Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G

Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G Review: Still a Titan, But Is It Still Top Tier?

I've spent the better part of the last few weeks living with the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, and it’s been a fascinating revisit. Released a couple of years back, it occupies an interesting space now – no longer the absolute latest and greatest from Samsung, but still a powerhouse with a lot to offer. Priced competitively these days (compared to its launch price, anyway), it’s firmly aimed at users who want a premium experience without necessarily paying for the absolute bleeding edge. After putting it through its paces, from demanding gaming sessions to everyday photo snaps, I have a pretty solid grasp on where this phone stands in today's landscape.

Market Context: A Seasoned Veteran in a Fast-Moving Race

The S22 Ultra 5G arrived as the undisputed king of Samsung's lineup, inheriting the Note series' DNA with its integrated S Pen. Samsung’s strategy here was clear: deliver a no-compromise device for power users. Now, with newer models on the scene, the S22 Ultra is in a different position. It's no longer the newest kid on the block, but it represents a mature and refined package. The price point has naturally adjusted, making it an attractive option for those who don’t need the absolute latest silicon but still crave a high-end experience. In my opinion, it’s a smart move by Samsung to keep this caliber of device accessible, catering to a broader audience who recognize genuine value.

Design & Hardware: A Bold Statement, Still Holding Up

From the moment you pick it up, the S22 Ultra exudes premium quality. The build feels incredibly solid, with its Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back. It's a substantial phone, no doubt about it. The weight (around 228g) and sheer size might not be for everyone, especially those who prefer pocket-friendly devices. However, that heft lends a sense of durability and quality.

In hand, the squared-off edges, a clear nod to the Note series, offer a confident grip. The integrated S Pen silo is seamless and a testament to smart design. While some might find it a tad boxy compared to the more rounded designs of some competitors, I appreciate the distinct and professional aesthetic. In terms of practical use, the size can be a bit much for single-handed operation, but for media consumption and productivity, that large canvas is a definite plus. I've found the material choices hold up well to everyday wear and tear, although a case is still recommended for added peace of mind.

Display: Still a Visual Feast

The 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is still, frankly, stunning. Brightness is excellent, even under direct sunlight – I had no trouble viewing content outdoors. Media consumption is where this screen truly shines. Colors are vibrant and punchy, blacks are inky deep, and the sheer size immerses you in whatever you're watching. Gaming is equally impressive, with the 120Hz adaptive refresh rate making everything incredibly smooth and responsive. Even for everyday tasks like browsing and scrolling through social media, the fluidity is noticeable and makes for a more enjoyable experience. I've yet to encounter any significant downsides with this display; it remains one of the best in the business.

Performance: Power That Endures

Under the hood, the Exynos 2200 (in my test unit) continues to deliver impressive performance. During my testing, which included graphically intensive games like Genshin Impact and demanding multitasking scenarios, the S22 Ultra handled everything with aplomb. Gaming sessions were smooth, with consistent frame rates and no noticeable lag. Switching between numerous apps, editing photos, and even some light video editing felt snappy and responsive.

Temperature management is generally good. While the phone can get a little warm during extended periods of heavy use, it’s never been uncomfortably hot. I haven’t encountered any significant performance quirks. The S22 Ultra, even a couple of years down the line, remains a very capable performer, easily handling the demands of modern smartphone use.

Camera System: A Versatile and Powerful Arsenal

The camera system on the S22 Ultra was a standout feature at launch, and it largely remains so today. My experience taking photos across various scenarios has been overwhelmingly positive. The 108MP main sensor captures a phenomenal amount of detail, producing sharp and vibrant images, especially in good lighting. I particularly appreciate the versatility offered by the different lenses – the ultrawide is great for landscapes, and the telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom) provide incredible reach without significant loss of quality. The 10x optical zoom is genuinely impressive, allowing you to capture details from afar that you simply wouldn't get on many other phones.

Video recording is also excellent, with stable footage and sharp details, even at 4K resolution. Compared to more recent flagships, the image processing might be slightly less aggressive in certain scenarios, which some users might actually prefer for a more natural look. In real-world usage, this camera system is a joy to use, offering a wide range of creative possibilities and consistently delivering high-quality results.

Battery & Charging: Solid Endurance, Not Class-Leading

The 5000mAh battery in the S22 Ultra generally provides solid all-day battery life for moderate use. In my testing, a typical day of browsing, social media, emails, and some photography would leave me with some charge left by the evening. However, heavy usage, particularly extended gaming or video recording, will necessitate a top-up.

Charging speeds, while decent, aren't the absolute fastest on the market. The 45W fast charging will get you a significant amount of charge in a reasonable timeframe, but it lags behind some competitors offering 65W or even 100W+ charging. Power management is generally effective, with various battery-saving modes available to extend endurance when needed. While the battery life is good, it’s an area where some newer devices have made more significant strides.

Software: A Familiar and Feature-Rich Experience

Running on Android with Samsung's One UI, the software experience on the S22 Ultra is polished and feature-rich. Daily usage is smooth, and the interface is intuitive and customizable. Samsung provides a wealth of additional features and customizations, some of which are genuinely useful, while others might be less essential for the average user.

Samsung's commitment to software updates is commendable, and the S22 Ultra is still receiving regular updates, ensuring it remains secure and benefits from the latest Android features. While some might find One UI a bit heavy compared to more stock Android experiences, I appreciate the level of customization and the sheer number of options available.

Value Analysis: Still a Strong Contender

Assessing the value of the S22 Ultra in today's market requires considering its current price point. Given the advancements in newer models, it’s no longer the absolute top dog, but it offers a significant portion of that premium experience at a more accessible price. I believe this phone is ideal for users who want a high-end device with a fantastic display, excellent performance, and a versatile camera system but don't necessarily need the absolute latest processor or cutting-edge features.

If you're on a strict budget, there are certainly more affordable options available. Similarly, if you demand the absolute best-in-class performance and the newest camera tech, the latest flagship models will be more appealing. However, for the sweet spot of premium features and reasonable price, the S22 Ultra holds considerable appeal.

Conclusion: A Seasoned Flagship That Still Shines

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, even in 2024, remains a compelling smartphone. My time with it has reaffirmed its status as a genuine powerhouse. It boasts a stunning display, robust performance, and a truly excellent camera system. While the size and weight might not be for everyone, and the battery life isn't class-leading, the overall package is still incredibly strong.

If you're looking for a premium smartphone experience without breaking the bank for the absolute newest model, the S22 Ultra is definitely worth considering. It’s a seasoned flagship that has aged gracefully and continues to deliver a high-end experience. For content creators, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a large, vibrant display and powerful performance, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G remains a fantastic choice.