👍 Pros
- Stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 1750 nits peak brightness
- Versatile and powerful camera system with 10x optical zoom
- Integrated S Pen functionality for productivity and creativity
- Premium build quality with Gorilla Glass Victus+ and aluminum frame
- Long-term software support with up to 4 major Android upgrades
👎 Cons
- Exynos/Snapdragon regional chip disparity impacting performance consistency
- No expandable storage via microSD card slot
- Charging speeds, while decent, aren't class-leading for 2026
- Heavy and bulky design, especially for extended one-handed use
- Software updates, while promised, might still introduce bugs or slow down over time
Expert Review & Rating
Quick Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, launched in 2022, was Samsung’s definitive flagship, merging the Note’s productivity with the S series’ camera prowess. It aimed squarely at the premium segment, offering a no-compromise experience for its time.
Performance & Daily Usage
Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200. Both were top-tier. Apps launch instantly. Multitasking is a breeze. The 12GB RAM options keep everything fluid. Gaming performance is strong, even for demanding titles. Thermal management, however, could be inconsistent, particularly with the Exynos variant, leading to noticeable throttling under sustained load. UI responsiveness, thanks to One UI 8 and the 120Hz display, remains snappy, but bloatware can be a slight drag.
The Best Features
This phone’s display is still a stunner in 2026. The Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, 1750 nits peak brightness – it’s vibrant, incredibly bright outdoors, and just a joy to consume content on. Then there’s the camera system. That 108MP main sensor, coupled with the insane 10x optical periscope zoom, truly set it apart. The versatility to capture everything from sweeping landscapes to distant details with impressive clarity was, and still is, a major draw. And of course, the S Pen integration. It’s not just a stylus; it’s a productivity tool, offering precision for notes, sketches, and navigating the large display, making it unique in the Android space.
The Compromises
The biggest compromise here was undoubtedly the regional chipset lottery. Depending on where you bought it, you either got the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or the Exynos 2200. While both were powerful, the Snapdragon generally offered better sustained performance and efficiency, leaving some users feeling short-changed. Battery life, while respectable at 5000 mAh, wasn’t groundbreaking, especially when pushing the 120Hz display and powerful processors. Furthermore, the lack of a microSD card slot on a ‘Ultra’ device was a head-scratcher for many power users, forcing them to rely solely on internal storage. Finally, the sheer size and weight make it a two-handed device for most, and its bulk can be a bit much for prolonged single-handed use.
Is It Worth Buying?
In 2026, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G remains a surprisingly capable device, especially if you can find it at a significantly reduced price. The screen and camera system still hold up remarkably well. It’s a viable option for power users and S Pen enthusiasts who prioritize a fantastic display and versatile camera and don’t mind a larger, heavier phone. However, for those seeking the absolute latest in performance or charging speeds, newer flagships offer more. If you can snag one for under $300, it’s still a solid buy today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While newer flagships have refined computational photography, the S22 Ultra's hardware, particularly its 10x optical zoom and 108MP main sensor, still produces excellent results, especially in good lighting. It holds its own for versatility, though low-light processing might show its age slightly.
For everyday tasks and most apps, the Exynos 2200 is still perfectly adequate. However, for prolonged heavy gaming or demanding tasks, the performance difference compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 variant, and certainly compared to 2026 chipsets, will be noticeable in terms of sustained output and thermal management.
The 5000 mAh battery was decent at launch. After four years, expect some degradation. While it might still get you through a light day, heavy users will likely need a mid-day top-up, especially with the 120Hz display enabled. Charging speeds, while 45W, are not as fast as many current competitors.