S22 Ultra vs Note 10 Plus: Which Samsung Reigns?
Struggling to choose between Samsung’s top-tier phones? You’re not alone. The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra and the Galaxy Note 10 Plus both offer premium features and performance, but they cater to slightly different needs. Deciding which one is right for you requires a closer look at their strengths and weaknesses.
The Note 10 Plus, a beloved device in its own right, still holds up impressively. It was a powerhouse upon release and continues to deliver a smooth user experience. On the other hand, the S22 Ultra represents the latest advancements in Samsung’s mobile technology.
This comparison dives deep into the specifications, features, and overall performance of the s22 ultra vs note 10 plus. We’ll examine everything from the displays and cameras to the battery life and processing power. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which phone best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | s22 Ultra | Note 10 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.8 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3088 pixels | 1440 x 3040 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9825 |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 12GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB | 256GB / 512GB |
| Main Camera | 108MP + 12MP + 10MP + 10MP | 12MP + 12MP + 16MP |
| Front Camera | 40MP | 10MP |
| Battery | 5000 mAh | 4300 mAh |
| Charging | 45W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging |
| S Pen | Included, Integrated | Included, Integrated |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Operating System | Android 12, upgradable | Android 9, upgradable |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- S22 Ultra: Features a vibrant 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 1750 nits. The display is incredibly smooth and bright, offering excellent visibility even in direct sunlight. However, it can be a battery drain.
- Note 10 Plus: Boasts a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate. It delivers excellent color accuracy and sharpness, with good brightness levels. The 60Hz refresh rate is less smooth compared to newer phones.
- Winner: s22 ultra
Processor
- S22 Ultra: Equipped with either a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 processor (depending on the region), providing exceptional performance for demanding tasks and gaming. The performance is consistently high.
- Note 10 Plus: Powered by a Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9825 processor (depending on the region), offering reliable performance for everyday use. While still capable, it’s not as powerful as newer processors.
- Winner: s22 ultra
Camera System
- S22 Ultra: Features a versatile quad-camera system with a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and two 10MP telephoto lenses offering impressive zoom capabilities. It excels in low-light photography and offers a range of shooting modes.
- Note 10 Plus: Includes a triple-lens camera system with a 12MP main sensor, a 16MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens. It takes excellent photos in good lighting conditions, but the zoom capabilities are not as extensive.
- Winner: s22 ultra
Battery Life
- S22 Ultra: Packs a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for most users, though heavy usage can deplete the battery faster. Fast charging capabilities are available.
- Note 10 Plus: Features a 4300mAh battery, offering decent battery life that can last a full day with moderate use. Not as efficient as the newer s22 ultra.
- Winner: s22 ultra
S Pen Functionality
- S22 Ultra: Includes an integrated S Pen with improved latency and features, offering precise control and enhanced note-taking and drawing capabilities. The S Pen is more responsive and feature-rich.
- Note 10 Plus: Comes with an S Pen that offers similar functionality to the s22 ultra, but with slightly higher latency. Still provides a great experience.
- Winner: s22 ultra
Design and Build Quality
- S22 Ultra: Features a premium design with a glass back and a metal frame, offering a sleek and modern look. The integrated S Pen silo is a design plus.
- Note 10 Plus: Sports a premium design with a glass back and a metal frame, also offering a sleek look. The build quality is excellent.
- Winner: s22 ultra
Software and Updates
- S22 Ultra: Runs on Android with Samsung’s One UI, offering a smooth and feature-rich user experience. It benefits from more recent software updates.
- Note 10 Plus: Runs on Android with Samsung’s One UI, but the software support has ended. It is unlikely to receive further major Android updates.
- Winner: s22 ultra
Storage and RAM
- S22 Ultra: Offers up to 1TB of internal storage and up to 12GB of RAM, providing ample space for files and smooth multitasking.
- Note 10 Plus: Offers up to 512GB of internal storage and up to 12GB of RAM, providing plenty of storage space and multitasking capabilities.
- Winner: s22 ultra
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Quality | Tie |
| Performance | s22 Ultra |
| Camera | s22 Ultra |
| Battery Life | s22 Ultra |
| Value | Note 10 Plus |
| Software Updates | s22 Ultra |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Size: Both phones feature expansive 6.8-inch displays, providing ample screen real estate for media consumption and productivity tasks.
- S Pen Integration: Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra and the Note 10 Plus include an integrated S Pen, offering users the ability to take notes, draw, and navigate the phone with precision.
- Water Resistance: Both devices boast an IP68 rating, ensuring protection against dust and water submersion, providing peace of mind in various environments.
- Fast Charging: Both phones support fast charging technologies, minimizing downtime and allowing users to quickly replenish their battery.
- Premium Design: Both phones showcase a premium design language, with high-quality materials and a focus on aesthetics.
S22 Ultra Vs Note 10 Plus Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra boasts a significantly more powerful processor than the Note 10 Plus. The S22 Ultra typically features the latest Snapdragon or Exynos chipsets, delivering substantial improvements in speed and efficiency for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. The Note 10 Plus, while still capable, lags behind in raw processing power. This difference translates to smoother multitasking and faster app loading times on the S22 Ultra. Consider your usage; heavy users will benefit more from the S22 Ultra’s enhanced performance.
Display and Visual Experience
Both phones feature excellent displays, but the S22 Ultra takes the lead with its brighter and more vibrant screen. The S22 Ultra often utilizes a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with adaptive refresh rates, offering a smoother and more responsive experience. The Note 10 Plus has a beautiful AMOLED display, but it may not reach the same peak brightness as the S22 Ultra. Consider your viewing habits, especially if you frequently use your phone outdoors.
Camera Capabilities and Image Quality
The camera system is a major upgrade in the S22 Ultra. It offers improved image quality, especially in low-light conditions, and features advanced zoom capabilities. The Note 10 Plus has a capable camera system, but it cannot compete with the S22 Ultra’s versatility. The S22 Ultra’s enhanced software processing and superior hardware provide a clear advantage. If photography is important to you, the S22 Ultra is the superior choice.
Battery Life and Charging Speeds
The S22 Ultra generally provides superior battery life compared to the Note 10 Plus, due to improved power efficiency. It also often supports faster charging speeds. The Note 10 Plus has respectable battery life, but the S22 Ultra offers a longer-lasting experience, especially with heavy usage. Consider your daily usage patterns and if you need fast charging capabilities.
Design, Build Quality, and Features
The S22 Ultra typically features a more modern and premium design. The inclusion of the S Pen with the S22 Ultra, and its integrated slot, is a significant advantage for users who value note-taking and productivity. The Note 10 Plus offers a sleek design as well, but the S22 Ultra has a more robust build. The S Pen is a key differentiator, and the build quality is typically improved.
Software and User Experience
The S22 Ultra runs on a newer version of Android, providing access to the latest features, security updates, and software enhancements. The Note 10 Plus has received its final major Android update. The S22 Ultra provides a longer software support lifecycle, ensuring you’ll receive updates for several more years. Consider how long you plan to use the phone and the importance of receiving the latest software updates.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy s22 ultra If…
- You want the latest processor and performance.
- You prioritize the best camera system available on a smartphone.
- You want a phone with the longest software support.
- You need the most storage options.
Buy note 10 plus If…
- You’re looking for a more affordable flagship experience.
- You prefer a design that has stood the test of time.
- You don’t need the absolute latest features and specs.
- You value a slightly lighter overall feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has the better camera?
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra has a significantly better camera system. It boasts improved image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. It offers enhanced zoom capabilities and better software processing. The Note 10 Plus has a very capable camera but cannot compete with the S22 Ultra’s versatility and performance. The S22 Ultra is the clear winner for photography enthusiasts.
Which phone is faster?
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is noticeably faster due to its more advanced processor. It typically utilizes the latest Snapdragon or Exynos chipsets, providing substantial improvements in speed and efficiency. The Note 10 Plus is still very fast, but it lags behind the S22 Ultra in raw processing power. This results in quicker app loading and smoother multitasking on the S22 Ultra.
Which phone has a better display?
The S22 Ultra has a better display. It usually features a brighter and more vibrant display with adaptive refresh rates, resulting in a smoother user experience. The Note 10 Plus has a beautiful AMOLED display, but the S22 Ultra has a higher peak brightness and smoother scrolling. It provides a more immersive viewing experience, especially outdoors.
Which phone has better battery life?
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra generally provides better battery life. Its newer processor and optimized software contribute to improved power efficiency. It also often supports faster charging. The Note 10 Plus has respectable battery life, but the S22 Ultra offers a longer-lasting experience, especially with heavy usage, making it the better choice for battery longevity.
Does the S22 Ultra have an S Pen?
Yes, the S22 Ultra comes with an integrated S Pen. The S Pen is a key differentiator, offering enhanced productivity features like note-taking, sketching, and remote control capabilities. The Note 10 Plus also supported an S Pen, but the S22 Ultra’s S Pen typically has improved latency and features, offering a more seamless and responsive experience for users.
Is the S22 Ultra waterproof?
Yes, both the S22 Ultra and the Note 10 Plus are water-resistant, typically with an IP68 rating. This means they can withstand immersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. While they can handle accidental spills and exposure to rain, it’s still best to avoid prolonged submersion to prevent damage and to ensure the phones’ longevity.
Which phone is more expensive?
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is more expensive, especially when purchased new. The Note 10 Plus is older, so it is available at a lower price. The price difference reflects the newer technology and features of the S22 Ultra. However, the Note 10 Plus can be a great value if you are on a budget.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra emerges as the superior choice, offering enhanced performance, a better camera system, and a more modern design. While the Note 10 Plus remains a capable device, the S22 Ultra provides significant upgrades across the board, particularly in processing power, display quality, and camera capabilities. The S Pen integration further enhances its appeal for productivity-focused users.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra