Galaxy S22 Plus vs S22 Ultra: Which Samsung Reigns?
Choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming, especially when you’re looking at top-tier devices. The Samsung Galaxy S22 series offers incredible features, but deciding between the S22 Plus and the S22 Ultra can be tough. Both phones promise a premium experience, but they cater to different needs and preferences.
This comparison dives deep into the specifications, performance, and features of the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus and the S22 Ultra. We’ll explore their displays, cameras, battery life, and overall user experience to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to discover which phone truly deserves a place in your pocket.
Whether you prioritize a sleek design and comfortable handling or crave the ultimate in power and features, this comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus vs S22 Ultra will illuminate the key differences. Let’s find out which Samsung flagship is the perfect match for you.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | S22+ | S22 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.6-inch | 6.8-inch |
| Display Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 pixels | 1440 x 3088 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 128GB / 256GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Main Camera | 50MP + 12MP + 10MP | 108MP + 12MP + 10MP + 10MP |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 40MP |
| Battery | 4500 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging Speed | 45W Wired, 15W Wireless | 45W Wired, 15W Wireless |
| S Pen Support | No | Yes (Built-in) |
| Weight | 195g | 228g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: Features a 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It offers vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. A potential downside is it’s slightly smaller than the Ultra.
- S22 Ultra: Boasts a larger 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, also offering excellent visuals. It also has a more advanced peak brightness. The size can make it less comfortable for one-handed use.
- Winner: Ultra
Camera System
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: Equipped with a versatile triple-lens system with a 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto lens. Delivers excellent photos and videos in most lighting conditions. The zoom capabilities are not as extensive as the Ultra.
- S22 Ultra: Features a quad-lens system, including a 108MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and two 10MP telephoto lenses. Offers superior zoom capabilities and overall image quality, especially in low light. It’s camera system is more complex.
- Winner: Ultra
Processor
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: Powered by either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (USA/China) or Exynos 2200 (International) processor, providing fast and efficient performance for everyday tasks and gaming. Performance is great but can be slightly lower than Ultra.
- S22 Ultra: Also uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200, depending on the region. Offers similar processing power, but it has a more advanced cooling system for sustained performance.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: Comes with a 4,500mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate to heavy usage. Battery life is decent, but can drain faster with heavy use.
- S22 Ultra: Features a larger 5,000mAh battery, generally offering longer battery life compared to the Plus. It can easily last a full day, and sometimes even longer, depending on usage.
- Winner: Ultra
Design and Build
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: Features a sleek design with a glass back and an aluminum frame. It feels premium and is relatively compact. The design is less distinctive than the Ultra.
- S22 Ultra: Boasts a boxier design with a built-in S Pen slot. It has a more premium feel with sharper edges. The design may not appeal to everyone.
- Winner: Tie
S Pen Integration
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: Doesn’t include an S Pen.
- S22 Ultra: Comes with an integrated S Pen, offering enhanced productivity and creative capabilities, such as note-taking and drawing. This is a significant advantage for users who value stylus functionality.
- Winner: Ultra
Charging Speed
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: Supports 45W fast charging. Offers fast charging speeds.
- S22 Ultra: Supports 45W fast charging. Offers fast charging speeds.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: Typically has a lower starting price compared to the Ultra. Makes it a more accessible option.
- S22 Ultra: The higher-end model, thus comes with a higher price tag. Reflects its premium features and capabilities.
- Winner: Plus
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | s22 Ultra |
| Camera | s22 Ultra |
| Battery Life | s22 Ultra |
| Performance | Tie |
| S Pen Functionality | s22 Ultra |
| Portability | s22 Plus |
What They Have in Common
- Processor: Both phones utilize the same powerful processor, either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or the Exynos 2200, depending on the region, ensuring top-tier performance for demanding tasks.
- Display Technology: Both devices share the same vibrant Dynamic AMOLED 2X display technology, providing excellent color accuracy, brightness, and smooth scrolling with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- 5g Connectivity: Both the Galaxy S22+ and S22 Ultra support 5G connectivity, enabling users to experience blazing-fast download and upload speeds where 5G networks are available.
- Fast Charging: Both phones support fast wired and wireless charging, allowing users to quickly replenish their batteries. They both support 15W wireless charging.
- Water Resistance: Both phones are IP68 rated for water and dust resistance, offering protection against accidental spills and exposure to the elements.
Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus Vs S22 Ultra Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
Both the Galaxy S22 Plus and the S22 Ultra boast impressive processing power, but subtle differences exist. The Ultra, often equipped with a slightly more advanced chipset in certain regions, might offer marginal gains in demanding tasks like video editing or gaming. However, the S22 Plus still provides a flagship-level experience, handling everyday applications and multitasking with ease. Consider your typical usage – if you’re a heavy gamer or content creator, the Ultra’s potential edge might be noticeable. Otherwise, the S22 Plus offers excellent performance.
Display and Visual Experience
The display experience is a key differentiator. The S22 Ultra typically features a larger, more vibrant display with a higher peak brightness, making it ideal for outdoor viewing. Its curved edges also contribute to a more immersive feel. The S22 Plus, while still offering a stunning display with a high refresh rate, might have a slightly less expansive screen and a lower peak brightness. Both devices utilize Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, ensuring rich colors and excellent contrast, but the Ultra’s screen is generally considered superior, especially for media consumption.
Camera Capabilities
The camera systems are where the S22 Ultra truly shines. It often includes a more sophisticated camera array with additional lenses, including a dedicated telephoto lens with impressive optical zoom capabilities. This allows for superior image quality at a distance, as well as more versatile shooting options. The S22 Plus still takes excellent photos and videos, but it may not match the Ultra’s zoom capabilities or low-light performance. If photography is a priority, the Ultra offers a significant advantage. Consider the types of photos you typically take and whether the Ultra’s added features are worth the price difference.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial factor. The S22 Ultra, due to its larger size, typically houses a larger battery, resulting in longer usage times. This can be especially important for power users who spend a lot of time on their phones. Both devices support fast charging, but the Ultra might offer slightly faster charging speeds. Consider your daily usage patterns and whether you need a phone that can easily last a full day on a single charge. If battery life is a priority, the Ultra generally provides a more reliable experience.
Design and Build Quality
Both phones boast premium designs with high-quality materials. The S22 Ultra often features a more angular design with a built-in S Pen stylus, which can significantly enhance productivity and creative workflows. The S22 Plus typically offers a sleeker, more streamlined design. Both devices are typically constructed with durable materials like Gorilla Glass and aluminum, ensuring they can withstand everyday wear and tear. Consider your personal preferences regarding design, size, and the usefulness of the S Pen when making your decision.
Price and Value for Money
The price difference is a major consideration. The S22 Ultra is generally more expensive than the S22 Plus. While the Ultra offers more features and a premium experience, the S22 Plus provides excellent value for its price. Consider your budget and whether the extra features of the Ultra justify the higher cost. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line experience and are willing to pay a premium, the Ultra is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a flagship-level phone with excellent performance and features at a more affordable price, the S22 Plus is a compelling option.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy samsung galaxy s22 plus If…
- You want a more compact and pocketable phone.
- You prefer a phone that’s lighter in weight.
- You’re looking for a flagship experience without the highest price tag.
- You don’t need the S Pen functionality.
Buy s22 ultra If…
- You want the best possible camera system with incredible zoom capabilities.
- You want the integrated S Pen for note-taking, drawing, and precise control.
- You prioritize a larger display for media consumption and productivity.
- You want the most premium and feature-rich Samsung Galaxy experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the S22 Plus and the S22 Ultra?
The S22 Ultra typically boasts a larger display, a more advanced camera system with superior zoom capabilities, a built-in S Pen stylus, and a larger battery. It often includes a more powerful chipset, providing a slight edge in performance. The S22 Plus offers a more compact design and a slightly lower price point while still delivering flagship-level performance and features. The Ultra excels in photography and productivity.
Which phone has a better camera?
The S22 Ultra generally has a significantly better camera system. It includes additional lenses, particularly a dedicated telephoto lens with advanced optical zoom, which allows for superior image quality at a distance. The Ultra’s camera also often performs better in low-light conditions. The S22 Plus, while still offering a great camera, may not match the Ultra’s versatility and zoom capabilities.
Does the S22 Ultra come with an S Pen?
Yes, the S22 Ultra comes with a built-in S Pen stylus. The S Pen enhances productivity and creative tasks, allowing for precise note-taking, drawing, and navigation. The S22 Plus does not include an S Pen. The S Pen is a key differentiator, offering a unique user experience for those who value handwriting and digital art.
Which phone has better battery life?
The S22 Ultra typically has better battery life due to its larger battery capacity. This allows it to last longer on a single charge, especially for heavy users. The S22 Plus still offers good battery life, but it may not match the Ultra’s endurance. Consider your usage habits and how important it is to have a phone that can easily last a full day.
What are the screen sizes of the S22 Plus and S22 Ultra?
The S22 Ultra generally features a larger display than the S22 Plus. The Ultra’s screen is also often brighter and offers a more immersive viewing experience, especially for media consumption. Exact screen sizes can vary slightly depending on the specific model and region. The larger screen of the Ultra is a key selling point for media lovers.
Is the S22 Ultra worth the extra cost?
Whether the S22 Ultra is worth the extra cost depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value a superior camera system, the S Pen, and longer battery life, and you’re willing to pay a premium, then the Ultra is a good choice. However, the S22 Plus offers excellent performance and features at a more affordable price, making it a great value option.
Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones are capable of handling mobile gaming, but the S22 Ultra might have a slight edge due to its potentially more powerful chipset and larger display. The Ultra’s larger screen can provide a more immersive gaming experience. However, the S22 Plus still offers excellent performance for gaming. Ultimately, the gaming experience on both phones is excellent.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra stands out with its superior camera system, built-in S Pen, and larger display, making it the ultimate flagship experience. While the S22 Plus offers excellent performance and value, the Ultra’s added features and capabilities justify its higher price for users who demand the best.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra