Galaxy A34 Vs Galaxy S22+ 5G

Galaxy A34
Galaxy A34
Starting at

Refurbished price:135.00

Versus €399.00 new

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Galaxy S22+ 5G
Galaxy S22+ 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:194.00

Versus €1,174.01 new

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Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A34, released in March 2023, and the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, launched in February 2022, represent different segments of Samsung's smartphone offerings. While both run on the Android operating system with Samsung's One UI, the S22 Plus 5G was positioned as a flagship device with premium features, whereas the A34 was designed for a broader audience, focusing on a balance of features and accessibility. The primary distinctions lie in their performance capabilities, camera systems, and build quality.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and repairability.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy A34, being released in March 2023, is a year newer than the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, which launched in February 2022. This difference in release date directly impacts their software support lifecycles.
  • Software Longevity: Both devices were promised four years of major Android OS updates and five years of security updates from their respective launch dates. For the Galaxy A34, this means it is expected to receive its last major Android update (Android 17) in 2026, with security updates continuing into 2028. The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, having launched earlier, received its last major Android update (Android 16) in October 2025, and is expected to receive security updates until February 2027.
  • Repairability: The Galaxy A34 generally exhibits a higher repairability score, with some sources indicating an 8.0 or 8.3 out of 10, suggesting it is relatively easy to disassemble and reassemble, with accessible components like the battery. In contrast, the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G received a lower repairability score, often cited around 3 out of 10 by iFixit, primarily due to the extensive use of strong adhesive, particularly for the battery, which complicates repairs.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily operations, from launching applications to handling demanding tasks. The Galaxy A34 and S22 Plus 5G offer distinct experiences in this regard.

  • Storage Options: The Galaxy A34 offers storage configurations of 128GB and 256GB, with the added flexibility of expandable storage via a microSDXC card. The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G also comes with 128GB and 256GB internal storage options, but it does not support expandable storage.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy A34 features a larger 5000 mAh battery, which generally translates to extended usage times for most users. In contrast, the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G has a 4500 mAh battery. User feedback often indicates that the A34 provides better battery endurance, with many users reporting it can last a full day of heavy use, while the S22 Plus 5G may require more frequent charging, especially for power users.
  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, equipped with a more powerful processor, delivers a smoother and more responsive experience for demanding applications, intensive multitasking, and graphic-heavy gaming. The Galaxy A34 handles everyday tasks and general multitasking efficiently, but users engaging in high-performance activities may notice a difference in speed and thermal management compared to the S22 Plus 5G.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer vibrant viewing experiences with some key differences.

  • Display Technology: Both the Galaxy A34 and the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G feature Super AMOLED and Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, respectively, known for their deep blacks and vibrant colors. The S22 Plus 5G's Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel offers a slightly more advanced viewing experience.
  • Brightness Levels: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G boasts a significantly higher peak brightness of up to 1750 nits, making it exceptionally clear and readable even in direct sunlight. The Galaxy A34 offers a peak brightness of 1000 nits, which is still bright enough for most outdoor conditions but less intense than the S22 Plus 5G.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both phones feature a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smooth scrolling and fluid animations. This higher refresh rate enhances the overall user experience, making interactions feel more immediate and responsive on both devices.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both smartphones cater to different photography needs, with the S22 Plus 5G offering a more versatile setup.

  • Camera System Capabilities: The Galaxy A34 includes a triple-camera setup with a 48 MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8 MP ultrawide, and a 5 MP macro lens. The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G features a more advanced triple-camera system, comprising a 50 MP main sensor with OIS and Dual Pixel PDAF, a 10 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens.
  • Photography Performance: The S22 Plus 5G generally excels in various lighting conditions, offering superior detail, dynamic range, and color accuracy, particularly with its telephoto lens for zoomed shots. Its low-light performance is also more robust. The A34 provides good quality photos in well-lit environments, suitable for everyday photography, but may show limitations in challenging low-light scenarios or when zooming.
  • Video Recording Quality: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G supports video recording up to 8K at 24fps and 4K at 30/60fps, providing high-resolution video capture. The Galaxy A34 records video at up to 4K at 30fps.

Main camera

48 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

13 megapixels

10 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate these two Samsung smartphones, impacting daily usability and overall experience.

  • Connectivity Options: Both devices support 5G connectivity. The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G features Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, offering faster and more stable wireless connections. The Galaxy A34 supports Wi-Fi 5 (ac) and Bluetooth 5.3.
  • Port Types and Sensors: Both phones utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The S22 Plus 5G uses USB-C 3.2, while the A34 uses USB-C 2.0. For biometric security, the A34 features an under-display optical fingerprint sensor, whereas the S22 Plus 5G employs an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, which can offer faster and more secure authentication.
  • Build Materials and Durability: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G features a more premium construction with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back, coupled with an aluminum frame, and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The Galaxy A34 has a glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), a plastic back, and a plastic frame, with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.

Weight

199 g

195 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.6

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback on the Galaxy A34 often praises its strong battery life and vibrant display, making it a reliable device for daily use and media consumption. Common criticisms sometimes point to its performance not matching flagship-tier devices, especially for intensive tasks. The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G is frequently lauded for its powerful performance, excellent camera system, and premium build quality. However, some users have noted concerns regarding its battery life and thermal management during prolonged heavy use.

For users prioritizing extended battery life, expandable storage, and a device that handles everyday applications smoothly, the Galaxy A34 may be a suitable choice. Its newer release date also means a slightly longer period of major OS updates remaining. Conversely, individuals who require top-tier processing power for demanding applications, a more versatile camera system with telephoto capabilities, and a premium build will likely find the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G better suited to their needs. While its major OS update cycle is nearing its end, it still offers a high-end experience. Both devices are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing a sustainable choice for consumers.

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