Samsung Galaxy S22 and S22 Plus Device Review
Samsung fanatics rejoiced as the behemoth unveiled their new smartphone lineup: the Samsung Galaxy S 22 series. The unpacked event took place on February 9th. The S 22 lineup, just like every Galaxy S phone released in the last 12 years, was rumored to have better and more advanced features than its predecessor. But, now that the phones are out, how true are the rumors?
The S22 series, termed to be the best-of-the-best from Samsung, consists of three models: the Galaxy S 22, S 22 plus, and S 22 Ultra—each offering a new experience, and of course, at an extra dime each. The three models are already available for preorder as the shipping started later the same month after the event.
The S 22 plus offers an “expansive, colorful, and responsive” screen and an additional “impressive” photo capability, while the unique thing about the S 22 Ultra is its camera zooming quality. The S 22 so far has received a not-so-good review since its adjustments are minor compared to S 21. In fact, the S 22 and S 22 plus have a weak point— their battery life. But, the good thing is that the duo is fast and reliable.
The prevalent thing about the lineup is that they are powered by a 4nm processor that can detect and monitor app performance directing more or less power depending on the need. This type of processor is the first in Samsung’s Galaxy phone. Additionally, the company added that the Nightography and auto framing features would be available on all three phones. These features are set to ease your vlogging in the dark thirst and concurrently track and recognize up to 10 people when using the video mood.
It’s safe to say that the three phones are an iterative upgrade to the s21. Because, as seen in the Galaxy S 22, not much has changed either— even the price range isn’t as huge. The only thing differentiating the two is that the S22 has a slightly smaller battery and screen.
For the s22 Ultra, almost everything is advanced, but we’re concentrating on the s22 and s22 plus here.
And now that you’re aware of the basics and somewhat the things you could expect below is all the nitty-gritty work to help you understand the two phones better as you quench your geek lust.
Specifications
Samsung Galaxy s22
This entry-level phone in the flagship lineup lacks the other two’s premium features. But focusing on what it lacks does no good. So, let’s see the value it delivers:
- Starting price: $799
- Screen size: 6.1-inch AMOLED (2340 x 1080)
- Refresh rate: 48Hz – 120Hz (adaptive)
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (US); Exynos 2200 (UK)
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB
- Rear cameras: 50MP wide (f/1.8); 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2); 10MP telephoto (f/2.4) with 3x optical zoom
- Front camera: 10MP (f/2.2)
- Battery size: 3.700 mAh
- Battery life (Hrs: Mins): 7:52
- Size: 5.7 x 2.8 x 0.3 inches
- Weight: 5.9 ounces
- Colors: Phantom Black, Phantom White, Green, Pink Gold
- Samsung Galaxy s22 review- Software and performance
Two top-end processors power the flashy s22: the Snapdragon 8 gen 1 chipset in the U.S and Asia and Exynos 2200 chipset in Europe other parts of the world. This is fantastic news because the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is responsible for some of the best Android performance. However, even though it’s the most powerful chip of the two, not many can notice the difference. And either way, you’ll easily enjoy your gaming and other tasks.
The two chips are paired with 8GB RAM, and depending on the version you choose 128GB or 256GB storage. The snapdragon 8 gen 1 supports a faster processing speed and a higher and superior camera quality compared to the other 5G platforms. And with this model still supporting both sub-6Ghz networks and mmWave, it’s clear that Samsung is fully committed to 5G.
The Snapdragon X65 modem is used in the Galaxy S 22 as Qualcomm’s top-notch model until the end of the year when the X70 will start shipping.
- Display
If you’re familiar with Samsung phones, you’ll know that they have decent displays. The S 22’s screen is no different. It has brilliant and vibrant colors, dark blacks, and high maximum brightness.
The Galaxy S22 features a 6.1-inch display, which is 0.1 inches smaller than the Galaxy S21. The change is so subtle that you wouldn’t notice it unless you compared the two handsets side by side. The panel uses AMOLED technology and boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, FHD+ resolution, and 240Hz touch input rate.
This model got lower peak brightness compared to the others. The 1,300-nit peak brightness, however, is nothing to worry about. The clarity doesn’t change a lot under sunlight, but you’ll still have to fully crank up the brightness. And when you do, the color contrast will not be affected. Samsung included the Vision Booster technology to help maintain the colors even if the screen is at its brightest.
- Design
The materials on the Galaxy S22 have been upgraded, with an aluminum ring around the midsection and a Gorilla Glass Victus + glass back. And even though there’s some change in the material, the design remains the same. The only distinction is that the camera array’s color was different from the rest of the device’s back on the Galaxy s21, whereas the color matches on the Galaxy S22.
Samsung ensured that the material change would help with durability. But since the glass would still break if dropped on a hard surface, ensure you invest in getting one of the most refined Galaxy S22 cases and screen protectors.
If you decide to order from the company itself, you’ll get cream, graphite, violet, and sky-blue colors. Otherwise, the phone comes in Phantom White, Phantom Black, Green, and Pink Gold.
