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Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB) Review | 197 Data compared

Avg. price:~£310RAM capacity:8 GBInternal storage:128 GBScreen size:6.7 inchesMain camera megapixels:64 MP & 12 MP & 12 MP

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB) Review: Compare 197 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Smartphones category and whether it is worth buying.

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB)
7.6/10

Overall score

Score
7.6/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the smartphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best smartphones on the market.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 76% of models
Score components

90%

7.4

Technical score

10%

8.9

User score

â–²Better than 76% of smartphones
8.0

Value for money

Value for money
8.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 87% of models
Score components

70%

7.6

Overall score

30%

8.9

Price

â–²Better than 87%
7.4

Technical score

Technical score
7.4/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 73% of models
Score components

25%

7.0

Performance & Hardware

18%

8.4

Camera

15%

7.3

Display

15%

6.8

Battery

10%

7.8

Software

10%

7.8

Connectivity

4%

6.2

Audio

3%

7.8

Design

â–²Better than 73%
8.9

User score

User score
8.9/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 89% of models
Score components

70%

8.5

User ratings

30%

9.8

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
â–²Better than 89%
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Best prices
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
Available versions:
8GB + 128GB8GB + 256GBCheck price
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Technical Specifications of smartphone Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB)

Technical score
Technical score
7.4/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 73% of models
Score components:

25%

7.0

Performance & Hardware

18%

8.4

Camera

15%

7.3

Display

15%

6.8

Battery

10%

7.8

Software

10%

7.8

Connectivity

4%

6.2

Audio

3%

7.8

Design

7.4
User score
User score
8.9/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 89% of models
Score components

70%

8.5

User ratings

30%

9.8

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
8.9
Popularity
Popularity
9.8/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartphone.
When it matters
When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 93% of models
Popularity:
Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB) has a popularity of 9.8 points, which is higher than 92.6% of smartphones.
9.8
Value for money
Value for money
8.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 87% of models
Score components:

