Galaxy S22 5G Vs Google Pixel 7

Galaxy S22 5G
Galaxy S22 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£145.00

Versus £899.00 new

See options
Google Pixel 7
Google Pixel 7
Starting at

Refurbished price:£140.99

Versus £649.99 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, released in early 2022, and the Google Pixel 7, which followed in late 2022, are two significant entries in the Android smartphone market. While both devices offer a high-quality user experience, they cater to slightly different preferences regarding size, camera capabilities, and software integration. The Galaxy S22 is known for its compact build and versatile lens array, while the Pixel 7 focuses on Google’s unique software features and a larger footprint. Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either model is a sustainable choice that provides modern technology while reducing electronic waste. Both devices run the Android operating system, though Samsung’s One UI and Google’s Pixel interface provide different visual styles and navigation tools for users to explore.

Scores

Durability

The Galaxy S22 and Pixel 7 offer different expectations for long-term use based on their release dates and manufacturer support commitments.

  • Software longevity: Samsung committed to four years of major operating system updates for the S22, meaning it will remain current until early 2026, while the Pixel 7 is supported for three years, reaching its limit in late 2025.
  • Physical build: Both phones feature high-grade glass and metal frames, but the S22 uses a slightly more scratch-resistant glass on both sides, whereas the Pixel 7 uses a similar material that is durable but slightly older in its composition.
  • Repairability: Both manufacturers have made strides in providing parts for repairs, though the S22’s internal layout is often noted by technicians as being slightly more complex to navigate than the Pixel 7’s more straightforward assembly.

Year of Release

2022

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Everyday responsiveness and battery endurance are key factors where these two devices diverge in practical daily usage.

  • System responsiveness: The Galaxy S22 provides a snappy experience when opening demanding applications or switching between tasks, though it can generate noticeable heat during intensive gaming sessions compared to the Pixel 7.
  • Battery endurance: The Pixel 7 features a larger battery capacity, which generally allows it to last through a full day of moderate use more comfortably than the S22, which may require a top-up by early evening for active users.
  • Multitasking: Both devices come with ample memory for keeping multiple apps open in the background, ensuring that users can return to their work or social media without the apps restarting frequently.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience on these devices is defined by differences in smoothness, brightness, and physical dimensions.

  • Fluidity: The Galaxy S22 features a screen that can refresh its image 120 times per second, resulting in smooth scrolling and animations compared to the Pixel 7, which refreshes 90 times per second.
  • Outdoor visibility: Users who frequently use their phones in direct sunlight will find the S22 easier to read, as its display is designed to reach higher brightness levels than the Pixel 7.
  • Size and immersion: The Pixel 7 offers a 6.3-inch display, providing more room for watching videos or reading documents, while the S22’s 6.1-inch screen is more manageable for one-handed use and fits more easily into smaller pockets.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

AMOLED

Audiovisual

Photography and media consumption are handled differently by Samsung’s hardware-heavy approach and Google’s software-centric strategy.

  • Zoom capabilities: The Galaxy S22 includes a dedicated telephoto lens that allows for clear photos of distant subjects, a feature that the Pixel 7 lacks, as it relies on digital cropping for zoomed-in shots.
  • Image processing: The Pixel 7 is frequently noted for its ability to capture natural skin tones and handle high-contrast scenes, such as sunsets, with a balanced look that many users find more realistic than Samsung’s more vibrant colour tuning.
  • Video and Audio: Both devices record high-definition video with effective stabilisation, but the Pixel 7 offers unique software tools for removing background noise from recordings, while the S22 provides a traditional, high-clarity stereo speaker setup.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

10.8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical considerations like weight, connectivity, and security sensors play a significant role in how these phones feel in hand.

  • Portability and weight: The Galaxy S22 is notably lighter and thinner, making it one of the most pocket-friendly flagship phones of its era, whereas the Pixel 7 has a more substantial, heavier feel due to its larger battery and horizontal camera bar.
  • Security features: The S22 uses an ultrasonic sensor under the screen that works quickly even with damp fingers, while the Pixel 7 uses an optical sensor that shines a light to read the fingerprint, which some users find slightly slower in dark environments.
  • Connectivity: Both phones support 5G networks and modern Wi-Fi standards, ensuring fast download speeds and reliable connections for streaming or video calls in areas with compatible infrastructure.

Weight

167 g

197 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.3

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback from various online communities highlights that the choice between these two devices often comes down to a preference for hardware versatility versus software simplicity. Owners of the Galaxy S22 frequently praise its compact size and the flexibility of the zoom lens, though some express frustration with the battery life during long days. Conversely, Pixel 7 users often highlight the smart features like automated call screening and the clean interface, while noting that the fingerprint sensor can occasionally be less consistent than they would like.

Users who prioritise a small, lightweight phone with a versatile camera for travel photography may prefer the Galaxy S22. Those who value a larger screen, longer battery life, and a simplified software experience will likely lean toward the Pixel 7. Both smartphones remain highly capable devices in the current market. Opting for an eco-friendly alternative like a quality-assured refurbished model allows users to access these features while supporting more sustainable consumption habits. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you value the S22's compact versatility or the Pixel 7's intelligent software and endurance.

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