Galaxy S22 5G vs Motorola Edge 50

Galaxy S22 5G
Galaxy S22 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$353.00

Versus A$1,189.00 new

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Motorola Edge 50
Motorola Edge 50
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The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G (2022) and the Motorola Edge 50 Pro (2024) are both Android smartphones, yet they cater to slightly different user expectations due to their release timelines and design philosophies. While the Galaxy S22 5G was a compact flagship upon its release, the Motorola Edge 50 Pro, launched two years later, offers a larger display and more recent internal components. Both devices run on the Android operating system, providing a familiar software experience, though with distinct manufacturer customizations.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, their release dates and manufacturer support policies are key factors.

  • Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G was released in February 2022, making it an older device compared to the Motorola Edge 50 Pro, which launched in April 2024. This two-year difference impacts their remaining software support and overall age.
  • OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S22 5G launched with Android 12 and was promised four major OS updates, with Android 16 being its last major OS upgrade. It also receives five years of security updates, which are expected to end in 2027. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro, launching with Android 14, is slated to receive three generations of OS updates, up to Android 17, and four years of security patches until 2028. This means the Motorola Edge 50 Pro will receive major OS updates for a longer period than the Galaxy S22 5G.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the longest possible software support and access to the latest Android features may find the Motorola Edge 50 Pro to be a more future-proof option. The Galaxy S22 5G, while still receiving security updates, has already reached its final year of major OS updates as of early 2026.

Release year

2022

2024

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to demanding games and multitasking.

  • Everyday Responsiveness: The Galaxy S22 5G, powered by a flagship-tier processor from its release year, offers smooth performance for general use, app loading, and multitasking. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro, with its more recent, though not top-tier, processor, also provides a fluid experience for average users and can handle multiple applications running simultaneously.
  • Demanding Applications: For intensive tasks like high-fidelity gaming or complex video editing, the Galaxy S22 5G's processor, being a flagship chip from 2022, generally delivers robust performance. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro performs well for most games and demanding apps, though some users might notice a slight difference in sustained peak performance during extended heavy use compared to a flagship-grade chip.
  • Storage and Multitasking: Both devices offer various storage configurations, with the Galaxy S22 5G available in 128GB and 256GB options, typically paired with 8GB of RAM. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro provides more flexibility with storage options up to 512GB and RAM configurations up to 12GB, which can benefit users who store many files or frequently switch between numerous applications.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S22 5G features a 3700 mAh battery, which some users have noted may require more frequent charging, especially with heavy usage. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro comes with a larger 4500 mAh battery, generally offering better endurance for a full day of typical use.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer distinct viewing experiences.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080 pixels), providing vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro sports a larger 6.7-inch pOLED display with a 1.5K resolution (2712 x 1220 pixels), offering a slightly sharper image and more screen real estate.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: The Galaxy S22 5G can reach a peak brightness of up to 1300 nits, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro boasts a higher peak brightness of up to 2000 nits, which can provide superior readability under direct sunlight.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: Both phones offer high refresh rates for a fluid visual experience. The Galaxy S22 5G has an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro features a 144Hz refresh rate, which can result in even smoother scrolling and animations, particularly noticeable during gaming or fast-paced content.
  • Design and Viewing Experience: The Galaxy S22 5G has a flat display, contributing to a compact form factor. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro features a curved display, which can offer an immersive viewing experience, though some users might find it prone to accidental touches.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1220x2712

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems designed to capture a variety of moments, though with some differences in their approach and capabilities.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S22 5G includes a triple camera setup with a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. This configuration allows for versatile shooting, from wide landscapes to zoomed-in subjects. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro also features a triple camera system, comprising a 50MP main sensor with a wider aperture, a 13MP ultrawide lens that doubles as a macro camera, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S22 5G is known for producing vibrant and sharp images, with good performance in various lighting conditions, including improved low-light shots compared to its predecessor. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro is praised for its camera quality, delivering sharp details and balanced colors, with its main camera performing well in diverse settings. Its ultrawide lens also offers macro capabilities.
  • Video Recording: The Galaxy S22 5G supports video recording up to 8K resolution at 24 frames per second. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro records video up to 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. Both offer optical image stabilization on their main lenses for steadier footage.
  • Front Camera: The Galaxy S22 5G has a 10MP front-facing camera. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro features a higher resolution 50MP front camera with autofocus, which can be beneficial for detailed selfies and video calls.

Front camera

10 megapixels

32 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device handling.

  • Connectivity: Both devices support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data speeds. The Galaxy S22 5G includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro offers more advanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4, potentially providing faster and more stable wireless connections.
  • Ports and Biometrics: Both smartphones feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. For security, both utilize in-display fingerprint sensors and face recognition. The Galaxy S22 5G uses an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, while the Motorola Edge 50 Pro employs an optical one.
  • Build Materials and Durability: The Galaxy S22 5G features a premium build with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back, encased in an aluminum frame, and carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro also has an IP68 rating and an aluminum frame, with a glass front (Gorilla Glass) and a vegan leather back on some variants, offering a distinct tactile feel.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The Galaxy S22 5G is a more compact device, measuring 146 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm and weighing 167g, making it easier for one-handed use and pocketability. The Motorola Edge 50 Pro is larger and slightly heavier at 161.2 x 73.5 x 8.2 mm and 186g, offering a more expansive screen experience.

Weight

195 oz

180 oz

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.7

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G and the Motorola Edge 50 Pro present compelling options for different user preferences. The Galaxy S22 5G is often praised for its compact size, premium build quality, and capable camera system that delivers vibrant photos. Users appreciate its flagship performance for everyday tasks and its bright, colorful display. However, a frequent criticism has been its battery life, which some users find requires more frequent charging, especially with heavy use.

The Motorola Edge 50 Pro, on the other hand, receives commendation for its larger, high-refresh-rate display, offering a very smooth visual experience. Its battery life is generally considered good, and its fast charging capabilities are a notable advantage. The camera system is also well-regarded for its versatility and detailed output, particularly the high-resolution front camera. Some users have noted that while its processor offers good performance for most tasks, it might not match the sustained peak performance of a top-tier flagship chip during very intensive use.

Users prioritizing a compact form factor, a highly refined software experience, and a proven camera system for general photography may find the Galaxy S22 5G well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value a larger, smoother display, longer battery life, faster charging, and a more recent device with extended OS update potential might lean towards the Motorola Edge 50 Pro. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers looking to make an informed and sustainable choice.

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