Galaxy S22+ 5G Vs iPhone SE (2020)

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

Refurbished price:195.00

Versus €1,283.00 new

See options
iPhone SE (2020)
iPhone SE (2020)
Starting at

Refurbished price:91.35

Versus €319.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, released in February 2022, and the iPhone SE 2020, launched in April 2020, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. The Galaxy S22 Plus offers a larger, more modern Android experience with advanced features, while the iPhone SE 2020 provides a compact iOS experience with a classic design. The primary differentiators lie in their operating systems, display technologies, and camera systems.

Scores

Durability

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

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone SE 2020 was released in April 2020, making it an older device compared to the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, which launched in February 2022. This two-year difference in release dates directly impacts their expected software support lifespans.
  • OS Support: Apple typically provides iOS updates for 5-6 years from a device's release, suggesting the iPhone SE 2020 may receive updates until around 2025 or 2026. Samsung generally offers 4-5 years of Android OS updates and 5 years of security updates for its flagship devices like the S22 Plus, potentially extending its software relevance further into the future than the iPhone SE 2020.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S22 Plus features Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back, along with an Armor Aluminum frame, contributing to its robust build. It also boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing submersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. The iPhone SE 2020 has a glass front and back with an aluminum frame and an IP67 rating, meaning it can withstand submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.

Year of Release

2022

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is influenced by its internal components, affecting everything from app loading times to multitasking capabilities and battery efficiency.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G is equipped with a more recent-generation processor, which translates to faster app loading, smoother transitions between applications, and more efficient handling of demanding tasks like high-fidelity gaming or video editing. The iPhone SE 2020, while still capable, features an older generation processor.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S22 Plus comes with 8GB of RAM, providing ample capacity for seamless multitasking and keeping numerous applications open in the background without slowdowns. It offers storage options of 128GB and 256GB. The iPhone SE 2020 has 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for everyday use but may show limitations with very heavy multitasking. Its storage options include 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S22 Plus houses a larger 4500 mAh battery, generally offering extended usage times for most users. The iPhone SE 2020 has a smaller 1821 mAh battery, which means heavy users may find themselves needing to recharge more frequently.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

3 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and these two devices offer different visual experiences.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S22 Plus features a 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and high contrast. The iPhone SE 2020 has a smaller 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD display, which provides accurate colors but does not offer the same level of contrast as an AMOLED panel.
  • Resolution and Brightness: The S22 Plus offers a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, resulting in sharp images and text, and boasts a peak brightness of 1750 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions. The iPhone SE 2020 has a resolution of 750 x 1334 pixels and a peak brightness of 625 nits, which is adequate for most indoor and outdoor viewing but may struggle in direct sunlight compared to the S22 Plus.
  • Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S22 Plus features an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother scrolling experience and more fluid animations. The iPhone SE 2020 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

750 x 1334

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Retina IPS LCD

Audiovisual

For many users, the camera system is a crucial aspect of a smartphone, and these two models offer different photographic capabilities.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S22 Plus features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP wide lens, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. This allows for a wide range of photographic styles, from expansive landscapes to detailed zoomed-in shots. The iPhone SE 2020 has a single 12MP wide camera.
  • Photography Performance: The S22 Plus generally excels in various lighting conditions, offering strong low-light performance and detailed images. Its multiple lenses provide flexibility for different scenarios. The iPhone SE 2020's single camera, while capable of producing good photos in well-lit environments, may not offer the same versatility or low-light performance as the S22 Plus.
  • Video Recording: The Galaxy S22 Plus supports video recording up to 8K resolution at 24fps, along with 4K at 30/60fps. The iPhone SE 2020 can record 4K video at up to 60fps.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

7 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core features, several other elements contribute to the overall user experience and practical utility of a smartphone.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S22 Plus supports 5G connectivity, offering faster mobile data speeds where available, and features Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. It uses a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone SE 2020 supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0, and uses Apple's proprietary Lightning port.
  • Biometric Security: The S22 Plus incorporates an under-display fingerprint sensor and face recognition for secure unlocking. The iPhone SE 2020 utilizes Touch ID, a fingerprint sensor integrated into its home button.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S22 Plus has dimensions of 157.4 x 75.8 x 7.6 mm and weighs 195g, offering a larger screen experience. The iPhone SE 2020 is a more compact device, measuring 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and weighing 148g, making it easier for one-handed use and pocketability.

Weight

195 g

148 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

4.7

Network

5G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

Lightning

User feedback often highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each device. For the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, common praise points include its vibrant and smooth display, versatile camera system, and strong overall performance. Users appreciate the modern design and the extensive features offered by the Android operating system. Some criticisms may revolve around its larger size, which might not appeal to those preferring a more compact device.

The iPhone SE 2020 is frequently lauded for its familiar and compact design, the reliable performance of its processor for everyday tasks, and the consistent iOS experience. Its single camera is often praised for producing good quality photos in adequate lighting. However, common criticisms often point to its smaller battery capacity, which can lead to more frequent charging for heavy users, and its older design with larger bezels compared to contemporary smartphones.

Users prioritizing a large, immersive display, a comprehensive camera system, and the latest Android features will find the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus 5G well-suited to their needs. Its robust build and extended software support also make it a strong contender for those seeking a device with a longer practical lifespan. Conversely, users who value a compact form factor, the simplicity and security of iOS, and a device that is easy to handle with one hand may lean toward the iPhone SE 2020. Both devices offer a quality experience, and choosing between them often comes down to personal preference regarding operating system, size, and specific feature priorities. For those considering either model, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can be an eco-friendly alternative.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons