Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A02 vs. Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | 2021-01-27 | 2022-02-25 | S22 Ultra is a newer model, likely with longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 164 × 75.9 × 9.1 mm | 163.3 × 77.9 × 8.9 mm | S22 Ultra is slightly wider by 2mm, similar height. Both have same thickness. |
| Weight | 206g | 228g | A02 is noticeably lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones with no foldable design. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.8" | S22 Ultra has a slightly larger screen, offering more screen real estate for media and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1440x3088 | S22 Ultra has significantly sharper visuals, resulting in clearer text, images, and videos, making viewing content much more enjoyable. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 500 | S22 Ultra has a much sharper display with higher clarity. Images and text look smoother and crisper |
| Technology | PLS LCD | AMOLED | S22 Ultra’s AMOLED offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, better viewing angles and greater power efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | S22 Ultra has smoother animations, making scrolling, gaming and general navigation feel fluid and responsive. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1750 nits | S22 Ultra has vastly superior visibility in bright sunlight, essential for outdoor use. The A02 will be difficult or impossible to see outdoors in sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739W (28 nm) | Exynos 2200 (4 nm) - Europe | S22 Ultra has a significantly more powerful and efficient processor, offering much faster app loading, better multitasking, and vastly superior gaming capabilities. |
| Antutu Score | 50,774 | 1,023,311 | S22 Ultra demonstrates vastly superior performance in benchmarks. In real-world use this means that the S22 Ultra can handle very demanding tasks without slowdown. The A02 will struggle with even everyday tasks. |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 (PowerVR GE8100) | Xclipse 920 - Europe (AMD Xclipse 920) | S22 Ultra’s GPU offers significantly superior graphics rendering performance, providing better gaming performance. The A02 will struggle with any demanding games. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 13MP, f/1.9, 1.12µm pixel size | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33", Samsung S5KHM3, 0.80µm pixel size | S22 Ultra captures much more detailed photos, better low-light performance, and overall superior image quality. |
| Telephoto + portrait Camera | None | 12MP, f/2.4, 1/3.52", Sony IMX754, 1.12µm pixel size | S22 Ultra offers optical zoom capabilities and better portrait mode quality, providing versatility in different shooting scenarios. |
| Selfie Camera | 5MP, f/2.0 | 40MP, f/2.2, 0.70µm pixel size | S22 Ultra takes sharper, clearer, and more detailed selfies with better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto lens | None | 12MP, f/4.9, 1/3.52", Sony IMX754, 1.12µm pixel size | S22 Ultra offers optical zoom, allowing for zoomed shots with far less loss of quality than digital zoom. |
| Wide Angle lens | None | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX563, 1.40µm pixel size | S22 Ultra allows users to capture more in each photo, making it ideal for landscapes and group shots. |
| Macro lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | A02 can take close-up shots. However the quality will be very low. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps | S22 Ultra offers far higher video resolution and frame rate, allowing for professional-level video recording. The S22 Ultra is superior for video recording due to higher resolution, faster frame rates, HDR, and advanced stabilization. The A02 is very limited in quality and function. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Tested | Mobile: 131, Selfie: 135 | S22 Ultra offers higher quality photos and videos. |
| Features | Digital zoom, Dual camera, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | S22 Ultra has additional features that enhance image quality, stability, and creative control. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery capacity, but usage will heavily impact battery life. The S22 Ultra uses a higher resolution screen and more powerful chipset, so it will likely not achieve the same battery life as the A02. |
| Charging | 7.5W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | S22 Ultra charges much faster, reducing waiting time. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | S22 Ultra has more charging options including wireless and reverse wireless charging which allow other devices to be charged. Bypass charging is useful for demanding tasks where the phone may overheat if directly charged while in use. |
Software
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 10 | Android 12 | S22 Ultra comes with a newer OS and likely will receive more updates, providing access to the latest features and security patches. |
Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, Wi-Fi Hotspot | 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11n 5GHz, 802.11ac, WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Dual band, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi Display, Wi-Fi MiMO | S22 Ultra offers faster speeds, lower latency, and better performance on modern Wi-Fi networks, and has features like Wi-Fi Direct and MiMO for better connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 4.2 LE, A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), LE (Low Energy) | Bluetooth 5.2 LE, A2DP, AVRCP, DIP, HFP, HID, HSP, LE, MAP, PAN, OPP, PBAP/PAB, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | S22 Ultra has a newer, more efficient, and versatile Bluetooth for improved wireless audio, more reliable connections with other devices, and better audio quality codecs like APT-X and LDAC. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | S22 Ultra has more robust GPS capabilities, providing better accuracy and faster location acquisition, useful for navigation and location-based apps. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + eSIM) | S22 Ultra adds eSIM capability, which allows for multiple mobile plans. The A02 allows 2 physical SIMs, which may be preferable in certain situations. |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 32 GB or 64 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB or 1024 GB | S22 Ultra offers vastly more storage capacity, suitable for storing high-resolution photos, videos, and many applications, with a range of options from 128GB to 1TB. |
| RAM | 2 GB, 3 GB or 4 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | S22 Ultra provides significantly more RAM, resulting in smoother multitasking, faster app switching, and generally better performance, especially with demanding applications and games. |
| Expandable Storage | No Expandable storage | No Expandable storage | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | S22 Ultra offers a superior audio experience with better audio separation and clarity thanks to the stereo speakers and additional high quality codecs. |
Security
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Features | Basic Security Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | S22 Ultra has a fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication, providing a more convenient and secure way to unlock the phone. |
Build Quality
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | S22 Ultra offers improved screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | S22 Ultra offers a more comprehensive sensor suite, enabling a broader range of features including more accurate rotation, compass functionality, and environmental pressure data for weather applications. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A02 Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: The A02 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use, especially one handed.
