Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus Review

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus, launched in early 2022, positioned itself as the sweet spot in Samsung’s flagship lineup, offering a compelling blend of high-end features from the Ultra model with a more manageable form factor and price point than its top-tier sibling.

It’s a device designed for the user who demands excellent camera performance, a vibrant display, robust processing power, and long-lasting battery life without necessarily needing the S Pen or the absolute largest screen.

If you’re looking for a daily driver that excels in photography, keeps you connected with top-tier connectivity, and powers through demanding applications with ease, the S22 Plus makes a strong case.

It’s a solid evolution, bringing refinements to its predecessor and standing as a testament to Samsung’s iterative improvements in the premium smartphone segment.

This review will dissect its performance, design, camera capabilities, and overall value, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your tech arsenal.

Here’s a quick look at some related tech that complements the S22 Plus experience:

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro: This advanced smartwatch offers robust health tracking, extensive battery life, and durable build quality, making it an excellent companion for the S22 Plus for fitness enthusiasts and those seeking seamless notifications on their wrist.
  • Key Features: GPS tracking, advanced sleep coaching, body composition analysis, sapphire crystal display, titanium casing, 80-hour battery life.
  • Average Price: $449.99
  • Pros: Exceptional battery life for a smartwatch, highly accurate health sensors, premium build, seamless integration with Samsung phones.
  • Cons: Heavier than other smartwatches, can be pricey, Bixby voice assistant is limited.
• Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro: These true wireless earbuds deliver 24-bit Hi-Fi audio, excellent active noise cancellation ANC, and a comfortable, secure fit, perfect for enjoying media or taking calls with your S22 Plus.
  • Key Features: 24-bit Hi-Fi audio, enhanced ANC, comfortable design, 360 Audio, IPX7 water resistance.
  • Average Price: $229.99
  • Pros: Superb sound quality, effective ANC, comfortable fit, good call quality, compact case.
  • Cons: Battery life is average with ANC on, touch controls can be finicky, full features only with Samsung devices.
• Anker 737 Power Bank PowerCore 24K: A high-capacity portable charger capable of delivering up to 140W, ideal for rapidly recharging your S22 Plus multiple times or even powering a laptop on the go.
  • Key Features: 24,000mAh capacity, 140W max output, USB-C PD 3.1, smart digital display, two USB-C ports, one USB-A port.
  • Average Price: $149.99
  • Pros: Huge capacity, extremely fast charging for phones and laptops, useful digital display, solid build quality.
  • Cons: Large and heavy, higher price point, takes a while to fully recharge itself.
• Spigen Tough Armor Case for Galaxy S22 Plus: This case provides dual-layer protection with a shock-absorbing interior and a rigid exterior, plus a built-in kickstand, offering robust defense for your S22 Plus against drops and impacts.
  • Key Features: Dual-layer protection TPU + polycarbonate, Mil-Grade certified, reinforced kickstand, raised bezels for screen and camera protection.
  • Average Price: $24.99
  • Pros: Excellent drop protection, functional kickstand, good grip, precise cutouts.
  • Cons: Adds noticeable bulk to the phone, kickstand can feel a bit flimsy over time.
• Samsung 45W USB-C Super Fast Charging Wall Charger: Designed specifically for Samsung devices, this charger delivers the fastest possible wired charging speeds for the S22 Plus, getting you back to full power in no time.
  • Key Features: 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0, USB-C PD 3.0, compatible with PPS Programmable Power Supply, compact design.
  • Average Price: $49.99
  • Pros: Achieves maximum charging speed for compatible Samsung phones, reliable, compact.
  • Cons: Only 45W, not included in the box with the phone, can be expensive compared to third-party options.
• PopSockets PopGrip for Phones: A versatile accessory that sticks to the back of your S22 Plus, providing a secure grip for one-handed use, a convenient stand for media viewing, and easy cable management.
  • Key Features: Collapsible grip and stand, swappable top designs, sticks to most phones/cases.
  • Average Price: $15.00
  • Pros: Improves grip, functions as a kickstand, customizable, reduces hand fatigue.
  • Cons: Adds some thickness to the phone, adhesive may weaken over time, not compatible with all wireless chargers.
• SanDisk 256GB Ultra microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card: While the S22 Plus doesn’t have a microSD slot, many older devices or other accessories still benefit from expandable storage. This card offers fast read/write speeds, ideal for storing photos, videos, and apps on compatible devices.
  • Key Features: 256GB capacity, up to 120MB/s read speeds, Class 10, A1 App Performance, UHS-I.
  • Pros: Affordable, good performance for general use, reliable, widely compatible.
  • Cons: Not compatible with S22 Plus directly no microSD slot, faster cards available for more demanding tasks, write speeds are lower than read speeds.

Design and Display: A Refined Aesthetic with a Stellar View

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus carries forward Samsung’s modern design language, offering a sleek, premium, and durable build that feels excellent in hand.

It strikes a balance between screen real estate and manageability, making it a comfortable device for everyday use.

The display, a hallmark of Samsung’s flagships, continues to impress with its vibrant colors and incredible brightness.

A Premium, Durable Build

Samsung opted for a flat display on the S22 Plus, a departure from the curved screens seen on many of its predecessors, which many users appreciate for reduced accidental touches and easier screen protector application. The device features Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back, providing enhanced scratch and drop resistance, a significant upgrade for durability. The frame is constructed from Armor Aluminum, Samsung’s strongest aluminum to date, contributing to the phone’s robust feel.

• Materials: Gorilla Glass Victus+ front and back, Armor Aluminum frame.
• Dimensions: 157.4 x 75.8 x 7.6 mm.
• Weight: 195 grams.
• IP68 Rating: This means the S22 Plus is resistant to dust and can withstand immersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. This level of water resistance is standard for premium flagships and provides peace of mind against accidental spills or brief submersions.

The camera housing on the back is integrated seamlessly into the frame, a design element Samsung refers to as the “Contour Cut” design, which debuted with the S21 series.

This gives the device a cohesive and refined look, differentiating it from many other phones on the market.

The buttons are tactile and well-placed, and the overall fit and finish are precisely what you’d expect from a high-end Samsung device.

The Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display: Brightness King

The 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display on the Galaxy S22 Plus is undoubtedly one of its standout features.

Samsung has consistently delivered some of the best smartphone displays, and the S22 Plus is no exception.

This panel offers an immersive visual experience with incredible clarity, vibrant colors, and deep blacks. Epson Workforce St C4100 Supertank Color Mfp Review

• Size: 6.6 inches.
• Resolution: 2340 x 1080 pixels FHD+.
• Panel Type: Dynamic AMOLED 2X.
• Refresh Rate: Adaptive 10Hz to 120Hz. This adaptive refresh rate dynamically adjusts based on the content being viewed, helping to conserve battery life while still providing buttery-smooth scrolling and animations when needed. For instance, it can drop to 10Hz when viewing a static image or jump to 120Hz for gaming.
• Peak Brightness: Up to 1,750 nits. This is a crucial specification, making the S22 Plus one of the brightest smartphone displays available at its launch. This high peak brightness ensures excellent outdoor visibility, even under direct sunlight, and enhances HDR content viewing.
• HDR10+ support: Provides a superior viewing experience for compatible content with greater contrast and color accuracy.

Whether you’re browsing social media, watching HDR movies, or playing graphics-intensive games, the S22 Plus display delivers.

The colors are punchy yet accurate, and the contrast is infinite thanks to AMOLED technology.

The high refresh rate makes everything feel incredibly fluid, and the exceptional brightness makes it a joy to use in any lighting condition.

Performance: Powering Through Anything You Throw At It

Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus packs the latest flagship silicon available at its release, ensuring snappy performance across the board.

Depending on your region, you’ll find either Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Samsung’s own Exynos 2200 chipset.

Both are cutting-edge processors designed to handle the most demanding tasks with ease, from intensive gaming to complex multitasking.

Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 vs. Exynos 2200: A Regional Divide

The chip lottery is a familiar concept for Samsung phone buyers, and the S22 Plus continued this trend.

• Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1: This chipset was widely distributed in North America, South Korea, China, and some other markets. It’s built on a 4nm process and features a powerful ARMv9 CPU architecture, including a Cortex-X2 prime core.
  • CPU Architecture: 1x Cortex-X2 @ 3.0 GHz, 3x Cortex-A710 @ 2.5 GHz, 4x Cortex-A510 @ 1.8 GHz.
  • GPU: Adreno 730. The Adreno GPU is renowned for its strong gaming performance and efficiency.
  • NPU: Improved AI Engine for better camera processing and on-device machine learning tasks.
• Samsung Exynos 2200: Found in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and other regions, the Exynos 2200 is also a 4nm chip. Its key distinguishing feature is its Xclipse 920 GPU, developed in collaboration with AMD, boasting RDNA 2 graphics architecture for features like hardware-accelerated ray tracing and variable rate shading, aiming for a console-like gaming experience on mobile.
  • CPU Architecture: 1x Cortex-X2 @ 2.8 GHz, 3x Cortex-A710 @ 2.5 GHz, 4x Cortex-A510 @ 1.7 GHz.
  • GPU: Xclipse 920 based on AMD RDNA 2.
  • NPU: Dual-core NPU.

While initial benchmarks and early reports sometimes showed slight variations between the two chipsets, in day-to-day use, both deliver flagship-level performance. Most users will be hard-pressed to notice a significant difference in speed or fluidity. Both chips are capable of:

• Blazing-fast app launches.
• Smooth navigation and animations.
• Handling graphically intensive games at high frame rates.
• Efficient multitasking with multiple apps open.

RAM and Storage Configurations

The S22 Plus comes with a fixed amount of RAM but offers multiple storage options:

• RAM: 8GB LPDDR5. While some might wish for 12GB like the S22 Ultra, 8GB is more than sufficient for excellent multitasking and ensuring apps stay in memory for quick retrieval.
• Storage Options:
  • 128GB UFS 3.1
  • 256GB UFS 3.1

It’s important to note that, like many modern flagships, the S22 Plus does not have a microSD card slot for expandable storage. Therefore, choosing the right internal storage capacity at the time of purchase is crucial, especially if you plan to store a large number of photos, videos, or games. For most users, 256GB offers a good balance between cost and storage longevity. Asus Vivobook Pro 16X Oled Review

Real-World Performance and Thermal Management

In practice, the S22 Plus lives up to its flagship billing. Apps open instantly, scrolling is fluid, and demanding games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile run smoothly at high settings. For productivity, it handles heavy document editing, video conferencing, and multiple browser tabs without a hitch.

