Last updated on December 5, 2025
If you’re looking for a new phone in late 2025, you might be thinking only about the absolute latest models. But what if there’s a slightly older gem that still holds up remarkably well and could save you a significant amount of money? The Samsung Galaxy S21, originally released in early 2021, is still a surprisingly capable device. It might not have all the brand-new AI features, but for many people, its enduring strengths make it a fantastic value. This article will walk you through the Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Buy The Samsung Galaxy S21, even a few years after its launch, and what to keep in mind before you buy.
Quick Summary: S21’s 2025 Pros & Cons
Considering a Galaxy S21 in 2025 means weighing its excellent value against its age. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide if it’s worth diving deeper into its features.
| Why You Might Still Love It | What to Be Aware Of |
|---|---|
| Premium Design & Build: Feels like a flagship, still looks modern. | End of Major Software Updates: No more Android OS upgrades after Android 15. |
| Stunning AMOLED Display: Vibrant colors and super smooth 120Hz refresh rate. | Limited Security Updates: Patches will stop early 2026, posing a future security risk. |
| Capable Camera System: Great photos and 8K video for most users. | Potential Battery Degradation: Used phones might have significantly reduced battery life. |
| Solid Performance: Handles daily tasks and moderate gaming easily. | No Latest AI Features: Misses out on advanced Galaxy AI from newer models. |
| Exceptional Value: Very affordable on the refurbished market. | Older Processor: While still good, it’s not as fast or efficient as current chips. |
| 5G Connectivity: Future-proof for modern networks. |
Top 10 Reasons the Galaxy S21 Still Shines in 2025
Even in a world of ever-evolving smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S21 holds its own in several key areas. It offers a premium experience without the premium price tag. Let’s explore why it could still be your next phone.
1. Premium Design & Durable Build
The Galaxy S21 was a flagship phone, and it still feels like one. Its design is sleek, with a comfortable grip and high-quality materials that genuinely stand the test of time. You won’t feel like you’re holding an old phone. It also boasts an IP68 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and water. This kind of durability adds a real layer of peace of mind against everyday spills and accidents.
Compact Form Factor Appeal
One thing many users appreciate about the standard Galaxy S21 is its size. Compared to many of today’s massive smartphones, its 6.2-inch display makes it easy to use with one hand and slip into a pocket. If you miss compact smartphones, this is a real plus.
2. Stunning 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED Display
The display on the Galaxy S21 is still fantastic in 2025. It features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This means colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and scrolling through social media or websites feels incredibly fluid. It’s truly a joy to look at, and it easily holds its own against even brand-new mid-range phones. For watching videos or browsing, this display is still top-tier.
3. Capable Triple Camera System
While not the absolute latest, the Galaxy S21‘s triple camera system remains surprisingly reliable for most people’s needs. It captures really good photos in various conditions, and the colors are typically vibrant and pleasing. You even get 8K video recording, which is impressive for a phone this age, and a decent Night Mode for low-light shots. For everyday photography and sharing memories, it’s still a very capable setup.
4. Solid Performance for Daily Tasks
Under the hood, the Galaxy S21 is powered by either the Snapdragon 888 (in the US, China, and Korea) or the Exynos 2100 chipset (globally). Paired with 8GB of RAM, this hardware still delivers solid performance. It honestly handles daily apps, multitasking, and even moderate gaming without a hitch. You won’t experience significant lag with typical usage, making it a reliable daily driver. The Exynos vs Snapdragon performance was a hot topic at launch, but both still offer a smooth user experience today.
5. Reliable Battery Life (with Refurbished Caveats)
The original Galaxy S21 battery life was decent for its time, thanks to its 4000mAh capacity. When considering a used device in 2025, you absolutely need to be aware of potential battery degradation. A refurbished unit’s battery health might not be 100%. Always check the battery health if possible, or buy from a seller who guarantees a certain percentage. The phone does support fast charging and Wireless PowerShare, which is still super convenient for topping up accessories.
6. Smooth Samsung Ecosystem Integration
One of the big advantages of any Samsung phone is its rich ecosystem. The Galaxy S21 still fully integrates with features like Samsung DeX, letting you use your phone like a desktop computer. You can also use Link to Windows for easy connectivity with your PC. If you already own other Samsung devices like Galaxy Buds or a Galaxy Watch, the S21 will fit right in. This smooth experience is a genuine benefit.
7. Continued Security Updates (for a limited time)
While major Android OS updates have ended for the Galaxy S21 (it received its last major OS update with Android 15 / One UI 7), Samsung is still providing security patches. You can expect these updates on a monthly or quarterly basis, likely until early 2026. This ongoing support is really important for keeping your data safe.
