Galaxy S22 5G vs iPhone 11

Galaxy S22 5G
Galaxy S22 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$353.00

Versus A$1,189.00 new

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iPhone 11
iPhone 11
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$246.00

Versus A$769.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, released in February 2022, and the Apple iPhone 11, launched in September 2019, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality from their respective manufacturers. While both offer capable smartphone experiences, they differ significantly in their operating systems, display technologies, and camera capabilities. The Galaxy S22 operates on Android, providing a customizable interface, whereas the iPhone 11 runs on Apple's iOS, known for its integrated ecosystem and user-friendly experience.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors. The Galaxy S22, being a more recent release, benefits from a longer expected period of major Android updates and security patches compared to the iPhone 11.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 11, released in 2019, has received several major iOS updates and is nearing the end of its typical major OS update cycle, though it may continue to receive security updates for some time. The Galaxy S22, launched in 2022, is expected to receive major Android updates for several more years, extending its software lifespan further into the future.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices feature robust builds. The Galaxy S22 incorporates Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back, along with an Armor Aluminum frame, contributing to its resistance against drops and scratches. The iPhone 11 uses durable glass and an aerospace-grade aluminum frame, and was noted for its strong build quality at the time of its release. Both models carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in water.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users can expect the Galaxy S22 to remain current with software features and security for a longer duration due to its newer release date. The iPhone 11, while still functional, will gradually see fewer new software features and eventually transition to security-only updates.

Release year

2022

2019

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from browsing to demanding applications. The Galaxy S22 and iPhone 11 offer different levels of responsiveness and processing power, reflecting their respective generations.

  • Processing Capabilities: The Galaxy S22 features a more modern processor, enabling it to handle graphically intensive games, complex applications, and heavy multitasking with greater efficiency and speed. The iPhone 11, powered by an earlier generation chip, still provides a smooth experience for everyday use and most applications, but may show limitations with the most demanding software or future updates.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: With 8GB of RAM, the Galaxy S22 offers more capacity for keeping multiple applications open and switching between them without noticeable slowdowns. The iPhone 11, typically equipped with 4GB of RAM, manages multitasking effectively within the iOS ecosystem, though the Galaxy S22 provides more headroom for intensive usage.
  • Storage Options: Both devices offer various internal storage configurations. The Galaxy S22 is commonly available with 128GB or 256GB of storage, while the iPhone 11 was offered in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options, providing flexibility for user needs.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience is a primary differentiator between these two smartphones, with significant advancements in display technology between their release dates.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S22 features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which delivers deep blacks, high contrast, and vibrant colors. Its resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels results in a sharp image. The iPhone 11 utilizes a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 828 x 1792 pixels, offering good color accuracy and viewing angles, though it does not match the contrast levels of an OLED panel.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S22 boasts a peak brightness of 1300 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions, and features an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and more fluid animations. The iPhone 11 has a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits and a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is suitable for most viewing but less fluid than the S22's display.
  • Viewing Experience: Both phones offer a 6.1-inch screen size, providing a comfortable viewing area. However, the Galaxy S22's superior display technology, higher resolution, and faster refresh rate contribute to a more immersive and responsive visual experience, particularly for media consumption and gaming.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

828 x 1792

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Liquid Retina IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a key consideration for many users, and both the Galaxy S22 and iPhone 11 offer versatile systems, though with different strengths and features.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S22 features a triple-camera setup, including a 50MP wide-angle lens, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. This configuration provides flexibility for various shooting scenarios, including detailed close-ups and distant subjects. The iPhone 11 comes with a dual-camera system, comprising a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, offering good versatility for everyday photography.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S22 benefits from more advanced image processing and a dedicated telephoto lens, which can result in more detailed and versatile shots, especially in challenging lighting conditions and for zoomed images. The iPhone 11 introduced a notable Night Mode, significantly improving low-light performance compared to its predecessors, and delivers consistent image quality in good lighting.
  • Video Recording and Audio: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, with the Galaxy S22 also offering 8K video recording at 24fps. The iPhone 11 is praised for its video stabilization and overall video quality. Both phones feature stereo speakers for media consumption, and the iPhone 11 includes an audio zoom feature for video recording.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and differentiate the Galaxy S22 from the iPhone 11.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S22 supports 5G cellular networks, offering faster data speeds in compatible areas, alongside Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. It uses a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone 11 supports 4G LTE networks, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0, and features Apple's proprietary Lightning port.
  • Biometric Security: For secure unlocking and authentication, the Galaxy S22 incorporates an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor embedded under the display. The iPhone 11 relies on Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system, which uses a TrueDepth camera.
  • Physical Attributes: The Galaxy S22 is generally lighter and thinner, weighing approximately 167g and measuring 7.6mm thick, which can contribute to a more comfortable in-hand feel. The iPhone 11 is slightly heavier at 194g and thicker at 8.3mm. Both devices feature glass backs and aluminum frames, contributing to a premium feel.

Weight

195 oz

194 oz

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.1

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

User feedback for the iPhone 11 often highlights its reliable performance, good battery life for its generation, and capable camera system, particularly with the introduction of Night Mode. Some users noted the LCD display as a point of comparison to higher-end models, and the proprietary file transfer methods as a minor inconvenience. The Galaxy S22, on the other hand, receives praise for its vibrant AMOLED display, compact design, and versatile camera setup, though some users have expressed concerns regarding its battery life under heavy usage.

Users prioritizing a modern Android experience with a high-refresh-rate OLED display, 5G connectivity, and a dedicated telephoto camera will find the Galaxy S22 well-suited to their needs. Its newer hardware offers a performance edge for demanding applications and a more contemporary design. Conversely, individuals seeking a reliable and intuitive iOS experience, a strong dual-camera system for general photography, and a device known for its consistent software support may lean toward the iPhone 11. While older, it still delivers a solid user experience for everyday tasks.

For those looking to make an informed and sustainable choice, both the Galaxy S22 and iPhone 11 are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new devices.

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