• Gaming: Expect smooth frame rates even in demanding titles. While sustained peak performance can sometimes lead to slight throttling in extended gaming sessions, this is a common characteristic of most thin smartphones trying to dissipate heat from powerful chipsets. Samsung implemented an improved cooling system compared to previous generations, including a larger vapor chamber.
• Multitasking: With 8GB of RAM, app switching is seamless, and background apps are rarely forced to reload, ensuring a smooth user experience.
• Everyday Use: From social media browsing to streaming high-resolution video, the S22 Plus handles all daily tasks with absolute ease and responsiveness.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus offers uncompromising performance, whether you get the Snapdragon or Exynos variant.

It’s a powerhouse device capable of delivering a premium and reliable user experience for years to come.

Camera System: Versatile and Capable

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus inherited a significant camera upgrade from its predecessor, focusing on improving low-light performance and detail capture.

While it doesn’t feature the 108MP sensor or dual telephoto lenses of the S22 Ultra, its triple-camera setup is highly versatile and capable of producing excellent results in a variety of conditions.

Samsung often emphasizes its “Nightography” capabilities, highlighting advancements in low-light photography.

Rear Camera Setup: Three Lenses, Many Possibilities

The S22 Plus boasts a well-rounded rear camera array:

• 50MP Main Wide-Angle Camera:
  • Sensor Size: 1/1.56-inch. A larger sensor allows for more light intake, crucial for better low-light performance.
  • Aperture: f/1.8.
  • Pixel Size: 1.0µm 2.0µm with 4-in-1 pixel binning. This uses “Tetra-pixel” binning technology, combining four pixels into one larger one to improve light sensitivity, resulting in effective 12.5MP images.
  • Features: Dual Pixel PDAF Phase Detection Autofocus, OIS Optical Image Stabilization. PDAF ensures fast and accurate focusing, while OIS helps in reducing blur from camera shake, especially in low light or when recording video.
• 12MP Ultra-Wide Camera:
  • Aperture: f/2.2.
  • Features: No autofocus, which is common for ultra-wide lenses on smartphones.
• 10MP Telephoto Camera:
  • Aperture: f/2.4.
  • Optical Zoom: 3x optical zoom. This is a true optical zoom lens, providing lossless magnification up to 3x.
  • Features: PDAF, OIS. This telephoto lens is excellent for portraits, capturing distant subjects, or adding creative compression to scenes.

Front Camera: High-Resolution Selfies

• 10MP Front Camera:
  • Features: Dual Pixel PDAF. The inclusion of PDAF on the front camera ensures consistently sharp selfies, whether you’re close up or further away.

Camera Performance: Day, Night, and Zoom

The S22 Plus camera system delivers consistently impressive results across various lighting conditions.

• Daylight Photography:
  • Main Camera: Produces sharp, detailed images with excellent dynamic range and Samsung’s signature vibrant, yet generally appealing, color science. Photos are usually ready to share without much editing.
  • Ultra-Wide: Maintains good color consistency with the main camera, capturing wide scenes effectively with minimal barrel distortion. Details are good in well-lit conditions.
  • Telephoto: The 3x optical zoom is a genuine asset, allowing for closer shots without significant loss of quality. It’s particularly useful for portraits, creating a pleasing bokeh effect background blur naturally.
• Low-Light and Nightography:
  • This is where Samsung put a significant focus. The larger main sensor, combined with advanced computational photography and Night mode, allows the S22 Plus to capture bright, detailed, and relatively noise-free images in challenging low-light environments. Colors are well-preserved, and highlights are managed effectively. Samsung’s AI processing intelligently merges multiple frames to produce a brighter and clearer final image.
  • Even the ultra-wide and telephoto lenses benefit from Night mode, though their low-light performance isn’t as stellar as the main sensor due to smaller apertures and sensor sizes.
• Video Recording:
  • The S22 Plus supports 8K video recording at 24fps and 4K video recording at up to 60fps on all rear lenses. It also supports Super Steady video stabilization at 1080p, which utilizes the ultra-wide lens to provide gimbal-like smoothness.
  • Video quality is excellent, with good stabilization, fast autofocus, and impressive dynamic range, making it suitable for capturing moments and even casual content creation.
• Portrait Mode: Offers adjustable background blur bokeh and various lighting effects, producing professional-looking portraits with good edge detection.

While the S22 Ultra might appeal to photography enthusiasts seeking the absolute best zoom and highest resolution, the S22 Plus offers a more than capable and highly versatile camera experience for the vast majority of users. It’s a reliable snapper that consistently produces shareable photos and videos.

