Galaxy S22 5G Vs Galaxy S25 Ultra

Galaxy S22 5G
Galaxy S22 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£145.00

Versus £899.00 new

See options
Galaxy S25 Ultra
Galaxy S25 Ultra
Starting at

Refurbished price:£647.00

Versus £1,249.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, released in 2022, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra, launched in 2025, represent two distinct eras of mobile technology. While the S22 was designed as a compact flagship for easy one-handed use, the S25 Ultra is a large-format device built for maximum productivity and advanced photography. Both run on the Android operating system with Samsung's custom interface, but the S25 Ultra benefits from several years of software evolution and a significantly larger footprint.

Scores

Durability

The timeline between these two devices significantly impacts their long-term utility and software support. The Galaxy S22 5G is an older model that is approaching the final stages of its major operating system update cycle, whereas the Galaxy S25 Ultra was released with a commitment to seven years of security and software updates. Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either model allows users to access these features while participating in a more circular electronics economy.

  • Software Longevity: The S25 Ultra offers a much longer functional lifespan in terms of software, with support expected to continue well into the early 2030s, while the S22 is better suited for shorter-term use.
  • Build Materials: The S25 Ultra features a robust titanium frame and advanced glass protection, providing high resistance to scratches and drops compared to the aluminium frame found on the S22.
  • Repairability: Both devices benefit from Samsung's widespread service network, though the S25 Ultra's internal layout is designed with more modern modularity in mind for easier component replacement.

Year of Release

2022

2025

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance differences between these generations are most noticeable during intensive multitasking and high-demand applications. The Galaxy S22 5G remains responsive for everyday tasks like browsing and social media, but the Galaxy S25 Ultra utilises more efficient internal hardware that manages heat better and maintains speed during long gaming sessions or video rendering.

  • System Responsiveness: The S25 Ultra handles heavy workloads and switching between multiple large apps without hesitation, whereas the S22 may show signs of slowing down when the system is under heavy load.
  • Battery Management: With a much larger battery capacity and more efficient power management, the S25 Ultra comfortably lasts through a full day of intensive use, while the S22 often requires a mid-day charge for active users.
  • Multitasking Capacity: The S25 Ultra includes higher memory specifications, allowing it to keep more apps open in the background simultaneously compared to the more modest memory found in the S22.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience is one of the most significant points of contrast, moving from a compact, standard display to a massive, high-brightness panel. The Galaxy S22 5G features a 6.1-inch AMOLED screen that is clear and vibrant, but the Galaxy S25 Ultra pushes the boundaries with a 6.8-inch display that includes advanced anti-reflective technology for better outdoor visibility.

  • Display Technology: The S25 Ultra uses a more advanced panel that can adjust its refresh rate more precisely, resulting in smoother scrolling and better power efficiency than the S22.
  • Outdoor Clarity: Users will find the S25 Ultra much easier to read under direct sunlight due to its significantly higher peak brightness levels compared to the older S22.
  • Productivity Space: The larger screen of the S25 Ultra provides ample room for split-screen multitasking and is specifically designed to work with an integrated stylus for precise input.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1440x3120

Audiovisual

Photography and media consumption have seen substantial updates between the 2022 and 2025 releases. The Galaxy S22 5G offers a reliable triple-camera system that takes sharp photos in daylight, but the Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces a high-resolution main sensor and a sophisticated dual-telephoto system for high-magnification zoom capabilities.

  • Zoom and Detail: The S25 Ultra excels at capturing distant subjects with its dedicated periscope lens, providing clear images at distances where the S22's digital zoom would lose significant detail.
  • Low-Light Performance: Improvements in sensor size and image processing allow the S25 Ultra to capture brighter, cleaner photos in dark environments with less visual noise than the S22.
  • Video and Audio: The S25 Ultra features enhanced video stabilisation and a multi-microphone array that filters out background noise more effectively during recordings and video calls.

Front camera

10 megapixels

12

Miscellaneous

Practical features and physical handling differ greatly due to the size and intended use case of each smartphone. The Galaxy S22 5G is prized for its light weight and pocketable dimensions, making it ideal for users who prefer small phones, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra is a substantial device that houses an integrated S Pen stylus.

  • Input and Tools: The S25 Ultra includes a built-in stylus that slides into the chassis, offering unique features for note-taking, drawing, and remote camera control that are not available on the S22.
  • Connectivity Standards: The S25 Ultra supports the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards, ensuring faster and more stable wireless connections in crowded environments compared to the older standards in the S22.
  • Biometrics and Ports: Both devices use secure under-display fingerprint sensors and USB-C ports, but the S25 Ultra offers faster data transfer speeds through its port for moving large files.

Weight

167 g

233 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.9

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User consensus highlights the Galaxy S22 5G as a favourite for those who value portability and a traditional smartphone feel, though many users note that its battery life is a limiting factor for heavy daily use. Conversely, the Galaxy S25 Ultra receives high praise for its expansive screen, exceptional camera versatility, and the utility of the S Pen, with the primary criticism being its large size and weight, which some find cumbersome for one-handed operation. Actual users often suggest that the S25 Ultra is a significant leap forward for those who use their phone as a primary work tool or creative device.

Users prioritising a compact design that fits easily into a pocket and handles basic tasks with ease may prefer the Galaxy S22 5G. In contrast, users prioritising professional-grade photography, long-lasting battery life, and a large screen for media or productivity will find the Galaxy S25 Ultra better suited to their needs. Choosing a sustainable choice through refurbishment allows consumers to access these high-end features while reducing the environmental footprint associated with new electronics. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you value the portability of the S22 or the expansive capabilities of the S25 Ultra.

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