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SAMSUNG Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone 128GB US Version Smartphone Pro-Grade Camera 8K Video 108MP High Res, Phantom Black Phantom Black 128GB

TLDR Review: Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: March 20th, 2026

Pros

•The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G dazzles with a prrade 108MP camera and sophisticated zoom capabilities, including 10x optical and up to 100x digital zoom, delivering sharp and detailed images even at high magnifications.
•It supports 8K video recording and advanced video features like Director’s View, allowing creative multngle filming.
•Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, it provides blazing fast performance and smooth gameplay, handling demanding apps and games effortlessly.
•The 6.nch 120Hz OLED display at Quad HD+ resolution is vibrant, bright (peaking at 1500 nits), and buttery smooth, providing an outstanding viewing experience.
•Factory unlocked with excellent 5G and Wi 6E connectivity offers great network flexibility and speeds.
•The 5000mAh battery delivers strong alay battery life, with up to a day and a half of use on moderate workloads.
•The phone supports Samsung’s S Pen, introducing stylus compatibility to a flagship Android phone with low latency and pressure sensitivity.
•Wireless PowerShare and DeX mode add versatility, letting you wirelessly charge other devices and turn the phone into a desktoike experience.
•Premium design featuring a stylish Phantom Black matte finish with improved grip and a sleek, smaller camera bump.
•Regular software updates have improved performance and added features over time.

Cons

•The hefty price tag of $1499 means this phone isn’t for the faint of wallet — it’s a serious investment.
•Weighing in at 228g, the device is heavier and larger than many competitors, which may affect comfort for prolonged onanded use.
•The base 128GB storage may feel cramped for heavy media users due to the lack of expandable microSD support.
•The US version has notable limitations for international users—it does not support 5G networks in France, may have GPS issues, and is limited to single SIM plus eSIM functionality.
•No charger is included in the box, so you’ll need to purchase a compatible 25W fast charger separately, which adds to overall cost.
•Some users have reported occasional camera software quirks, such as automatic telephoto lens switching and “camera error” messages.
•While the battery life is strong, running the phone at max resolution and 120Hz refresh rate can drain it faster.
•The device can get warm under heavy use, which might be uncomfortable during extended gaming or video recording sessions.
•The fingerprint sensor location takes some getting used to, and face recognition isn’t always reliable.
•The phone lacks support for ultrast 45W charging, a minor downgrade compared to previous Samsung flagships.

Bottom Line

If you want the pinnacle of Android smartphone technology in 2021—top-tier camera performance, a stunning 120Hz OLED display, powerhouse Snapdragon 888 CPU, and nifty extras like S Pen support and DeX mode—the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G delivers it all with style and substance. Just be ready to pay a premium for the privilege, and note that the 128GB base storage and lack of charger might be dealbreakers for some. Also, if you’re outside the US, especially in France, double-check network compatibility before buying, as this US version has limitations abroad. For a similar powerhouse that might suit international users better or lower your initial spend, keep an eye out for newer Galaxy S models or competitors, but for Android enthusiasts craving the “Ultra” experience, this phone stands tall.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$296.99 at Target

How we researched this

About this review: We pulled together findings from professional reviews and hundreds of user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from 13 retailers to give you the short version.