Samsung S22 Ultra vs S22: Which Samsung Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new phone can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re looking at top-tier devices. The Samsung Galaxy S22 series offers incredible performance and features, but how do you decide between the powerhouse S22 Ultra and the more compact S22?
This comparison dives deep into the key differences, helping you understand which phone best fits your needs and budget. We’ll explore everything from camera capabilities and display quality to battery life and overall performance. Get ready to discover which Samsung Galaxy S22 model truly shines.
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a power user, or simply seeking a premium smartphone experience, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both the Samsung S22 Ultra and the S22. Prepare to make an informed decision and upgrade your mobile experience.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | S22 Ultra | S22 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.8 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Technology | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3088 pixels | 1080 x 2340 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 8GB |
| Internal Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB | 128GB / 256GB |
| Main Camera | 108MP + 12MP + 10MP + 10MP | 50MP + 12MP + 10MP |
| Front Camera | 40MP | 10MP |
| Battery Capacity | 5000 mAh | 3700 mAh |
| S Pen Support | Yes (Built-in) | No |
| Charging Speed | 45W Wired, 15W Wireless | 25W Wired, 15W Wireless |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Samsung S22 Ultra: Features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a variable 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1750 nits. This provides incredibly vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional outdoor visibility. A potential drawback is the larger size, which may not be comfortable for all users.
- S22: Boasts a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of up to 1300 nits. It offers excellent image quality and smooth scrolling in a more compact form factor. The smaller size might mean a less immersive viewing experience compared to the Ultra.
- Winner: Ultra
Camera System
- Samsung S22 Ultra: Equipped with a versatile quad-camera system, including a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and two 10MP telephoto lenses offering 3x and 10x optical zoom. This setup excels in capturing detailed photos and videos in various scenarios, with incredible zoom capabilities. It can be complex to master all the features.
- S22: Features a triple-camera system, including a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This setup provides excellent image quality, but it lacks the Ultra’s extended zoom range and some of its advanced features.
- Winner: Ultra
Processor
- Samsung S22 Ultra: Powered by either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (in some regions) or Exynos 2200 processor, delivering top-tier performance for demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking. It handles everything smoothly, though it can get warm during intensive use.
- S22: Also utilizes the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 processor, providing fast and responsive performance. It offers a similar level of speed to the Ultra, but might experience slightly more thermal throttling under sustained heavy loads.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Samsung S22 Ultra: Packs a larger 5000mAh battery, offering all-day battery life with moderate to heavy usage. The power-efficient display and optimized software contribute to its longevity. However, very heavy users might still need to top up during the day.
- S22: Includes a 3700mAh battery, which provides decent battery life for a smaller phone, but it may require charging before the end of the day with heavy usage. It’s sufficient for basic tasks but can drain quickly with gaming or video playback.
- Winner: Ultra
S Pen Support
- Samsung S22 Ultra: Features a built-in S Pen, offering enhanced productivity and creative capabilities, such as note-taking, drawing, and precise navigation. This is a significant advantage for users who value stylus functionality.
- S22: Does not have S Pen support.
- Winner: Ultra
Design and Build
- Samsung S22 Ultra: Boasts a premium design with a boxier shape, a built-in S Pen slot, and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back. The design is distinctive and feels robust, though it’s heavier and larger than the S22.
- S22: Features a sleek and modern design with a more compact form factor and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back. It’s easier to handle and more pocketable than the Ultra.
- Winner: Tie
Charging
- Samsung S22 Ultra: Supports 45W wired charging (with a compatible charger, sold separately) and 15W wireless charging, allowing for relatively fast charging speeds.
- S22: Supports 25W wired charging (with a compatible charger, sold separately) and 15W wireless charging. While still fast, the charging speeds are slower than the Ultra.
- Winner: Ultra
Price
- Samsung S22 Ultra: Generally more expensive than the S22 due to its advanced features and larger size.
- S22: More affordable option compared to the Ultra.
- Winner: S22
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | Samsung S22 Ultra |
| Camera Versatility | Samsung S22 Ultra |
| Battery Life | Samsung S22 Ultra |
| S Pen Functionality | Samsung S22 Ultra |
| Portability | Samsung S22 |
| Value | Samsung S22 |
What They Have in Common
- Processor: Both phones are equipped with either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or the Exynos 2200 processor, offering similar levels of performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. This ensures a smooth and responsive user experience.
- Display Technology: Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra and S22 feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, providing vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. This technology delivers a visually stunning experience.
- Water Resistance: Both phones boast an IP68 rating, offering protection against dust and water submersion up to a certain depth and duration. This adds durability and peace of mind.
- 5g Connectivity: Both devices support 5G connectivity, ensuring fast data speeds and low latency when connected to a 5G network. This enhances streaming, gaming, and overall online experiences.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, allowing users to conveniently charge their devices without the need for cables. This adds flexibility and ease of use.
Samsung S22 Ultra Vs S22 Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
The Samsung S22 Ultra boasts a more premium design, featuring a boxier shape and integrated S Pen slot. This offers a more professional aesthetic and enhanced functionality for note-taking and creative tasks. The S22, on the other hand, presents a sleeker, more rounded design, appealing to those who prefer a more comfortable in-hand feel. Both phones utilize premium materials like Gorilla Glass Victus+ and Armor Aluminum, ensuring durability. Consider your preference for form factor and the importance of the S Pen when choosing between the two.
