Aluminum |
Titanium |
| Main Camera |
108MP |
200MP |
| Ultra-wide Camera |
12MP |
12MP |
| Telephoto Cameras |
10MP (3x) + 10MP (10x) |
50MP (5x) + 10MP (3x) |
| Front Camera |
40MP |
12MP |
| Video Recording |
Up to 8K |
Up to 8K |
| Battery Capacity |
5,000mAh |
5,000mAh |
| Wired Charging |
45W |
45W |
| Wireless Charging |
15W |
15W |
| Reverse Wireless Charging |
Yes |
Yes |
| S Pen |
Built-in |
Built-in |
| Water Resistance |
IP68 |
IP68 |
| 5G |
Yes |
Yes |
| Wi-Fi |
Wi-Fi 6E |
Wi-Fi 7 |
| Bluetooth |
5.2 |
5.3 |
| Galaxy AI |
No |
Yes |
Key Differences
Software Support
The Galaxy S24 Ultra's biggest advantage is its exceptionally long software support. Samsung promises seven years of Android OS upgrades and security updates, allowing the phone to remain current through 2031. In comparison, the Galaxy S22 Ultra has already reached the end of its Android OS upgrade cycle after being excluded from One UI 9 (Android 17).
Performance
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy delivers another significant leap in performance and efficiency over the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1. Everyday tasks feel faster, demanding games run more smoothly, AI features respond more quickly, and battery life improves thanks to the newer processor.
Display
Both phones feature beautiful 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, but the Galaxy S24 Ultra improves brightness, durability, and outdoor visibility. Its new Gorilla Armor glass reduces reflections while the titanium frame makes the phone more durable than the Galaxy S22 Ultra.
Camera
The Galaxy S24 Ultra upgrades to a 200MP main camera and introduces a new 50MP 5x telephoto camera, producing sharper zoom photos and better low-light performance. Samsung has also continued improving image processing and AI-assisted photography, giving the Galaxy S24 Ultra one of the best camera systems available in 2026.
Battery Life
Although both phones include a 5,000mAh battery, the Galaxy S24 Ultra lasts noticeably longer on a single charge because of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3's improved efficiency. Combined with the same 45W fast charging, it offers a better overall battery experience.
Galaxy AI
The Galaxy S24 Ultra was designed with Galaxy AI in mind. Features such as Circle to Search, Live Translate, Interpreter, Note Assist, Transcript Assist, Browsing Assist, and AI-powered photo editing continue to expand through software updates. Since the Galaxy S22 Ultra no longer supports One UI 9 (Android 17), it misses out on many of Samsung's latest AI capabilities.
Which One Should You Buy?
If you want the best long-term value, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is the clear winner. Although it costs about $240 more than the Galaxy S22 Ultra, it offers seven years of software support, a faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, Galaxy AI features, improved cameras, a brighter display, and a more durable titanium design. For buyers planning to keep their phone for many years, it's one of the smartest Certified Used and Refurbished Samsung phones you can buy in 2026.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra remains an impressive flagship smartphone in 2026. Its beautiful Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, built-in S Pen, premium design, and versatile camera system continue to deliver an excellent user experience. From a hardware standpoint, it still competes well with many newer smartphones.
However, software support is now its biggest weakness. Samsung has excluded the Galaxy S22 Ultra from One UI 9 (Android 17), meaning it has reached the end of its Android OS upgrade cycle. While the phone will continue receiving security updates for a limited time, it will no longer receive major Android features or future One UI releases.
At around $260+, the Galaxy S22 Ultra is no longer the best value. Spending about $120 more gets you the Galaxy S23 Ultra, which offers continued software support, a much more efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, Galaxy AI features, and a significantly improved 200MP camera. If you're planning to keep your phone for many years, the Galaxy S24 Ultra, starting at around $500+, is the best long-term investment thanks to Samsung's seven years of software support.
If you're shopping for a Certified Used or Refurbished Samsung phone, UpTrade makes it easy to compare prices from trusted sellers so you can find the best deal with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Galaxy S22 Ultra still worth buying in 2026?
No. Although the Galaxy S22 Ultra still has excellent hardware, Samsung has excluded it from One UI 9 (Android 17), meaning it no longer receives Android OS upgrades. We recommend buying a Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S23 Ultra or Galaxy S24 Ultra instead.
2. Does the Galaxy S22 Ultra support One UI 9 (Android 17)?
No. The Galaxy S22 Ultra does not support One UI 9 (Android 17). Samsung has ended Android OS upgrades for the device.
3. Does the Galaxy S22 Ultra still receive security updates?
Yes. The Galaxy S22 Ultra continues to receive security updates for a limited time, but it no longer receives major Android OS upgrades.
4. How much does a Certified Used Galaxy S22 Ultra cost in 2026?
According to the UpTrade Price Tracker, Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra models start at around $260+ in 2026, slightly higher than the starting price in 2025 because inventory has become more limited.
5. Why has the Galaxy S22 Ultra become more expensive in 2026?
The Galaxy S22 Ultra has become slightly more expensive because Certified Used and Refurbished inventory has become more limited. As supply decreases, prices have remained stable instead of continuing to decline.
6. Is the Galaxy S23 Ultra better than the Galaxy S22 Ultra?
Yes. The Galaxy S23 Ultra offers a faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, a 200MP main camera, Galaxy AI features, better battery efficiency, and continued Android OS support, making it the better choice for most buyers.
7. Is the Galaxy S24 Ultra worth paying more for?
Yes. The Galaxy S24 Ultra offers Samsung's longest software support, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor, Galaxy AI features, improved cameras, a brighter display, and a titanium frame. It's the best long-term investment among Samsung flagship phones.
8. Is the Galaxy S22 Ultra camera still good in 2026?
Yes. The Galaxy S22 Ultra still has an excellent quad-camera system that captures high-quality photos and videos. However, the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Galaxy S24 Ultra produce better low-light photos, sharper zoom images, and benefit from newer AI-powered image processing.
9. Should I buy a Certified Used Galaxy S22 Ultra or Galaxy S23 Ultra?
We recommend buying the Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S23 Ultra. Although it costs about $120 more, it offers continued software support, better performance, Galaxy AI features, and significantly better long-term value.
10. What is the best alternative to the Galaxy S22 Ultra?
The Galaxy S23 Ultra is the best overall alternative because it offers flagship performance, continued software support, Galaxy AI features, and excellent value. If you plan to keep your phone for many years, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is the best long-term alternative.
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