# TLDR Review: Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G

*Published: 2026-03-20 | Updated: 2026-03-20 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/galaxy-s21-ultra-5g*

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## Product: Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
**Brand:** SAMSUNG

## Pros
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G dazzles with a pro-grade 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 multi-angle filming.
- Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, it provides blazing fast performance and smooth gameplay, handling demanding apps and games effortlessly.
- The 6.8-inch 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-Fi 6E connectivity offers great network flexibility and speeds.
- The 5000mAh battery delivers strong all-day 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 desktop-like 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 one-handed 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 ultra-fast 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.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G dazzles with a pro-grade 108MP camera and sophisticated zoom capabilities, including 10x optical and up to 100x digital zoom, delivering sharp and detailed images even at high magnifications. | The hefty price tag of $1499 means this phone isn’t for the faint of wallet — it’s a serious investment. |
| It supports 8K video recording and advanced video features like Director’s View, allowing creative multi-angle filming. | Weighing in at 228g, the device is heavier and larger than many competitors, which may affect comfort for prolonged one-handed use. |
| Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, it provides blazing fast performance and smooth gameplay, handling demanding apps and games effortlessly. | The base 128GB storage may feel cramped for heavy media users due to the lack of expandable microSD support. |
| The 6.8-inch 120Hz OLED display at Quad HD+ resolution is vibrant, bright (peaking at 1500 nits), and buttery smooth, providing an outstanding viewing experience. | 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. |
| Factory unlocked with excellent 5G and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity offers great network flexibility and speeds. | No charger is included in the box, so you’ll need to purchase a compatible 25W fast charger separately, which adds to overall cost. |
| The 5000mAh battery delivers strong all-day battery life, with up to a day and a half of use on moderate workloads. | Some users have reported occasional camera software quirks, such as automatic telephoto lens switching and “camera error” messages. |
| The phone supports Samsung’s S Pen, introducing stylus compatibility to a flagship Android phone with low latency and pressure sensitivity. | While the battery life is strong, running the phone at max resolution and 120Hz refresh rate can drain it faster. |
| Wireless PowerShare and DeX mode add versatility, letting you wirelessly charge other devices and turn the phone into a desktop-like experience. | The device can get warm under heavy use, which might be uncomfortable during extended gaming or video recording sessions. |
| Premium design featuring a stylish Phantom Black matte finish with improved grip and a sleek, smaller camera bump. | The fingerprint sensor location takes some getting used to, and face recognition isn’t always reliable. |
| Regular software updates have improved performance and added features over time. | The phone lacks support for ultra-fast 45W charging, a minor downgrade compared to previous Samsung flagships. |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| Target | $296.99  | Check |
| Cell2Get | $323.99  | Check |
| Walmart | $499.00  | Check |
| UnbeatableSale | $578.50  | Check |
| Shopping.com | $749.95  | Check |
| MSM Electronics | $809.99  | Check |
| Samsung | $1000.00  | Check |
| BXT US INC | $1009.00  | Check |
| BAM.deals | $1029.97  | Check |
| fusion electronics | $1149.99  | Check |
| fusion electronics | $1149.99  | Check |
| AztekComputers | $1336.81  | Check |
| Storepaperoomates Market | $1616.49  | Check |

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