Top Premium Smartphone Alternatives to Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra’s Legacy (2025)

Last updated on December 2, 2025

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, when it launched, was a true powerhouse. It offered an incredible camera system, a vibrant display, and top-tier performance that made it a favorite for many premium smartphone users. Even years later, some people still hold onto theirs, a testament to its quality. However, as technology marches on, even the best devices eventually show their age. From battery degradation to slower performance with demanding new apps, or simply missing out on the latest advancements, there comes a time when exploring newer options makes sense. This article helps you explore the leading premium smartphone alternatives available in 2025, helping you find a modern device that not only meets but exceeds the high bar set by the S21 Ultra.

Introduction: The S21 Ultra’s Enduring Legacy

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra arrived on the scene as a formidable device, pushing boundaries with its camera zoom capabilities, stunning display, and robust performance. It quickly became a benchmark for what a premium Android phone could be, setting a high standard for flagship experiences. For many, it was the ultimate daily driver, handling everything from demanding games to professional-grade photography with ease.

Why Update Your Premium Phone?

Even the most impressive technology has a shelf life. While your S21 Ultra might still be functional, newer phones in 2025 bring significant leaps in areas like AI integration, computational photography, processor efficiency, and battery longevity. These advancements translate into a smoother, faster, and more capable user experience that can genuinely improve your daily interactions.

What Defined the S21 Ultra Experience?

The S21 Ultra was known for its expansive, high-refresh-rate AMOLED display, its versatile quad-camera system with impressive zoom, and the inclusion of S Pen support (a first for the S series). It offered a complete package for those who wanted a premium Android device without compromise. When looking for alternatives, we’re seeking devices that either match or surpass these core strengths in a modern context.

Why Seek Alternatives in 2025?

Deciding to move on from a phone you’ve loved, like the S21 Ultra, can be driven by many factors. It’s not always about a phone breaking down; sometimes, it’s about evolving needs or the allure of new technology. In 2025, the smartphone landscape offers more diverse and powerful options than ever before.

Beyond Brand Loyalty: Exploring Options

While sticking with a familiar brand like Samsung is comfortable, 2025 brings exciting innovations from other manufacturers. Stepping outside your usual comfort zone can reveal devices that offer a better fit for your current lifestyle, whether that’s through unique features, a different software experience, or even a more competitive price point. It’s worth exploring what’s out there.

Feature Prioritization: Camera, Battery, Performance

Your priorities might have shifted since you bought your last phone. Perhaps you’re now taking more photos and need a truly exceptional camera, or maybe long commutes mean battery life is your absolute top concern. Modern flagships excel in different areas, so identifying your primary needs – whether it’s raw processing power, all-day endurance, or cutting-edge photography – is a crucial first step.

Ecosystem Shift: Android to iOS, or Vice Versa

Sometimes, the desire for a change goes beyond the phone itself and extends to the entire operating system. You might be curious about Apple’s iOS ecosystem for its tight integration with other Apple devices or its renowned app quality. Conversely, an iPhone user might want the customization and open nature of Android. 2025 offers robust options on both sides of this divide.

Evolving Needs: Foldables, Gaming, Productivity

The smartphone market isn’t just about traditional slab phones anymore. Foldable devices have matured significantly, offering compact designs or expansive screens for multitasking. Dedicated gaming phones deliver unparalleled performance, while other devices focus on productivity with stylus support and advanced software features. Your evolving needs might point you towards one of these specialized categories.

Key Factors for 2025 Premium Phones

When you’re considering a premium smartphone in 2025, you’re looking for more than just a decent upgrade. You want a device that excels in every major area, offering a truly top-tier experience. Here’s what defines a flagship phone today.

Cutting-Edge Camera Systems and AI Photography

Modern premium phones go far beyond just megapixel counts. We’re talking about sophisticated multi-lens setups, larger sensors for better low-light performance, and advanced optical image stabilization. Crucially, AI photography is now central, enhancing everything from scene recognition and dynamic range to portrait mode effects and even generating entirely new image elements. The best cameras offer incredible versatility, from ultra-wide shots to extreme telephoto zoom, all powered by intelligent software.

Raw Performance: Chipsets and RAM

At the heart of any premium phone is its processor, often referred to as the chipset. In 2025, we’re seeing incredibly powerful mobile chips that handle everything from graphically intensive games to complex AI tasks with ease. Paired with ample RAM (typically 12GB or more in flagships), these phones offer seamless multitasking and responsiveness that keeps things feeling snappy for years. You won’t experience lag or slowdowns, even with the most demanding applications.

All-Day Battery Life and Fast Charging

While processor efficiency has improved, battery life remains a top concern. Premium phones in 2025 aim for true all-day usage, even for heavy users. This is complemented by ultra-fast wired charging, often reaching a full charge in under an hour, and increasingly efficient wireless charging. Some even offer reverse wireless charging to power up your accessories.

Immersive Displays: LTPO, Brightness, Durability

The display is your window into your phone, and 2025 flagships offer stunning visuals. Expect vibrant OLED panels with adaptive refresh rates (LTPO technology) that can scale from 1Hz to 120Hz, saving battery while still providing smooth scrolling. Peak brightness levels are now incredibly high, making outdoor visibility excellent. Plus, manufacturers are focusing on enhanced durability with advanced glass protection.

Software Experience and Long-Term Support

A great phone isn’t just about hardware; the software experience is equally vital. This includes a clean, intuitive interface, useful features, and strong privacy controls. Long-term software support, meaning several years of major Android/iOS updates and security patches, is also a hallmark of a premium device, ensuring your phone stays current and secure.

Design, Build Quality, and Durability Ratings

Premium phones in 2025 feature exquisite designs, often combining glass, metal, and sometimes even ceramic or vegan leather. They feel solid and refined in hand. IP68 water and dust resistance is standard, offering peace of mind against spills and splashes. These devices are built to last, both aesthetically and functionally.

1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: The Android Powerhouse

For those who loved the S21 Ultra and want to stick with the familiar Samsung ecosystem, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is the natural successor. It takes everything great about its predecessors and elevates it with the latest technology and refinements, offering the pinnacle of the Android experience.

Evolution of the Ultra Experience

The S25 Ultra continues Samsung’s tradition of offering a no-compromise flagship. It refines the design, enhances the display, and integrates even more advanced features, building upon the foundation that made the S21 Ultra so popular. You’ll find a device that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

S Pen Integration and Productivity

Just like the S21 Ultra paved the way for S Pen support in the S series, the S25 Ultra fully embraces it, with the stylus often built right into the device. This transforms the phone into a powerful productivity tool, perfect for note-taking, sketching, document annotation, and precise navigation, making it ideal for creative professionals and power users alike.

Camera Innovations: 200MP and AI Zoom

Samsung’s camera technology has always been a highlight, and the S25 Ultra pushes boundaries further. Expect a high-resolution main sensor, potentially 200MP or more, capable of capturing incredible detail. Its AI-powered zoom capabilities are even more impressive, allowing for crisp, usable photos at distances that were previously unimaginable for a smartphone, going far beyond the S21 Ultra’s already strong zoom.

Performance and Display Features

Under the hood, the S25 Ultra houses the latest and most powerful Snapdragon or Exynos chipset, ensuring buttery-smooth performance for any task. Its Dynamic AMOLED display offers unmatched brightness, color accuracy, and an adaptive refresh rate, making media consumption and gaming an absolute joy. It’s a truly immersive visual experience.

2. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL: AI & Photography King

If you prioritize a pure Android experience, cutting-edge AI features, and a camera that consistently delivers stunning results with minimal effort, the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL stands out. It’s designed to utilize Google’s software and AI prowess to create an incredibly smart and intuitive phone.

Tensor G5: AI at its Core

The heart of the Pixel 10 Pro XL is Google’s custom Tensor G5 chip. This processor is specifically engineered for AI and machine learning tasks, powering everything from real-time language translation to advanced image processing and on-device security. It makes the phone feel incredibly intelligent and responsive to your needs.

Unmatched Computational Photography (100x Pro Res Zoom)

Google’s Pixels are renowned for their computational photography, and the 10 Pro XL takes this to new heights. It combines advanced hardware with Google’s algorithms to produce incredibly detailed and balanced photos in any condition. Features like a potential 100x Pro Res Zoom, powered by AI, offer capabilities that often rival dedicated cameras, making every shot look professional.

Clean Android and Long-Term Updates

One of the biggest draws of a Pixel phone is its clean, unadulterated Android experience. There’s no bloatware, just a fluid interface that is updated directly by Google. Pixels also receive the longest software support among Android phones, guaranteeing years of major OS updates and security patches, ensuring your device stays fresh and secure.

Unique Pixel-Exclusive Features (Magic Cue, Camera Coach)

The Pixel line is famous for its exclusive software tricks. Expect innovative features like “Magic Cue,” which might allow you to instantly edit video objects with AI, or a “Camera Coach” that provides real-time tips for better photos. These features genuinely enhance the user experience and demonstrate the power of Google’s AI.

3. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: iOS Ecosystem Leader

For those considering a switch to iOS or already deeply embedded in Apple’s ecosystem, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the undeniable leader. It offers unparalleled performance, a robust software experience, and seamless integration with other Apple devices, making it a powerful and intuitive choice.

A19 Pro Chip: Unrivaled Performance

Apple’s A-series chips consistently lead the industry in raw performance, and the A19 Pro in the iPhone 17 Pro Max is no exception. This chip delivers blistering speed for gaming, video editing, and demanding professional applications, ensuring the phone feels incredibly fast and responsive for years to come. It’s a true workhorse.

Pro Camera System and Cinematic Video

The iPhone 17 Pro Max boasts an advanced Pro camera system, excelling in both photography and industry-leading video capture. Features like enhanced Cinematic Mode, ProRes video recording, and superior low-light performance allow you to capture professional-looking content with ease. Its intuitive interface also makes it simple for anyone to take great photos.

Apple Intelligence and Ecosystem Benefits

Apple Intelligence brings advanced AI capabilities directly to your device, enhancing everything from personal assistance to creative tools. Beyond AI, the iPhone’s real strength lies in its tightly integrated ecosystem. Seamless handoff between devices, AirDrop for easy file sharing, and FaceTime for high-quality video calls create a cohesive and effortless user experience across all your Apple products.

Battery Life and Display Advancements

Known for its excellent battery optimization, the iPhone 17 Pro Max offers exceptional all-day battery life, even for heavy users. Its Super Retina XDR display provides stunning color accuracy, incredible brightness, and ProMotion adaptive refresh rates, delivering a smooth and vibrant visual experience whether you’re browsing, gaming, or watching movies.

4. OnePlus 14 Pro: Flagship Value & Speed

If you’re looking for a premium Android experience that doesn’t necessarily break the bank, the OnePlus 14 Pro presents a compelling option. It focuses on delivering blistering performance, ultra-fast charging, and a smooth, clean software experience, often at a more competitive price point than some direct competitors.

Snapdragon 8 Elite 2: Power and Efficiency

The OnePlus 14 Pro is powered by the latest flagship Snapdragon processor, likely the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 or a similar high-end chip. This ensures top-tier performance for all applications, from intense gaming to demanding productivity tasks. Coupled with optimized software, it offers an excellent balance of raw power and energy efficiency.

HyperFast Charging and Extended Battery

OnePlus has always been a leader in charging technology, and the 14 Pro continues this tradition with HyperFast Charging. You can expect incredibly rapid top-ups, often going from near-empty to a full charge in a matter of minutes. This, combined with an optimized battery, means you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time using your device.

Fluid Display and Gaming Experience

The display on the OnePlus 14 Pro is typically a high-refresh-rate AMOLED panel, offering incredibly smooth scrolling and responsive touch input. This makes for a fantastic gaming experience, with vibrant colors and fluid animations. The hardware and software are tuned to deliver a seamless and immersive visual journey.

