Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra vs Sony Xperia 1 VI
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is the premium option here, packing a 108MP camera that crushes the Sony Xperia 1 VI's 48MP. In real-world use, that means sharper photos and more detail, especially in challenging lighting conditions. However, if you want a lighter phone with a 3.5mm jack and expandable storage, the Xperia 1 VI has those perks but lacks official support in the US. Key specs: Display: 6.8" vs 6.5" and Weight: 8.08 oz vs 6.77 oz.
Why compare these? Both the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra and Sony Xperia 1 VI are premium flagship smartphones competing in the same market segment. This makes them direct rivals for buyers looking for premium flagship features and performance in 2026. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right one for your specific needs.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Samsung Galaxy | Sony Xperia |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.7★ (1,325 reviews) | 4.3★ (41 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Integrated S Pen with ultra-low latency (2.8ms) | Exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens |
| Main Drawback | Large, heavy, and boxy design can be unwieldy | NOT officially sold in the US (No warranty, missing key US 5G bands like Band 71) |
| Market Position | Flagship | Flagship |
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
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Android
3 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650)
Adreno 750
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.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra vs Sony Xperia 1 VI
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
Sony Xperia 1 VI
| Criterion | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra | Sony Xperia 1 VI |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.7(1,325)Best Buy | ★4.3(41)Amazon |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 4 generations of OS upgrades; 5 years of security updates | 3 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Mobile Platform | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650) |
Graphics | Qualcomm Adreno 730 | Adreno 750 |
RAM | 8GB / 12GB LPDDR5 | 12GB LPDDR5X |
Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB (UFS 3.1) | 256GB / 512GB UFS 4.0 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1.5TB) |
Display Size | 6.8" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less) | 6.5" |
Screen Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O Display | LTPO OLED, 1-120Hz Adaptive, Powered by BRAVIA |
Resolution | 3088 x 1440 pixels (QHD+), 500 ppi | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) — *Note: Downgraded from 4K on previous models* |
Refresh Rate | 1–120Hz (Adaptive) | 1Hz - 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 1,750 nits (Peak) | 1,300 nits (Typical High Brightness) / ~1,500 nits (Peak) |
Main Camera | 108MP Wide (f/1.8, 85° FOV), Laser AF, OIS | 48MP (Effective) / 52MP (Total), f/1.9, 24mm, 1/1.35" Exmor T, OIS |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 12MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.2, 120° FOV) | 12MP, f/2.2, 16mm, 123-degree FOV, AF (Macro support) |
Telephoto Camera | 10MP Telephoto (3x optical, f/2.4) + 10MP Periscope (10x optical, f/4.9); OIS | 12MP Continuous Optical Zoom, f/2.3-3.5, 85mm-170mm, OIS, Tele-macro |
Optical Zoom | 3x, 10x Optical Zoom | 3.5x to 7.1x Continuous Optical Zoom |
Digital Zoom | Up to 100x Space Zoom | Up to 21x (AI Super Resolution) |
Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@30/60fps | 4K HDR @ 120fps (All lenses) |
Front Camera | 40MP Front (f/2.2, 80° FOV), PDAF | 12MP, f/2.0, 1/2.9" Exmor RS, 4K @ 60fps |
Battery | 5,000 mAh (Typical) | 5,000mAh |
Wired Charging | Up to 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0 (Adapter sold separately) | 30W USB-PD (50% in 30 min) — *Charger not included* |
Wireless Charging | Fast Wireless Charging 2.0 (15W); Wireless PowerShare | 15W Qi Wireless Charging + Reverse Wireless Charging |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub6/mmWave); Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax); Bluetooth 5.2; NFC; UWB | 5G (Global Bands - Limited US Carrier Support), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps), Video Out (DisplayPort) |
Durability | IP68 (Water resistant up to 1.5 meters for 30 min); Armor Aluminum frame; Gorilla Glass Victus+ | IP65/IP68 (Water/Dust Resistant); Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (Front) / Victus (Back) |
Dimensions | 6.43" x 3.07" x 0.35" (163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9 mm) | 6.38 x 2.91 x 0.32 in (162 x 74 x 8.2 mm) |
Weight | 8.08 oz (229 g) | 6.77 oz (192 g) |
Biometrics | Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor; Face Recognition | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor |
Extras | Integrated S Pen (2.8ms latency); Samsung DeX; Samsung Knox | 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Full-stage stereo speakers, Dedicated Shutter Button |
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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
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Android
3 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650)
Adreno 750
12GB LPDDR5X
256GB / 512GB UFS 4.0 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1.5TB)
Pros
- Exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens
- Rare flagship features: 3.5mm headphone jack and microSD slot
Cons
- NOT officially sold in the US (No warranty, missing key US 5G bands like Band 71)
- Display resolution downgraded to 1080p (loss of unique 4K identity)
Which one is better?
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is the better buy for most people - its 108MP camera crushes the Xperia 1 VI's 48MP. That said, grab the Xperia 1 VI if you need a headphone jack and lighter weight at 6.77oz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra if: you shoot a lot of photos, need a high-resolution display, or want a versatile camera system with dual telephoto lenses. (6.8" display, 8.08 oz weight)
Choose the Sony Xperia 1 VI if: you want a headphone jack, need expandable storage, or prefer a lighter device for daily use. (6.5" display, 6.77 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.7★ vs 4.3★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 1,325 reviews vs 41
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Integrated S Pen Priority
Integrated S Pen with ultra-low latency (2.8ms)
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Exclusive 85-170mm true Priority
Exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens
→ Choose Sony Xperia
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Bottom line: The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra edges ahead with a 4.7★ rating compared to 4.3★. However, Sony Xperia 1 VI remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra or Sony Xperia 1 VI?
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is the better choice if you prioritize integrated s pen with ultra-low latency (2.8ms). Sony Xperia 1 VI wins if you value exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens. Both are rated highly (4.7★ vs 4.3★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra and Sony Xperia 1 VI?
Key differences: Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra offers integrated s pen with ultra-low latency (2.8ms), while Sony Xperia 1 VI stands out with exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens. Consider that Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra large, heavy, and boxy design can be unwieldy. Meanwhile, Sony Xperia 1 VI not officially sold in the us (no warranty, missing key us 5g bands like band 71). 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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