Introduction — Why the Galaxy S22 Ultra Still Stands Out in 2025
When Samsung launched the Galaxy S22 Ultra in early 2022, it set a new standard for premium Android smartphones. Combining the power of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, a professional-grade quad-camera system, and the built-in S Pen from the Note series, it quickly became a favorite among productivity users and photography enthusiasts alike.
Fast forward to 2025, and the S22 Ultra remains one of the best-value flagships you can buy — especially as Certified Used and Refurbished models continue to drop in price. Despite being over three years old, it still delivers flagship performance, beautiful design, and full support for One UI 8 (based on Android 16), complete with monthly software and security updates from Samsung.
For those seeking a premium smartphone experience without spending over $1,000, the Galaxy S22 Ultra stands tall as one of the most capable and future-proof Android phones available in 2025.
Price Drop: Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra Now at $240+
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra models now start around $240+, a massive drop from its original $1,199 launch price. That’s an 80% reduction — yet the phone still offers flagship performance, cutting-edge camera capabilities, and one of the best displays ever made.
At this price, the S22 Ultra comfortably outperforms most mid-range Android devices released in 2025, while also maintaining better build quality, camera flexibility, and long-term support. It continues to receive monthly updates from Samsung and runs the latest One UI 8, ensuring both performance stability and robust security.
For anyone considering a high-end smartphone at a mid-range price, the Galaxy S22 Ultra — especially in Certified Used or Refurbished condition — is easily one of the smartest buys of 2025.
Performance and Software Support — One UI 8 and Android 16 Longevity
The Galaxy S22 Ultra continues to impress in 2025 with its excellent performance and long-term software support. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip and paired with up to 12GB of RAM, it easily handles multitasking, gaming, and productivity apps without breaking a sweat. While newer flagships may use more efficient chips, the S22 Ultra still delivers smooth and reliable performance for everyday use and creative workloads alike.
What truly makes it stand out, however, is Samsung’s ongoing commitment to software updates. The S22 Ultra supports One UI 8, based on Android 16, and continues to receive monthly security patches — a level of support rarely seen in older Android devices. This ensures the phone remains secure, stable, and compatible with the latest features and apps through at least 2027.
Under One UI 8, users gain access to improved customization tools, smarter multitasking, enhanced battery optimization, and expanded AI-driven camera enhancements. Combined with Samsung DeX, S Pen support, and seamless ecosystem integration across Galaxy devices, the S22 Ultra remains an incredibly capable flagship — even three years after release.
Camera System — Flagship Quality That Still Competes in 2025
The Galaxy S22 Ultra was built with one goal in mind — to be the ultimate camera phone. Even in 2025, it continues to rival newer flagships thanks to its versatile quad-camera setup and advanced image processing.
At the heart of the system is a 108MP main wide camera, capable of capturing sharp, detailed photos with excellent color accuracy and dynamic range. It’s supported by a 12MP ultra-wide camera and two telephoto lenses — a 10MP 3x optical zoom and a 10MP 10x periscope zoom — allowing for crisp, distortion-free images across a wide range of focal lengths. The 100x “Space Zoom” remains one of Samsung’s signature features, and while it’s more of a novelty, its performance for long-distance shots is still impressive compared to most 2025 phones.
Low-light performance also remains excellent, thanks to Samsung’s Adaptive Pixel technology and Nightography mode, which combine multiple exposures for detailed and noise-free results. Videos are equally strong, with support for 8K at 24fps and 4K at 60fps, enhanced by superior stabilization and HDR processing.
On the front, the 40MP selfie camera continues to outperform most current phones in clarity and dynamic range, making it a favorite among vloggers and content creators.
While newer flagships like the Galaxy S23 Ultra and S24 Ultra have introduced incremental improvements in sharpness and processing speed, the S22 Ultra still delivers flagship-level photography in nearly every scenario — especially for users buying it at a fraction of the original cost.
S Pen and Productivity Features
One of the biggest advantages that sets the Galaxy S22 Ultra apart from other smartphones — even in 2025 — is the built-in S Pen. It marked the first time Samsung fully merged the Galaxy S and Note lines, and that legacy continues to make the S22 Ultra a favorite among professionals, students, and creatives.
The S Pen transforms the device into a productivity powerhouse. You can take handwritten notes instantly on the lock screen, annotate documents, sign PDFs, or sketch with precision using over 4,000 levels of pressure sensitivity. Latency is just 2.8 milliseconds, providing a natural pen-on-paper feel that remains unmatched by most stylus-equipped competitors.
