S20 Ultra vs S22 Ultra: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Struggling to decide between the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra and the newer S22 Ultra? You’re not alone! Both of these phones are powerhouses, packed with impressive features and cutting-edge technology. This comparison will break down everything you need to know to make the best choice for your needs and budget.
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra, once a flagship champion, still holds its own against the advancements of its successor. We’ll delve into the performance, cameras, and display quality of each device. Get ready to explore the key differences and similarities that set the S20 Ultra and S22 Ultra apart.
Whether you’re a loyal Samsung user or considering a switch, this guide will provide a clear understanding of which phone reigns supreme. We’ll examine the design, battery life, and overall value proposition, helping you determine which phone offers the best user experience for you. Let’s dive in and see how the S20 Ultra stacks up against the S22 Ultra!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | S20 Ultra | S22 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.9 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Display Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 pixels | 1440 x 3088 pixels |
| Processor | Exynos 990 / Snapdragon 865+ | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 |
| RAM | 12GB / 16GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Main Camera | 108MP + 48MP + 12MP + DepthVision | 108MP + 12MP + 10MP + 10MP |
| Front Camera | 40MP | 40MP |
| Battery | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 45W Wired, 15W Wireless | 45W Wired, 15W Wireless |
| S Pen | No (Optional) | Yes (Built-in) |
| Operating System | Android 10, upgradable | Android 12, upgradable |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Build
- S20 Ultra: Features a curved glass back and a large rectangular camera module. It has a stainless steel frame. Pros include a premium feel, while cons include a bulky design and potential for scratches.
- S22 Ultra: Boasts a boxier design with a built-in S Pen slot and a more streamlined camera arrangement. It utilizes a combination of Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ for increased durability. Pros include a modern aesthetic and enhanced durability, while cons might include a less familiar design for some.
- Winner: S22 Ultra
Display
- S20 Ultra: Equipped with a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120Hz refresh rate. Offers vibrant colors and smooth scrolling, though the curved edges might be a concern for some users.
- S22 Ultra: Features a similar 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display but with improved peak brightness and a more flat design. The display provides excellent visibility even in direct sunlight.
- Winner: S22 Ultra
Processor
- S20 Ultra: Powered by either the Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990, depending on the region. Performance is still good, but it’s starting to show its age compared to newer processors.
- S22 Ultra: Runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200, offering significant performance gains and improved efficiency compared to the s20 ultra. This leads to smoother multitasking and gaming experiences.
- Winner: S22 Ultra
Camera System
- S20 Ultra: Features a 108MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto with 100x Space Zoom, and a DepthVision sensor. Provides versatile shooting options, but zoom quality at extreme ranges can be inconsistent.
- S22 Ultra: Upgraded camera system with a 108MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide, two 10MP telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom). Offers improved image processing and better zoom capabilities, especially in low light.
- Winner: S22 Ultra
Battery Life
- S20 Ultra: Packs a 5,000mAh battery. Battery life is decent, but can vary depending on usage.
- S22 Ultra: Also has a 5,000mAh battery, but thanks to the more efficient processor and software optimizations, it generally offers better battery life.
- Winner: S22 Ultra
S Pen Integration
- S20 Ultra: Does not have a built-in S Pen slot. S Pen compatibility is available, but the pen is sold separately.
- S22 Ultra: Features a built-in S Pen slot and a lower latency S Pen for enhanced note-taking and creative tasks. This improves the overall user experience.
- Winner: S22 Ultra
Software and Updates
- S20 Ultra: Launched with Android 10 and has received updates up to Android 13. Will eventually stop receiving major OS updates.
- S22 Ultra: Launched with Android 12 and is eligible for Android updates up to Android 16. Provides a longer software support lifecycle.
- Winner: S22 Ultra
Price and Value
- S20 Ultra: Available at a lower price point now, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the older hardware may not be as future-proof.
- S22 Ultra: Costs more, reflecting its newer technology and features. Offers better value in the long run due to its improved performance and longer software support.
- Winner: S22 Ultra
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | S22 Ultra |
| Camera | S22 Ultra |
| Display | Tie |
| Battery Life | Tie |
| Software | S22 Ultra |
| S Pen Integration | S22 Ultra |
What They Have in Common
- Display Technology: Both phones boast stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks for an immersive viewing experience.
- Battery Capacity: Both devices share a robust 5000mAh battery, designed to provide all-day power for heavy users.
- Fast Charging: Both support fast wired and wireless charging, allowing for quick and convenient power-ups.
- Water Resistance: Both phones are IP68 rated for water and dust resistance, offering protection against the elements.
- 5g Connectivity: Both models support 5G, enabling fast download and upload speeds.
S20 Ultra Vs S22 Ultra Buying Guide
Performance and Processor
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra boasts a significantly more powerful processor than the S20 Ultra. The S22 Ultra typically features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 chip (depending on region), offering substantial performance improvements in tasks like gaming, video editing, and overall system responsiveness. The S20 Ultra, with its Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990, is still capable, but it lags behind in raw power and efficiency. This difference becomes more noticeable with demanding applications and multitasking, leading to a smoother user experience on the S22 Ultra.
Camera Capabilities
While both phones boast impressive camera systems, the S22 Ultra has the edge with its refined image processing and enhanced features. The S22 Ultra often includes improvements in low-light photography, dynamic range, and video stabilization. The S20 Ultra’s 108MP main sensor is still capable, but the S22 Ultra’s updated software and potentially improved lens technology contribute to better overall image quality. The S22 Ultra also often has improved zoom capabilities, allowing for clearer shots at greater distances.
Display Quality
Both phones have excellent displays, but the S22 Ultra typically offers some advancements. The S22 Ultra often features a brighter display, which is especially beneficial in direct sunlight. Both phones use AMOLED technology known for vibrant colors and deep blacks. The S22 Ultra may also have a variable refresh rate, allowing it to dynamically adjust the screen’s refresh rate (e.g., from 10Hz to 120Hz) to conserve battery life and optimize the visual experience based on the content being displayed.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life can vary depending on usage patterns, but the S22 Ultra generally offers better battery optimization, despite having a similar or slightly smaller battery capacity in some cases. The S22 Ultra may benefit from a more efficient processor and software enhancements. Both phones support fast charging, but the S22 Ultra may offer slightly faster wired charging speeds. Wireless charging capabilities are also present on both devices.
Design and Build Quality
Both devices sport premium designs, but the S22 Ultra often showcases a more modern aesthetic. The S22 Ultra frequently features a sleeker design, potentially with a more integrated camera module and a matte glass back. The S20 Ultra, while still attractive, might have a slightly bulkier feel. Both phones utilize high-quality materials such as glass and aluminum in their construction, providing a premium feel. The S22 Ultra also may offer improved durability with Gorilla Glass Victus+.
Software and Features
The S22 Ultra ships with a newer version of Android and Samsung’s One UI, providing a more up-to-date and potentially smoother user experience. It benefits from security updates for a longer period of time. It also may include software features that are not available on the S20 Ultra. While the S20 Ultra will continue to receive updates, the S22 Ultra will be supported for longer, ensuring access to the latest features and security patches. Both offer Samsung’s ecosystem features.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy s20 ultra If…
- You want a phone with a slightly larger display.
- You can find a great deal on a used or refurbished model.
- You prioritize having a microSD card slot (if applicable).
Buy s22 ultra If…
- You desire the latest processor for top-tier performance.
- You want a built-in S Pen for enhanced productivity and creativity.
- You value improved camera capabilities and image processing.
- You want the latest Android version out of the box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has a better camera?
The S22 Ultra generally has a better camera. It often features improved image processing, low-light performance, and potentially enhanced zoom capabilities. While the S20 Ultra’s camera is still capable, the S22 Ultra’s updated software and potentially improved hardware give it an edge. The S22 Ultra will produce sharper, more detailed, and color accurate images in most situations, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
Which phone is faster?
The S22 Ultra is significantly faster due to its more advanced processor. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 found in the S22 Ultra offers a substantial performance boost compared to the S20 Ultra’s Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990. This translates to quicker app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive overall user experience, especially when running demanding applications and games.
Which phone has better battery life?
The S22 Ultra often has better battery life, despite having a similar or slightly smaller battery capacity in some cases. This is primarily due to the more efficient processor and software optimizations. While the S20 Ultra’s battery life is still good, the S22 Ultra’s refined power management typically allows it to last longer on a single charge. However, actual battery life depends on the individual’s usage.
What are the key design differences?
The S22 Ultra often features a more modern and refined design. It might have a sleeker profile, a more integrated camera module, and a matte glass back. The S20 Ultra, while still a premium-looking phone, might have a slightly bulkier feel. The S22 Ultra’s design often emphasizes a more premium look and feel with potentially more durable materials and a more contemporary aesthetic.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The S22 Ultra is better for gaming. The more powerful processor provides significantly better performance in demanding games, with smoother frame rates and quicker loading times. The S22 Ultra’s display may also offer a higher refresh rate, contributing to a more immersive and responsive gaming experience. The S20 Ultra is still capable, but the S22 Ultra offers a clear advantage.
Does the S22 Ultra support faster charging?
The S22 Ultra generally supports faster charging, although the difference may not always be substantial. While both phones offer fast charging capabilities, the S22 Ultra often supports slightly higher charging speeds, allowing for a quicker top-up. The exact charging speed can vary depending on the region and the charger used. Wireless charging is also available on both devices.
Which phone is more future-proof?
The S22 Ultra is more future-proof. It comes with a newer version of Android, meaning it will receive software updates and security patches for a longer period of time. This ensures that the phone remains secure, and it will have access to the latest features and improvements for a longer duration compared to the S20 Ultra. This makes the S22 Ultra a better long-term investment.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra offers significant improvements over the S20 Ultra, particularly in performance, camera capabilities, and software. While the S20 Ultra remains a capable device, the S22 Ultra’s more advanced processor, refined camera system, and longer software support make it the superior choice for most users. It provides a smoother, more feature-rich, and more future-proof experience.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra