Tried and tested: Everything you need to know about the new Samsung smartphones

Samsung’s newest flagship smartphones have finally hit Australian shelves. This is what you need to know before choosing and accessorising a device.

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra smartphone, released in Australia on March 4, features an enhanced camera, four nanometre chip, and S Pen.

Samsung has launched its 2022 flagship smartphones in Australia. This is what you need to know about them (and how best to accessorise)

Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra

A Note by another name, with a powerful set of cameras

$1849-$2499, samsung.com/au

Samsung's Galaxy S22 Ultra smartphone features an S Pen stylus for the first time as well as major software upgrades to its cameras.

PROS

– Brings back a better S Pen

– Much improved camera software

– Solid battery life

CONS

– No mmWave 5G

– No memory card storage

– Cheapest model lacks power

There is so much hype around Samsung’s latest flagship phone for a reason: it’s really two phones in one. The Galaxy S22 Ultra combines anticipated photo upgrades with a built-in S Pen for the first time, in a page ripped from a Note release. Its new stylus is also faster on the screen, its display is almost Note-sized at 6.8 inches, and the phone uses an upgraded, four nanometre chip. The Ultra’s camera upgrades are based around software but are surprisingly powerful, introducing an Adaptive Pixel feature for better exposure, a RAW app for greater detail, and better portrait modes.

Verdict: ★★★★½

Samsung Galaxy S22+

A capable candybar for Samsung buyers on a budget

$1549-$1649, samsung.com/au

Samsung’s Galaxy S22+ smartphones feature new colours.

PROS

– Better cameras with telephoto option

– Same price as last year

– Faster charging, smart battery

CONS

– No S Pen here

– Keeps the camera hump

– Fewer megapixels than S21

If you prefer your smartphones with a less eye-watering price, Samsung’s middle S22 series smartphone could suit. The Galaxy S22+ still packs in plenty of camera technology, as pundits expect, but for $300 less than the Ultra. There’s a 50-megapixel main camera in this phone, a wide-angle option and a 10x optical zoom lens for the first time. It does feature a slightly smaller screen than last year, at 6.6 inches, and fewer megapixels, but Adaptive Pixel improves lowlight images, faster charging is helpful, and its new colours, including ‘pink gold,’ are a welcome change.

Verdict: ★★★★

ZAGG Gear4 Santa Cruz

Surprisingly tough protection for your big investment

$49.95, jbhifi.com.au

PROS

– 4m drop protection

– Slim, tailored profile

– Antimicrobial treatment

CONS

– Large logo on rear panel

– Adds width to the phone

– Pricier than some

If you’re going to spend more than $1800 on a smartphone, it makes sense to invest a little more to protect it. This ZAGG Gear4 case promises a surprising amount of insurance from accidents, using D30 plastic bumpers to absorb the impact of falls from up to 4m high. It also lives up to its premium price with a finely customised design that includes grip down both sides, openings for all S22 Ultra ports, speakers and microphones, and a subtle colour around its borders for style. Its antimicrobial coating also seems like a wise addition and it’s easy to slip on and off.

Verdict: ★★★★½

Belkin Boost Charge 15W Dual Wireless Charging Pads

A quick and discreet way to power up your new phone

$129.95, belkin.com/au

PROS

– Charges two devices quickly

– Comes with its own plug

– Discreet profile and lighting

CONS

– Pricier than some

– Won’t work on an angle

– Plug has wide wings

Anyone who’s been served an error message instead of a recharged phone will understand not all wireless adaptors are equal. This souped-up version from Belkin may cost an extra $30 on the standard model but it will save you time. It features dual non-slip pads for charging two devices with 15 watts of power simultaneously, meaning you can top up your old phone and new Galaxy quickly. The device will also charge other devices, like earbuds, warn you with a light if your device isn’t compatible, and comes with its own sturdy plug and 1.2m cable.

Verdict: ★★★★

SanDisk Ixpand Wireless Charger Sync

A smart way to backup photos and juice up your phone

$169-$199, officeworks.com.au

PROS

– Simple photo-storage system

– Saves photos at full resolution

– Can backup multiple phones

CONS

– Tops out at 128GB

– Not the fastest charge

– Connects with a Micro USB cable

Samsung’s new smartphones all have one thing in common: huge photographs. This SanDisk accessory can help make sure those images are not lost by offering to store them on a flash drive every time you charge your phone. The Ixpand device works as a 10-watt wireless charger for the phones — and other Qi-compatible devices — but those who set up its companion app can also use the charger to store photos from their gallery in full resolution. The unique gadget will also work with Apple iPhones, can support more than one phone, and is available in 64 and 128GB capacities.

Verdict: ★★★½

Originally published as Tried and tested: Everything you need to know about the new Samsung smartphones