Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G

Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G Review: A Solid Performer That Still Holds Its Own

I've spent a good amount of time with the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G lately, putting it through its paces as my daily driver. It’s interesting revisiting a phone that, while no longer the absolute newest on the block, still occupies a compelling space in the smartphone landscape. Priced in what I’d consider the upper mid-range now, it originally aimed squarely at those wanting a premium experience without necessarily stretching to the top-tier Ultra model. After thoroughly testing its various facets, I've developed a pretty clear picture of who this phone is for and what it delivers.

Navigating the Market in 2024

Even a couple of years after its release, the Galaxy S22+ remains relevant. Samsung’s strategy with the S22 series was clear: offer a trio of devices catering to different needs and budgets. The S22+ sat comfortably in the middle, providing a larger screen and battery compared to the standard S22, but without the S Pen and ultimate camera prowess of the S22 Ultra. In today's market, its current price point makes it an attractive alternative to newer mid-range offerings, especially for those already invested in the Samsung ecosystem. Whether it represents the best value depends heavily on individual priorities, but it’s undoubtedly a contender.

Design and Hardware: A Refined Feel

My initial reaction to holding the S22+ was positive. There's a noticeable heft to it at 195 grams, which to me, translates to a feeling of quality and substance. It doesn't feel flimsy or cheap in the hand. The smooth, Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back contribute to a premium feel. While subjective, I appreciate the clean lines and the refined design language Samsung has employed here. It feels durable and well-built, reassuring for daily use and the inevitable minor bumps and scrapes.

Display: Still a Visual Treat

The 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is undoubtedly one of the standout features. Samsung has consistently delivered top-tier screens, and the one on the S22+ is no exception. In my testing, the colors are incredibly vibrant and punchy, making everything from scrolling through social media feeds to watching videos a visually engaging experience. The 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling incredibly smooth, a feature you quickly get accustomed to and miss when it's gone. Outdoor visibility, even under bright sunlight, has been excellent thanks to its impressive peak brightness of 1750 nits. For media consumption and gaming, this display truly shines, offering a sharp and immersive experience.

Performance: Capable, But with a caveat

Under the hood, the European variant of the S22+ I tested houses the Exynos 2200 chipset. For everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and running various apps, the phone performs flawlessly. Multitasking is smooth, and I haven’t encountered any significant slowdowns. Gaming performance is generally good too; I was able to play demanding titles without major issues. However, I have to point out the user's observation about the phone getting warm under heavy load is accurate. During prolonged gaming sessions or while recording 8K video, the back of the phone does get noticeably warm. While it didn't impact performance to the point of being unusable, it's something to be aware of if you plan on pushing the phone to its limits frequently.

Camera System: A Versatile Performer

The camera system on the S22+ is where it truly starts to impress. My experience mirrors the user's enthusiasm. The triple-lens setup on the rear offers a lot of versatility. The 50MP main camera with its large sensor captures stunning images with excellent detail and vibrant colors, just like the user's sunset anecdote suggests. The 12MP ultrawide lens is fantastic for capturing expansive landscapes or group photos, and the 10MP telephoto lens provides a useful 3x optical zoom, allowing you to get closer to your subject without sacrificing image quality.

In my own testing, I've found the camera to perform admirably in various shooting conditions, including low light. The detail retention and dynamic range are generally excellent. Video recording is also a strong suit, with the ability to shoot up to 8K at 24fps, and highly stable 4K footage at both 30 and 60fps. The inclusion of stereo sound in video recording adds another layer of immersion. Compared to other phones in its current price range, the S22+ holds its own and often surpasses competitors in image quality and versatility.

Battery and Charging: Good Enough for Most

The 4500mAh battery in the S22+ provides decent battery life. On a typical day with moderate usage, including browsing, social media, some photography, and occasional video watching, I've generally been able to get through the day without needing to recharge until evening. However, as the user noted, heavy usage, particularly with gaming or extensive camera use, will necessitate a top-up before the day is out. Fortunately, the 45W fast charging is a welcome addition. In my testing, it noticeably speeds up the charging process, making it less of a hassle. The inclusion of 15W wireless charging adds another convenient way to keep the phone topped up.

Software: A Familiar and Feature-Rich Experience

The Galaxy S22+ launched with Android 12 and Samsung's One UI, and is slated to receive updates up to Android 16, a testament to Samsung's commitment to long-term software support. From my daily usage, One UI offers a clean and intuitive interface with a plethora of customization options. Samsung's suite of features and apps adds value to the overall experience, and the integration within the Samsung ecosystem is seamless for those with other Galaxy devices.

Value Analysis: Still a Compelling Option?

Analyzing the value proposition of the Galaxy S22+ in the current market is crucial. While it's no longer the cutting-edge flagship, its current pricing makes it an attractive option for those seeking a premium experience without the top-tier price tag of the latest models. For users who prioritize a stunning display, a versatile camera system, and solid performance, the S22+ delivers. However, those who are heavy gamers and are particularly sensitive to heat might consider newer devices with more advanced cooling solutions. Similarly, if having the absolute latest processor is a must, then looking at the S23 series or newer alternatives would be prudent.

Ultimately, the Galaxy S22+ sits in an interesting position. It's a step above many mid-range phones in terms of build quality, display, and camera capabilities, yet it's more accessible than the latest flagship offerings.

Conclusion: A Solid All-Rounder

My time with the Samsung Galaxy S22+ has been largely positive. It’s a well-rounded smartphone that continues to offer a premium experience. The exceptional display and versatile camera system are the standout features, and the overall performance is more than adequate for most users. While it can get warm under heavy load, and battery life is good but not class-leading, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise excellent package.

If you're looking for a phone with a fantastic screen, a great camera, and smooth performance without breaking the bank for the absolute latest model, the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G is definitely worth considering. It remains a reliable and capable powerhouse for everyday use and is a testament to the fact that even older flagships can still hold their own in today's competitive smartphone market.