Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra First Review: Performance, Camera & S Pen

content: Initial Impressions and Key Upgrades

If you're considering Samsung's latest flagship but frustrated by vague pre-launch information, this hands-on analysis cuts through the noise. After testing the Galaxy S22 Ultra for several days, I can confirm it's essentially a rebranded Note device with significant camera and performance upgrades. Unlike previous Samsung launches, the company lifted review restrictions early—a refreshing change that lets us share genuine insights before your purchase decision.

The most immediate change is the design shift from the S21 Ultra's curved contours to a boxier Note-style frame. While visually striking, the squared edges dig into your palm during prolonged use. Samsung added premium touches like Gorilla Glass Victus Plus and an aluminum armor frame (previously exclusive to the Fold 3), but the exposed camera lenses risk scratches without a case. Crucially, the built-in S Pen returns after a two-year absence—a major win for Note loyalists. Latency drops to 2.8ms from 9ms, making handwriting feel almost paper-like.

Design Tradeoffs and Ergonomics

Despite matching the S21 Ultra's 6.8-inch screen size and 8.9mm thickness, the S22 Ultra feels noticeably bulkier. Its 2mm wider frame demands two-handed operation for most users. The subtle screen curve enhances aesthetics without causing accidental touches, but those with smaller hands might struggle. If you prioritize comfort, the S21 Ultra's rounded design remains superior. However, Samsung's matte finish resists fingerprints impressively—a small but appreciated detail.

content: Performance Benchmarks and Thermal Management

Performance tests reveal meaningful gains, especially for gamers and power users. Using the Exynos 2200 variant (UK/Europe), benchmarks show a 7-8% CPU improvement in Geekbench over the S21 Ultra's Exynos 2100. More impressively, Antutu scores jump 23% while GPU-intensive 3DMark Wildlife tests show 14% higher frame rates.

Thermal Efficiency and Throttling

The real breakthrough is thermal management. During 20-minute stress tests, the S22 Ultra maintained 72% stability versus the S21 Ultra's 60%. Surface temperatures rose just 6°C compared to 8°C previously, and throttling occurred gradually rather than in sudden drops. This translates to smoother extended gaming sessions—though early adopters should note some titles like Genshin Impact currently limit graphics settings due to unoptimized Exynos drivers.

Critical consideration: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 models (US/Asia) may perform differently. If you're a mobile gamer, waiting for regional chip comparisons is wise. Battery life mirrors the S21 Ultra—respectable but still trailing the iPhone 13 Pro Max. Expect a full day of use, not two.

content: Camera Showdown: S22 Ultra vs Competitors

Camera upgrades justify the "Ultra" branding, particularly in challenging conditions. Low-light portraits reveal 30% more facial detail than the S21 Ultra, with better texture retention in shadows. At 10x zoom, the S22 Ultra's stabilization produces usable shots where the S21 Ultra fails completely—a game-changer for concert or travel photography.

Comparison with iPhone 13 Pro Max

When pitched against Apple's flagship, results split by scenario:

• Portrait mode: iPhone applies stronger bokeh (sometimes artificially), while Samsung preserves more subject detail
• Low-light video: iPhone maintains slightly more natural colors, but S22 Ultra captures brighter footage with wider dynamic range
• Zoom: Samsung's 10x optical zoom dominates; iPhone digital zoom can't compete
• Autofocus: Both track moving subjects well, but S22 Ultra better maintained focus on my cat's fur during motion tests

The new adaptive frame rate feature minimizes noise in variable lighting, though 8K video remains capped at 24fps—a puzzling limitation given the hardware. For social media creators, the S22 Ultra's versatility shines, but iPhone users won't find enough to switch solely for camera gains.

content: Battery, Charging and Final Verdict

Samsung ships the S22 Ultra without a charger despite its 45W fast-charging capability—an eco move that backfires when you need to buy one separately. The 5,000mAh battery matches the S21 Ultra's endurance, lasting a full day but not setting records. Power users should still carry a charger for heavy workloads.

Who Should Upgrade?

• Note 20 Ultra owners: Yes—meaningful performance, camera, and S Pen upgrades
• S21 Ultra users: Only if camera/zoom improvements or built-in S Pen justify the cost
• iPhone/other Android users: Consider waiting for Snapdragon comparisons and long-term battery tests

Actionable checklist before buying:

1. Test ergonomics in-store—the boxy design doesn't suit all hands
2. Verify regional chip variant (Exynos/Snapdragon) if gaming is a priority
3. Budget for a 45W charger and protective case (essential for lens safety)

content: Conclusion and Community Question

The Galaxy S22 Ultra successfully merges Note functionality with S-series camera innovation, offering tangible upgrades in processing, thermal management, and low-light photography. While the design prioritizes style over comfort, the S Pen integration and zoom capabilities create a unique flagship proposition.

Which feature matters most to you—the S Pen, 10x zoom, or reduced throttling? Share your upgrade considerations below! Your feedback helps shape our full camera comparison lineup.