Galaxy S25+ Vs iPhone SE (2022)

Galaxy S25+
Galaxy S25+
Starting at

Refurbished price:624.00

Versus €1,401.57 new

See options
iPhone SE (2022)
iPhone SE (2022)
Starting at

Refurbished price:127.00

Versus €549.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus, released in early 2025, and the Apple iPhone SE 2022, launched in early 2022, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. While the Galaxy S25 Plus offers a modern, expansive display and a versatile camera system, the iPhone SE 2022 maintains a compact form factor with a traditional home button and a focus on core performance. Both devices operate on their respective advanced mobile operating systems, Android 15 for the S25 Plus and iOS 15 (upgradable) for the iPhone SE, providing different user experiences.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and physical resilience. These two devices offer different profiles in these areas.

  • Release Timeline and OS Support: The Galaxy S25 Plus, released in February 2025, benefits from a commitment to seven years of OS and security updates, with support expected to continue until 2032. In contrast, the iPhone SE 2022, launched in March 2022, was discontinued in February 2025, and while it continues to receive iOS updates, its future software support window is shorter compared to the newer Samsung device.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S25 Plus features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both its front and back, along with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating robust protection against environmental elements. The iPhone SE 2022 uses strong glass similar to the iPhone 13 series and carries an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, offering good protection against splashes and submersion.
  • Repairability: The Galaxy S25 Plus has been noted for its improved repairability, with some assessments giving it a high score due to features like an enhanced battery pull pouch and the use of standard Philips screws. The iPhone SE 2022 is considered to have average repairability, with components like the screen and battery being relatively accessible for replacement, though adhesive use can add complexity.

Year of Release

2025

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key aspect for daily use, encompassing how smoothly applications run, how efficiently the device multitasks, and its overall responsiveness.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S25 Plus is equipped with a current-generation processor, designed to handle demanding applications and multitasking with efficiency. The iPhone SE 2022 features a powerful chip that enables smooth operation for everyday tasks and gaming, benefiting from tight integration with its operating system.
  • Multitasking and Storage: With 12 GB of RAM, the Galaxy S25 Plus is well-suited for extensive multitasking and running numerous applications simultaneously without slowdowns. It offers storage options starting from 256 GB. The iPhone SE 2022 comes with 4 GB of RAM and storage options starting at 64 GB, which is sufficient for typical user needs but may be more limiting for heavy multitasking or large media libraries.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S25 Plus houses a 4900 mAh battery, providing substantial power for extended usage throughout the day, with some tests indicating over 13 hours of continuous use. The iPhone SE 2022 has a 2018 mAh battery, which, combined with its efficient processor, can last a full day with moderate use, though heavy usage may require more frequent charging.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display is the primary interface for user interaction, and differences in technology, size, and resolution significantly impact the viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy S25 Plus features a 6.7-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display with a high resolution of 3120x1440 pixels, resulting in sharp images and vibrant colors. The iPhone SE 2022 has a smaller 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display with a resolution of 1334x750 pixels, offering clear visuals but with less detail and contrast compared to an OLED panel.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S25 Plus boasts a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and fluid animations, along with a peak brightness of 2600 nits for excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. The iPhone SE 2022 has a standard 60 Hz refresh rate and a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits, which is suitable for most indoor and outdoor environments but less fluid than higher refresh rate displays.
  • Viewing Experience: The larger, edge-to-edge display of the Galaxy S25 Plus offers an immersive viewing experience, ideal for media consumption and productivity. The iPhone SE 2022's compact screen and traditional bezels provide a more classic smartphone feel, suitable for users who prefer a smaller device for one-handed use.

Resolution

1440 x 3120 pixels

750 x 1334

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, with differences in hardware and software impacting photo and video quality across various scenarios.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S25 Plus features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 50 MP wide-angle main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12 MP ultra-wide camera, and a 10 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS. This configuration allows for a wide range of photographic styles, from expansive landscapes to detailed close-ups. The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a single 12 MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture and OIS, which, combined with its powerful processor, delivers strong image processing for everyday photos.
  • Photography Features: The Galaxy S25 Plus benefits from advanced computational photography features and AI enhancements, contributing to improved object recognition, color reproduction, and low-light performance. The iPhone SE 2022 includes features like Smart HDR 4, Deep Fusion, and Portrait mode, but it lacks a dedicated Night Mode, which can impact low-light photography compared to devices with more advanced sensors and software.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: The Galaxy S25 Plus is capable of recording 8K video at 30 frames per second from its main camera, and 4K video from its other lenses, along with a 12 MP front-facing camera. The iPhone SE 2022 supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second and features a 7 MP front camera, suitable for video calls and selfies.

Front camera

12MP

7 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience, including connectivity, physical design, and security options.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S25 Plus supports 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone SE 2022 also offers 5G (sub-6 GHz) and Wi-Fi 6, but it utilizes a Lightning connector, a proprietary port for charging and accessories.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S25 Plus incorporates an in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking and authentication. The iPhone SE 2022 features Touch ID, a fingerprint sensor integrated into its physical home button, providing a familiar and reliable method for unlocking the device.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The Galaxy S25 Plus measures 158.4 x 75.8 x 7.3 mm and weighs 190g, offering a larger footprint that can be beneficial for screen real estate but may require two-handed operation for some users. The iPhone SE 2022 is more compact at 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and weighs 144g, making it easier to handle with one hand and fit into smaller pockets.

Weight

190 g

144 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

4.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus and the iPhone SE 2022 cater to different user preferences, reflecting their distinct design philosophies and release timelines. Users often praise the Galaxy S25 Plus for its expansive and vibrant display, its versatile camera system, and its long-term software support. Criticisms sometimes focus on its larger size, which may not appeal to those preferring a more compact device. Conversely, the iPhone SE 2022 is frequently lauded for its powerful internal components within a familiar, compact design, and the continued reliability of its operating system. Some users express concerns about its smaller, older display technology and its single camera setup, especially in comparison to more modern smartphones.

Users prioritizing a large, high-resolution, and high-refresh-rate display, along with a comprehensive multi-camera system and extended software support, may find the Galaxy S25 Plus well-suited to their needs. Its robust battery life and advanced performance make it a strong contender for power users and multimedia enthusiasts. On the other hand, users who value a compact form factor, a physical home button with Touch ID, and a streamlined user experience will likely prefer the iPhone SE 2022. It remains a capable device for everyday tasks, offering reliable performance for those who do not require the latest display or camera innovations.

For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can be an eco-friendly alternative, providing access to these technologies while supporting sustainable consumption.

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