Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G Vs Galaxy S25+

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

Refurbished price:£247.00

Versus £1,364.00 new

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Galaxy S25+
Galaxy S25+
Starting at

Refurbished price:£550.00

Versus £958.39 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, released in February 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus, launched in February 2025, represent different generations within Samsung's flagship smartphone lineup. While both devices operate on the Android platform with Samsung's One UI, the S25 Plus introduces advancements in processing power, display technology, and software longevity, whereas the S22 Ultra offers a more versatile camera system and integrated stylus functionality.

Scores

Durability

The age difference between these two devices significantly impacts their expected practical lifespan and software support.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G was released in February 2022, making it a more mature device. The Galaxy S25 Plus, launched in February 2025, benefits from being a newer model.
  • Software Longevity: The S22 Ultra 5G was promised four major Android OS upgrades (up to Android 16) and five years of security updates, with support expected to conclude around 2027. In contrast, the Galaxy S25 Plus launched with Android 15 and is guaranteed seven generations of OS upgrades (up to Android 22) and seven years of security updates, extending its support until approximately 2032.
  • Repairability: The S22 Ultra 5G received a lower repairability score, primarily due to the extensive use of strong adhesive, making battery replacements and screen repairs more challenging. The Galaxy S25 Plus, however, shows significant improvements in repairability, with features like easier battery removal, contributing to a higher repairability assessment.

Year of Release

2022

2025

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance capabilities see a notable generational leap between these two Samsung smartphones.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S25 Plus features a significantly newer generation processor, which translates to smoother operation for demanding applications, more efficient multitasking, and enhanced performance in graphically intensive games. The S22 Ultra 5G, while still capable for everyday tasks, uses an older generation processor.
  • System Responsiveness: Users of the S25 Plus will experience faster app loading times and more fluid transitions due to the advancements in its internal components. The S22 Ultra 5G provides a responsive experience for most users, but the S25 Plus offers a more immediate feel.
  • Storage and RAM: Both devices offer various storage configurations. The S25 Plus typically starts with 12GB of RAM, providing ample capacity for extensive multitasking and keeping numerous applications open in the background without slowdowns. The S22 Ultra 5G was available with 8GB or 12GB RAM options.
  • Battery Behavior: Despite the S22 Ultra 5G having a slightly larger battery capacity (5000 mAh) compared to the S25 Plus (4900 mAh), the S25 Plus often demonstrates improved real-world battery endurance due to a more power-efficient processor and optimized software.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

Both devices offer high-quality displays, but the newer S25 Plus brings enhancements in brightness and clarity.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: Both the S22 Ultra 5G and the S25 Plus feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The S22 Ultra 5G has a 6.8-inch display with a resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels. The S25 Plus has a 6.7-inch display with a QHD+ resolution of 1440 x 3120 pixels, offering a slightly higher pixel density.
  • Brightness Levels: The S25 Plus offers a significantly higher peak brightness of 2600 nits, making it more easily viewable in bright outdoor conditions compared to the S22 Ultra 5G's 1750 nits peak brightness.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both models feature a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and fluid animations.

Resolution

1440 x 3088

1440x3120

Audiovisual

The camera systems on these phones offer distinct capabilities, catering to different photography preferences.

  • Camera System Configuration: The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G features a quad-camera setup, including a 108 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultrawide, a 10 MP 3x optical telephoto, and a 10 MP 10x optical periscope telephoto lens. The Galaxy S25 Plus comes with a triple camera system, comprising a 50 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultrawide, and a 10 MP 3x optical telephoto lens.
  • Zoom Capabilities: The S22 Ultra 5G stands out with its 10x optical zoom, offering greater reach for distant subjects. The S25 Plus provides 3x optical zoom, which is suitable for many common telephoto needs.
  • Photography Performance: While the S22 Ultra 5G delivers strong performance in various lighting conditions, including impressive detail with its high-resolution main sensor and versatile zoom, the S25 Plus benefits from newer sensor technology and improved image processing, leading to enhanced clarity and color accuracy in everyday shots. The S25 Plus also introduces features like Log mode for video recording, offering more flexibility for post-production.
  • Front Camera: The S22 Ultra 5G has a 40 MP front camera, while the S25 Plus features a 12 MP front camera. Both are capable of capturing detailed selfies and supporting video calls.

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate these two devices.

  • Connectivity: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity, ensuring access to the latest mobile network speeds. The S25 Plus generally supports newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards, offering potentially faster and more stable wireless connections.
  • Port Types: Both devices utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. Neither model includes a traditional headphone jack.
  • Biometric Sensors: Both phones feature in-display fingerprint sensors for secure unlocking. Face recognition is also available on both.
  • Physical Design and Handling: The S22 Ultra 5G is a larger and heavier device, partly due to its integrated S Pen. It measures 163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9 mm and weighs 228g. The S25 Plus is slightly more compact and lighter, measuring around 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7 mm and weighing approximately 197g, making it potentially more comfortable for one-handed use for some users.
  • Integrated S Pen: A key distinguishing feature of the S22 Ultra 5G is its integrated S Pen stylus, offering precise input for note-taking, drawing, and navigation. The S25 Plus does not include an S Pen.
  • Build Materials: Both phones feature a premium construction with glass front and back panels (Gorilla Glass Victus+ on S22 Ultra, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on S25 Plus) and an aluminum frame, providing durability and a quality feel. The S25 Plus may incorporate titanium elements in its frame.

Weight

228 g

190 g

Screen size (in)

6.8

6.7

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G and Galaxy S25 Plus cater to slightly different user priorities, reflecting their respective release timelines and design philosophies.

Users frequently praise the S22 Ultra 5G for its comprehensive camera system, particularly its versatile zoom capabilities and the unique productivity offered by the integrated S Pen. Its large, vibrant display also receives consistent positive feedback. Some common criticisms, however, have included its earlier processor's thermal management under heavy load and its relatively lower repairability score.

The Galaxy S25 Plus is often lauded for its significant performance upgrades, excellent display brightness, and notably extended software support, ensuring a longer period of up-to-date features and security. Its improved repairability is also a positive point for those considering long-term ownership. Some user feedback suggests that while its camera system is capable, it may not offer the same level of zoom versatility as the Ultra models, and its design might be seen as an iterative update.

Users prioritizing a comprehensive camera system with advanced optical zoom and the unique functionality of an integrated stylus may find the Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value the latest processing power, superior display brightness, a longer software support window, and improved ease of repair will likely lean towards the Galaxy S25 Plus. Both devices offer a premium Android experience, and choosing between them depends on whether a user prioritizes cutting-edge performance and longevity or specialized camera and stylus features. For those seeking an eco-friendly alternative, both models are available as quality-assured refurbished options.

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