Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G

Revisiting a Legend: My Time with the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G

I've spent the better part of a few weeks now putting the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G through its paces, and it’s been a fascinating experience revisiting this device. Even a few years after its release, it still holds a certain gravitas, a reminder of Samsung's ambition in the flagship space. At its initial price point, it was undoubtedly targeting the top tier of the market, and even now, on the used market, it represents a significant investment. After this extended period of testing, incorporating everything from daily tasks to more demanding scenarios, I have a pretty clear picture of where this phone stands.

Navigating the Premium Landscape

Looking back at the S21 Ultra's launch, it was clear Samsung was aiming for a definitive statement. This wasn't just another flagship; it was meant to be the flagship. From my perspective, the strategy was bold – pack in absolutely everything and let the user decide what they need. In the current market, where we see a lot of segmentation, the S21 Ultra feels like a time capsule of the "no compromise" approach. The initial price was undoubtedly steep, placing it squarely against the best from Apple and other Android competitors. My personal take is that while the technology justified the cost for early adopters, the subsequent price adjustments and the availability of newer models make its current value proposition a more nuanced conversation.

Design and the Heft of Excellence

Picking up the S21 Ultra, the immediate impression is one of substantiality. This isn't a phone that will disappear in your pocket; its 227 grams give it a noticeable heft. The design, while now a generation old, still exudes premium quality. The way the camera module seamlessly blends into the frame is a design touch I still appreciate. Holding it in hand, the cool touch of the glass and the solidity of the aluminum frame feel undeniably luxurious. While I wouldn't classify it as the most ergonomic device – reaching across the expansive 6.8-inch display with one hand is definitely a stretch – the weight distribution feels balanced. Durability seems to be a strong point; throughout my testing, it's handled daily wear and tear admirably, though I'd still recommend a case for peace of mind.

Immersive Visuals: The Display Experience

The display is an area where the S21 Ultra continues to shine. That Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel is truly impressive. I've found the brightness levels to be exceptional, even under direct sunlight, making outdoor visibility a non-issue. Media consumption is an absolute joy on this screen. Watching videos is engaging, with vibrant colors and deep blacks that make content pop. Gaming is equally impressive; the 120Hz refresh rate makes everything incredibly smooth, and the responsiveness is excellent. For daily use, scrolling through social media or browsing the web feels fluid and effortless. It's a testament to the quality of this panel that it still holds up against newer competitors.

Performance Under Pressure: Real-World Testing

Under the hood, my experience with the Exynos 2100 has been largely positive. In my testing, the phone has handled everything I've thrown at it. Gaming sessions, even with graphically demanding titles, have been smooth and lag-free. I spent a good amount of time playing some intensive mobile games, and the S21 Ultra maintained consistent frame rates without any noticeable stutters. Multitasking is also a breeze; switching between numerous apps is seamless. Temperature management is generally good, although during extended gaming sessions, I did notice the phone getting a bit warm, but it never reached uncomfortable levels. One strength I noticed is the consistent performance, even after prolonged use – it doesn't seem to throttle performance significantly under sustained load in typical scenarios.

A Versatile Vision: The Camera System in Action

The camera system is arguably the S21 Ultra's biggest draw, and in my time with it, it has consistently impressed. Taking photos feels intuitive, and the sheer versatility of the lenses is remarkable. I specifically tested various shooting scenarios, from low-light cityscapes to bright daylight portraits, and the results have been consistently excellent. The 108MP main sensor captures an incredible amount of detail, allowing for significant cropping without losing image quality. The zoom capabilities are truly standout. I was able to capture surprisingly crisp shots even at higher zoom levels, thanks to the dedicated telephoto lenses. The ultra-wide lens is fantastic for capturing expansive scenes, although I did notice some slight distortion at the edges, which is common with such lenses. Video recording is another strong suit. The stabilization is incredibly effective, even when shooting handheld while moving. I experimented with both 4K and 8K recording, and the footage is sharp and detailed. Comparing it with other phones I've used, the S21 Ultra's camera system still ranks among the best in terms of versatility and image quality, particularly its zoom capabilities. Real-world usage, whether snapping quick photos or more considered shots, is a genuinely rewarding experience.

Powering Through: Battery and Charging Realities

Battery life is always a crucial factor, and the S21 Ultra's 5000mAh battery generally delivers. In my observed battery performance, I've found it consistently lasts through a full day of moderate use, including web browsing, social media, and some photography. However, with heavier usage, such as extended gaming or video streaming, I did find myself needing a top-up by late afternoon. Charging speed is adequate with the 25W fast charging, but it's not the fastest on the market anymore. In my charging speed testing, it took a little over an hour to fully charge the device from empty. While the power management seems efficient for the most part, the lack of a charger in the box is still a point of contention for me, especially given the phone's premium positioning. Real-world endurance is decent, but it's not a standout feature compared to some of the newer devices with larger batteries and faster charging.

Software and the User Experience

The software experience on the S21 Ultra, now running on a later version of Android, is generally smooth and feature-rich. Daily usage feels fluid, and Samsung's One UI offers a wealth of customization options. The interface is well-organized and intuitive, although some might find the sheer number of features a bit overwhelming initially. In my experience, the pre-installed apps are mostly useful, although there are a few that feel like bloatware. Regarding update policy, Samsung has generally been good with providing timely updates, and the S21 Ultra is expected to receive further updates, which adds to its longevity.

Weighing the Worth: Value Analysis in the Present

Assessing the value of the S21 Ultra now requires considering its current market price. While it was undoubtedly a premium device at launch, its price has come down, making it a more attractive option for some. In my personal opinion, the price-to-feature ratio is now quite compelling, especially if you prioritize camera quality and display experience. I think this phone is ideal for users who want a high-end smartphone experience without paying the absolute top dollar for the latest flagship. Those who should look elsewhere might be users who prioritize the absolute latest processor or the fastest charging speeds, or those who prefer a more compact device. In the competitive context, the S21 Ultra offers a compelling package compared to other similarly priced used or refurbished flagships.

Final Thoughts: A Solid Enduring Choice

In conclusion, my time with the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has been a reminder of its enduring quality. It's a phone that still holds its own in many key areas, particularly its stunning display and incredibly versatile camera system. While it might not have the absolute latest specifications in every category, the overall experience is still premium and enjoyable. Ultimately, I'd recommend the S21 Ultra to anyone looking for a powerful and feature-rich smartphone at a more accessible price point than current flagships, especially if photography is a high priority. It's a testament to Samsung's engineering that this phone continues to impress even years after its initial release.