Galaxy S22 review

A small, powerful step forward — Samsung Galaxy S22

The Galaxy S22 arrived in 2022 as a return to a more compact flagship style. With a 6.1-inch screen and a weight of just 167 grams, it fits easily in one hand. Unlike many larger phones, it doesn't feel like a compromise. The phone uses either a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 chip, paired with 8GB of RAM. This makes everyday tasks and gaming feel fast. The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom.

That zoom is rare at this price and helps you get closer to your subject without losing detail. The Samsung Galaxy S22 is a solid choice for anyone who wants flagship features without the bulk. You can browse other options in our phone reviews to see how it compares.

Design and build: Tough and pocket-friendly — Samsung Galaxy S22

The Galaxy S22 uses Armor Aluminum for the frame and Gorilla Glass Victus Plus for the front and back. This makes it feel sturdy and resistant to drops and scratches. It also has an IP68 rating, so it can handle splashes and brief submersion in water. The phone is available in several colors, though finishes vary by region and storage choice. At 167 grams, it feels light and comfortable in the pocket. The Contour Cut camera housing from the earlier models remains, giving the back a clean look.

The phone is easy to hold without a case, though one is recommended for extra protection. The design is simple and functional, making it a reliable daily companion. For a full list of available models, see our phone directory.

Display and sound: Bright and smooth — Samsung Galaxy S22

The 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display uses a 120Hz refresh rate. This makes scrolling, swiping, and animations look smooth and responsive. The screen is bright and vivid, with strong contrast for watching videos or reading text. It supports HDR content, so movies and games look rich. The size, however, can feel small if you are used to larger screens on other Android phones. It is a strong match for one-handed use, but multitasking or watching media may feel cramped.

The sound from the stereo speakers is clear and loud enough for casual listening. The adaptive refresh rate adjusts based on what you are doing, saving some battery life. Overall, the display is a highlight of the Galaxy S22, making it enjoyable for daily use.

Camera: Solid shots with a useful zoom — Samsung Galaxy S22

The Galaxy S22's triple camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom. In daylight, the main camera captures detailed, well-exposed photos with natural colors. The telephoto lens adds flexibility that many rivals at this price lack, letting you frame subjects closer without losing quality. The ultrawide is consistent, though it can show some softness at the edges.

Low-light performance is decent, with the main sensor pulling in enough light for usable night shots, but the telephoto struggles more in dim conditions. Compared to the larger Galaxy S22 Ultra, the camera system here is less versatile, missing the periscope zoom and advanced processing. For everyday photography—portraits, scenes, and casual shots—the S22 delivers reliable results that will satisfy most users. The camera app is fast and easy to navigate, and the 3x zoom is a genuine advantage over the base iPhone 14, which lacks a dedicated telephoto lens.

Video recording goes up to 8K, but the phone can stutter during capture, so 4K at 30fps is a more practical choice for smooth footage.

Performance and battery: Enough for daily tasks — Samsung Galaxy S22

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 chip depending on region, the Galaxy S22 handles everyday tasks with ease. Apps open quickly, multitasking is smooth, and games run well at high settings. The 8GB of RAM keeps things fluid, and the 120Hz adaptive display makes scrolling and animations feel responsive. The 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen is bright and vibrant, though its compact size can feel cramped for watching videos or working on documents. Battery life is one area where the S22 shows its smaller size.

The 3,700mAh cell provides enough power for a full day of moderate use—checking email, social media, and some camera work—but heavy users may need a top-up by evening. Charging is capped at 25W wired and 15W wireless, which is slower than many competitors, and no charger is included in the box. The phone supports IP68 water resistance and uses Armor Aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus Plus for durability, so it feels solid in hand. Overall, performance is flagship-grade, but the battery and charging are modest compared to larger phones.

Is the Galaxy S22 right for you? — Samsung Galaxy S22

Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy S22?

The Samsung Galaxy S22 is a strong choice if you want a compact Android flagship that doesn't compromise on core features. Its 6.1-inch screen, bright 120Hz display, and capable triple camera with 3x zoom make it a versatile daily driver. The build quality is premium with IP68 protection, and the phone fits comfortably in one hand—a rarity among modern flagships. However, the camera system lags behind the Ultra model, and the battery life is only adequate for moderate use.

The 25W charging and lack of an included charger may frustrate some buyers. If you prioritize a smaller size and don't need the biggest screen or longest battery life, the S22 is a solid pick. For those who want more screen space or better endurance, consider larger alternatives. Use our phone finder to explore other options, or check a side-by-side comparison with the Galaxy S21 FE to see how they stack up.

The S22 is best for people who value portability and a premium feel over sheer size and battery capacity.