OxygenOS: A Refined Android Interface

OnePlus’s OxygenOS is celebrated for its clean, near-stock Android feel, enhanced with useful customizations and optimizations. It’s designed to be fast and fluid, without unnecessary bloatware. This refined interface contributes significantly to the phone’s speed and user satisfaction, offering a refreshing take on Android.

5. Xiaomi 15 Ultra: Camera Innovation & Design

For users who prioritize cutting-edge camera technology, a distinctive design, and robust specifications, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a strong contender. Xiaomi often pushes boundaries with its Ultra series, integrating advanced features and premium materials to create a truly high-end device.

Leica Quad Camera System: Beyond Megapixels

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra typically features a co-engineered Leica quad-camera system, focusing on delivering a professional photographic experience. This goes beyond just high megapixel counts, emphasizing authentic color science, advanced optics, and versatile focal lengths. You can expect exceptional detail, dynamic range, and a distinctive photographic style that stands out.

Premium Build and Unique Aesthetics

Xiaomi’s Ultra phones are known for their premium construction, often incorporating materials like ceramic, vegan leather, and metal frames. The 15 Ultra likely continues this trend with a distinctive design that feels luxurious and unique in hand. It’s a device that not only performs well but also makes a statement.

Display Quality and Brightness

Expect a top-tier AMOLED display on the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, offering stunning visuals with vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. Its peak brightness levels are usually among the highest in the industry, ensuring superb readability even in direct sunlight, and providing an immersive viewing experience for all types of content.

Xiaomi HyperAI and Performance

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra integrates Xiaomi’s HyperAI, which enhances various aspects of the user experience, from camera processing to system optimization and intelligent personal assistance. Coupled with the latest flagship processor and ample RAM, the phone delivers powerful performance across the board, handling demanding tasks with remarkable efficiency and speed.

6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: The Productivity Foldable

If your desire for a premium phone extends beyond the traditional slab form factor, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 offers a revolutionary way to interact with your device. It’s an excellent alternative for those who need a large, adaptable screen for serious multitasking and productivity.

Expansive Inner Display for Multitasking

The standout feature of the Z Fold 7 is its large, tablet-sized inner display. This expansive screen is perfect for multitasking, allowing you to run multiple apps side-by-side with ease. It transforms your phone into a portable workstation, ideal for reviewing documents, managing emails, or even light creative work on the go.

Refined Hinge and Durability

Each generation of the Z Fold brings improvements to the hinge mechanism and overall durability. The Z Fold 7 features a more refined, robust hinge that feels solid and smooth. Coupled with enhanced water resistance and stronger display materials, it’s built to withstand the rigors of daily use, addressing earlier concerns about foldable longevity.

Flagship Cameras in a Foldable Form

While early foldables sometimes compromised on cameras, the Z Fold 7 integrates a flagship-level camera system. You can expect versatile lenses and advanced computational photography, ensuring you don’t sacrifice image quality for the foldable form factor. It captures stunning photos and videos in various scenarios.

Galaxy AI and S Pen Compatibility

The Z Fold 7 uses Samsung’s powerful Galaxy AI features, enhancing everything from photo editing to language translation and smart search. Its compatibility with the S Pen further boosts its productivity chops, allowing for precise input, drawing, and note-taking directly on the large inner screen, much like a small tablet.

7. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7: Compact Style & Innovation

For those who appreciate a premium device that combines cutting-edge innovation with a compact, stylish design, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 is a compelling choice. It offers the benefits of a large smartphone screen when open, and a pocketable, fashionable form factor when closed.

Edge-to-Edge Cover Screen Utility

The Z Flip 7 significantly enhances its external cover screen, making it larger and more functional. This edge-to-edge display allows you to check notifications, control music, reply to messages, and even take quick selfies without fully opening the phone. It’s a convenient and highly customizable window into your device.

Stylish Design and Portability

The Z Flip 7 truly stands out with its clamshell design, offering a unique blend of style and portability. When folded, it’s incredibly compact, easily fitting into small pockets or bags. Available in a range of attractive colors and finishes, it’s as much a fashion statement as it is a powerful smartphone.

