Overview: The Samsung Galaxy S22 and Apple iPhone 14 series represent the best Android and iOS smartphones in the market currently. They boast cutting-edge processors, versatile camera systems, day-long battery life, and compelling designs.
But which 2022 flagship phone is better in 2023? I extensively compare the Galaxy S22 and iPhone 14 models across 10 key categories ranging from performance and cameras to software support. Analyzing real world test results and benchmarks, this guide will help you decide the best premium phone for your needs.
Display and Design
The screens and build quality of these flagship phones from Samsung and Apple leave little room to complain:
Displays
| Specification | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.1" Dynamic AMOLED | 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 pixels | 1170 x 2532 pixels |
| Peak Brightness | 1300 nits | 1200 nits |
| Refresh Rate | 48-120 Hz adaptive | Standard 60 Hz |
Analysis: The Galaxy S22 wins out with a more fluid 120 Hz display and brighter panel. The iPhone 14 offers higher resolution but that is not noticeable in real world use.
Design and Build
| Parameter | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 146 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm | 146.7 × 71.5 × 7.8 mm |
| Weight | 167 grams | 172 grams |
| Frame | Armor Aluminum | Aerospace-grade aluminum |
| Back Panel | Gorilla Glass Victus+ | Glass back |
| IP Rating | IP68 water/dust resist | IP68 water/dust resist |
Analysis: We have an extremely close contest here. The S22 shaves off a few grams in weight thanks to its smaller battery while both phones boast premium builds, top-notch durability and water resistance.
Verdict: The gorgeous vibrant displays and durable designs make both phones pleasure to use. I‘ll score this round a tie between the Galaxy S22 and iPhone 14.
Biometric Authentication
Securely unlocking your phone is core to the mobile experience today in apps and payments. Here is how the Galaxy S22 and iPhone 14 models compare:
Biometrics
| Feature | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Fingerprint Sensor | Ultrasonic in-display | NA |
| Face Recognition | 2D camera-based | TrueDepth 3D camera |
| Authentication Scenarios | Apps, Payments | Apps, Payments, Secure Documents |
Analysis: The Galaxy S22 offers advanced ultrasonic fingerprint recognition built into its display. This allows quickly unlocking your phone with 98% accuracy even with wet fingers.
The iPhone 14 lacks any fingerprint sensor but provides TrueDepth camera powered Face ID instead. While slightly slower than fingerprint, Apple‘s facial recognition is extremely secure and functions reliably in diverse real-life situations.
So both phones cover biometric authentication well for most people. Fingerprint sensors allow discretion while Face ID offers near password-grade security, albeit forcing you to stare at the phone!
Performance and 5G Connectivity
These flagship phones pack the most advanced mobile processors in the world currently:
Processors
| Metric | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Apple A15 Bionic |
| CPU | Octa-core (1×3.0 GHz + 3×2.5 GHz + 4×1.8 GHz) | Hexa-core (2×3.23 GHz + 4×1.82 GHz) |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Apple GPU 5-core |
| AI Engine | Hexagon | 16-core Neural Engine |
| Manufacturing Process | 4nm | 5nm |
Benchmark Scores
| Test | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Geekbench 5 (Single/Multi Core) | 1250 / 3500 | 1732 / 4643 |
| 3DMark Wild Life (Score) | 8974 | NA |
| 3DMark Wild Life (FPS) | 53 FPS | NA |
Analysis: Samsung‘s 2022 flagship phone delivers overwhelmingly better CPU and GPU performance versus the iPhone 14 based on benchmarks.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip on the S22 outperforms Apple‘s A15 Bionic by 19% in single core and 33% in multi core tests. The Adreno 730 GPU is also in a different league compared to Apple‘s aged 5-core graphics.
In practical terms, both phones blaze through everyday tasks and gaming. But the S22 handles demanding productivity apps and quick switching between heavy games/videos better thanks to its cutting edge 8 Gen 1 processor and up to twice the RAM (8GB).
Connectivity
| Specs | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax) | Wi‐Fi 6 (802.11ax) with 2×2 MIMO |
| Bluetooth | v5.2 | v5.3 |
| 5G Bands | mmWave + sub-6 GHz 5G | Sub-6 GHz 5G |
| 5G Speed | 10 Gbps (Theoretical) | 4 Gbps (Theoretical) |
Analysis: For connectivity, both devices support the latest Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 standards. But the Galaxy S22 offers faster theoretical 5G data speeds and coverage across all networks globally using mmWave.
On 5G, iPhone 14 tops out at 4 Gbps networks supported mainly in the US. This allows lightning fast downloads/uploads when you have line of sight to cell towers. But the S22‘s 10 Gbps capability through mmWave + sub-6 GHz ensures consistently high-speed access anywhere.
Verdict: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, Adreno 730 GPU and 8GB RAM propels the Galaxy S22 to victory in performance over the iPhone 14. Its 4nm architecture also promises better power efficiency while destroying Apple in 5G speeds.
Camera Quality and Video Recording
Cameras have become one of the top considerations we make while buying phones today. Let‘s examine the optics on offer here:
Rear Cameras
| Camera | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Main | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS | 12 MP, f/1.5, sensor-shift OIS |
| Ultra-Wide | 12 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/2.4 |
| Telephoto | 10 MP, f/2.4, OIS, 3x optical zoom | NA |
| Video Capture | Up to 8K 30 fps | Up to 4K 60 fps |
Analysis: On paper, Samsung provides a more versatile triple camera setup with dedicated telephoto lens and 50MP higher resolution sensor compared to dual cameras on the iPhone 14.
But Apple‘s image processing and tuning often lead to more natural colors and detailed dynamic range in photos. A recent camera shootout confirms the iPhone 14 capturing better photos than Galaxy S22 in daylight, portrait and low light conditions. Samsung‘s night mode however does close the gap in dim scenes.
For videos, the Galaxy S22 offers next-gen 8K recording and a Pro mode with granular controls. But Apple‘s sensor-shift stabilization produces gimbal-smooth videos free of shakes and jerkiness in 4K 60 fps quality.
Front Camera
| Specs | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 10 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/1.9 |
| Features | Auto-HDR, dual video call | Photographic styles, Cinematic mode |
Analysis: Apple debuts their TrueDepth selfie camera on a mainstream iPhone with the 14 model after reserving it for the Pro series earlier. And it shows in noticeably better detail, portraits and low light performance.
Samsung however also does a great job with selfies offering brighter colors in daylight. But the iPhone 14 pulls far ahead thanks to Apple‘s machine learning and illumination framework in dim indoor conditions.
Verdict: The iPhone 14 delivers better images across lighting scenarios – thanks to a combination of hardware and software magic from Apple. It wins the camera round even with fewer lenses than the S22.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a key practical aspect that determines how long you can use your phone when traveling or on-the-go. Let‘s examine runtimes along with charging speeds.
Battery Life
| Metric | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 3700 mAh | 3279 mAh |
| Screen-On Time (benchmark) | 7 hours 10 minutes | 9 hours 28 minutes |
Analysis: Despite a larger battery on paper, the Galaxy S22 lasts almost 2 hours less than the iPhone 14 in standardized battery rundown tests reflecting mixed real-world usage.
This battery life advantage can be attributed to Apple‘s energy efficient processors combined with iOS software optimizations. As a result, you can easily get through 1.5 days of active usage with the iPhone 14 on single charge.
Charging Speed
| Feature | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Wired Charging | Up to 25W USB PD 3.0 | Up to 20W USB-C PD |
| Wireless Charging | 15W Qi Fast Charge | 15W MagSafe wireless |
| 0 to 50% Charge (Minutes) | 30 minutes | 35 minutes |
Analysis: Despite substantially smaller battery versus S22 Plus/Ultra models, Samsung provides 25W fast charging support on the S22. This allows juicing up its 3700 mAh cell from 0-50% in just 30 mins.
In comparison, the iPhone 14 offers slower 20W wired and 15W MagSafe wireless charging to refill its larger capacity battery. As a result, reaching 50% charge takes around 35 minutes with Apple‘s stock charger.
In summary, you get roughly 90 more minutes of active runtime thanks to excellent software optimization by Apple. But Samsung counters with useful fast charging to minimize downtime when battery runs low.
Verdict: The iPhone 14‘s significantly better real-world battery life clinches this round over the Galaxy S22.
Software Experience
For software, the Galaxy S22 and iPhone 14 phones take divergent approaches:
Platforms
| Specs | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 12, OneUI 4 | iOS 16 |
| Skins/Customizations | Highly Customizable | Minimal Customization |
| Primary Apps | Google Apps | Apple Apps |
| App Stores | Play Store | App Store |
Analysis: The Galaxy S22 offers a flexible Android 12 platform with custom skins and interfaces allowed through OneUI. This caters well to folks who enjoy tailoring their homescreens, system fonts or notification panels.
In contrast, the iPhone 14 runs Apple‘s latest iOS 16 which has limited tweaks possible to the system UI. Instead the polished curated experience acts as a selling point to showcase their hardware capabilities.
Software Support
| Guarantee | Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System Updates | 4 years | 5+ years |
| Security Updates | 5 years | 6 years |
Analysis: While both phone series promise excellent extended software support, Apple edges out by committing 1 extra year of both iOS and security updates.
So Galaxy S22 owners can expect updates till Android 16 in 2026. Whereas you are covered with the iPhone 14 all the way to iOS 21 or 22 based on Apple‘s track record! That translates to getting the latest features and patches for at least 6 years.
Verdict: For folks who rely on Apple apps and services, the iPhone 14 offers unmatched integration and longevity. But flexible Android users get more UI personalization and access to niche apps on the Galaxy S22.
Pricing: Galaxy S22 vs iPhone 14
Let‘s finally talk about how much these premium 2022 flagships cost in 2023:
Price in USA
| Model | Launch MSRP | Current Prices |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S22 128GB | $799 | $699 |
| Galaxy S22 256GB | $849 | $749 |
| iPhone 14 128GB | $799 | $749 |
| iPhone 14 256GB | $899 | $799 |
Analysis: Samsung debuted their S22 series at $100 higher than the iPhone 14 models in February 2022.$
Amazing value could be attained from frequent Samsung discounts in past year, allowing grabbing a 128GB Galaxy S22 below $700 which matched Apple‘s base 14 model.
With recent iPhone 14 price cuts, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 powered S22 still holds an advantage at $50 less for 256GB variant over similar iPhone 14 capacity currently.
International Prices
In regions including UK, Europe, Australia and Canada, the Galaxy S22 likewise beats equivalent iPhone 14 models by around $100. For example, the iPhone 14 starts at £849 in UK (~$1040) whereas Galaxy S22 is available for £769 (~$940).
Verdict: Despite parity at launch, Samsung‘s steeper markdowns through 2022 make the Galaxy S22 better value than the iPhone 14 in most markets currently.
Verdict: Which is the Better Phone in 2023?
Analyzing their specs and real world performance, a clear winner emerges:
|| Galaxy S22 | iPhone 14 |
|:-|:-:|:-:|
| Display & Design | 👍 Better Screen | Matching Premium Build |
| Biometrics | Ultrasonic Fingerprint | Face ID Unlocks |
| Performance | Blazing Fast | Still Capable |
| Camera Quality | Impressive Optics | Superior Photos |
| Battery Runtimes | Decent | 1.5 days Usage |
| Software Updates | 4 OS Upgrades | 5+ years Guaranteed |
| Value Factor | More affordable now | Discounted from launch |
-
For Android enthusiasts, the Galaxy S22 is a superb choice offering the fastest processor, 10x zoom camera and a gorgeous display. Performance junkies will love the cutting edge hardware which breezes through any game or application. Upgrade to the S22 Plus/Ultra variants if you desire longer battery life.
-
For the iOS faithful, the iPhone 14 makes a reliable pick with dependable cameras, 2 day runtime and enjoying Apple‘s fluid curated software experience. You have peace of mind with 5+ years updates guaranteed and seamless sync across Apple devices. Go for higher Pro models if desiring dynamic 120Hz screens and macro photography.
At the end of the day, brand loyalty tends to dominate phone preferences. As an Android user since 2010, I‘d happily grab the Galaxy S22 Ultra for the bleeding edge package it represents.
But my partner swears by her iPhone 13 Mini with fluid software and consistency across use cases. Your phone priorities of performance, camera, software or battery life should drive purchase decisions between these two 2022 flagships rather than brand names!
