In this review, I will be sharing my thoughts on the Samsung S21 5G, a renewed version of Samsung’s flagship phone. With its impressive features and affordable price, this phone has gained a lot of attention from consumers.
As an avid smartphone user, I was excited to try out the Samsung S21 5G. The phone’s 6.2-inch screen is a perfect size for me, and the Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz provides a smooth and vibrant visual experience. The 128GB ROM and 8GB RAM allow for plenty of storage space and smooth performance, respectively. The phone’s battery life is also impressive, lasting me an entire day with moderate usage. The camera setup is top-notch, with a 64MP telephoto lens and 12MP ultra-wide lens, producing high-quality photos and videos.
Display and Design
The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G boasts an impressive 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+. The display is also capable of reaching 1300nits of brightness, making it easy to view in bright sunlight. The phone’s design is sleek and modern, with a virtually bezel-less screen and a matte finish on the back. The camera bump is integrated into the frame, giving it a more cohesive look. The phone is available in Phantom Gray, as a renewed product from the Amazon Renewed Store.
Performance and Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is powered by the Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) chipset and an octa-core processor with Adreno 660 GPU. It comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, but there is no SD card slot for expandable storage. The phone runs on Android 11 with One UI 3.1. The 4000mAh battery provides a decent amount of usage time, but it may not last a full day for heavy users. Fortunately, the phone comes with fast charging capabilities and can charge up to 50% in just 30 minutes.
Camera
The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G features a triple camera setup on the back, including a 64MP primary lens, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens. The camera is capable of recording in 8K at 24fps, which is a unique feature that many other smartphones don’t offer. The camera also has 30x zoom and optical image stabilization, making it great for capturing detailed shots from afar. The front-facing camera is a 10MP lens, which takes clear and vibrant selfies.
Connectivity
The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is a single SIM phone that supports 5G connectivity. It is compatible with most GSM and CDMA carriers, including T-Mobile, AT&T, and MetroPCS. It will also work with CDMA carriers like Verizon and Sprint. The phone has a fingerprint reader and face recognition for added security.
Value for Money
At a price point of $252.00, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G offers a good value for its features and performance. However, it may not be the best option for those who need expandable storage or a long-lasting battery life. The renewed product from the Amazon Renewed Store is a great option for those looking to save some money while still getting a quality phone.
User Questions and Answers
The Samsung support team can answer questions about warranty coverage abroad and if the phone will work in Japan. The phone is confirmed to work with MetroPCS and Cricket. It is a GSM and CDMA compatible phone, but does not have an SD card slot
Pros:
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G has a high-quality Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making for a smooth and vibrant viewing experience.
- With 128GB of storage and 8GB of RAM, this phone has plenty of space for all your apps and files, and will run smoothly even with multiple apps open.
- The phone is unlocked and compatible with most GSM and CDMA carriers, giving you the freedom to choose your own carrier and plan.
Cons:
- The lack of an SD card slot means that you cannot expand the phone’s storage beyond the initial 128GB.
- The battery life of the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is average at best, with a 4000mAh battery that may not last all day with heavy use.
- The phone’s high price tag may be a deterrent for some, especially considering the lack of included accessories such as a wall plug or earbuds.
Conclusion
Overall, I highly recommend the Samsung S21 5G to anyone looking for a powerful and affordable smartphone. Its impressive features and performance make it a great choice for both personal and professional use. The renewed version also adds to its appeal, providing a more budget-friendly option for those who don’t want to splurge on a brand new flagship phone.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Is the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G water-resistant?
Answer: Yes, the phone has an IP68 rating, meaning it can withstand water submersion up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes.
Question: Does the phone come with a warranty?
Answer: As a renewed product, the phone comes with a 90-day Amazon Renewed Guarantee. However, it is unclear whether there is a manufacturer’s warranty that is honored abroad.
Question: Can this phone be used for 5G?
Answer: Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is compatible with 5G networks, including both SA/NSA/Sub6 and mmWave frequencies.
