Galaxy S22+ 5G Vs iPhone SE (2020)

Galaxy S22+ 5G
Galaxy S22+ 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£167.00

Versus £1,174.01 new

See options
iPhone SE (2020)
iPhone SE (2020)
Starting at

Refurbished price:£67.00

Versus £289.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus 5G (2022) and the iPhone SE 2020 (2020) represent distinct approaches to smartphone design. While the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G is a modern, large-format device with a focus on display technology and camera versatility, the iPhone SE 2020 offers a compact, classic experience for those who prefer a smaller footprint. Operating on Android and iOS respectively, these devices cater to different ecosystems and user habits. Selecting an eco-friendly alternative like a refurbished model for either of these devices allows users to access high-quality technology while supporting more sustainable consumption practices.

Scores

Durability

Longevity is a crucial factor when selecting a smartphone, and both devices offer different advantages based on their release cycles and manufacturer support policies.

  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, launched in 2022, is scheduled to receive several years of operating system updates and security patches, ensuring it remains up-to-date with the latest apps for a significant period. The iPhone SE 2020, despite being older, benefits from a history of long-term software support, though it is naturally near the end of its update lifecycle compared to the Samsung.
  • Build and Repair: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G features modern glass and metal construction designed for resilience, while the iPhone SE 2020 uses a sturdy chassis that is well-known to repair technicians.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users can expect both devices to remain functional for several years, though the Galaxy's newer internal components provide more performance headroom for future software demands.

Year of Release

2022

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Everyday responsiveness and multitasking capabilities differ significantly between these two smartphones due to their internal hardware configurations and battery capacities.

  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G handles demanding applications and heavy multitasking with ease, providing a fluid experience when switching between many open apps. The iPhone SE 2020 remains responsive for daily tasks like messaging and browsing, though it may struggle more with intensive modern games or complex video editing.
  • Battery Endurance: With its larger physical size, the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G houses a higher-capacity battery that typically supports a full day of varied use. The iPhone SE 2020 has a smaller battery, which may require more frequent charging for users who frequently use GPS or stream video.
  • Storage and Memory: The Galaxy model offers more memory for background tasks, while both devices come in various storage capacities to house photos and files.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

3 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience is perhaps the most immediate difference between these two devices, impacting how users consume media and interact with their applications.

  • Display Technology: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G utilizes an advanced OLED panel that produces perfectly dark blacks and rich contrast, making it well-suited for watching films. The iPhone SE 2020 uses a classic LCD screen which offers natural colors but lacks the deep contrast and energy efficiency of OLED technology.
  • Smoothness and Motion: The Galaxy features an elevated refresh rate, resulting in smooth scrolling and animations compared to the standard refresh rate on the iPhone SE 2020.
  • Outdoor Visibility: The Galaxy's screen can reach intense brightness levels, making it easier to read under direct sunlight, whereas the iPhone SE 2020 may be more difficult to view in bright environments.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

750 x 1334

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Retina IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Photography and media playback are areas where the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G shows its more modern heritage compared to the single-lens system of the iPhone SE 2020.

  • Camera Versatility: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G features three distinct rear lenses, allowing users to zoom in on distant subjects or capture wide landscapes. The iPhone SE 2020 has a single rear lens that takes sharp photos in good lighting but lacks the flexibility of dedicated zoom or ultra-wide options.
  • Low-Light Performance: The Galaxy model includes specialized software and hardware for night-time photography, producing clearer images in dark settings. The iPhone SE 2020 performs best in daylight and may show more grain in dimly lit environments.
  • Audio Experience: Both devices offer clear stereo sound, but the larger body of the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G allows for a fuller audio profile when listening to music or podcasts without headphones.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

7 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Physical handling and connectivity features play a major role in the daily user experience and long-term utility of these two smartphones.

  • Connectivity Standards: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G supports high-speed mobile networks, providing faster data speeds in areas with 5G coverage. The iPhone SE 2020 is limited to 4G LTE networks, which is sufficient for most browsing but less future-ready.
  • Biometrics and Ports: The Galaxy uses a modern fingerprint sensor hidden under the display and a universal USB-C port for charging. The iPhone SE 2020 retains the classic Home button with a physical fingerprint sensor and uses a Lightning port.
  • Portability: The iPhone SE 2020 is significantly lighter and smaller, making it ideal for one-handed use and small pockets. The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G is a larger device that offers more screen space but usually requires two hands for comfortable operation.

Weight

195 g

148 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

4.7

Mobile network

5G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

In summary, the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G and the iPhone SE 2020 cater to distinct preferences. Based on user feedback from various forums, the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G is frequently praised for its immersive display and versatile camera system, though some users note that the device can become warm during intensive tasks. The iPhone SE 2020 is highly regarded for its portability and straightforward interface, with the most common criticism being its limited battery life for heavy users. Consensus among actual users suggests that the iPhone SE 2020 remains a dependable choice for those who value simplicity, while the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G is preferred by those who consume a lot of media.

Users who prioritize a large, vibrant display for streaming and a flexible camera system for photography will find the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G aligns well with their needs. Conversely, those who value a compact, lightweight device that is easy to handle and provides a familiar interface may prefer the iPhone SE 2020. Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either of these models is a sustainable choice that helps reduce electronic waste while providing a reliable device. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you prefer the modern, feature-rich experience of the Galaxy or the classic, portable simplicity of the iPhone SE.

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