Battery Life and Charging: Getting You Through the Day

Battery life is a critical factor for any smartphone, and the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus aims to deliver a full day’s usage for most users, backed by relatively fast charging capabilities. Rock Space Ax1800 Dual Band Wi Fi 6 Router Rsd0619 Review

While it doesn’t boast the largest battery on the market, Samsung’s software optimizations and the adaptive refresh rate display contribute to its efficiency.

Battery Capacity and Real-World Usage

The S22 Plus is equipped with a 4,500mAh battery. This is a slight decrease from its predecessor, the S21 Plus which had a 4,800mAh battery. However, the efficiency gains from the newer 4nm chipsets Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 and the more efficient adaptive refresh rate display which can drop down to 10Hz aim to offset this smaller capacity.

In real-world usage, battery life can vary significantly depending on individual usage patterns:

• Light Usage: For users who primarily browse social media, check emails, text, and make occasional calls, the S22 Plus can comfortably last a full day, often with some juice left over before bedtime.
• Moderate Usage: This includes more streaming, some gaming, active photography, and consistent use of 120Hz. Most users will find it gets them through a typical 12-14 hour day without needing a top-up.
• Heavy Usage: If you’re consistently gaming, recording 4K video, or heavily navigating with GPS, you might find yourself reaching for a charger by late afternoon or early evening.
• Factors Affecting Battery Life:
  • Network Signal: Poor signal strength forces the phone to work harder, draining the battery faster.
  • Screen Brightness: High screen brightness consumes more power.
  • Always-On Display AOD: While efficient, AOD uses a small amount of power.
  • Apps Running in Background: Certain apps can be power hogs if not managed properly.
  • 5G Connectivity: Using 5G consumes more power than 4G LTE, especially in areas with weaker 5G coverage.

Anecdotal evidence and reviews suggest the S22 Plus generally offers solid, if not exceptional, all-day battery life. It’s not a two-day phone for most, but it’s reliable for a single day’s demanding use.

Charging Speeds: Fast, But Not the Fastest

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus supports wired fast charging up to 45W. This is a significant improvement over the 25W charging found on previous non-Ultra models. However, it’s crucial to note that the 45W charger is sold separately – Samsung, like many manufacturers, no longer includes a power brick in the box. You’ll need a compatible USB Power Delivery PD 3.0 charger with PPS Programmable Power Supply support to achieve the maximum 45W speed.

• Wired Charging with 45W charger:
  • Achieves approximately 0% to 50% in about 20-25 minutes.
  • A full charge from 0% to 100% takes roughly 55-65 minutes.
  • Using a 25W charger will still be fast, but a full charge might take around 70-80 minutes.
• Wireless Charging: The S22 Plus supports 15W wireless charging Fast Wireless Charging 2.0. This is a convenient feature for topping up your phone without fumbling with cables.
• Wireless PowerShare: The phone also supports Reverse Wireless Charging 4.5W, allowing you to charge compatible accessories like Galaxy Buds or a Galaxy Watch simply by placing them on the back of the phone. This is a handy feature for emergencies or when you forget your accessory charger.

While 45W charging isn’t the absolute fastest on the market when compared to some Chinese competitors that offer 80W or even 120W, it’s more than sufficient for most users.

Being able to get a substantial top-up in under half an hour is incredibly practical for busy schedules.

The key takeaway is to invest in the official Samsung 45W charger or a third-party equivalent that supports the necessary charging protocols to unlock its full potential.

Software and Ecosystem: One UI 5 on Android 13

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus launched with One UI 4 based on Android 12 and has since received major software updates, including One UI 5 based on Android 13, and is eligible for future updates. Samsung has significantly improved its software update policy in recent years, making its devices more compelling for long-term ownership.

One UI: Samsung’s Feature-Rich Android Skin

One UI is Samsung’s custom Android skin, known for its extensive feature set, customization options, and focus on one-handed usability for large-screen phones. Epson Expression Photo Xp 8700 Wireless All In One Review

While it can sometimes feel a bit more complex than stock Android, it offers a wealth of tools and functionalities that many users appreciate.

• Key Features of One UI 5 based on Android 13:
  • Material You Enhancements: Deeper customization for themes and icons, allowing users to match their UI elements to their wallpaper colors more extensively.
  • Improved Widgets: More intuitive stacking and smart suggestions for widgets to optimize home screen space.
  • Enhanced Security and Privacy Dashboard: A centralized hub to manage app permissions, privacy controls, and security settings.
  • Bixby Text Call: An innovative feature that converts voice calls to text and allows you to type responses, which Bixby then reads aloud to the caller.
  • Maintenance Mode: A privacy-focused feature that allows users to hand over their phone for repair without worrying about personal data access.
  • Modes and Routines: More powerful automation tools, similar to Apple’s Focus modes, allowing users to set specific phone behaviors e.g., sound profiles, app access based on their activity Work, Sleep, Driving.
  • Stackable Widgets: Allows users to stack multiple widgets on top of each other, swiping through them to save home screen space.
  • Camera Improvements: More intuitive zoom bar, easier access to filters and effects, and improved photo remastering.
  • Better Notifications: More control over notification permissions for individual apps.

