Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G Vs Galaxy S24 Ultra

Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£247.00

Versus £1,364.00 new

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Galaxy S24 Ultra
Galaxy S24 Ultra
Starting at

Refurbished price:£426.00

Versus £1,357.64 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, released in February 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, launched in January 2024, represent two generations of Samsung's premium smartphone line. While both devices offer a comprehensive feature set, including an integrated stylus, the S24 Ultra introduces advancements in processing power, display technology, and camera capabilities, alongside extended software support.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline and OS Support: The Galaxy S22 Ultra launched with Android 12, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra debuted with Android 14. Samsung has committed to providing seven years of major operating system updates and security patches for the S24 Ultra, offering a significantly longer support period compared to the S22 Ultra's typical four to five years of OS updates. This means the S24 Ultra will receive software enhancements and security coverage for a considerably extended duration.
  • Software Longevity Expectations: Users prioritizing long-term software relevance and access to the latest features will find the S24 Ultra's extended update policy more appealing. The S22 Ultra, while still receiving updates, is closer to the end of its guaranteed support cycle.
  • Repairability and Build Materials: Both models feature robust construction with glass fronts and backs. The S22 Ultra uses Gorilla Glass Victus+ and an aluminum frame. The S24 Ultra upgrades to Gorilla Glass Armor for enhanced scratch resistance on the front display and incorporates a titanium frame, which is noted for increased strength compared to aluminum. This change in material aims to improve overall durability, though the weight difference between the two models is minimal.

Year of Release

2022

2024

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is central to its user experience, influencing everything from app responsiveness to multitasking efficiency and gaming capabilities.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 Ultra features a newer generation processor, which translates to smoother operation and more efficient handling of demanding applications and complex tasks. This newer hardware provides a noticeable improvement in overall system responsiveness compared to the S22 Ultra.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices are capable of handling multiple applications simultaneously. However, the S24 Ultra's updated internal components contribute to a more fluid experience during heavy multitasking and quicker app loading times. Users engaging in intensive activities like high-fidelity mobile gaming or advanced photo and video editing will likely observe the performance advantages of the S24 Ultra.
  • Battery Behavior: Both smartphones are equipped with a 5000 mAh battery. However, the S24 Ultra generally demonstrates improved real-world battery endurance. This is largely due to the greater power efficiency of its newer processor and display technology, allowing it to maintain power for longer periods under typical usage conditions. Users of the S22 Ultra have reported noticeable battery degradation over time, with some experiencing significantly reduced screen-on time by 2026.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both Ultra models offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct differences.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: Both the Galaxy S22 Ultra and S24 Ultra feature 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with Quad HD+ resolutions, providing sharp and detailed visuals. The S24 Ultra's resolution is slightly higher at 3120 x 1440 pixels compared to the S22 Ultra's 3088 x 1440 pixels.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: A key enhancement in the S24 Ultra is its significantly higher peak brightness, reaching up to 2600 nits, compared to the S22 Ultra's 1750 nits. This increased brightness, combined with a new anti-reflective coating and Gorilla Glass Armor, substantially improves screen legibility in bright outdoor conditions and reduces glare.
  • Refresh Rate and Viewing Experience: Both devices offer an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and fluid animations. The S24 Ultra also features a flat display, a departure from the S22 Ultra's curved edges. This flat design can make the S Pen easier to use across the entire screen and simplify screen protector application.

Resolution

1440 x 3088

1440 x 3120

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Both Ultra models are designed with advanced camera systems, offering versatility for various photographic and videographic needs.

  • Camera System Capabilities: The Galaxy S22 Ultra features a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, a 10MP 3x telephoto, and a 10MP 10x periscope telephoto lens. The Galaxy S24 Ultra upgrades the main sensor to 200MP and replaces the 10x telephoto with a 50MP 5x periscope telephoto, while retaining the 12MP ultrawide and 10MP 3x telephoto. The front camera on the S22 Ultra is 40MP, while the S24 Ultra has a 12MP front camera.
  • Photography Performance: The S24 Ultra's 200MP main sensor and improved image processing contribute to greater detail and clarity in photos. The 50MP 5x telephoto lens on the S24 Ultra, despite having a lower optical zoom factor than the S22 Ultra's 10x, benefits from a larger sensor and wider aperture, leading to better performance in low-light conditions and improved image quality at 10x zoom and beyond. Users report that the S24 Ultra produces excellent portrait shots with natural-looking bokeh.
  • Video Recording Quality: Both phones are capable of recording 8K video at 24fps, with the S24 Ultra extending this to 30fps on the main and 5x telephoto cameras. The S24 Ultra also offers 4K video recording at up to 120fps in Pro Video mode, and features like AI-powered slow-motion conversion enhance video capabilities.

Main camera

108 megapixels

200 megapixels

Front camera

40 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core features, several practical elements differentiate these two devices, impacting daily usability and overall experience.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both models support 5G connectivity, ensuring fast mobile data speeds. The S24 Ultra includes support for the newer Wi-Fi 7 standard, offering potentially faster and more stable wireless connections compared to the S22 Ultra's Wi-Fi 6E. Both devices utilize a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer and lack a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • S Pen Functionality: Both the S22 Ultra and S24 Ultra integrate the S Pen stylus directly into the device, offering precise input for note-taking, drawing, and navigation. The S24 Ultra enhances S Pen functionality with AI-powered features such as Circle to Search, which allows users to quickly search for content by circling it on the screen, and improved handwriting-to-text conversion with auto-formatting and translation options.
  • Build Materials and Dimensions: The S22 Ultra features an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back. The S24 Ultra upgrades to a titanium frame and Gorilla Glass Armor for the display, which offers enhanced scratch resistance. The S24 Ultra also adopts a flat display, which can improve grip and S Pen usability. The dimensions and weight are very similar, with the S24 Ultra weighing 232g/233g and the S22 Ultra weighing 228g/229g.

Weight

228 g

232 g

Screen size (in)

6.8

6.8

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and Galaxy S24 Ultra both offer a premium smartphone experience, but the S24 Ultra, as the newer model, brings several refinements and advancements. User feedback for the S24 Ultra frequently praises its exceptional battery life, versatile camera system, smooth performance, and the utility of its AI features. The display, with its increased brightness and anti-reflective coating, is also a common highlight. Some initial user discussions around the S24 Ultra touched on display vividness and camera processing, though these were often addressed through software updates.

For the S22 Ultra, users initially lauded its strong battery life and comprehensive feature set. However, by 2026, some users report a noticeable decline in battery performance. While still a capable device, its software support window is shorter compared to its successor.

Users who prioritize the longest possible software support, cutting-edge performance for demanding tasks, and enhanced camera capabilities, particularly in varied lighting conditions and with AI features, will find the Galaxy S24 Ultra well-suited to their needs. Its brighter, flat display and more durable build materials also contribute to a refined user experience. Conversely, users who require a powerful device for everyday tasks and photography but do not necessarily need the absolute latest advancements or the extended software longevity might find the Galaxy S22 Ultra still meets their requirements. Both models, especially when considering quality-assured refurbished options, offer a sustainable choice for consumers looking to make informed decisions about their electronic purchases.

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