Galaxy S22+ 5G vs Galaxy S25

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

Refurbished price:A$389.00

Versus A$1,690.00 new

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Galaxy S25
Galaxy S25
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$852.00

Versus A$1,399.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus 5G, released in February 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S25, launched in February 2025, represent two distinct generations within Samsung's flagship smartphone lineup. While both devices operate on the Android platform, the three-year gap introduces notable advancements in processing power, software longevity, and camera capabilities. This comparison will highlight the practical differences to help users make an informed decision.

Scores

Durability

The expected lifespan of a smartphone is significantly influenced by its release timeline and the manufacturer's software support policy.

  • Software Support: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G launched with Android 12 and is expected to receive four major Android OS updates, bringing it up to Android 16, along with five years of security updates, concluding around February 2027. In contrast, the Galaxy S25, released with Android 15 and One UI 7, benefits from Samsung's extended commitment of seven years of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates, ensuring support until approximately 2032. This makes the Galaxy S25 a more future-proof option in terms of software longevity.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices feature premium build materials, including Gorilla Glass for screen protection and an Armor Aluminum frame, contributing to their overall resilience. They also share an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes. The Galaxy S25, being a newer model, incorporates Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which offers enhanced drop and scratch resistance compared to the Gorilla Glass Victus+ found on the S22 Plus 5G.
  • Repairability: While specific repairability scores can vary, both models are designed with a focus on component integration typical of modern flagship smartphones. The availability of parts and repair services tends to be robust for Samsung's popular Galaxy S series, though the newer S25 may benefit from a longer period of readily available official parts.

Release year

2022

2025

Operating system

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key differentiator, with the generational gap bringing significant improvements in speed and efficiency.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S25 features a current-generation processor, offering substantial improvements in raw computational power and graphical performance compared to the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G's processor. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive experience when navigating the user interface. Demanding applications and graphically intensive games will run with greater fluidity on the newer device.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G typically comes with 8GB of RAM, while the Galaxy S25 is commonly available with 8GB or 12GB of RAM. The increased RAM in some S25 configurations allows for more applications to run simultaneously in the background without performance degradation. Both devices offer internal storage options starting at 128GB and 256GB, with the S25 potentially offering a 512GB option.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G is equipped with a 4500 mAh battery, while the Galaxy S25 has a 4000 mAh battery. Despite the smaller capacity, the Galaxy S25's more efficient processor and optimized software can lead to comparable or even improved real-world battery endurance for typical usage patterns. However, for users who consistently engage in very heavy tasks, the larger battery of the S22 Plus 5G might offer a slight advantage in sustained usage.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

Both devices offer high-quality displays, but there are differences in size and brightness that impact the viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Size: Both the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G and the Galaxy S25 feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, known for their vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. A primary distinction lies in screen size: the S22 Plus 5G offers a larger 6.6-inch display, providing a more expansive canvas for media consumption and productivity. The Galaxy S25, on the other hand, has a more compact 6.2-inch display, which can be preferred for one-handed use and pocketability.
  • Resolution and Clarity: Both phones feature Full HD+ resolutions (1080 x 2340 pixels), delivering sharp and clear visuals for everyday viewing. The pixel density is high enough on both to ensure individual pixels are not discernible during normal use.
  • Brightness and Smoothness: The Galaxy S25 boasts a higher peak brightness of up to 2600 nits, offering superior visibility in bright outdoor conditions compared to the S22 Plus 5G's 1750 nits peak brightness. Both devices feature an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and a responsive touch experience.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080x2340

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both smartphones are capable, but the newer Galaxy S25 benefits from generational advancements in sensor technology and computational photography.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G features a versatile triple-camera setup with a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S25 maintains a similar configuration with a 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP 3x telephoto lens. While the megapixel counts are similar, the S25's newer sensors and improved image processing algorithms generally result in better detail, color accuracy, and dynamic range, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  • Low-Light and Video Performance: The Galaxy S25 typically offers enhanced low-light photography capabilities, producing brighter and clearer images with less noise due to its more advanced image signal processor. For video recording, the S25 supports 8K resolution at 30 frames per second, an improvement over the S22 Plus 5G's 8K at 24 frames per second, providing smoother high-resolution video capture. Both devices offer robust video stabilization features.
  • Front Camera and Audio: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G includes a 10MP front-facing camera, while the Galaxy S25 upgrades to a 12MP front camera, offering slightly more detail for selfies and video calls. Both phones provide stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience during media consumption, and their microphones are designed for clear call quality and audio recording.

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G features Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, while the newer Galaxy S25 upgrades to Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, offering faster wireless speeds, improved efficiency, and more stable connections with compatible accessories. Both phones utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
  • Biometric Security: For secure unlocking, both smartphones incorporate an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor and support face recognition. These methods provide convenient and reliable access to the device.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S22 Plus 5G is a larger device, measuring 157.4 x 75.8 x 7.6 mm and weighing 195g, offering a more substantial feel and a larger screen. The Galaxy S25 is more compact and lighter at 146.9mm x 70.5mm x 7.2mm and 162g, making it easier for one-handed operation and more comfortable to carry in a pocket. Both feature premium materials like Gorilla Glass and Armor Aluminum, contributing to a solid in-hand feel.

Weight

227 oz

162 oz

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.2

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus 5G and Galaxy S25 cater to slightly different user priorities, largely due to the three-year technological gap between their releases.

Users often praise the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G for its larger display, solid performance for everyday tasks, and a capable camera system that still holds up well. Some common criticisms from users include its relatively shorter software support timeline compared to newer models and, for heavy users, battery life that might require more frequent charging.

The Galaxy S25, on the other hand, receives commendation for its significantly extended software support, cutting-edge processing power, and advanced camera features, all within a more compact and comfortable design. User feedback highlights its smooth performance, improved speaker quality, and the benefits of its integrated AI features. However, some users note that the generational upgrades might feel incremental in certain areas, and the charging speed remains consistent with previous models. The smaller battery capacity compared to the S22 Plus 5G is also a point of discussion, though efficiency gains often mitigate this for many users.

Users prioritizing a larger screen for media consumption and a device that offers a robust experience at a potentially more accessible point may find the Galaxy S22 Plus 5G well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value the longest possible software support, the latest performance for demanding applications, and advanced camera capabilities in a more compact form factor will likely lean towards the Galaxy S25. For individuals seeking an eco-friendly, quality-assured refurbished option, both devices offer a sustainable choice depending on their specific requirements and preferences.

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