Display and Visual Experience
The S22 Ultra features a larger, more vibrant display with a higher peak brightness, providing an immersive viewing experience, especially outdoors. Its adaptive refresh rate further enhances visual fluidity and energy efficiency. The S22’s display is still excellent, offering vibrant colors and sharp details, but it doesn’t quite match the Ultra’s brightness and adaptive refresh rate range. Assess your viewing habits – if you consume a lot of media outdoors, the S22 Ultra’s display might be more advantageous.
Camera System and Photography
The S22 Ultra houses a more advanced camera system with a 108MP main sensor and two telephoto lenses, offering superior zoom capabilities and versatility. Its ability to capture stunning photos and videos in various scenarios is unmatched. The S22’s camera system is still impressive, providing excellent image quality and performance, but it lacks the Ultra’s zoom prowess and overall flexibility. If photography is a priority, the S22 Ultra is the clear winner for its superior camera technology.
Performance and Processing Power
Both phones pack the latest Snapdragon or Exynos processors, delivering exceptional performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking. The S22 Ultra might have a slight edge due to its larger RAM options and optimized software. However, the S22 also delivers a smooth and responsive user experience. Assess your usage – if you’re a heavy gamer or multitasker, the S22 Ultra’s potential performance advantage might be more noticeable. Both phones are capable.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
The S22 Ultra typically offers better battery life due to its larger battery capacity and more efficient display technology. This ensures you can go through a full day of heavy use without needing to recharge. The S22’s battery life is decent, but it might require a mid-day top-up for power users. Both phones support fast charging, but the S22 Ultra’s larger battery takes longer to charge. Battery life is a crucial factor for many users, so consider your usage pattern.
Price and Value for Money
The S22 Ultra, being the premium model, comes with a higher price tag than the S22. However, it offers a wider range of features and superior performance, potentially justifying the cost for some users. The S22 provides excellent value for money, offering a flagship-level experience at a more accessible price point. Evaluate your budget and the features you prioritize. If you want the best of the best, the S22 Ultra is worth it. If not, the S22 is the better value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Samsung S22 Ultra If…
- You want the best possible camera system with versatile zoom capabilities and the added functionality of the S Pen.
- You prioritize a large display for media consumption and productivity.
- You need a phone with a large battery for all-day use.
- You desire the built-in S Pen for note-taking, drawing, and precise navigation.
Buy S22 If…
- You prefer a more compact and pocketable phone.
- You want a flagship experience at a slightly lower price point.
- You don’t need the S Pen or the extensive zoom capabilities of the Ultra.
- You value a sleek design and ease of one-handed use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in design?
The S22 Ultra features a boxier design with integrated S Pen storage, while the S22 has a more rounded design. The Ultra feels more premium, while the S22 is more compact. Both use premium materials like Gorilla Glass Victus+ and Armor Aluminum. The Ultra’s design is more reminiscent of the Note series, catering to those who prefer a professional aesthetic and the utility of the S Pen.
Which phone has a better display?
The S22 Ultra has a superior display, featuring a larger size, higher peak brightness, and a wider adaptive refresh rate range for smoother visuals and better energy efficiency. The S22’s display is still excellent, but it doesn’t match the Ultra’s brightness. The Ultra’s display is especially advantageous for outdoor viewing and media consumption.
How does the camera compare between the two?
The S22 Ultra boasts a more advanced camera system with a 108MP main sensor and two telephoto lenses, enabling superior zoom capabilities and versatility. The S22’s camera is still excellent, but it lacks the Ultra’s zoom prowess. The Ultra’s camera provides a more professional experience.
Which phone offers better performance?
Both phones use the latest Snapdragon or Exynos processors, delivering exceptional performance. The S22 Ultra might have a slight edge due to its larger RAM options and optimized software. Both phones provide a smooth and responsive user experience. Performance is similar, but the Ultra can be slightly faster under heavy loads.
What about battery life and charging?
The S22 Ultra typically offers better battery life due to its larger battery capacity and more efficient display technology. Both phones support fast charging. The Ultra’s larger battery takes longer to charge. Battery life is crucial for many users, so consider your usage pattern and what you need.
Is the S Pen included with the S22 Ultra?
Yes, the S Pen is included with the S22 Ultra and is stored within the phone’s body, providing convenient access and usability for note-taking, drawing, and navigating the interface. This feature is a key differentiator between the two models, offering enhanced productivity and creative capabilities. The S22 doesn’t have an S Pen.
Which phone is a better value?
The S22 offers better value for money, being available at a lower price point while still providing a flagship experience. The S22 Ultra is more expensive. Evaluate your budget and feature needs. If you want the best features, the Ultra is worth the extra cost. If you’re on a budget, the S22 is a great choice.
Final Verdict
The Samsung S22 Ultra stands out with its superior camera system, integrated S Pen, and larger, more vibrant display, making it the more feature-rich and powerful device. While the S22 offers excellent performance and a sleek design at a more accessible price, the Ultra provides a more premium experience for users who demand the best.
Winner: Samsung S22 Ultra