Galaxy S22 5G Vs Galaxy S25

Galaxy S22 5G
Galaxy S22 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£139.00

Versus £859.00 new

See options
Galaxy S25
Galaxy S25
Starting at

Refurbished price:£435.00

Versus £766.13 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, released in 2022, and the Galaxy S25, launched in 2025, represent two different eras of Samsung’s compact flagship smartphones. While both devices share a similar design philosophy focused on portability and high-end features, the three-year gap between them introduces significant advancements in battery efficiency and long-term software support.

Both run on the Android operating system, though the Galaxy S25 benefits from a much newer version out of the box and a significantly longer commitment to future updates. This comparison explores how these two devices handle daily tasks and which user profiles they serve best.

Scores

Durability

The timeline of release plays a crucial role in how long these devices will remain functional and secure for the average user.

  • Software support: The Galaxy S22 was launched with a promise of four years of major operating system updates, meaning its support cycle is nearing its conclusion, whereas the Galaxy S25 is part of a newer initiative offering seven years of guaranteed updates.
  • Practical lifespan: Because the Galaxy S25 was released much later, it features hardware components designed to last well into the early 2030s, while the Galaxy S22 is better suited for users who do not plan to keep their device for more than another year or two.
  • Repairability: Both models are compatible with modern repair programs, though the internal layout of the Galaxy S25 has been refined to allow for slightly easier battery replacements compared to the more integrated design of the older model.

Year of Release

2022

2025

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

While both smartphones handle everyday tasks with ease, the newer model offers a more fluid experience during demanding activities.

  • System responsiveness: The Galaxy S25 manages multitasking and heavy applications with greater ease, showing fewer signs of heat when switching between multiple open windows compared to the Galaxy S22.
  • Battery behavior: Users of the Galaxy S22 often find they need to recharge before the end of a full day of moderate use, while the Galaxy S25 utilizes more efficient internal hardware to provide a more reliable full-day experience.
  • Storage and memory: Both devices offer ample space for photos and apps, but the Galaxy S25 features faster memory technology that allows for quicker file transfers and faster loading times for large games or video editing software.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The display technology in both phones is high-quality, but the Galaxy S25 offers improvements that are particularly noticeable in bright environments.

  • Outdoor visibility: The Galaxy S25 features a significantly higher peak brightness, making the screen much easier to read under direct sunlight compared to the Galaxy S22, which can sometimes struggle with glare.
  • Refresh rate technology: While both offer a smooth 120Hz experience, the Galaxy S25 uses more advanced variable refresh rate technology that can drop lower to save power when the screen is static, a feature that is less sophisticated on the older model.
  • Clarity and color: Both devices use vibrant OLED panels that provide deep blacks and rich colors, making them well-suited for watching high-definition videos or browsing through high-resolution photography.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080x2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Photography and video recording remain central to both devices, with the newer model focusing on refined processing and better low-light results.

  • Low-light performance: The Galaxy S25 captures clearer images with less digital noise in dark environments, thanks to updated sensors and more advanced image processing software that helps brighten shadows naturally.
  • Video stabilization: Users who record video while walking will notice that the Galaxy S25 provides a smoother, more stable image, reducing the shakiness that can sometimes be present in footage from the Galaxy S22.
  • Audio and microphones: Both smartphones feature clear stereo speakers and multiple microphones that filter out background noise during calls, though the Galaxy S25 offers a slightly more balanced sound profile for media consumption.

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core technical specifications, the physical handling and connectivity options distinguish these two generations of hardware.

  • Connectivity standards: The Galaxy S25 supports newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards, ensuring faster and more stable connections to home networks and wireless accessories compared to the older standards found in the Galaxy S22.
  • Weight and handling: Both devices are designed for one-handed use, but the Galaxy S25 manages to include a larger battery and screen while maintaining a weight that feels very similar to the Galaxy S22 in the hand.
  • Security features: Each phone utilizes an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor under the display for secure access, providing a fast and reliable way to unlock the device even if the user's fingers are slightly damp.

Weight

168 g

162 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.2

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback from various tech communities highlights a clear distinction between these two generations. The Galaxy S22 is often praised for its compact size and reliable camera system, though many users frequently mention that the battery life requires careful management throughout the day. In contrast, the Galaxy S25 receives high marks for its high screen brightness and the peace of mind provided by its long-term software update policy. Some users have noted that the Galaxy S25 feels like a more refined version of the compact flagship formula, addressing the stamina concerns that affected its predecessors.

Users who prioritize a compact device for basic communication and social media may find that a quality-assured refurbished option of the Galaxy S22 meets their needs well. However, those who require a phone that can last through a heavy workday without a charger, or those who want to keep their device for many years, will likely find the Galaxy S25 to be the more suitable choice. Choosing a sustainable choice like a refurbished Galaxy S25 can also serve as an eco-friendly alternative for those looking to reduce their environmental impact while still accessing modern mobile technology. The decision rests on whether the user values immediate functionality or long-term software and battery endurance.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons