Galaxy S22 5G Vs iPhone 13

Galaxy S22 5G
Galaxy S22 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:174.00

Versus €851.00 new

See options
iPhone 13
iPhone 13
Starting at

Refurbished price:233.00

Versus €769.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, released in February 2022, and the Apple iPhone 13, launched in September 2021, are both compact flagship smartphones that offer distinct experiences based on their respective operating systems. While the Galaxy S22 operates on Android, the iPhone 13 runs on iOS. These devices cater to users seeking premium features in a smaller form factor, with key differences emerging in their display technology, camera capabilities, and overall software ecosystems.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support are important factors. The iPhone 13, released in September 2021, typically receives iOS updates for approximately 5-6 years from its launch. This means it is expected to continue receiving major iOS versions until around late 2026 or 2027. The Galaxy S22 5G, launched in February 2022, benefits from Samsung's commitment to providing four major Android OS updates and five years of security updates. This policy suggests it will receive Android updates up to Android 16 and security patches until early 2027.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 13 generally offers a slightly longer period of major OS updates compared to the Galaxy S22 5G, extending its functional lifespan for users who prioritize the latest software features.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in water up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The iPhone 13 features a Ceramic Shield front cover, while the Galaxy S22 5G uses Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both its front and back, alongside an aluminum frame.
  • Repairability: The ease of repair for both models can vary depending on the specific component and service availability. Users considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either device can expect thorough checks and necessary repairs to ensure continued performance.

Year of Release

2022

2021

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating applications to engaging in demanding activities like gaming. Both the Galaxy S22 5G and the iPhone 13 deliver responsive experiences, though their underlying architectures differ.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 13 is equipped with a powerful processor that handles demanding applications and multitasking with efficiency, ensuring smooth operation and quick app loading times. The Galaxy S22 5G, depending on the region, features a current-generation processor designed to manage complex tasks and provide a fluid user experience.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPhone 13 comes with 4GB of RAM, which is optimized by iOS for efficient multitasking. The Galaxy S22 5G typically includes 8GB of RAM, allowing for robust handling of multiple applications simultaneously. Both devices offer a high level of system responsiveness for everyday use.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone 13 is available with 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage capacities. The Galaxy S22 5G offers 128GB and 256GB storage configurations. Neither device supports expandable storage via a microSD card.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 13 houses a 3240 mAh battery, providing reliable power for a full day of moderate use. The Galaxy S22 5G has a 3700 mAh battery, which, combined with its display and software optimizations, aims to offer comparable daily endurance. User experiences suggest that heavy usage on the Galaxy S22 5G might require more frequent charging.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and both the Galaxy S22 5G and the iPhone 13 offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone 13 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, known for its deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. The Galaxy S22 5G also has a 6.1-inch display, utilizing Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, which provides rich colors and strong contrast. Both offer sharp visuals suitable for media consumption and daily tasks.
  • Refresh Rate: A notable difference lies in the refresh rate. The Galaxy S22 5G boasts an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and more fluid animations, particularly noticeable during gaming or fast-paced content. The iPhone 13 features a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is consistent and responsive for general use.
  • Brightness Levels: For outdoor visibility, the Galaxy S22 5G can reach a peak brightness of 1300 nits, ensuring content remains clear even in bright sunlight. The iPhone 13 offers a peak brightness of 1200 nits for HDR content and 800 nits typical maximum brightness, providing strong visibility in various lighting conditions.
  • Screen Size and Viewing: Both devices feature a 6.1-inch screen, offering a comfortable viewing area that balances immersion with single-handed usability.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both the Galaxy S22 5G and the iPhone 13 are capable photographic tools, each excelling in different aspects of image and video capture.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 13 features a dual 12MP camera system with a wide and an ultra-wide lens. The main wide camera includes sensor-shift optical image stabilization for improved low-light performance and steady video. The Galaxy S22 5G offers a triple camera setup, including a 50MP wide lens, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This telephoto lens provides greater versatility for zooming in on subjects.
  • Low-Light and Everyday Photography: The iPhone 13's larger sensor on its main camera and computational photography features like Night mode and Deep Fusion contribute to strong performance in challenging lighting. The Galaxy S22 5G's 50MP main sensor and advanced image processing also deliver detailed and well-exposed photos in various conditions, with users reporting good results in low light.
  • Video Recording Quality: Both phones support 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second. The iPhone 13 introduces Cinematic mode, which allows for shallow depth of field and automatic focus transitions in video. The Galaxy S22 5G can record up to 8K video at 24fps, offering higher resolution for those who need it.
  • Front Camera: The iPhone 13 has a 12MP TrueDepth front camera with features like Portrait mode and Cinematic mode for selfies and video calls. The Galaxy S22 5G features a 10MP front camera with Dual Pixel PDAF for quick and accurate focus.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

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

  • Connectivity: Both devices support 5G connectivity for faster mobile data speeds. They also feature modern Wi-Fi standards (Wi-Fi 6 for Galaxy S22 5G, Wi-Fi 6 with 4x4 MIMO for iPhone 13) and Bluetooth (Bluetooth 5.2 for Galaxy S22 5G, Bluetooth 5.0 for iPhone 13) for robust wireless connections.
  • Ports and Biometrics: The iPhone 13 uses Apple's proprietary Lightning port for charging and data transfer. The Galaxy S22 5G utilizes a USB-C port, a more universal standard. For security, the iPhone 13 relies on Face ID for facial recognition, while the Galaxy S22 5G incorporates an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor.
  • Design and Build Materials: The iPhone 13 features a flat-edge design with an aluminum frame and a Ceramic Shield front cover, offering enhanced drop performance. The Galaxy S22 5G also has an aluminum frame, with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back for scratch resistance. Both phones have a premium feel and are designed to be durable.
  • Dimensions and Weight: The iPhone 13 measures 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65 mm and weighs 174g. The Galaxy S22 5G is slightly more compact at 146 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm and weighs 167g, making it marginally lighter and narrower. These differences are subtle but can impact one-handed use and pocketability.

Weight

195 g

173 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

Lightning

User feedback for the iPhone 13 often highlights its consistent performance, reliable camera system, and strong battery life for an iPhone. Many appreciate the seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem and the longevity of software support. Common criticisms sometimes point to the 60Hz display, which some users find less fluid compared to higher refresh rate screens on competing devices. The Galaxy S22 5G is frequently praised for its vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display, versatile camera system with optical zoom, and its compact design. However, some users have noted that its battery life, while adequate for many, might not consistently last a full day for heavy users, and its performance can sometimes be affected by thermal throttling under sustained load.

Users prioritizing a consistently smooth display experience and the flexibility of a telephoto camera might find the Galaxy S22 5G more aligned with their needs. Its Android operating system also offers greater customization options. Conversely, individuals who value extended software support, a highly optimized ecosystem, and a strong focus on video features like Cinematic mode may lean towards the iPhone 13. Both devices offer a premium smartphone experience in a compact form factor. For those looking for an eco-friendly alternative, considering a quality-assured refurbished version of either the Galaxy S22 5G or the iPhone 13 can be a practical choice, offering a sustainable way to access these advanced technologies.

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