70%

7.6

Overall score

30%

8.9

Price

8.0
Brand name
Samsung
Processor model
Samsung Exynos 2100
This smartphone uses the Samsung Exynos 2100 processor which is faster than processors in 69.6% of smartphones and equal to processors in 0.2% of smartphones.
RAM capacity
8 GB
Market range: <4 GB – >16 GB
This smartphone has a RAM capacity of 8 GB which is larger than the RAM capacity of 28.5% of smartphones and equal to that of 30.4% of smartphones.
Internal storage
128 GB
Market range: <64 GB – >512 GB
This smartphone has an internal storage capacity of 128 GB which is smaller than the storage of 61.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 28.4% of smartphones.
CPU boost clock speed
2.9 GHz
Market range: <2 GHz – >3.3 GHz
The CPU boost clock speed of this smartphone is 2.9 GHz which is higher than the boost speed of 74.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.4% of smartphones.
Show more
Operating system
Android
This smartphone uses the Android operating system, which outperforms that of 1%.
Android 11
Android version
Android 11
This smartphone runs Android version Android 11 which is older than that found in 80.3% of smartphones and equal to that in 8.5% of smartphones.
Direct OS updates
no
This smartphone does not receive direct OS updates. 20.6% of smartphones receive direct updates.
Open-source OS
yes
This smartphone uses an open-source OS. 94.6% of smartphones use an open-source OS.
Dark mode
yes
This smartphone offers dark mode. 95.8% of smartphones support this feature.
Show more
Multi-lens main camera
yes
This smartphone includes a multi-lens main camera system. 93.7% of smartphones include multi-lens setups.
Main camera megapixels
64 MP & 12 MP & 12 MP
Market range: <10 – >100
This smartphone has a main camera resolution of 64 MP & 12 MP & 12 MP which is higher than that of 82.9% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.3% of smartphones.
Main camera aperture
f/1.8 & f/2.0 & f/2.2
This smartphone has a main camera aperture of f/1.8 & f/2.0 & f/2.2 which is wider than that of 66.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.4% of smartphones.
Main camera sensor area
38.9 mm²
Market range: <19.7 mm² – >71.4 mm²
This smartphone has a main camera sensor area of 38.9 mm² which is larger than the main camera sensor area of 51.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.4% of smartphones.
Main camera pixel size
1.8 µm
Market range: <0.64 µm – >1.22 µm
This smartphone has a main camera pixel size of 1.8 µm which is larger than in 98.4% of smartphones and equal to the size in 1.4% of smartphones.
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Number of SIM slots
2
Market range: <1 – >6
This smartphone has 2 SIM slots, which is more than in 3.8% of smartphones and equal to the number in 96.1% of smartphones.
Cellular module
yes
This smartphone includes a cellular module. 100% of smartphones include cellular modules.
5G connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports 5G connectivity. 66.9% of smartphones support 5G.
LTE support
yes
This smartphone supports LTE. 99.7% of smartphones include LTE connectivity.
Wi-Fi connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 100% of smartphones offer Wi-Fi support.
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Screen size
6.7 inches
Market range: <6.3 inches – >6.82 inches
This smartphone has a screen size of 6.7 inches which is larger than the screens of 52.2% of smartphones and equal to those of 10.1% of smartphones.
Screen resolution
1080x 2400 px
This smartphone has a screen resolution of 1080x2400 px which is higher than that of 36.3% of smartphones and equal to that of 20.4% of smartphones.
Pixel density
394 ppi
Market range: <264 ppi – >460 ppi
This smartphone has a pixel density of 394 ppi which is lower than that of 58.4% of smartphones and equal to that of 2.8% of smartphones.
Display type
OLED/AMOLED
This smartphone uses a OLED/AMOLED display type. 58.6% of smartphones use this display technology.
Refresh rate
120 Hz
Market range: <60 Hz – >144 Hz
This smartphone supports a refresh rate of 120 Hz which is higher than in 34.7% of smartphones and equal to that in 55.2% of smartphones.
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Battery capacity
4,800 mAh
Market range: <4k mAh – >7k mAh
This smartphone has a battery capacity of 4,800 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 73% of smartphones and equal to those in 1.2% of smartphones.
Charging speed
25 W
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This smartphone supports charging speeds of 25 W which is slower than in 66.9% of smartphones and equal to speeds in 5.3% of smartphones.
Fast charging
yes
This smartphone supports fast charging. 93.1% of smartphones support fast charging.
GSMArena full wired charge time
?
Wireless charging
yes
This smartphone supports wireless charging. 25.2% of smartphones support wireless charging.
Show more
Stereo speakers
yes
This smartphone includes stereo speakers. 64.4% of smartphones provide stereo audio.
3.5 mm headphone jack
no
This smartphone does not include a 3.5 mm headphone jack. 45.5% of smartphones offer this port.
Number of microphones
3
Market range: <1 – >3
This smartphone includes 3 microphones, which is more than in 77.2% of smartphones and equal to the number in 19.7% of smartphones.
FM radio
no
This smartphone does not include an FM radio. 34.2% of smartphones offer FM radio functionality.
aptX Lossless
no
This smartphone does not support aptX Lossless. 12.9% of smartphones provide aptX Lossless.
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Height
161.9 mm
Market range: <156.2 mm – >171.56 mm
This smartphone has a height of 161.9 mm which is shorter than 68.4% of smartphones and equal to that of 1% of smartphones.
Width
73.7 mm
Market range: <73.1 mm – >81 mm
This smartphone has a width of 73.7 mm which is narrower than 86.4% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.4% of smartphones.
Thickness
7.8 mm
Market range: <7.53 mm – >10.5 mm
This smartphone has a thickness of 7.8 mm which is thinner than 77.4% of smartphones and equal to that of 4.2% of smartphones.
Weight
188 g
Market range: <175 g – >256 g
This smartphone weighs 188 g which is lighter than 70.3% of smartphones and equal to the weight of 2.8% of smartphones.
Device volume
82,271 cm³
Market range: <80 cm³ – >190 cm³
This smartphone has a device volume of 82,271 cm³ which is smaller than 90.1% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.9% of smartphones.
Show more

