Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G Vs iPhone 12 Pro

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

Refurbished price:£247.00

Versus £1,364.00 new

See options
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:£204.00

Versus £879.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, released in 2022, and the Apple iPhone 12 Pro, launched in 2020, represent two different eras and philosophies in smartphone design. While the Galaxy S22 Ultra is a large-format device focused on productivity and advanced photography, the iPhone 12 Pro offers a more compact, streamlined experience within the iOS ecosystem. These devices cater to different user needs, with the Samsung model prioritising a built-in stylus and expansive screen, while the Apple model focuses on consistent performance and a manageable size for one-handed use. Both smartphones continue to be relevant for modern users, offering high-speed connectivity and sophisticated software features.

Scores

Durability

The two-year gap between these releases significantly impacts their long-term software outlook and physical design, though both are built to last several years.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 12 Pro typically receives updates for six to seven years from its launch, meaning it remains current despite its 2020 release. The Galaxy S22 Ultra, released in 2022, benefits from a committed four-year operating system update cycle, ensuring it stays relevant for a similar timeframe.
  • Build and Repair: Both devices feature glass and metal constructions that require careful handling. The Galaxy S22 Ultra includes an integrated stylus slot, which adds internal complexity, while the iPhone 12 Pro uses a flat-edge design that many users find easier to grip securely.
  • Sustainability: Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either model helps extend the lifecycle of these high-performance electronics, reducing environmental impact while maintaining functional standards.

Year of Release

2022

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Daily responsiveness and multitasking capabilities differ based on how each manufacturer manages system resources and power efficiency.

  • System Fluidity: The Galaxy S22 Ultra handles demanding multitasking and high-end gaming with ease, aided by a high refresh rate that makes animations appear very smooth. The iPhone 12 Pro remains highly responsive for everyday applications, though it lacks the ultra-smooth visual transitions found on newer or higher-end displays.
  • Battery Endurance: With a significantly larger internal battery, the Galaxy S22 Ultra is designed to last through a full day of intensive use, including navigation and media streaming. The iPhone 12 Pro has a smaller capacity, which generally requires a mid-day charge for heavy users but suffices for moderate daily tasks.
  • Storage and Memory: Both devices offer various storage capacities starting from 128GB, providing ample space for photos and documents without the need for external expansion or cloud reliance for basic needs.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience is one of the most noticeable differences between these two smartphones, particularly regarding size and display technology.

  • Display Technology: The Galaxy S22 Ultra features a 6.8-inch AMOLED display that offers deep blacks and exceptionally high peak brightness, making it very easy to read in direct sunlight. The iPhone 12 Pro uses a 6.1-inch OLED panel that provides excellent colour accuracy and clarity for standard indoor and outdoor viewing.
  • Motion Smoothness: A key differentiator is the refresh rate; the Samsung model adjusts its screen updates up to 120 times per second for fluid scrolling, whereas the iPhone 12 Pro is fixed at 60 times per second.
  • Viewing Area: Users who consume a lot of video content or work on documents will appreciate the expansive, nearly bezel-less screen of the S22 Ultra, while those who prefer a pocket-friendly device will find the iPhone 12 Pro more comfortable.

Resolution

1440 x 3088

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Photography enthusiasts will find distinct strengths in both the Samsung and Apple camera systems, tailored for different shooting styles and environments.

  • Zoom Capabilities: The Galaxy S22 Ultra excels at capturing distant subjects thanks to its dedicated dual-telephoto lens system, allowing for clear photos at high magnification levels. The iPhone 12 Pro offers a more modest zoom range, focusing instead on consistent image quality across its three main lenses.
  • Video and Focus: The iPhone 12 Pro is frequently praised for its natural-looking video recording and fast autofocus, aided by a specialised sensor that measures depth. The Galaxy S22 Ultra provides high-resolution video options and advanced software processing for vibrant, detailed shots in various lighting conditions.
  • Low-Light Performance: Both devices use advanced processing to brighten dark scenes, though the S22 Ultra's larger main sensor often captures more detail in challenging night-time environments.

Main camera

108 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

40 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical features like connectivity and physical ports play a major role in how these devices fit into a user's existing tech ecosystem and daily habits.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both smartphones support 5G networks for fast mobile data. The Galaxy S22 Ultra uses a universal USB-C port for charging and data transfer, while the iPhone 12 Pro utilises the proprietary Lightning connector.
  • Biometrics and Security: The Samsung model features an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor hidden beneath the glass for quick unlocking, whereas the Apple model relies on facial recognition technology, which is highly secure and works well in most lighting.
  • Integrated Tools: A unique feature of the S22 Ultra is the built-in S Pen, which allows for precise note-taking and sketching directly on the screen. The iPhone 12 Pro lacks stylus support but features MagSafe technology for easy attachment of magnetic accessories and chargers.

Weight

228 g

187 g

Screen size (in)

6.8

6.1

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

User consensus on community forums highlights that the choice between these two often comes down to the preference for screen size and operating system. The Galaxy S22 Ultra is frequently lauded for its all-in-one capability, with users praising the zoom camera and the utility of the S Pen for productivity. However, some find its large physical footprint cumbersome for one-handed use. Conversely, the iPhone 12 Pro is celebrated for its reliable performance and comfortable size, though users often note that the battery life and screen refresh rate feel dated compared to more recent releases.

Users who prioritise media consumption, digital note-taking, and advanced zoom photography will likely find the Galaxy S22 Ultra better suited to their needs. Those who prefer a more compact, durable design with a straightforward interface and long-term software support may lean toward the iPhone 12 Pro. Both devices remain powerful choices in the current market, especially when considered as an eco-friendly alternative through refurbishment. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you value the expansive features of a productivity-focused device or the refined, consistent experience of a classic smartphone.

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