Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra vs Nokia XR21 5G
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is the flagship option here, and it shines in features like a stunning 6.8" display and a powerful 108MP camera. If you're considering the Nokia XR21 5G as a mid-range alternative, its rugged design and IP69K rating make it a unique contender, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. Key specs: Display: 6.8" vs 6.49" and Battery: 5000 mAh vs 4800 mAh.
Why compare these? The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra (premium flagship) and Nokia XR21 5G (mid-range) represent different approaches to smartphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Samsung Galaxy | Nokia XR21 |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.7★ (1,325 reviews) | 3.5★ (60 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Integrated S Pen with ultra-low latency (2.8ms) | Certified IP69K rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets) |
| Main Drawback | Large, heavy, and boxy design can be unwieldy | Removed wireless charging (The older XR20 had 15W wireless) |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Mid-range |
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
Android
4 generations of OS upgrades; 5 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Mobile Platform
Qualcomm Adreno 730
Nokia XR21 5G
Android
3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra vs Nokia XR21 5G
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
Nokia XR21 5G
| Criterion | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra | Nokia XR21 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.7(1,325)Best Buy | ★3.5(60)Amazon |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 4 generations of OS upgrades; 5 years of security updates | 3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023) |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Mobile Platform | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) |
Graphics | Qualcomm Adreno 730 | Adreno 619 |
RAM | 8GB / 12GB LPDDR5 | 6GB |
Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB (UFS 3.1) | 128GB UFS 2.1 (Non-expandable) |
Display Size | 6.8" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less) | 6.49" |
Screen Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O Display | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 550 nits (Sunlight Boost), Wet Hands/Glove Support |
Resolution | 3088 x 1440 pixels (QHD+), 500 ppi | 2400 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 1–120Hz (Adaptive) | 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 1,750 nits (Peak) | 450 nits (Typical) / 550 nits (High Brightness Mode) |
Main Camera | 108MP Wide (f/1.8, 85° FOV), Laser AF, OIS | 64MP, f/1.8, PDAF, Dual-LED Flash |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 12MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.2, 120° FOV) | 8MP, f/2.2, 112-degree FOV, Fixed Focus |
Telephoto Camera | 10MP Telephoto (3x optical, f/2.4) + 10MP Periscope (10x optical, f/4.9); OIS | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | 3x, 10x Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 100x Space Zoom | Up to 8x |
Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@30/60fps | 1080p @ 30/60fps (Chipset limitation) |
Front Camera | 40MP Front (f/2.2, 80° FOV), PDAF | 16MP, f/2.4 |
Battery | 5,000 mAh (Typical) | 4,800mAh (Non-removable) |
Wired Charging | Up to 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0 (Adapter sold separately) | 33W Fast Charging (QC3.0 / PD 2.0 compatible) |
Wireless Charging | Fast Wireless Charging 2.0 (15W); Wireless PowerShare | No (Not supported) — *Note: Downgrade from Nokia XR20* |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub6/mmWave); Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax); Bluetooth 5.2; NFC; UWB | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, GNSS (L1+L5) |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 | USB Type-C 2.0 (OTG) |
Durability | IP68 (Water resistant up to 1.5 meters for 30 min); Armor Aluminum frame; Gorilla Glass Victus+ | IP68/IP69K (High Temp/Pressure Jets); MIL-STD-810H; Corning Gorilla Glass Victus |
Dimensions | 6.43" x 3.07" x 0.35" (163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9 mm) | 6.61 x 3.09 x 0.41 in (168.0 x 78.6 x 10.5 mm) |
Weight | 8.08 oz (229 g) | 8.15 oz (231 g) |
Biometrics | Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor; Face Recognition | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
Extras | Integrated S Pen (2.8ms latency); Samsung DeX; Samsung Knox | Two Programmable Buttons (Top Emergency/Side Quick Access), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Dual Stereo Speakers (96dB) |
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Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
Android
4 generations of OS upgrades; 5 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Mobile Platform
Qualcomm Adreno 730
8GB / 12GB LPDDR5
128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB (UFS 3.1)
Pros
- Integrated S Pen with ultra-low latency (2.8ms)
- Versatile camera system with dual telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical)
Cons
- Large, heavy, and boxy design can be unwieldy
- Battery life is average despite 5,000mAh capacity
Nokia XR21 5G
Android
3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
6GB
128GB UFS 2.1 (Non-expandable)
Pros
- Certified IP69K rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets)
- Guaranteed 3 OS updates and 4 years of monthly security patches
Cons
- Removed wireless charging (The older XR20 had 15W wireless)
- Removed microSD card slot (The older XR20 had expandable storage)
Which one is better?
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is the better buy for most people - its 108MP camera crushes the Nokia XR21 5G's 64MP setup.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra if: you want a high-end camera for photography, need a vibrant display for media, or require powerful multitasking with 12GB of RAM.
Choose the Nokia XR21 5G if: you need a tough phone for outdoor activities, want guaranteed software updates for 3 years, or prefer a device at 8.15oz.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.7★ vs 3.5★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 1,325 reviews vs 60
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Nokia XR21
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Bottom line: The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra edges ahead with a 4.7★ rating compared to 3.5★. However, Nokia XR21 5G remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra or Nokia XR21 5G?
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is the better choice if you prioritize integrated s pen with ultra-low latency (2.8ms). Nokia XR21 5G wins if you value certified ip69k rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets). Both are rated highly (4.7★ vs 3.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra and Nokia XR21 5G?
Key differences: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra offers integrated s pen with ultra-low latency (2.8ms), while Nokia XR21 5G stands out with certified ip69k rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets). Consider that Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra large, heavy, and boxy design can be unwieldy. Meanwhile, Nokia XR21 5G removed wireless charging (the older xr20 had 15w wireless). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 27, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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