- Camera
Dual View and Single Take modes in the Samsung phones have, over the years, been helpful for photo-holics. However, the same modes have been used in the S 22, meaning no new experience will be offered.
The camera in this model feels a bit different. Its telephoto and main snappers are different, while the 12MP ultra-wide camera and 10 MP front-facing camera are still the same as its predecessor. The most significant change in the camera is the upgrade in the primary camera from 12MP to a 50 MP sensor. This change promises bolder and brighter colors.
While compared to the S 21, the S 22 has a 3x better optical zoom. However, the telephoto is 10Mp, a fall from 64MP.
- Battery
The battery life is one aspect most people don’t like about the phone. The battery capacity is small (3700mAh) as compared to its predecessor. And in some way, we can say it’s still a good thing since it should charge faster when you’re in a rush. The charging speed remains to be the same (4.5w and 15W), with it supporting both wireless and reverse wireless charging.
Samsung Galaxy s22 plus
The mid-tier models from Samsung have always had a plus added at the end. And in the Galaxy S 2022 flagship, the tradition still goes on. The Samsung Galaxy S 22 Plus is the best “consumer” device among the three. Here’s why:
- DESIGN
To increase robustness to the S22 plus, a gloss metal frame made with Samsung’s proprietary Armor Aluminum was used. This material helps the phone not disintegrate or scratch easily after a single drop. But you can still get a screen protector and a cover to avoid regrets.
And for comfort and beauty, because Samsung knows clearly that most of their clients love phone looks, a Gorilla Glass Victus plus front and back was also used.
The Contour Cut design- as Samsung calls it- is a thoughtful evolution of its predecessor. This helps in enclosing the camera sensors in separate sections. Although the design is similar to the s21, the camera module in S 22 is the same color as its body— the same effects found on the Galaxy S21FE.
Samsung opted for a frosted rear coating to help disguise the users’ fingerprints.
As you hold the phone, you’ll notice it’s not as curved as the iPhone 13 pro, but neither is it flat. Its shape is made specifically to ensure your fingers and palm will be safe as you hold or use the phone.
The Galaxy S22 Plus is palm-stretching, but you can easily use the volume rocker and power button (found on the right edge) with one hand.
The phone is available in Pink Gold, Green, Phantom Black, and Phantom White. The cream, pale blue, cream, and gray are only available on the Samsung website.
- Display
Is the S 22 plus super pricey or super cheap? The phone is definitely a good buy, but considering it’s a Samsung phone—they always go out of their way on their display— this device display isn’t as good. This phone has a resolution of 1080 x 2340 (or FHD+), just like most Android phones.
The good news is its maximum brightness (1,750 nits), and the contrast are excellent- thank you to the 6.5-inch AMOLED screen. The two collaborate with Samsung’s new Vision Booster system to tweak both brightness and contrast, enabling clear visibility in different light environments. The action when playing games or scrolling around is also smooth because of the 120Hz refresh rate and 240Hz touch sampling rate. FHD+ is sufficient for most tasks, as only a few streaming services and games provide content of a higher quality.
- Performance and Software
Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 from Qualcomm, the phone has a standard 8Gb RAM and storage tiers of 128GB AND 256GB. The Galaxy S22 Ultra is the only flagship phone that has an extra option when it comes to RAM. And however, the phone doesn’t have a high RAM tally; its performance is still surprisingly great.
The Galaxy S22 has Samsung’s own One UI 4.1 and comes with the Android 12. And as far as androids are concerned, Samsung, in the unveiling event, pledged to have the S series get four years of software updates. They’ll set a record in android phones currently battling a reputation of always being behind on OS updates.
- Cameras
The Galaxy S22 Plus is a significant improvement over its predecessor regarding the camera. In contrast to the Galaxy S21 Plus’s 3x hybrid zoom, the phone offers a rear 3x optical zoom.
The sensor on the phone is bigger and able to allow more light. In principle, this should result in better evening photography. In actuality, though, Samsung continues to struggle with low-light photographs that are excessively yellow and have significant white balance issues.
A 10MP selfie camera is located on the front of the phone. The 50MP main rear sensor is joined by a 12MP ultrawide and a 10MP telephoto sensor.
- Battery
First things first, there isn’t the inclusion of a charger. But when it comes to wired charging, the phone supports a 45W and 15W wireless charging- 20mins until halfway charged. Second, the phone uses a 4,500 mAh power pack, a 300mAh loss compared to its predecessor.
Phones that will see you through many years
The S22 and S22 plus are an excellent buy. With great day-to-day performance, versatile camera system able to take great videos and pictures, and not forgetting the pretty decent design the phones have, either of the phone will see you through many years, of course if taken care of. You can boost the robust material used with a screen protector from Tech Armor. The colors the two phones come in is also a plus for the behemoth.
And a quick tip: Don’t leave the house without the charger.