Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G Vs Galaxy S23 Ultra

Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:350.00

Versus €1,445.00 new

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Galaxy S23 Ultra
Galaxy S23 Ultra
Starting at

Refurbished price:430.00

Versus €1,409.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, released in February 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, launched in February 2023, represent consecutive generations of Samsung's top-tier smartphone line. Both devices offer a comprehensive Android experience with integrated S Pen functionality. The primary distinctions between these models lie in their internal processing power, advancements in camera technology, and enhancements to overall durability and repairability.

Scores

Durability

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

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G was released in February 2022, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra followed in February 2023. This one-year difference means the S23 Ultra will generally receive software updates for a longer period.
  • OS Support: Samsung typically provides several years of major Android OS updates and security patches for its flagship devices. The newer Galaxy S23 Ultra is expected to receive one additional year of major OS updates compared to the S22 Ultra, extending its software lifespan.
  • Repairability: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G received a low repairability score of 3 out of 10 from iFixit, citing difficulties with battery replacement due to strong adhesive. In contrast, the Galaxy S23 Ultra shows improvements in repairability, with some reports indicating easier battery replacement due to pull tabs and a score of 4 out of 10 from iFixit, and even 9 out of 10 from PBKReviews.
  • Physical Durability: Both models feature an Armor Aluminum frame and IP68 dust and water resistance. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G uses Gorilla Glass Victus+ for display protection, while the S23 Ultra upgrades to Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offering enhanced resistance against scratches and drops.

Year of Release

2022

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is largely determined by its processing capabilities, memory, and how efficiently it manages power for daily tasks.

  • Processor: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G is powered by a processor that handles demanding applications and multitasking effectively. The Galaxy S23 Ultra features a newer, custom-tuned processor designed for Galaxy devices, which offers improved speed and power efficiency. This results in smoother operation, faster app loading, and enhanced performance for graphically intensive tasks like gaming.
  • Battery Behavior: Both devices are equipped with a 5000 mAh battery. However, user feedback for the S22 Ultra sometimes noted varying battery life, particularly with heavy usage or on mobile data. The S23 Ultra, benefiting from its more efficient processor, generally offers improved battery endurance, with many users reporting a full day of use.
  • Storage and RAM: Both models offer various storage configurations, including options for 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, paired with 8GB or 12GB of RAM. The S23 Ultra utilizes UFS 4.0 storage, which is faster than the UFS 3.1 found in the S22 Ultra, contributing to quicker app launches and data transfers.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and S23 Ultra feature expansive displays designed for an immersive viewing experience, though there are subtle differences in their protective layers.

  • Display Technology: Both smartphones utilize a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast.
  • Resolution and Brightness: Both displays feature a Quad HD+ resolution (3088 x 1440 pixels for S22 Ultra, 3088 x 1440 or 3080 x 1440 for S23 Ultra) and a peak brightness of 1750 nits, ensuring clarity and visibility even in bright outdoor conditions.
  • Refresh Rate: Both devices support an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz, providing smooth scrolling and fluid animations.
  • Screen Protection: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra features the newer Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which offers enhanced durability against drops and scratches.

Resolution

1440 x 3088

1440 x 3088

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both Ultra models are designed for versatile photography, with the S23 Ultra introducing significant upgrades to its main sensor.

  • Main Camera: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G features a 108 MP main sensor, capable of capturing detailed images and performing well in various lighting conditions. The Galaxy S23 Ultra elevates this with a 200 MP main sensor, which can capture even finer detail and offers improved low-light performance.
  • Zoom Capabilities: Both phones excel in zoom photography, featuring dual telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom) and up to 100x digital 'Space Zoom'. The S23 Ultra's improved processing can lead to slightly cleaner zoomed-in shots.
  • Video Recording: Both devices support 8K video recording. The S22 Ultra records at 24fps, while the S23 Ultra enhances this to 8K at 30fps, offering a smoother video experience and an increased field of view.
  • Low-Light Photography: While the S22 Ultra performs well in low light, the S23 Ultra shows notable improvements in 'Nightography' due to its larger sensor and more powerful processing, resulting in brighter and more detailed low-light images.

Main camera

108 megapixels

200 megapixels

Front camera

40 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core specifications, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these high-end smartphones.

  • Connectivity: Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and S23 Ultra support 5G connectivity, along with modern Wi-Fi standards (Wi-Fi 6E on S23 Ultra, Wi-Fi 6 on S22 Ultra) and Bluetooth 5.2 (S22 Ultra) or 5.3 (S23 Ultra), ensuring fast and reliable wireless connections.
  • Ports and Sensors: Both devices feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, and neither includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. They both integrate an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor and support facial recognition for secure unlocking.
  • S Pen Integration: A key feature for both Ultra models is the integrated S Pen stylus, offering enhanced productivity for note-taking, drawing, and navigation. The S23 Ultra's S Pen offers slightly reduced latency compared to its predecessor, providing a more responsive experience.
  • Dimensions and Build: The S22 Ultra measures 163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9 mm and weighs 228g. The S23 Ultra is very similar in dimensions at 163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9 mm and weighs 233g. Both feature an Armor Aluminum frame and glass front and back, contributing to a premium feel.

Weight

228 g

233 g

Screen size (in)

6.8

6.8

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User sentiment for both the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and S23 Ultra generally highlights their premium features and capabilities. For the S22 Ultra, common praise points include its versatile camera system, particularly its zoom capabilities, and the vibrant display. However, some users noted concerns regarding battery life, especially with heavy usage or on mobile data, and its lower repairability score.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is frequently lauded for its significantly improved battery life, enhanced camera performance with the 200 MP sensor and better low-light photography, and the more efficient processor. Users appreciate its overall smooth performance and the refined S Pen experience. Criticisms are less frequent but sometimes mention the continued presence of a curved screen, which can make screen protector application challenging, and the device's substantial size and weight.

Users prioritizing the absolute latest in camera technology, particularly for detailed photos and improved low-light performance, along with extended software support and better battery efficiency, may find the Galaxy S23 Ultra well-suited to their needs. Those who value the integrated S Pen and a premium Android experience but are content with slightly older processing power and camera specifications might consider the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G. Both devices offer a robust feature set, and choosing a quality-assured refurbished option can be an eco-friendly alternative for either model.

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