Beyond writing, the S Pen doubles as a remote control through Bluetooth — perfect for advancing presentation slides, taking group photos, or controlling media playback. When combined with Samsung DeX mode, the S22 Ultra effectively becomes a mini workstation, offering desktop-like functionality on any monitor or TV.
Even years after its release, no other smartphone in its price range matches the Galaxy S22 Ultra’s productivity tools, making it an exceptional value for anyone who prioritizes work efficiency or creative flexibility.
Display and Design — Premium Build That Still Feels New
The Galaxy S22 Ultra’s display is still among the very best in 2025 — a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with QHD+ (1440 x 3088) resolution, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, and 1750 nits peak brightness. Whether you’re watching HDR content, gaming, or editing photos, the experience is vibrant, smooth, and immersive.
Samsung’s display technology remains industry-leading, offering precise color accuracy, deep blacks, and ultra-responsive touch performance. It also supports HDR10+ and Vision Booster, which automatically adjusts contrast and brightness for outdoor visibility — features that keep it looking as modern as any 2025 flagship.
Design-wise, the S22 Ultra retains its premium aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both front and back, and a sleek matte finish that resists fingerprints. Its squared-off corners and integrated S Pen slot make it both functional and instantly recognizable.
Despite newer models like the S23 Ultra and S24 Ultra refining the design slightly, the S22 Ultra still feels high-end, sturdy, and timeless — especially when you consider its sub-$250 price tag in Certified Used and Refurbished condition.
Battery and Charging Performance
Powering the Galaxy S22 Ultra is a 5,000mAh battery, which continues to provide excellent endurance in 2025. With efficient One UI 8 optimizations and Snapdragon 8 Gen 1’s improved thermal management, users can comfortably get through a full day of heavy use — including streaming, note-taking, photography, and multitasking — without worrying about battery drain.
The phone supports 45W fast charging, reaching 50% charge in about 20 minutes and a full charge in under an hour. It also supports 15W wireless charging and Wireless PowerShare, allowing you to charge compatible earbuds or watches directly from the phone’s back.
Even after three years, battery degradation is minimal on well-maintained Certified Used and Refurbished units, thanks to Samsung’s adaptive battery protection features. This ensures that even older S22 Ultra models continue to perform reliably through 2025 and beyond.
In short, the S22 Ultra still delivers flagship battery life, charging speed, and efficiency — a combination few devices in its price range can match today.
Galaxy S22 Ultra vs Galaxy S23 Ultra vs S21 Ultra
When comparing the Galaxy S22 Ultra to its predecessor and successor, the results are clear — Samsung’s 2022 flagship still delivers exceptional value in 2025. The S22 Ultra bridges the gap between the S21 Ultra’s design legacy and the S23 Ultra’s hardware refinements, making it the perfect middle ground for performance, price, and long-term support.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, the Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra now starts at $240+, while the S23 Ultra begins around $360+. The S21 Ultra, though still capable, is increasingly out of stock and no longer receives the same consistent monthly updates as its newer siblings.
| Feature |
Galaxy S21 Ultra |
Galaxy S22 Ultra |
Galaxy S23 Ultra |
| Launch Year |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
| Chipset (U.S.) |
Snapdragon 888 (5nm) |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy (4nm, overclocked) |
| Display |
6.8" QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz |
6.8" QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz |
6.8" QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz |
| Peak Brightness |
1500 nits |
1750 nits |
1750 nits |
| Main Camera |
108MP wide |
108MP wide |
200MP wide |
| Telephoto |
Dual 10MP (3x + 10x) |
Dual 10MP (3x + 10x) |
Dual 10MP (3x + 10x) |
| Ultrawide |
12MP |
12MP |
12MP |
| Front Camera |
40MP |
40MP |
12MP (with Dual Pixel AF) |
| S Pen Support |
Optional (no built-in slot) |
Built-in S Pen slot |
Built-in S Pen slot |
| Battery |
5000mAh |
5000mAh |
5000mAh |
| Charging Speed |
25W |
45W |
45W |
| One UI Support |
One UI 7 |
One UI 8 |
One UI 8 |
| Starting Price (2025) |
Often Unavailable (Limited Stock) |
$240+ |
$360+ |
Key Takeaways
🏆 Best Value: The Galaxy S22 Ultra offers the strongest combination of modern performance, display quality, and camera versatility for just $240+.
🔋 Best Battery & Longevity: The S23 Ultra is slightly more efficient, but the S22 Ultra’s performance gap is minimal and may not justify the extra $120+.
📝 Best Productivity: Both S22 and S23 Ultra include the built-in S Pen, while the S21 Ultra requires a separate stylus and case.
📸 Best Camera: The S23 Ultra wins in raw megapixel count (200MP), but for most users, the S22 Ultra’s 108MP system remains more than sufficient — especially given the price difference.
💡 Software Support: The S22 Ultra’s guaranteed One UI 8 updates keep it relevant well into 2026, while the S21 Ultra is reaching the end of its support cycle.
In short, the Galaxy S22 Ultra strikes the perfect balance — it’s significantly cheaper than the S23 Ultra, far more modern than the S21 Ultra, and still receives full Android 16 updates with monthly patches. For most buyers in 2025, it’s the smartest and safest flagship pick on the Certified Used and Refurbished market.
Conclusion — Is the Galaxy S22 Ultra Worth It in 2025?
Yes — the Galaxy S22 Ultra remains one of the best-value flagship phones to buy in 2025. With Certified Used and Refurbished models starting around $240+, it still delivers exceptional performance, an incredible display, and one of the most advanced camera systems ever made.
The S22 Ultra runs One UI 8 (based on Android 16), which is expected to be its final major OS update, but Samsung will continue to provide security patches through 2027. That means the phone will stay safe, stable, and fully functional for at least another year — more than enough for most users buying in 2025.
For productivity and creative users, the built-in S Pen, Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, and 45W fast charging make it a powerful all-rounder. And at a fraction of its $1,199 launch price, it easily outperforms newer mid-range devices in both performance and camera quality.
If you want the best Android phone under $300, the Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra remains a clear winner — offering flagship-level hardware and premium design that still feels brand-new in 2025.
FAQ: Buying the Galaxy S22 Ultra in 2025
1. How much does the Galaxy S22 Ultra cost in 2025?
Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra models start around $240+, depending on storage and condition.
2. How old is the Galaxy S22 Ultra?
The Galaxy S22 Ultra was released in February 2022, making it three years old in 2025. Despite its age, it still performs like a modern flagship thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and Samsung’s software support.
3. Is the Galaxy S22 Ultra still good in 2025?
Yes — it’s still excellent. With a 108MP camera, S Pen integration, QHD+ 120Hz display, and Android 16 (One UI 8), it continues to deliver flagship-level performance, design, and productivity even three years after launch.
4. How long can an S22 Ultra battery last?
The S22 Ultra’s 5,000mAh battery can last a full day of moderate to heavy use, and up to 7–8 hours of screen-on time. With 45W fast charging, you can reach 50% in just 20 minutes.
5. Is the Galaxy S22 Ultra still supported by Samsung in 2025?
Yes. The Galaxy S22 Ultra runs One UI 8 (Android 16) — its final major OS version — and will continue receiving monthly security updates through 2026.
6. Will the Galaxy S22 Ultra get Android 17?
No. The Galaxy S22 Ultra will not receive Android 17. Its final OS upgrade is Android 16, released in 2025, followed by one more year of security support.
7. What is the latest Android version for Samsung S22 Ultra?
The latest Android version supported by the Galaxy S22 Ultra is Android 16, paired with One UI 8.
8. Will the Galaxy S22 Ultra get Android 18?
No. The S22 Ultra’s update roadmap stops at Android 16. After 2026, only critical security patches will continue for a limited time.
9. Is the Galaxy S22 Ultra still good for photography in 2025?
Absolutely. The S22 Ultra’s 108MP main sensor, dual telephoto lenses (3x and 10x), and enhanced low-light performance still make it one of the best camera phones under $300.
10. Does the Galaxy S22 Ultra include the S Pen?
Yes. It includes a built-in S Pen with Bluetooth functionality for handwriting, remote camera control, and note-taking — a unique feature not found in most smartphones today.
11. How does the Galaxy S22 Ultra compare to the S23 Ultra?
The S23 Ultra adds a 200MP camera and a slightly faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, but the real-world difference is small. At $240+, the S22 Ultra offers far better value in 2025.
12. How long will the Galaxy S22 Ultra receive updates?
Samsung will continue monthly security patches until 2026, after which updates will become less frequent. The phone will remain secure and usable for at least another year beyond that.
13. Is the Galaxy S22 Ultra waterproof?
It’s IP68 water-resistant, meaning it can handle immersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. However, liquid damage is not covered by warranty.
14. Should I still buy the Galaxy S22 Ultra in 2025?
Yes — it’s still one of the best-performing smartphones under $300. The Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22 Ultra remains powerful, reliable, and future-safe through 2026.
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