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB) vs the average smartphone

246810TotalPerformance & HardwareSoftwareCameraConnectivityDisplayBatteryAudioDesign
  • 3 x higher optical zoom
    This smartphone offers higher optical zoom than the average smartphone (3 x vs 0 x).
    3 x vs 0 x
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartphone supports wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 25.2% of smartphones are wireless charging compatible.
  • 1 µm larger main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a larger main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (1.8 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average pixel size is 0.8 µm.
    1.8 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • Better main camera video
    This smartphone records better main camera video than the average smartphone. 44.20x of smartphones support 4K or higher.
    4320x24 fps vs 2160x30 fps
  • Supports reverse wireless charging
    This smartphone supports reverse wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 23.6% of smartphones offer reverse wireless charging.
  • 50% lower TDP
    This smartphone has a lower TDP than the average smartphone (9 W vs 6 W). The average TDP for smartphones is 6 W.
    9 W vs 6 W
  • Newer USB version
    This smartphone supports a newer USB version than the average smartphone (3.2 vs 2). The average version is USB 2.0.
    3.2 vs 2.0
  • 10.8% higher user score
    User score
    8.9/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
    When it matters
    When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G
    the average smartphone
    Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB) has a higher user score than the average smartphone (8.87 vs 8.000).
    8.87 vs 8
  • 79.9% more popular
    Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB) is more popular than the average smartphone (9.79 vs 5.4).
    9.79 vs 5.44
  • 8.6% better value for money
    Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB) has better value for money than the average smartphone (7.96 vs 7.3).
    7.96 vs 7.34
  • 50% lower TDP
    This smartphone has a lower TDP than the average smartphone (9 W vs 6 W). The average TDP for smartphones is 6 W.
    9 W vs 6 W
  • 20.8% higher CPU boost clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU boost clock speed than the average smartphone (2.9 GHz vs 2.4 GHz). The average smartphone has a boost clock speed of 2.4 GHz.
    2.9 GHz vs 2.4 GHz
  • Newer DDR memory version
    This smartphone supports a newer DDR version than the average smartphone (5 vs 4). The average DDR version is 4.
    5 vs 4
  • Higher CPU base clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU base clock speed than the average smartphone (1x2.9 GHz & 3x2.8 GHz & 4x2.2 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz). The average smartphone has a base clock speed of 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz.
    1x2.9 GHz & 3x2.8 GHz & 4x2.2 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz
  • 2 more memory channels
    This smartphone has more memory channels than the average smartphone (4 vs 2). The average smartphone has 2 memory channels.
    4 vs 2
  • 2x higher memory bandwidth
    This smartphone has higher memory bandwidth than the average smartphone (51.2 GB/s vs 25.6 GB/s). The average memory bandwidth is 25.6 GB/s.
    51.2 GB/s vs 25.6 GB/s
  • 16.7% smaller process node
    This smartphone uses a smaller process node than the average smartphone (5 nm vs 6 nm). The average process node size is 6 nm.
    5 nm vs 6 nm
  • 14.3% higher maximum RAM
    This smartphone supports more maximum RAM than the average smartphone (16 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB RAM.
    16 GB vs 14 GB
  • 16.4% faster memory speed
    This smartphone supports faster memory speed than the average smartphone (3200 MHz vs 2750 MHz). The average smartphone supports 2750 MHz memory speed.
    3,200 MHz vs 2,750 MHz
  • 45.5% higher 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited benchmark
    This smartphone scores higher in 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited than the average smartphone (5,567 vs 3,825). The average smartphone scores 3,825.
    5,567 vs 3,825
  • Better processor
    This smartphone features a better processor than the average smartphone (Samsung Exynos 2100 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3).
    Samsung Exynos 2,100 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3
  • Higher on-device AI tier
    This smartphone runs on the productivity AI tier, while the average smartphone runs on fundamental, enabling stronger on-device AI features.
    Circle to Search, Magic Rewrite(?
    productivity vs fundamental
  • Includes cross-site tracking protection
    This smartphone supports cross-site tracking prevention, the average smartphone does not. 32.2% of smartphones include this feature.
  • Supports desktop mode
    This smartphone includes desktop mode, the average smartphone does not. 9.4% of smartphones support desktop functionality.
  • 3 x higher optical zoom
    This smartphone offers higher optical zoom than the average smartphone (3 x vs 0 x).
    3 x vs 0 x
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • 1 µm larger main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a larger main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (1.8 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average pixel size is 0.8 µm.
    1.8 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • Better main camera video
    This smartphone records better main camera video than the average smartphone. 44.20x of smartphones support 4K or higher.
    4320x24 fps vs 2160x30 fps
  • Higher-resolution main camera
    This smartphone has a higher main camera resolution than the average smartphone (64 MP & 12 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone main camera has 50 MP & 8 MP megapixels.
    64 MP & 12 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • Supports RAW photo capture
    This smartphone supports RAW photo capture, the average smartphone does not. 37.1% of smartphones allow RAW files.
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    This smartphone uses a BSI sensor, the average smartphone does not. 40.5% of smartphones include BSI sensors.
  • Has a multi-lens front camera
    This smartphone features a multi-lens front camera, the average smartphone does not. 18% of smartphones have multiple front lenses.
  • Supports laser autofocus
    This smartphone features laser autofocus, the average smartphone does not. 21.4% of smartphones include laser AF.
  • 1 more flash LEDs
    This smartphone has more flash LEDs than the average smartphone (2 vs 1). The average smartphone has 1 flash LEDs.
    2 vs 1
  • Supports HDR10 video recording
    This smartphone supports HDR10 video recording, the average smartphone does not. 35.9% of smartphones support HDR10.
  • Has a dual-tone LED flash
    This smartphone features a dual-tone LED flash, the average smartphone does not. 41.4% of smartphones include dual-tone flash.
  • 21.6% larger main camera sensor area
    This smartphone has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (38.9 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
    38.9 mm² vs 32 mm²
  • Newer USB version
    This smartphone supports a newer USB version than the average smartphone (3.2 vs 2). The average version is USB 2.0.
    3.2 vs 2.0
  • Newer Wi-Fi version
    This smartphone supports a newer Wi-Fi version than the average smartphone (Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)). The average smartphone uses Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n).
    Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
  • Supports ANT+
    This smartphone supports ANT+ technology, the average smartphone does not. 6% of smartphones are ANT+ compatible.
  • Has a barometer
    This smartphone features a barometer, the average smartphone does not. 19.9% of smartphones include a barometer.
  • Supports HDR10 support
    This smartphone supports HDR10, the average smartphone does not. 42.7% of smartphones are HDR10 compatible.
  • Higher contrast ratio
    This smartphone has a higher contrast ratio than the average smartphone (3000000:1 vs 1000000:1). The average smartphone contrast ratio is 1000000:1.
    AMOLED/OLED displays have an effectively infinite contrast ratio
    3,000,000:1 vs 1,000,000:1
  • Has an always-on display
    This smartphone features an always-on display, the average smartphone does not. 49.2% of smartphones offer always-on functionality.
  • Better display glass type
    This smartphone features a better display glass type than the average smartphone (Corning Gorilla Glass Victus vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5). The average smartphone uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection.
    Corning Gorilla Glass Victus vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5
