Galaxy S22 5G Vs Google Pixel 8 Pro

Galaxy S22 5G
Galaxy S22 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:174.00

Versus €851.00 new

See options
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:293.00

Versus €1,099.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, released in February 2022, and the Google Pixel 8 Pro, launched in October 2023, represent different generations within the Android smartphone landscape. While both offer premium smartphone experiences, they cater to slightly different user priorities. The Galaxy S22 5G emphasizes a compact design and a refined user interface, whereas the Pixel 8 Pro focuses on advanced computational photography, extended software support, and a larger display. Both devices run on the Android operating system, with distinct approaches to software experience and updates.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key differentiators.

  • Software Longevity: The Google Pixel 8 Pro, released in late 2023, benefits from Google's commitment to providing seven years of operating system updates, security updates, and feature drops, offering an extended period of software relevance. The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, launched in early 2022, typically receives four major Android OS updates and five years of security updates from its release, meaning its software support window is shorter.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices feature robust builds with glass fronts and backs, and aluminum frames, offering IP68 ratings for dust and water resistance. The Pixel 8 Pro utilizes Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for its display and back, an iteration newer than the Gorilla Glass Victus+ found on the Galaxy S22 5G.
  • Repairability: While specific repairability scores can vary, the Pixel series generally aims for a degree of repairability, with Google providing public service manuals and OEM parts. However, some reports indicate the Pixel 8 Pro's design, with glued screens and soldered components, can make DIY repairs challenging. The Galaxy S22 5G also presents challenges for repair, typical of modern smartphones with integrated designs.

Year of Release

2022

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to demanding multimedia experiences.

  • Processing Power: The Google Pixel 8 Pro, with its newer generation processor and 12GB of RAM, generally offers a more responsive experience for demanding applications, intensive multitasking, and advanced on-device AI features. The Galaxy S22 5G, equipped with 8GB of RAM, provides smooth performance for everyday use and most applications, but may show a difference in speed and efficiency during very heavy workloads or graphically intensive gaming compared to the Pixel 8 Pro.
  • Storage Options: Both devices offer 128GB and 256GB internal storage configurations. The Pixel 8 Pro extends its offerings to include 512GB and 1TB options, providing more flexibility for users who require extensive storage for media, apps, and large files. Neither device supports expandable storage via a microSD card.
  • Battery Behavior: The Pixel 8 Pro houses a larger 5050 mAh battery, which generally translates to longer usage times for many users, often lasting a full day with moderate to heavy use. The Galaxy S22 5G features a 3700 mAh battery, which some users report may require more frequent charging, especially with heavy usage throughout the day.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Google Pixel 8 Pro features a larger 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display, providing ample screen real estate for media consumption and productivity. The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G offers a more compact 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which is preferred by users seeking a smaller form factor for easier one-handed use.
  • Brightness and Clarity: The Pixel 8 Pro's display boasts a higher peak brightness of up to 2400 nits, making it exceptionally visible even in bright outdoor conditions. The Galaxy S22 5G's display reaches a peak brightness of 1300 nits, which is still bright enough for most outdoor scenarios. Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks characteristic of OLED technology.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The Pixel 8 Pro features an adaptive refresh rate that can scale from 1Hz to 120Hz, optimizing power consumption while providing smooth scrolling and animations. The Galaxy S22 5G also offers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, which dynamically adjusts between 48Hz and 120Hz to balance performance and battery efficiency.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1344 x 2992

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

LTPO OLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones are equipped with advanced camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos, though they approach imaging with different strengths.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Google Pixel 8 Pro features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50 MP main sensor, a 48 MP ultrawide sensor with autofocus, and a 48 MP telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom. This configuration provides excellent detail and flexibility across various focal lengths. The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G also has a triple-camera system, comprising a 50 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultrawide, and a 10 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
  • Photography Performance: The Pixel 8 Pro is widely praised for its computational photography, delivering consistent image quality, accurate colors, and strong low-light performance across its lenses. Its advanced software processing often enhances details and dynamic range. The Galaxy S22 5G also offers capable photography, with its main sensor capturing detailed images and its telephoto lens providing good zoom capabilities. Users generally find its photos vibrant and suitable for sharing.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: Both devices support 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, with the Galaxy S22 5G also offering 8K recording at 24fps. The Pixel 8 Pro's video capabilities are enhanced by its advanced stabilization and processing. For selfies, the Pixel 8 Pro has a 10.5 MP front camera with autofocus, while the Galaxy S22 5G features a 10 MP front camera.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

10.5 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data speeds. The Pixel 8 Pro includes Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3, offering newer standards for wireless communication. The Galaxy S22 5G supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Both utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
  • Biometric Security and Sensors: Both smartphones incorporate under-display fingerprint sensors for secure unlocking. The Pixel 8 Pro additionally offers secure face recognition for unlocking and authentication, along with a unique built-in thermometer sensor.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S22 5G is a more compact and lighter device, measuring 146 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm and weighing 167g, making it easier to handle with one hand. The Pixel 8 Pro is larger and heavier at 162.6 x 76.5 x 8.8 mm and 213g, which can be beneficial for users who prefer a more substantial device and larger screen.

Weight

195 g

213 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Google Pixel 8 Pro often highlights its exceptional camera performance, particularly its computational photography capabilities, and the promise of extended software support for seven years. Many users appreciate the clean Android experience and the integration of Google's AI features. However, some criticisms include inconsistent battery life for certain usage patterns and occasional reports of the device getting warm under heavy load.

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G is frequently praised for its compact size, vibrant display, and overall premium build quality. Its camera system is also well-regarded for producing vivid images. A common point of concern among users, however, is its battery life, which some find to be less than ideal for a full day of heavy use.

Users prioritizing a long-lasting software experience, advanced camera features, and a larger display will find the Google Pixel 8 Pro well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value a more compact form factor, a slightly more traditional Android interface, and a refined design may lean toward the Samsung Galaxy S22 5G. Both devices offer compelling features, and choosing between them often comes down to these individual preferences. For those considering either model, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative.

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