- Lower Cost: The A02 is targeted at budget consumers, being substantially more affordable than the S22 Ultra.
- Macro Lens: Offers macro lens for close-up photography, although the quality may be limited.
- Dual SIM: Uses two physical SIM cards, which may be preferable to an eSIM for some users.
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Offers a larger, higher-resolution AMOLED screen with higher brightness, smoother refresh rate, and superior color accuracy.
- Exceptional Performance: Equipped with a much more powerful processor, resulting in vastly improved speed and responsiveness.
- Professional-Grade Camera System: Features a versatile multi-lens system, delivering superior image quality, zoom capabilities, and advanced video features.
- Faster Charging: Supports 45W fast charging, along with wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- Advanced Connectivity: Features the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards, offering faster data transfer speeds and more stable connections.
- Higher Storage and RAM Options: Provides significantly more storage and RAM, enabling smoother multitasking and more storage.
- Better Build Quality: Includes Gorilla Glass Victus+ for enhanced screen protection, and features a better water resistance rating.
- Improved Audio: Includes stereo speakers, Hi-Res audio support, and noise cancellation microphones.
- More Robust Sensor Suite: Contains a variety of sensors for more advanced applications.
Significant Trade-Offs:
- Price: The S22 Ultra is considerably more expensive than the A02, reflecting its high-end features and performance.
- Weight & Size: The S22 Ultra is heavier and slightly wider, making it less comfortable for extended one-handed use than the A02.
- Battery Life: The S22 Ultra’s higher-performance components and higher resolution screen may lead to decreased battery life compared to the A02 despite similar battery capacities.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A02 - Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Individuals seeking a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light browsing.
- First-Time Smartphone Users: Those new to smartphones who do not need high-end features.
- Users with Limited Tech Needs: Those primarily using phones for basic communication and simple tasks.
- Users who prioritize battery life: A lower resolution screen and a weaker chipset means the phone will be more power efficient and offer longer battery life, though the display may suffer outdoors due to very low brightness.
Use Cases:
- Basic communication (calls and messages).
- Casual web browsing and social media.
- Occasional photos and video, without high expectations.
- Running basic Android apps.
- Use as an alternate phone where cost is a primary concern.
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G - Ideal Users:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who want cutting-edge technology and high-end features.
- Professional Photographers and Videographers: Users who need high-quality cameras and video capabilities on the go.
- Gamers: Those who play graphically intensive mobile games and demand top performance.
- Heavy Multitaskers: Users who often run multiple apps simultaneously and need fast processing and ample memory.
- Users who prioritize display quality: Those who use their phone to view content and want the best experience.
- Users who need to view their screen in direct sunlight The screen on the A02 is not viewable in sunlight, but the S22 Ultra's screen is incredibly bright.
Use Cases:
- High-quality photography and videography.
- Demanding mobile gaming.
- Professional multitasking and productivity.
- Resource intensive applications and services.
- Media consumption of high-resolution videos and content.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? If you have limited funds, the A02 is substantially more affordable, although you may be making sacrifices in other areas.
- What is your primary use case? If you need a phone for basic communication and light tasks, the A02 is fine. However, if you need to run resource intensive applications, play games, or take high-quality photos or videos, the S22 Ultra is a much better fit.
- What is your primary usage environment? If you are always indoors, the low brightness screen on the A02 may be adequate. However if you are outdoors, the high brightness screen of the S22 Ultra is much more visible.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User
- Recommendation: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A02 if cost is your primary concern and you only need basic functionality.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Photographer or Videographer
- Recommendation: Opt for the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G for its professional-grade camera system and advanced video capabilities.
- Scenario 3: Demanding Mobile Gamer
- Recommendation: The S22 Ultra 5G is better suited for its powerful processor, advanced GPU, high refresh rate and ample RAM and storage.
- Scenario 4: User who needs maximum performance
- Recommendation: The S22 Ultra 5G offers a vastly faster and more robust system for demanding tasks, multitasking, and heavy usage.
- Scenario 5: User who needs a high brightness display
- Recommendation: The S22 Ultra's display is viewable in direct sunlight, unlike the A02.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G. While the A02 is more affordable and lighter, the S22 Ultra offers an objectively vastly superior experience across nearly every metric. Its display is significantly better, the performance is drastically higher, the camera system is professional-grade, and it has modern connectivity and charging features.
The price difference is substantial, however the capabilities of the S22 Ultra justify the increase in cost if the use case calls for the more advanced features that the S22 Ultra has. The experience of viewing content, using the camera, playing games, and using applications on the S22 Ultra is far better than the A02 due to its vastly more powerful chipset, RAM, and superior display technology.
The A02 is still a usable phone for basic purposes, but the S22 Ultra is a more capable phone that performs well with demanding tasks, media creation, photography, and multitasking that cannot be matched by the A02.
