Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra review

The Samsung Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra ranks as the #53 phones globally, achieving a LibraScore of 78. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #9-ranked camera among 800 phones. Consider the realme GT5 Pro or Xiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.

Similar items
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
Galaxy S25 Edge
Samsung
Asus ROG Phone 8
ROG Phone 8
Asus
Nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version
Z60 Ultra Leading Version
Nubia
Nubia RedMagic 10 Pro+
RedMagic 10 Pro+
Nubia
Oppo Reno14 Pro
Reno14 Pro
Oppo
Nubia RedMagic 11 Pro+
RedMagic 11 Pro+
Nubia
Xiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max
Redmi K90 Pro Max
Xiaomi
Asus Rog Phone 9 Pro
Rog Phone 9 Pro
Asus
vivo V40 Pro
V40 Pro
vivo
realme GT5 Pro
GT5 Pro
realme
Key takeaways
The S21 Ultra's 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging and adaptive display ensures all-day endurance.
The S21 Ultra's 120Hz adaptive display with HDR10+ and 1500 nits brightness delivers immersive, vibrant visuals.
The S21 Ultra’s 108MP main lens, 3x/10x optical zoom, and 8K video deliver pro-level photo and video capabilities.
The S21 Ultra's Exynos 2100 processor and 12GB RAM ensure smooth multitasking and lag-free performance for demanding apps and gaming.
Parameters
Width
75,6 mm
Height
165,1 mm
Depth
8,9 mm
Weight
227 g
Usable surface
89 %
Glass, Aluminium
Colors
Black, Silver, Gray, Brown

Build Quality and Design

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra boasts a premium build, combining glass and aluminum for a durable yet refined finish. Its IP68 water and dust resistance ensures resilience in demanding conditions, while the Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protects the edge-to-edge display from scratches. A matte Phantom Black or sleek color variant enhances tactile appeal, complemented by a slim 8.9mm profile and 227g weight for balanced portability. The frameless design with dual curved edges merges form and function, offering immersive visuals and a modern aesthetic. With HDR10+ certification and 1500 nits peak brightness, the display’s durability and visual clarity are matched by its ergonomic, seamless construction, making it a flagship device that prioritizes both innovation and user comfort. Take a look at Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra - its improved design sets a new standard.

Battery Life

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra features a 5000mAh Li-Polymer battery supporting 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging, ensuring rapid power replenishment. Its efficient power management, paired with the 120Hz adaptive display and power-saving technologies, delivers all-day endurance for heavy usage. While the phone lacks a bundled charger, its non-removable battery integrates seamlessly with advanced connectivity and performance features. Reverse wireless charging (9W) enables sharing power with compatible devices, adding versatility. Whether streaming, gaming, or multitasking, the S21 Ultra balances high performance with reliable, long-lasting battery life, making it a standout choice for users demanding both speed and stamina. If you're after top-notch battery, consider Samsung Galaxy M33.

Display

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X display redefines visual excellence with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, ensuring silky-smooth scrolling and responsive performance. Its LTPO technology dynamically adjusts frame rates for optimal power efficiency, while HDR10+ support delivers cinematic color accuracy and contrast, ideal for media and gaming. The 1500 nits peak brightness ensures vibrant visibility even in direct sunlight, and the 516 PPI pixel density offers razor-sharp clarity for every detail. Encased in Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, the frameless, dual-edge design enhances durability and immersive viewing, eliminating bezels for a borderless aesthetic. With hole-punch notch integration and Always-On Display functionality, the S21 Ultra merges cutting-edge innovation with practicality, making it a flagship screen that elevates every interaction with stunning precision and adaptability. It’s worth checking out realme GT 2 Pro, delivering remarkable display.

Camera

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra’s quad-camera system redefines mobile photography, featuring a 108MP main lens with ISOCELL sensor and f/1.8 aperture for vivid, detailed shots, complemented by a 12.2MP ultra-wide lens and dual 10.8MP telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom). Advanced features like 8K video recording, 100x digital zoom, laser autofocus, and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) ensure sharp, stable captures in diverse conditions. The front-facing 44MP camera supports 4K HDR video and ultra-wide selfies, enhanced by HDR10+ and night mode for low-light brilliance. With dual pixel autofocus and AI scene optimization, the S21 Ultra delivers pro-level versatility, turning everyday moments into cinematic masterpieces. Its LED flash and 960fps slow-motion capture add creative depth, making it a powerhouse for both casual and professional photography. Give Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled camera.

Price and Value

While exact pricing isn't specified, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra offers premium build quality, advanced camera tech, and high-performance features, positioning it as a top-tier choice for users seeking cutting-edge innovation and lasting value in a flagship smartphone.

Performance

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra delivers flagship performance with a powerful Exynos 2100 processor, 12GB RAM, and 128GB UFS 3.1 storage for smooth multitasking and fast data access. Its ARM Mali-G78 MP14 GPU ensures sharp graphics rendering, while the 749,000 Antutu score highlights its efficiency in handling demanding apps and gaming. Despite lacking an SD slot, the device’s optimized hardware and advanced thermal management ensure consistent, lag-free performance, making it a top-tier choice for power users and enthusiasts. Consider discovering the power of Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, featuring the latest advancements in performance.

Pros

1. Exceptional 120Hz adaptive display with HDR10+ and 1500 nits brightness for vibrant visuals.

2. Advanced quad-camera system with 108MP main lens, 3x/10x optical zoom, and 8K video recording.

3. Premium build with IP68 water resistance, Gorilla Glass Victus, and a sleek frameless design.

4. Powerful Exynos 2100 processor and Mali-G78 GPU for smooth multitasking and gaming.

Cons

1. No expandable storage via SD card slot.

2. No bundled charger (25W fast charging requires purchase separately).

3. High price for a flagship device with non-removable battery.

4. Non-removable battery limits upgrade or replacement options.

5. Lacks periscope-style ultra-zoom compared to later flagships.

FAQ

Compare with other phones

See how this item stacks up against any other model

Compare phones
VS

Choose two different items to see a detailed comparison of their specifications, performance, and features