The Samsung Galaxy S21 series arrived as the highly anticipated successor to the popular S20 line, bringing a fresh wave of innovation and design refinements. This generation introduced new design elements, significant performance upgrades, and notable camera enhancements across its lineup. According to Android Police, anticipation was high for Samsung’s latest flagship.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about these devices, from their initial release date and pricing to their intricate specifications and groundbreaking features.
The series comprises three distinct models, catering to various user needs and budgets: the standard Galaxy S21, the larger Galaxy S21+, and the premium, feature-packed Galaxy S21 Ultra. Each model offers a unique blend of capabilities, ensuring there’s a Galaxy S21 device for almost everyone.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Release Date and Availability
The Samsung Galaxy S21 series made its official debut at the highly anticipated Unpacked event, which was streamed online on January 14 at 10 a.m. EST / 7:00 PST. This event confirmed many of the launch date rumors that had been circulating, building excitement among tech enthusiasts.
Prior to the official announcement, Samsung had already initiated a pre-registration period for what they referred to as the ‘next Galaxy’ device. This allowed eager customers to sign up early and secure their spot for pre-orders. Benefits for pre-registering often included accessory rebates and exclusive bonuses when purchasing through the Samsung Shop app.
Following the Unpacked event, the general release date for the Galaxy S21 series was expected by the end of January, with specific dates like January 22 or January 29 being widely anticipated for broader availability.
For those looking to upgrade, Samsung also offered attractive trade-in offers, allowing users to get value for their existing Galaxy S20 or Note 20 devices, making the transition to the new S21 series even more appealing. According to Android Authority, these early incentives were a key part of Samsung’s launch strategy.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Price: How Much Does It Cost?
Samsung’s pricing strategy for the Galaxy S21 series was a significant point of discussion, with the company aiming to potentially make the new flagships more accessible than their S20 predecessors. Initial rumors suggested prices would be similar to the S20 line, which started around $999. However, leaked European prices provided a clearer picture, indicating a more competitive starting point.
The base Galaxy S21 model was expected to launch around €849 in Europe. For those seeking a larger device, the Galaxy S21 Plus was priced around €1049, with a 256GB storage option available for approximately €1099. The top-tier Galaxy S21 Ultra, packed with advanced features, carried a price tag of about €1399.
Note that currency conversions aren’t exact between regions, so actual USD prices varied slightly from these European estimates.
This pricing structure was notable, especially considering the S20 line lacked a cheaper ‘e’ version, meaning the standard S20 started at a higher $999. The S21’s more aggressive pricing aimed to attract a wider audience. For official pricing details and purchasing options, you can always refer to the Samsung Galaxy S21 Official Page.
| Model | Estimated Launch Price (USD) | Estimated Launch Price (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S21 | ~$799 – $849 | €849 |
| Galaxy S21 Plus | ~$999 – $1049 | €1049 (256GB: €1099) |
| Galaxy S21 Ultra | ~$1199 – $1399 | €1399 |
Samsung Galaxy S21 Specifications: Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy S21 series delivered a significant leap in power and performance, thanks to its cutting-edge chipsets. In US models, the devices were powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888, while other regions received Samsung’s own Exynos 2100. Both of these chipsets are built on an advanced 5nm process, promising substantial improvements in both performance and power efficiency compared to their predecessors.
The Snapdragon 888, for instance, features a powerful architecture including a Cortex-X1 prime core, A-78 performance cores, and efficiency cores, delivering an estimated 25% boost in CPU performance and a remarkable 35% increase in GPU capabilities. Similarly, the Exynos 2100, also a 5nm chip, was rumored to potentially include an AMD graphics accelerator, further enhancing its graphical prowess.
When it came to storage, the base configuration for all models was expected to be 128GB, providing ample space for most users. For those requiring even more room, the Galaxy S21 Ultra offered an additional 512GB storage option. A crucial point to note across the entire S21 series is the absence of a microSD card slot, making the choice of internal storage capacity more critical than ever.
Early benchmarks for the Snapdragon 888 showcased its strong performance, often surpassing the Snapdragon 865 and even Apple’s A14 Bionic in multi-core tests, indicating a truly powerful user experience.
| Feature | Galaxy S21 / S21+ | Galaxy S21 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Snapdragon 888 (US) / Exynos 2100 (Global) | Snapdragon 888 (US) / Exynos 2100 (Global) |
| RAM | 8GB (S21), 8GB (S21+) | 12GB, 16GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| MicroSD Slot | No | No |
Design and Display: A Refined Aesthetic
The Samsung Galaxy S21 series introduced a refined aesthetic that, while similar in overall form to the S20, brought distinct new design elements. The most noticeable change was the innovative ‘Contour Cut’ camera housing, which seamlessly blends into the metal frame of the device, giving it a more integrated and premium look.
Regarding displays, the Galaxy S21 and S21+ both featured flat 2.5D displays, moving away from the curved edges seen in previous standard models. In contrast, the Galaxy S21 Ultra retained a more traditional curved ‘Edge’ display, offering that signature premium feel. All models across the series boasted a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring fluid scrolling and responsiveness.
The S21 Ultra took this a step further by supporting the 120Hz refresh rate even at its maximum WQHD+ resolution, and it also featured dynamic refresh rate adjustment for optimal battery efficiency.
Screen sizes varied to suit different preferences: the standard S21 came with a 6.2-inch FHD+ (2400 x 1080) screen, while the S21+ offered a larger 6.7-inch FHD+ display. The top-tier S21 Ultra featured an expansive 6.8-inch WQHD+ screen, providing incredible detail. Durability was also a key focus, with all models protected by the latest Gorilla Glass Victus, offering enhanced scratch and drop resistance.
Furthermore, the entire series maintained an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, providing peace of mind for everyday use. While rumors of an under-display camera circulated prior to launch, this advanced technology was not realized in the S21 series.
| Feature | Galaxy S21 | Galaxy S21+ | Galaxy S21 Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.2-inch | 6.7-inch | 6.8-inch |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 (FHD+) | 2400 x 1080 (FHD+) | WQHD+ |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | 120Hz (Dynamic) |
| Display Type | Flat 2.5D | Flat 2.5D | Curved Edge |
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus |
| IP Rating | IP68 | IP68 | IP68 |
Revolutionary Camera System: Capturing Every Moment
The Samsung Galaxy S21 series brought a truly revolutionary camera system, designed to capture every moment with stunning detail and versatility. The standard Galaxy S21 and S21+ models featured a robust triple-camera setup, consisting of a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 12MP main wide-angle sensor, and a 64MP telephoto lens capable of 3x hybrid optic zoom.
However, it was the Galaxy S21 Ultra that truly pushed the boundaries of mobile photography. It boasted a second-generation 108MP main sensor, delivering incredibly high-resolution images. Complementing this, the S21 Ultra included not one, but dual telephoto lenses: a 10MP lens with 3x optical zoom and another 10MP lens offering an impressive 10x optical ‘super’ telephoto zoom.
This dual-telephoto setup allowed for unprecedented zoom capabilities, bringing back the much-talked-about 100x Space Zoom, now with improved autofocus for sharper results.
For selfies and video calls, the S21 Ultra was equipped with a high-resolution 40MP front camera, ensuring crisp and clear self-portraits. Samsung had promised ‘highly intelligent, professional camera and video capabilities’ for its 2021 flagships, and the S21 series, particularly the Ultra, certainly delivered on that promise, offering a suite of features for both amateur and professional photographers alike.
| Camera Feature | Galaxy S21 / S21+ | Galaxy S21 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 12MP | 108MP (2nd Gen) |
| Ultra-Wide | 12MP | 12MP |
| Telephoto 1 | 64MP (3x Hybrid Optic) | 10MP (3x Optical) |
| Telephoto 2 | N/A | 10MP (10x Optical ‘Super’ Telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 40MP |
| Zoom Capability | 30x Space Zoom | 100x Space Zoom |
Battery Life and Charging: Powering Your Day
Battery life is always a critical factor for smartphone users, and the Samsung Galaxy S21 series aimed to deliver reliable power throughout the day. The standard Galaxy S21 came equipped with a 4000 mAh battery, maintaining the same capacity as its S20 predecessor. The Galaxy S21+, however, saw a notable upgrade, featuring a 4800 mAh battery, an increase from the S20+’s 4500 mAh.
The top-tier Galaxy S21 Ultra retained the substantial 5000 mAh battery, matching the S20 Ultra’s capacity.
Despite some capacities remaining the same, users could expect longer battery life across the board. This improvement was largely due to the more power-efficient 5nm chipsets (Snapdragon 888/Exynos 2100) and, for the S21 and S21+, the shift to FHD+ displays, which consume less power than higher-resolution screens. The S21 Ultra’s dynamic refresh rate also contributed to optimizing battery usage.
One of the most talked-about changes with the Galaxy S21 series was the decision to not include a charger or headphones in the box, at least in some regions like the UK and Brazil. Only a USB charging cable was provided as an accessory. This move aligns with broader environmental goals, reducing electronic waste, and also potentially helps Samsung increase its profit margins.
| Model | Battery Capacity (mAh) | Expected Battery Life Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S21 | 4000 mAh | Improved due to efficient chipset |
| Galaxy S21+ | 4800 mAh | Improved over S20+ (4500 mAh) |
| Galaxy S21 Ultra | 5000 mAh | Similar to S20 Ultra, but 120Hz at WQHD+ possible with efficiency gains |
S Pen Support: A Note-Worthy Addition to the S21 Ultra
One of the most significant and surprising additions to the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra was its support for the S Pen, marking a first for an S-series phone. This move brought a ‘favorite aspect of the Galaxy Note experience’ to a wider range of Samsung devices, blurring the lines between the two flagship lines.
Keep in mind that the S Pen is an optional accessory for the S21 Ultra and is not built directly into the phone, unlike the Galaxy Note series. To accommodate this, Samsung released special cases designed to store the S Pen conveniently alongside the S21 Ultra. The S Pen designed for the S21 Ultra might also feature a slightly different design compared to its Note counterpart, potentially including an extended click button and an improved pressure-sensitive tip for enhanced precision and functionality.
This integration offered a new level of productivity and creativity for S21 Ultra users, allowing them to take notes, draw, and navigate with greater accuracy.
Samsung Galaxy S21 vs. Galaxy S20: Key Differences and Upgrades
When comparing the Samsung Galaxy S21 series to its predecessor, the S20 lineup, several key differences and upgrades stand out, making the newer generation a compelling option for many. A significant improvement lies in the processor, with the S21 series moving from the Snapdragon 865/Exynos 990 to the more powerful and efficient Snapdragon 888/Exynos 2100 chipsets.
Design-wise, the S21 series introduced a fresh aesthetic with a more integrated ‘Contour Cut’ camera bump. The S21 and S21+ models also shifted to flat displays, a departure from the curved screens of their S20 counterparts. Perhaps the most notable new feature is the introduction of S Pen support, exclusively for the S21 Ultra, bringing a beloved Note series functionality to the S line.
However, not all changes were additions. Samsung made the decision to remove the microSD card slot across the entire S21 series, meaning users must rely solely on internal storage. Furthermore, in a move that mirrored Apple, the S21 series no longer includes a charger or headphones in the box.
While the S20 and S20+ featured WQHD+ displays, they couldn’t run at 120Hz simultaneously. The S21 and S21+ moved to FHD+ resolution, while the S21 Ultra maintained WQHD+ and could finally run at 120Hz. Interestingly, the base S21 model also saw a potential for a lower starting price compared to the S20’s initial $999.
| Feature | Galaxy S20 Series | Galaxy S21 Series |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990 | Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 |
| Design | Curved displays (S20/S20+), less integrated camera bump | Flat displays (S21/S21+), ‘Contour Cut’ camera housing |
| S Pen Support | No | S21 Ultra only (optional) |
| MicroSD Slot | Yes | No |
| Charger in Box | Yes | No |
| Display Resolution | WQHD+ (S20/S20+ could not do 120Hz at WQHD+) | FHD+ (S21/S21+), WQHD+ (S21 Ultra, 120Hz capable) |
| Pricing | Higher starting price ($999) | Potentially lower starting price (€849) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Galaxy S21
Here are some common questions users often have about the Samsung Galaxy S21 series:
- Is the Samsung Galaxy S21 waterproof?
Yes, all models in the Galaxy S21 series come with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, meaning they can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. - Does the Galaxy S21 have a headphone jack?
No, consistent with Samsung’s recent flagship strategy, the Galaxy S21 series does not include a 3.5mm headphone jack. Users will need to rely on USB-C headphones or wireless earbuds. - Can I use my old charger with the Galaxy S21?
Yes, you can use your old charger with the Galaxy S21, provided it’s a USB-C compatible charger. While the phone doesn’t come with a charger in the box, it supports standard USB Power Delivery (PD) charging protocols. - What colors are available for the Galaxy S21?
The Galaxy S21 series launched with a range of appealing colors. Common options included Phantom Violet, Phantom Gray, Phantom White, and Phantom Pink for the standard S21, with the S21+ and S21 Ultra offering their own distinct palettes like Phantom Black, Phantom Silver, and Phantom Titanium. - Is the S21 worth upgrading from the S20?
Whether the S21 is worth upgrading from the S20 largely depends on your individual needs. Key improvements include the more powerful processor, the S21 Ultra’s S Pen support and enhanced camera, and the refined design. However, the removal of the microSD slot and the in-box charger are factors to consider. If you prioritize cutting-edge performance and camera tech, especially the Ultra, it could be a worthwhile upgrade.
Conclusion: Is the Samsung Galaxy S21 Right for You?
The Samsung Galaxy S21 series undeniably represents a significant stride forward in smartphone technology, offering compelling upgrades across the board.
The Galaxy S21 Ultra, in particular, stands out with its incredibly advanced camera system and the groundbreaking addition of S Pen support, bringing a new level of versatility to the S series. However, potential buyers should carefully consider the lack of a charger and microSD card slot in the box, which might necessitate additional purchases or adjustments to usage habits.
Ultimately, the S21 series aimed to compete strongly with other leading flagships like the iPhone 12 and Google Pixel 5, showcasing Samsung’s vision for 2021 smartphone innovation. If you’re seeking top-tier performance, a fantastic camera, and are comfortable with the changes in included accessories, then a device from this lineup could very well be the perfect smartphone for your needs.