8. Exceptional Value for Money (Refurbished Market)
This is probably the biggest reason to consider a Galaxy S21 in 2025. Thanks to typical smartphone value depreciation, its price has dropped significantly. Buying a refurbished Galaxy S21 makes it an incredibly attractive, budget-friendly option. You can often find them for around $200-$350 USD, depending on the condition and storage. This makes it a strong contender for the best budget Samsung phone 2025.
| Condition | Typical Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Excellent / Like New | $300 – $350 |
| Good | $250 – $300 |
| Fair | $200 – $250 |
Where to Find Reliable Refurbished S21s
If you’re looking to buy refurbished Galaxy S21 models, stick to reputable platforms. Sites like Back Market, Swappa, or even directly from carriers often offer certified refurbished devices. These usually come with warranties and have undergone thorough checks, making them a much safer bet than a random private seller.
9. 5G Connectivity for Modern Networks
You don’t have to worry about the Galaxy S21 being behind on network technology. It fully supports 5G connectivity, meaning you’ll get the fastest available mobile speeds in supported areas. This ensures your phone is future-proof for current and near-future mobile network standards.
10. Still a Great Daily Driver for Most Users
Putting it all together, the Galaxy S21 remains a highly functional and enjoyable smartphone for the vast majority of users. If you don’t need the very latest processor for intense gaming or the new AI features, this phone still delivers a really premium experience for a fraction of the cost. It’s a reliable choice for everyday tasks.
What to Consider Before Buying a Galaxy S21 in 2025
While there are many compelling reasons to buy an S21 now, it’s really important to go in with your eyes open. Buying an older flagship phone comes with specific trade-offs you should be aware of.
End of Major Software Updates
As mentioned, the Galaxy S21 has already received its last major operating system update, Android 15 / One UI 7. This means you won’t get new Android features after this. More critically, Samsung S21 software updates 2025 for security patches are expected to end early in 2026. After that, your phone might be more vulnerable to security threats.
Potential Battery Degradation
This is one of the biggest considerations when buying a used phone. The Galaxy S21 battery life in 2025 will likely not be as good as it was new. Batteries naturally degrade over time, losing capacity. If you buy a used device, try to get information on its battery health percentage. A good refurbished seller will often guarantee a minimum battery health, sometimes even replacing the battery.
Lack of Latest AI Features
Newer Samsung flagships, like the Galaxy S24 and beyond, come with advanced Galaxy AI features. These include things like live translation, advanced photo editing, and more. The Galaxy S21 will not receive these new AI functionalities. If those AI tools are a must-have for you, then an older phone might not be the right choice.
Comparison to Newer Mid-Range & Budget Flagships
When considering the Galaxy S21, it’s wise to compare it to current options. A newer mid-range phone like the Galaxy A55 might offer longer software support and a brand-new battery, though with a less premium feel or camera. Likewise, a slightly newer “budget flagship” like the Galaxy S21 FE or even a Galaxy S22 might offer a few extra years of updates or a marginally better camera. Phones from the Google Pixel A series are also strong flagship phone alternatives known for their cameras and software longevity. The S21 still excels in design and display quality for its price, but the software support is its main limitation compared to these.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Galaxy S21 still worth buying in late 2025?
Yes, the Galaxy S21 is still worth buying in late 2025 if you prioritize a premium feel, great display, capable camera, and solid performance at an affordable price. Just be aware of the limited software update window.
How long will the Galaxy S21 receive security updates?
The Galaxy S21 is expected to receive security updates from Samsung until early 2026. After that, new security patches will likely stop.
What’s the typical battery life of a used Galaxy S21?
A used Galaxy S21 in 2025 will likely have reduced battery life compared to new. Expect around 80-90% of its original capacity, translating to roughly 5-7 hours of screen-on time for moderate use. Always check battery health with the seller.
Where can I find reliable refurbished Galaxy S21 models?
You can find reliable refurbished Galaxy S21 models on trusted platforms like Back Market or Swappa. Many mobile carriers also offer certified refurbished devices.
Does the S21 camera still hold up against newer phones?
The Galaxy S21 camera still holds up very well for most users, especially considering its price. It produces excellent photos and videos for social media and personal memories. But, it won’t match the very latest flagships for extreme low-light performance or new computational photography tricks.
The Verdict: Is the Galaxy S21 Your 2025 Smartphone?
So, should the Samsung Galaxy S21 be your next phone in 2025? If you’ve read through the Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Buy The Samsung Galaxy S21, you’ll see it has a lot going for it. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a taste of premium smartphone experience without emptying your wallet.
Who Should Consider the S21 Now
The Galaxy S21 is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want a device that feels high-end, has an excellent screen, and a very good camera. It’s perfect if you don’t need the absolute latest software features or new AI, and you’re comfortable with a phone whose software support will end soon. If you simply want a reliable phone that does everything well, it’s a strong contender.
Your S21 Buying Checklist
If you’re leaning towards an S21, here’s a quick checklist to guide your purchase:
- Research typical Galaxy S21 price 2025 from reputable sellers.
- Always choose a certified refurbished model from a trusted vendor like Back Market or Swappa.
- Confirm the battery health, ideally looking for 85% capacity or higher.
- Understand that major Android updates have ended (Android 15 was the last).
- Be aware that security updates will likely cease in early 2026.
- Consider if the lack of new Galaxy AI features is a deal-breaker for you.
By keeping these points in mind, you can confidently make an informed decision on whether a used Samsung Galaxy S21 is worth it for your needs.
