Galaxy A25 Vs Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G

Galaxy A25
Galaxy A25
Starting at

Refurbished price:£121.00

Versus £272.58 new

See options
Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£247.00

Versus £1,364.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A25, released in late 2023, is a mid-range smartphone designed for everyday use, while the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, launched in early 2022, represents a premium flagship experience. Both devices operate on the Android platform with Samsung's One UI, but they cater to different user needs with distinct performance capabilities, camera systems, and build qualities. The A25 offers extended software support due to its newer release, while the S22 Ultra provides a more advanced display and versatile camera setup.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, their release timelines and build materials play a significant role.

  • Software Support: The Galaxy A25, being a newer device, is expected to receive Android operating system updates for a longer period, potentially extending its software relevance by an additional year compared to the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G. The A25 is promised four years of OS updates and five years of security updates. The S22 Ultra 5G was promised four years of OS updates and five years of security updates from its release in 2022, meaning its major OS updates conclude with Android 16 and security updates continue until 2027.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G features a premium construction with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back, paired with an aluminum frame, offering enhanced resistance to drops and scratches. The Galaxy A25 utilizes Gorilla Glass 5 on the front and a plastic back and frame, providing a more standard level of protection. The S22 Ultra also boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.
  • Practical Lifespan: For users prioritizing the latest software features, the A25 offers a longer update window into the future. However, the S22 Ultra's robust build and high-end components mean it can remain a capable device for many years, provided its software support is sufficient for the user's needs.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance capabilities of these two smartphones differ significantly, reflecting their respective market segments.

  • Everyday Responsiveness: The Galaxy A25 handles daily tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming smoothly, providing a responsive experience for most users. Its processor is efficient for general use, though some users report occasional lag or stuttering, particularly with the 6GB RAM variant.
  • Demanding Applications: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, equipped with a more powerful processor, delivers a consistently smooth and fast experience across all applications, including intensive gaming and heavy multitasking. Apps load quickly, and the system maintains fluidity even under significant load.
  • Storage and RAM: The Galaxy A25 typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, with expandable storage via a microSD card. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G offers 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 128GB to 1TB, but it does not support expandable storage.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

Both devices feature AMOLED displays, but the quality and capabilities vary between the mid-range and flagship models.

  • Display Technology: The Galaxy A25 features a Super AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks suitable for media consumption. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G boasts a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which provides even greater color accuracy, contrast, and overall visual fidelity.
  • Resolution and Brightness: The Galaxy A25 has a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels) on its 6.5-inch screen, which is sharp for its size, and a peak brightness of 1000 nits. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G features a larger 6.8-inch display with a higher Quad HD+ resolution (1440 x 3088 pixels) and a significantly brighter peak brightness of 1750 nits, enhancing visibility in bright outdoor conditions.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both phones offer a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. However, the S22 Ultra's display is adaptive, meaning it can dynamically adjust its refresh rate from 1Hz to 120Hz to conserve battery life.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1440 x 3088

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera systems are a major differentiating factor, with the S22 Ultra 5G offering a more advanced and versatile setup.

  • Main Camera Performance: The Galaxy A25 features a capable 50-megapixel main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) for clear everyday photos. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G includes a high-resolution 108-megapixel main sensor with OIS and laser autofocus, capturing more detail and performing better in various lighting conditions.
  • Versatility and Zoom: The Galaxy A25 includes an 8-megapixel ultrawide and a 2-megapixel macro lens for basic wide-angle and close-up shots. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G offers a comprehensive quad-camera system, including a dedicated 12-megapixel ultrawide lens and two 10-megapixel telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom) with OIS, providing exceptional flexibility for capturing distant subjects and a wider range of perspectives.
  • Video and Front Camera: Both devices can record high-quality video, but the S22 Ultra 5G offers more advanced video features and stabilization, including 8K recording. For selfies and video calls, the S22 Ultra 5G's 40-megapixel front camera delivers more detailed and sharper images compared to the A25's 13-megapixel front camera.

Main camera

50 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

13 megapixels

40 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements distinguish these two Samsung smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both phones support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Galaxy A25 retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is convenient for users with wired audio accessories. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G does not have a headphone jack. Both utilize USB-C for charging and data transfer.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy A25 features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G employs an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, offering a more seamless unlocking experience. Both also support face recognition.
  • Unique Features and Handling: A standout feature of the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G is its integrated S Pen, which allows for precise note-taking, drawing, and remote control functionalities, enhancing productivity and creativity. The A25 is generally lighter at 197g and has a more conventional smartphone form factor, while the S22 Ultra 5G is larger and heavier at 228g due to its premium build and S Pen housing.

Weight

197 g

228 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.8

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

Choosing between the Galaxy A25 and the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G depends heavily on individual priorities and usage patterns. The Galaxy A25 is often praised for its solid battery life, vibrant display, and extended software support for a mid-range device, making it a reliable choice for everyday communication and media consumption. Some users note its plastic build and less powerful camera system as areas where it doesn't match flagship performance.

The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, despite being an older model, is frequently lauded for its exceptional camera versatility, stunning display, and the unique productivity features offered by the S Pen. Its powerful performance remains highly capable for demanding tasks. Common criticisms sometimes point to its battery life for very heavy users, especially given its high-resolution screen and powerful processor, and its larger size and weight.

Users prioritizing long-term software updates and a more compact, lighter device with a headphone jack may find the Galaxy A25 well-suited to their needs. It's a practical choice for those who primarily use their phone for social media, browsing, and casual photography. Conversely, users who demand top-tier camera performance, a highly responsive and vibrant display, and the unique functionality of the S Pen will likely lean towards the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G. Its robust build and powerful internals still offer a premium experience for demanding applications and creative tasks.

For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, extending the life cycle of these electronics.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons