Building a Samsung S22 Ultra from AliExpress Parts

 

This article explores whether it’s technically possible to assemble a functional Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra using spare parts purchased individually from online marketplaces such as AliExpress. The goal is to determine if building a flagship smartphone on your own can be a viable alternative to buying one pre-assembled.

1. Components required

To recreate the device, the video creator ordered most of the major parts, including:

• Motherboard – the most important component, containing the chipset, storage and main circuitry.
• Display assembly + chassis, with the frame and battery already pre-installed using adhesive.
• Camera modules, consisting of the main rear camera block and the front camera sensor.
• S-Pen, sourced in a basic version without wireless features.
• Additional components, such as the charging port, loudspeakers, wireless-charging coil, vibration motor, rear glass cover and flexible ribbon cables.

Some parts arrive used, refurbished or aftermarket, which introduces uncertainty about long-term durability.

2. Assembly process

The process resembles precision circuitry work:

• installing the charging port and connecting the battery;
• preparing the motherboard and attaching the camera units;
• mounting the earpiece speaker, not included in some kits;
• linking the cables between the main board and sub-board;
• adding the wireless charging module;
• sealing the phone with the self-adhesive rear glass panel.

Heat pads, tweezers, a precision screwdriver set and patience were required to avoid damaging fragile components like connectors and flex cables.

3. Challenges faced

Although the device powered on correctly, several issues appeared:

• The display quality was noticeably lower than that of the original model, with thicker bezels and reduced brightness.
• The vibration motor was not functional.
• The S-Pen lacked advanced Bluetooth gestures and remote control functions.
• missing parts, such as the SIM tray and specific screws, forced improvised solutions;
• Some connectors required force or repositioning multiple times to make proper contact.

These issues highlight the variability of third-party components regarding fit, reliability and compatibility.

4. Verdict

From a technical perspective, the experiment is successful: the device boots, passes basic diagnostics, and can be used for essential functions.

However, the noticeable compromises in build quality, functionality and component reliability show that assembling a flagship phone from mixed spare parts is risky and unpredictable.

For the average consumer, purchasing a device already assembled—whether new or professionally refurbished—remains a safer and more reliable option. Building a smartphone manually is better suited for enthusiasts, technicians, or those curious to learn how such devices are constructed.