Enhanced AI Features and Camera Modes

Equipped with Samsung’s latest Galaxy AI, the Z Flip 7 benefits from intelligent photo enhancements, smart organization tools, and intuitive voice commands. Its camera system is optimized for the foldable form factor, offering unique shooting angles and modes, like Flex Mode, for hands-free photography and video calls.

Durability and Software Support

Samsung has continually improved the durability of its foldable screens and hinges. The Z Flip 7 is built with robust materials and features enhanced water resistance, making it suitable for daily use. Like other Samsung flagships, it receives several years of major Android updates and security patches, ensuring long-term usability.

Comparison Table: S21 Ultra Alternatives at a Glance

Choosing a new premium phone can be tough with so many excellent options. Here’s a quick overview to help you compare the top alternatives to the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, highlighting their key features and what makes them stand out.

Model	Key Specs (Display, Processor, Camera)	Pros	Cons	Estimated Price Range (2025)
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra	6.8″ Dynamic AMOLED (LTPO), Latest Snapdragon/Exynos, 200MP Main + Periscope Zoom	Ultimate Android experience, S Pen integration, incredible zoom camera, long software support.	Premium price, large form factor.	Premium Flagship
Google Pixel 10 Pro XL	6.7″ OLED (LTPO), Tensor G5, Advanced Computational Photography with 100x Zoom	Unmatched AI features, best pure Android, exceptional point-and-shoot camera, longest updates.	Battery life can vary, design might be less flashy.	High-End Flagship
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max	6.9″ Super Retina XDR (ProMotion), A19 Pro, Pro Camera System with Cinematic Video	Industry-leading performance, best video, robust iOS ecosystem, excellent battery life.	iOS ecosystem lock-in, premium price, less customization.	Premium Flagship
OnePlus 14 Pro	6.7″ AMOLED (LTPO), Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, Versatile Triple Camera, HyperFast Charging	Blazing fast charging, smooth OxygenOS, strong performance, good value.	Camera might not match Pixel/S25 Ultra, less brand prestige.	High-End Flagship
Xiaomi 15 Ultra	6.8″ AMOLED (LTPO), Latest Snapdragon, Leica Quad Camera System	Cutting-edge camera hardware, unique design, powerful performance, fast charging.	Software updates can be inconsistent, availability might vary.	High-End Flagship
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7	7.6″ Inner Foldable AMOLED, 6.2″ Cover AMOLED, Latest Snapdragon, Flagship Cameras	Unmatched productivity/multitasking, large inner display, S Pen support, innovative form factor.	Very expensive, thicker/heavier, inner screen durability perception.	Ultra-Premium Foldable
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7	6.7″ Foldable AMOLED, Larger Cover Screen, Latest Snapdragon, Enhanced Cameras	Stylish and compact, excellent portability, unique form factor, good for content creation.	Smaller battery than slab phones, inner screen still needs care.	Premium Foldable

Real-World Experience: Choosing Your Perfect Fit

Picking a new premium smartphone in 2025 isn’t just about reading a spec sheet; it’s about finding a device that genuinely enhances your daily life. Consider how you actually use your phone and what matters most to you.

For the Photography Enthusiast

If capturing stunning photos and videos is your top priority, you’ll want to focus on devices like the **Google Pixel 10 Pro XL** or the **Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra**. The Pixel, in my experience, offers unparalleled point-and-shoot simplicity with incredible computational photography, often making average photos look amazing. For those who love versatility and zooming into the action, the S25 Ultra’s periscope lens and high-resolution sensor are hard to beat. The **iPhone 17 Pro Max** is also a strong contender, especially if you shoot a lot of video or want consistent, true-to-life colors.

For the Mobile Gamer

When you spend hours immersed in graphically demanding games, raw performance and a fluid display are key. The **iPhone 17 Pro Max** with its A19 Pro chip consistently leads in benchmark scores and real-world gaming performance. However, the **Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra** and **OnePlus 14 Pro**, both running the latest Snapdragon chip, also offer exceptional gaming experiences with high refresh rate displays and advanced cooling systems. Look for plenty of RAM (12GB+) and a fast processor for the best results.

