Should you get the Samsung Galaxy S22 ultra in 2025?

Should You Get the Galaxy S22 Ultra in 2025?

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra was a flagship powerhouse when it launched in 2022, but in 2025, is it still worth considering? With newer models like the S24 and S25 series dominating the market, the S22 Ultra might seem outdated at first glance. However, this phone still has a lot to offer, especially if you’re looking for a premium device without breaking the bank. Let’s break it down—starting with the positives.

---

The Positives

1. The Screen

The 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is still one of the best screens you can find on a smartphone. With a QHD+ resolution, a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate, and peak brightness of 1750 nits, it’s perfect for media consumption, gaming, or just scrolling through social media. The colors are vibrant, the blacks are deep, and the overall viewing experience is top-notch.

2. The Cameras

The S22 Ultra’s camera system is still impressive in 2025. The 108MP main sensor captures stunning detail, and the portrait mode produces professional-looking shots with excellent edge detection. But the real star is the **crazy zoom**. Whether you’re spying on your friend’s texts to their crush (we’ve all been there) or trying to read the blackboard from the back of a lecture hall, the 10x optical zoom and 100x Space Zoom are incredibly fun and useful.

3. Software and Timely Updates

Samsung has done an excellent job with software support for the S22 Ultra. It runs on One UI 6 (based on Android 14) and is expected to receive updates for a few more years. The interface is smooth, feature-rich, and highly customizable, especially with **Good Lock**, which lets you tweak your phone’s UI to your heart’s content.

4. S Pen Integration

The built-in S Pen is a game-changer for note-takers, artists, or anyone who prefers the precision of a stylus. It’s responsive, convenient, and adds a layer of functionality that most smartphones still lack in 2025.

5. Google Gemini and Circle to Search

With the integration of **Google Gemini** and **Circle to Search**, the S22 Ultra feels surprisingly modern. These AI-powered features make multitasking and searching for information seamless, keeping the phone relevant in the age of AI-driven smartphones.

6. Speakers, Audio, and Connectivity

The stereo speakers deliver rich, immersive sound, and the phone supports all the latest connectivity standards, including 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2. Whether you’re streaming music, watching movies, or gaming, the audio experience is excellent.

7. Design 

The S22 Ultra’s design is timeless. Its sleek, premium build with Gorilla Glass Victus+ and an aluminum frame still turns heads in 2025. It’s a phone that looks and feels expensive.

8. Gaming Experience

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (or Exynos 2200, depending on your region) still holds up for most gaming needs. Titles like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile run smoothly, and the large, vibrant display makes gaming a joy. 

**The Cons**

1. Battery Life is Average

The 5000mAh battery was decent in 2022, but by 2025 standards, it’s just average. Heavy users might find themselves reaching for the charger by the end of the day, especially if they’re gaming or using the camera extensively.

2. Thermal Issues with Exynos

If you’re in a region with the Exynos 2200 variant, you might encounter thermal throttling during intensive tasks. The Snapdragon variant fares better, but both chips show their age compared to 2025’s processors.

3. Benchmarks Lower Compared to 2025 Standards

While the S22 Ultra was a performance beast in its time, it can’t compete with the raw power of 2025 flagships. If you’re a benchmark enthusiast, you’ll notice the difference.

4. Below-Average Video Performance

The video capabilities, while good, don’t hold up to the standards set by newer smartphones. The stabilization and dynamic range are decent, but they fall short compared to devices like the iPhone 15 Pro or the S24 Ultra.

5. Occasional UI Stutters

Despite Samsung’s software optimizations, the S22 Ultra can still experience occasional stutters, especially when multitasking or using heavy apps. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s noticeable.

---

Overall Verdict

So, should you get the Galaxy S22 Ultra in 2025? The answer depends on your priorities.

If you’re someone who values a stunning display, a versatile camera system (especially that insane zoom), S Pen functionality, and a premium design, the S22 Ultra is still a fantastic choice. The software support, customization options, and modern features like Google Gemini and Circle to Search keep it feeling fresh and relevant.

However, if battery life, thermal performance, and cutting-edge benchmarks are critical to you, you might want to look at newer options. And if you’re used to smaller phones, the S22 Ultra’s size might feel overwhelming. In that case, consider the **Galaxy S23**, which offers excellent value for money and a more compact form factor.

In conclusion, if the cons don’t tick you off, the S22 Ultra is absolutely worth it in 2025. It’s a testament to Samsung’s ability to create devices that stand the test of time. But if you’re looking for the latest and greatest, it might be time to explore newer models.