One UI continues to evolve, bringing a balance of unique Samsung features and core Android functionalities.

Its design is generally clean and modern, and it offers plenty of settings for users who like to tinker and personalize their device.

Samsung’s Update Promise: Extended Longevity

One of the most significant advantages of purchasing a recent Samsung flagship like the S22 Plus is Samsung’s commitment to software support.

• Operating System Updates: Samsung promises four generations of Android OS upgrades. This means the S22 Plus, which launched with Android 12, will receive updates up to Android 16. This is among the best software support policies in the Android ecosystem, comparable to Google’s Pixel lineup.
• Security Updates: Samsung also commits to five years of security updates. This ensures your device remains protected against the latest vulnerabilities for an extended period, contributing significantly to the longevity and value of the phone.

This extended support is a major plus for consumers who keep their phones for several years, as it means the S22 Plus will remain relevant and secure with access to the latest Android features for a considerable time.

Samsung Ecosystem and Beyond

The S22 Plus seamlessly integrates into the broader Samsung ecosystem, offering enhanced experiences with other Samsung devices:

• Samsung DeX: Transform your phone into a desktop-like experience by connecting it to an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse. This is excellent for productivity, allowing you to use your phone to power a full workstation.
• SmartThings: Control your smart home devices directly from your phone.
• Link to Windows: A partnership with Microsoft allows for easy phone mirroring, notifications, and app access directly on your Windows PC.
• Quick Share: Samsung’s equivalent of Apple’s AirDrop, making it easy to share files quickly with other Samsung devices.
• Integration with Galaxy Wearables: Seamless pairing and management of devices like the Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Buds, offering a cohesive user experience.

The software experience on the S22 Plus is robust, mature, and packed with features.

Samsung’s commitment to long-term updates further enhances its appeal, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a device that will stay current for years to come.

Connectivity and Audio: Staying Connected and Tuned In

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus is a modern flagship, and as such, it comes equipped with all the essential and advanced connectivity options you’d expect.

From next-generation cellular speeds to high-fidelity audio capabilities, it ensures you stay connected and enjoy your media without compromise. Samsung Galaxy S22 Review

Comprehensive Connectivity Options

The S22 Plus supports the latest wireless standards, ensuring fast and reliable connections wherever you go.

• 5G Connectivity:
  • Supports both sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G. This means it’s capable of connecting to both the widespread, but slower, sub-6GHz 5G networks and the blazing-fast, but more localized, mmWave 5G networks, depending on your region and carrier.
  • Offers significantly faster download and upload speeds compared to 4G LTE, reduced latency, and enhanced capacity for densely populated areas.
• Wi-Fi 6E:
  • Supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, operating across the 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and the newly opened 6GHz band.
  • When paired with a compatible Wi-Fi 6E router, this provides lower latency, higher bandwidth, and less interference, especially in crowded Wi-Fi environments. This translates to faster downloads, smoother streaming, and more responsive online gaming.
• Bluetooth 5.2:
  • Offers improved stability, efficiency, and range for connecting to wireless accessories like headphones, smartwatches, and car systems.
  • LE Audio support via software updates allows for better audio quality and lower power consumption for Bluetooth accessories.
• NFC: Essential for contactless payments Samsung Pay, Google Pay and quick pairing with compatible accessories.
• GPS/GLONASS/BDS/GALILEO: Comprehensive global navigation satellite system support ensures accurate and reliable location tracking for navigation apps and location-based services.
• USB-C 3.2 Gen 1:
  • Provides fast data transfer speeds for wired connections to PCs.
  • Supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode, allowing you to output video to external displays, which is crucial for Samsung DeX.

Audio Experience: Stereo Speakers and Bluetooth Dominance

Like most modern flagships, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus does not feature a 3.5mm headphone jack. This means users rely on wireless headphones, USB-C headphones, or a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter. While this is a common trend, it’s a point to consider for those with traditional wired audio setups.

• Stereo Speakers:
  • The S22 Plus is equipped with stereo speakers, consisting of a primary bottom-firing speaker and an earpiece that doubles as a secondary speaker.
  • These speakers produce loud, clear, and balanced audio, offering a surprisingly immersive experience for a smartphone. They are tuned by AKG and support Dolby Atmos for virtual surround sound, enhancing the audio experience for movies and games.
  • While they won’t replace a dedicated speaker system, they are excellent for casual media consumption, video calls, and listening to podcasts.
• Bluetooth Audio Quality:
  • With Bluetooth 5.2 and support for various audio codecs including SBC, AAC, aptX, and Samsung’s Scalable Codec, the S22 Plus delivers excellent audio quality over wireless headphones.
  • Samsung’s Scalable Codec, when paired with Galaxy Buds, dynamically adjusts the bitrate to ensure stable and high-quality audio, even in congested wireless environments.
• High-Resolution Audio Playback:
  • The S22 Plus can play back high-resolution audio files, catering to audiophiles who prefer uncompressed or less compressed audio formats. This is primarily relevant for wired USB-C DACs or high-end Bluetooth codecs.

In summary, the S22 Plus excels in providing top-tier connectivity for both cellular and Wi-Fi networks.

While the absence of a headphone jack is a reality of modern smartphones, its strong stereo speakers and excellent Bluetooth audio capabilities ensure a satisfying audio experience for the vast majority of users.

Security and Privacy: Safeguarding Your Data

In an increasingly connected world, smartphone security and user privacy are paramount.

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus incorporates a range of hardware and software features designed to protect your personal data and provide you with control over your digital footprint.

From biometric authentication to dedicated security chips, Samsung aims to provide a secure mobile experience.

Biometric Authentication: Fast and Reliable

The S22 Plus offers two primary methods for biometric authentication:

• Ultrasonic In-Display Fingerprint Sensor:
  • Located under the display, this sensor uses ultrasonic waves to read the 3D ridges and valleys of your fingerprint, offering a more secure and generally faster authentication method compared to optical sensors.
  • It performs well even with damp or slightly oily fingers, which can be an issue for optical sensors.
  • The speed and accuracy of the sensor have improved significantly over previous generations, making it a reliable daily unlocking method.
• Facial Recognition:
  • Uses the front-facing camera for quick facial unlocking.
  • While convenient, it relies on 2D image data and is generally considered less secure than the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor as it can potentially be fooled by a high-quality photo or video of your face. It’s suitable for quick access but not recommended for high-security applications like banking.

For maximum security, combining both biometric methods or relying primarily on the fingerprint sensor with a strong PIN/password is recommended.

Samsung Knox: Hardware-Backed Security

One of Samsung’s standout security features is Samsung Knox, a multi-layered security platform built into both the hardware and software of the device. Dell Optiplex 3090 Small Form Factor Review

• Secure Processor Knox Vault: The S22 Plus includes a dedicated secure processor Knox Vault that isolates sensitive data like PINs, passwords, biometric information, and cryptographic keys from the main operating system. This hardware-backed security makes it extremely difficult for malicious actors to access your most sensitive information, even if the primary software is compromised.
• Real-time Protection: Knox constantly monitors the device for suspicious activity and protects against tampering, unauthorized access, and malware.
• Data Encryption: All data on the device is encrypted by default full disk encryption, meaning that even if the phone is lost or stolen, your data remains unreadable without the proper decryption key.
• Secure Folder: A feature within Knox that allows users to create a separate, encrypted space on their phone to store sensitive apps, photos, documents, and other data. This folder requires separate authentication to access, providing an extra layer of privacy for your most personal files.

Samsung Knox is a significant differentiator, providing enterprise-grade security features that benefit everyday consumers by creating a highly secure environment for their data.

Android 13’s Privacy Enhancements and Samsung’s Additions

Beyond Samsung Knox, the S22 Plus benefits from the robust privacy controls introduced in Android 13, augmented by Samsung’s own additions:

• Privacy Dashboard: A central location to see which apps have accessed your camera, microphone, and location in the past 24 hours, and to easily revoke permissions.
• One-time Permissions: Grant apps access to your location, microphone, or camera just once, rather than permanently.
• Notifications Permissions: Apps now explicitly ask for permission to send notifications, giving you more control over what interrupts you.
• Clipboard Auto-Clear: Automatically clears sensitive information copied to the clipboard after a short period.
• Microphone and Camera Indicators: Small green dots appear in the status bar when the camera or microphone is actively being used by an app, providing real-time awareness. Quick toggles in the Quick Panel allow you to disable camera and microphone access system-wide.
• Maintenance Mode: As mentioned, this feature in One UI 5 lets you hand over your phone for repair without fear of data being accessed. It creates a secure partition that only allows access to basic phone functions, while your personal data remains locked away.

The combination of robust hardware security with Samsung Knox and the comprehensive software privacy controls from Android and One UI ensures that the Galaxy S22 Plus provides a highly secure and private user experience, giving you peace of mind that your sensitive information is well-protected.

Pricing and Value: Where Does the S22 Plus Stand?

When evaluating the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus, its original launch price and current market value are crucial considerations.

It positioned itself as the middle ground in the S22 lineup, offering premium features without the Ultra’s highest price tag or the base S22’s smaller size.

Understanding its value proposition requires looking at its features against its cost and how it compares to competitors.

Original Launch Price and Current Market Value

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus was launched in February 2022.

• Original Launch Price USA:
  • 128GB Storage: Starting at $999.99
  • 256GB Storage: Starting at $1,049.99

As a device that has been on the market for over two years, its price has naturally depreciated.

• Current Market Value as of late 2023/early 2024:
  • New unlocked: Expect to find new units significantly below launch price, often in the $600 – $800 range, depending on sales, retailer, and storage configuration. Some retailers may still have limited new stock.
  • Refurbished/Used: This is where the S22 Plus offers excellent value. You can often find well-maintained, refurbished models for $400 – $600, depending on condition and seller. Popular platforms for used phones like Swappa, eBay, or certified refurbished programs from carriers or retailers are good places to look.

The S22 Plus becomes particularly attractive on the secondary market for those seeking a flagship experience without the latest flagship price tag.

Value Proposition Against Competitors

The S22 Plus occupies a competitive segment, often vying with Apple’s Pro/Pro Max models from previous generations or other Android flagships. Lenovo Thinkpad P1 Gen 4 Review

• Compared to the S22 Ultra: The S22 Plus offers most of the core flagship experience display, performance, main camera at a lower price point. You miss out on the S Pen, the 10x optical zoom, and the 108MP main camera, but for many users, these aren’t deal-breakers. The S22 Plus is also a more manageable size.
• Compared to the base S22: The Plus model offers a larger screen, a significantly larger battery 4,500mAh vs. 3,700mAh, and faster 45W charging support vs. 25W on the base S22. These are substantial upgrades for daily usability and convenience, justifying the price difference for many.
• Compared to Newer Generations S23 Plus, S24 Plus: Newer models offer incremental improvements, primarily in chip efficiency better battery life, slightly faster performance, brighter displays, and refined camera processing. However, these often come with a much higher price tag. The S22 Plus still holds its own in terms of raw power, display quality, and camera versatility. For someone not needing the absolute bleeding edge, the S22 Plus provides a fantastic balance of features and cost.
• Compared to Other Android Flagships e.g., Pixel, OnePlus: The S22 Plus competes favorably with other Android flagships from its generation. Its strengths lie in its versatile camera system, excellent display, premium build, and robust software support from Samsung. Its long-term software update policy is a significant advantage over many Android rivals.

Is It Still Worth Buying in 2024?

Absolutely, yes. For users looking for a high-performance, premium Android smartphone that doesn’t break the bank, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus remains a very compelling option in 2024, especially if purchased at its current secondary market value.

• Long-Term Support: With guaranteed software updates up to Android 16 and security updates until early 2027, the S22 Plus offers excellent longevity.
• Powerful Hardware: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 chipsets are still very capable, handling all modern apps and games with ease.
• Excellent Display: The 120Hz AMOLED display with 1,750 nits peak brightness is still top-tier.
• Capable Cameras: The versatile triple camera system continues to produce great photos and videos for everyday use.
• Premium Build: The Gorilla Glass Victus+ and Armor Aluminum design ensure durability.

The S22 Plus offers a fantastic balance of features, performance, and now, affordability. For those who are not swayed by the latest marketing hype and want a reliable daily driver that will last for several years, it represents significant value for money in the current market.

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus: A Comprehensive Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus aimed to be the sweet spot in Samsung’s 2022 flagship lineup, and it largely succeeded.

It delivered a premium experience that balanced high-end features, a sleek design, and robust performance without demanding the absolute top-tier price of the S22 Ultra.

After reviewing its core components, it’s clear that the S22 Plus remains a highly capable and appealing smartphone, especially given its current market value.

Key Strengths That Make It Stand Out

• Stunning Display: The 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with its adaptive 120Hz refresh rate and incredible 1,750 nits peak brightness remains one of the best in the business. It’s vibrant, smooth, and exceptionally bright for outdoor visibility.
• Premium Design and Durability: The flat screen, Armor Aluminum frame, and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both sides give the S22 Plus a refined, modern look and feel while offering excellent durability and IP68 water resistance. It feels great in hand and is built to last.
• Powerful Performance: Whether powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200, the S22 Plus delivers flagship-level performance. It handles demanding games, heavy multitasking, and everyday tasks with absolute ease and fluidity.
• Versatile Camera System: The triple-camera setup, especially the improved 50MP main sensor, excels in various conditions, particularly low light. The 3x optical zoom telephoto lens is a significant asset, and overall image quality is consistently impressive.
• Long-Term Software Support: Samsung’s commitment to four major Android OS updates and five years of security updates gives the S22 Plus exceptional longevity, making it a smart long-term investment.
• Fast Charging with the right adapter: While the charger is sold separately, 45W wired charging is a welcome speed boost, allowing for quick top-ups.

Areas for Consideration

• Battery Life Good, but Not Exceptional: While capable of lasting a full day for most users, the 4,500mAh battery doesn’t offer two-day endurance, especially under heavy use. It’s solid, but not class-leading.
• No MicroSD Card Slot: A common omission in flagships, but one that power users or those with large media libraries might miss. Choosing the right internal storage at purchase is key.
• No Charger in Box: A minor inconvenience, but adds to the initial cost if you don’t already own a compatible 45W PPS charger.
• Regional Chipset Differences: While both are powerful, some users might prefer one chipset over the other due to slight differences in performance or efficiency, though this is less of an issue in daily use.

Who is the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus For?

The S22 Plus is an ideal choice for:

• Users seeking a premium Android experience without the absolute top-tier price tag.
• Photography enthusiasts who want a versatile and capable camera system that excels in various lighting conditions.
• Mobile gamers and power users who need a device that can handle intensive applications and multitasking with ease.
• Anyone who values a vibrant, bright display for media consumption and general use.
• Individuals looking for a durable and well-built smartphone with excellent software support for years to come.
• Those who prefer a larger screen than the base S22 but find the S22 Ultra too big or feature-redundant.

The Final Word

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus delivered on its promise to be a balanced and highly capable flagship. While newer models have arrived, its core strengths in display, performance, camera, and long-term software support ensure it remains a highly relevant and valuable smartphone in 2024, particularly for those exploring the second-hand or refurbished market. If you’re looking for a device that offers a compelling blend of features, style, and longevity, the S22 Plus should definitely be on your shortlist. It’s a reliable workhorse that will serve you well for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between the S22 Plus and the S22 Ultra?

The S22 Plus lacks the integrated S Pen stylus, features a slightly smaller 6.6-inch display compared to the Ultra’s 6.8-inch, has a different camera setup 50MP main vs. 108MP, 3x optical zoom vs. 3x and 10x optical zoom, and has a lower maximum RAM configuration.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus have a headphone jack?

No, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus does not have a 3.5mm headphone jack.

You will need to use wireless headphones, USB-C headphones, or a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter. Globe Electric Wi Fi Smart 10 Watt Multicolor Led Light Bulb Review

Is the S22 Plus waterproof?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus has an IP68 rating, meaning it is resistant to dust and can be submerged in up to 1.5 meters about 5 feet of fresh water for up to 30 minutes.

What kind of processor does the S22 Plus use?

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus uses either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Samsung’s Exynos 2200 processor, depending on the region. Both are 4nm flagship chipsets.

How bright is the S22 Plus display?

The S22 Plus features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a peak brightness of up to 1,750 nits, making it exceptionally bright and easy to view even in direct sunlight.

Does the S22 Plus support 5G?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus supports both sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G connectivity, offering fast cellular speeds where available.

What is the battery capacity of the S22 Plus?

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus has a 4,500mAh battery.

Does the S22 Plus come with a charger in the box?

No, like many modern smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus does not include a wall charger in the box. You will need to purchase one separately.

What is the maximum wired charging speed for the S22 Plus?

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus supports wired fast charging up to 45W, though you need a compatible 45W USB PD 3.0 PPS charger to achieve these speeds.

Does the S22 Plus support wireless charging?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus supports 15W fast wireless charging Fast Wireless Charging 2.0.

Can the S22 Plus wirelessly charge other devices?

Yes, the S22 Plus supports Wireless PowerShare reverse wireless charging at 4.5W, allowing you to charge compatible accessories like earbuds or smartwatches by placing them on the back of the phone.

How many years of software updates does the S22 Plus receive?

Samsung has committed to providing four generations of Android OS updates and five years of security updates for the Galaxy S22 Plus. Kaspersky Endpoint Security Cloud Review

What Android version did the S22 Plus launch with?

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus launched with One UI 4 based on Android 12.

Does the S22 Plus have an expandable storage slot microSD?

No, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus does not have a microSD card slot for expandable storage.

What is the main camera resolution on the S22 Plus?

The main wide-angle camera on the S22 Plus is 50MP.

Does the S22 Plus have optical zoom?

Yes, the S22 Plus features a dedicated 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom.

Is the fingerprint sensor on the S22 Plus reliable?

Yes, the S22 Plus uses an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, which is generally fast, accurate, and reliable, even with slightly damp fingers.

What is Samsung Knox?

Samsung Knox is a multi-layered security platform built into Samsung devices, providing hardware-backed protection for sensitive data and real-time protection against malware and tampering.

Can I use Samsung DeX with the S22 Plus?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus supports Samsung DeX, allowing you to connect it to an external monitor and use it like a desktop computer.

Is the S22 Plus good for gaming?

Yes, with its powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 processor and 120Hz AMOLED display, the S22 Plus is excellent for mobile gaming, handling demanding titles smoothly.

What is the refresh rate of the S22 Plus display?

The S22 Plus display has an adaptive refresh rate that can dynamically adjust from 10Hz up to 120Hz, providing smooth scrolling and animations while conserving battery life.

How much RAM does the S22 Plus have?

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus comes with 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM. Asus Rog Strix Scar 17 G733 Review

What are the storage options for the S22 Plus?

The S22 Plus is available with 128GB or 256GB of UFS 3.1 internal storage.

Does the S22 Plus support Wi-Fi 6E?

Yes, the S22 Plus supports Wi-Fi 6E, allowing for faster speeds and lower latency when connected to a compatible router on the 6GHz band.

How much does the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus cost now?

As of late 2023/early 2024, new unlocked S22 Plus units can often be found for $600-$800, while refurbished or used models can range from $400-$600, depending on condition and retailer.

Is the S22 Plus still a good phone in 2024?

Yes, due to its powerful hardware, excellent display, capable cameras, premium build, and Samsung’s extended software support, the S22 Plus remains a very good and viable smartphone option in 2024, especially for its current price point.

Does the S22 Plus have an Always-On Display?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus supports an Always-On Display, showing time, date, notifications, and battery status while the screen is off.

What is the difference in size between the S22 Plus and the base S22?

The S22 Plus has a 6.6-inch display, while the base S22 has a smaller 6.1-inch display. The Plus model also has a larger battery.

Does the S22 Plus have a vapor chamber for cooling?

Yes, the S22 Plus features an improved cooling system, including a larger vapor chamber, to help manage heat dissipation during intensive tasks.

Can the S22 Plus record 8K video?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus is capable of recording 8K video at 24 frames per second fps.

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