For the Productivity Power User

If your phone is an extension of your office, multitasking and precise input are crucial. The **Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7** truly shines here with its expansive inner display, allowing you to run multiple apps side-by-side or use a full-sized S Pen for detailed work. For those who prefer a traditional form factor but still need productivity, the **Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra** with its integrated S Pen is an excellent choice, perfect for note-taking and quick edits.

For the Style-Conscious

Your phone is also a personal accessory, and some devices offer a distinct aesthetic. The **Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7** is arguably the most stylish and portable option, folding into a compact square that fits easily into any pocket or small bag. Its customizable cover screen and unique form factor make it a real head-turner. The **Xiaomi 15 Ultra** also often boasts a distinctive design with premium materials that sets it apart from the crowd.

Budget vs. Features: Finding Your Balance

While all these are premium options, there can still be a price difference. The **OnePlus 14 Pro** often provides flagship-level performance and features at a slightly more accessible price point compared to the absolute top-tier models from Samsung, Apple, or Google. It’s about deciding which features you can’t live without and where you might be willing to make a small compromise to fit your budget. Remember, a slightly older flagship model from the previous year can also offer excellent value.

Future Trends: What’s Next in Smartphones (2026+)

The world of smartphones is constantly evolving, and while 2025 offers incredible technology, it’s always fun to peek into what might be coming next. Looking beyond the current lineup, we can anticipate some exciting developments shaping the devices of 2026 and beyond.

Further AI Integration and Personalization

Expect AI to become even more deeply embedded in our phones. We’ll likely see more sophisticated on-device AI models that can anticipate your needs, personalize your experience in subtle ways, and perform complex tasks without relying on cloud processing. This could lead to truly intuitive and proactive digital assistants.

Advanced Foldable and Rollable Designs

Foldable phones are already here, but the technology is still maturing. Future iterations will likely feature more seamless displays, even more robust hinges, and potentially new form factors like rollable screens that expand and contract on demand. Imagine a phone that can unfurl into a tablet with a simple gesture.

Sustainable Materials and Longevity

As environmental concerns grow, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on sustainability. We can expect to see more phones built with recycled materials, longer software support commitments, and easier repairability. The goal will be to extend the lifespan of devices and reduce electronic waste.

Beyond the Camera: New Sensor Technologies

While cameras will continue to improve, we might see the integration of entirely new sensor technologies. This could include advanced health monitoring sensors built directly into the phone, more sophisticated augmented reality (AR) capabilities, or even new ways to interact with our devices using gesture control or advanced haptics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it worth upgrading from an older flagship in 2025?

Generally, yes. While older flagships like the S21 Ultra are still capable, newer phones offer significant improvements in camera quality, battery efficiency, processing power, and AI features. These advancements translate to a noticeably smoother, faster, and more capable daily experience, especially with demanding apps and long-term security.

How much should I spend on a premium phone?

The “right” amount depends on your budget and needs. Premium phones in 2025 typically range from around $800 for high-end value options to over $2,000 for ultra-premium foldables. Consider what features are essential to you and how long you plan to keep the phone, as more expensive devices often offer longer software support and better resale value.

What’s the best phone for battery life in 2025?

Many 2025 flagships offer excellent battery life, but the **Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max** and the **Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra** are consistently strong performers. Both benefit from large batteries combined with highly efficient processors and optimized software. Look for phones with high milliamp-hour (mAh) ratings and LTPO displays for adaptive refresh rates that conserve power.

Which phone offers the best software support?

Google’s Pixel phones, like the **Pixel 10 Pro XL**, typically offer the longest software support among Android devices, often promising 7 years of major OS and security updates. Apple’s iPhones also provide excellent long-term support, usually receiving updates for 5-7 years. Samsung has also increased its commitment, offering several years of updates for its flagship devices.

Are foldable phones durable enough for daily use?

Foldable phones have significantly improved in durability over the past few years. Modern foldables like the **Galaxy Z Fold 7** and **Z Flip 7** feature more robust hinges, stronger display protection, and often have water resistance. While they still require a bit more care than traditional slab phones, they are certainly durable enough for most people’s daily use in 2025.