  • 33.8% higher screen brightness
    This smartphone has a higher screen brightness than the average smartphone (883 nits vs 660 nits). The average smartphone brightness is 660 nits.
    883 nits vs 660 nits
  • 300 nits higher peak brightness
    This smartphone has a higher peak brightness than the average smartphone (1300 nits vs 1000 nits). The average peak brightness is 1000 nits.
    1,300 nits vs 1,000 nits
  • 0.03 inches inch larger screen size
    This smartphone has a larger screen size than the average smartphone (6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone screen is 6.67 inches.
    6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartphone supports wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 25.2% of smartphones are wireless charging compatible.
  • Supports reverse wireless charging
    This smartphone supports reverse wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 23.6% of smartphones offer reverse wireless charging.
  • Higher GSMArena battery life endurance score
    This smartphone has a higher GSMArena battery life endurance score than the average smartphone (114 vs 99.5). The average endurance score is 99.5.
    114 vs 99.5
  • 1 more microphone/s
    This smartphone has more microphones than the average smartphone (3 vs 2). The average smartphone has 2 microphones.
    3 vs 2
  • Supports aptX
    This smartphone supports aptX, the average smartphone does not. 50% of smartphones are aptX compatible.
  • 1.5 m deeper water resistance
    This smartphone has a deeper water resistance rating than the average smartphone (1.5 m vs 0 m). The average depth rating is 0 m.
    1.5 m vs 0 m
  • 2.3 mm narrower
    This smartphone is narrower than the average smartphone (73.7 mm vs 76 mm). The average smartphone width is 76 mm.
    73.7 mm vs 76 mm
  • 0.5 mm thinner
    This smartphone is thinner than the average smartphone (7.8 mm vs 8.3 mm). The average smartphone thickness is 8.3 mm.
    7.8 mm vs 8.3 mm
  • 4.2% lighter
    This smartphone is lighter than the average smartphone (188 g vs 196.2 g). The average smartphone weighs 196.2 g.
    188 g vs 196.2 g
  • Better IP rating
    This smartphone has a better IP rating than the average smartphone (IP68 vs IP67). The average IP rating is IP67.
    IP68 vs IP67
  • 2.5% higher French repairability index
    This smartphone has a higher French repairability index score than the average smartphone (8.2 vs 8). The average score is 8.
    8.2 vs 8
  • 1.7 mm shorter
    This smartphone is shorter than the average smartphone (161.9 mm vs 163.6 mm). The average smartphone height is 163.6 mm.
    161.9 mm vs 163.6 mm
  • 15.9% smaller volume
    This smartphone has a smaller device volume than the average smartphone (82271 cm³ vs 97800 cm³). The average smartphone volume is 97800 cm³.
    82,271 cm³ vs 97,800 cm³
  • 50% less storage
    This smartphone offers less internal storage than the average smartphone (128 GB vs 256 GB). The average smartphone includes 256 GB of internal storage.
    128 GB vs 256 GB
  • No live text recognition
    This smartphone does not support live text recognition, the average smartphone does. 50.9% of smartphones offer real-time text recognition.
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • Older Android version
    This smartphone runs an older Android version than the average smartphone (Android 11 vs Android 14). The average smartphone runs Android version Android 14.
    Android 11 vs Android 14
  • No aptX HD
    This smartphone does not support aptX HD, the average smartphone does. 50.7% of smartphones support aptX HD.
  • No reverse wired charging
    This smartphone does not support reverse wired charging, the average smartphone does. 60.8% of smartphones support reverse wired charging.
  • 10.1% slower GPU clock
    This smartphone has a lower GPU frequency than the average smartphone (854 MHz vs 950 MHz). The average smartphone has a GPU frequency of 950 MHz.
    854 MHz vs 950 MHz
  • Does not allow app offloading
    This smartphone does not support app offloading, the average smartphone does. 51.9% of smartphones support app offloading to save space.
  • 50% less storage
    This smartphone offers less internal storage than the average smartphone (128 GB vs 256 GB). The average smartphone includes 256 GB of internal storage.
    128 GB vs 256 GB
  • 10.1% slower GPU clock
    This smartphone has a lower GPU frequency than the average smartphone (854 MHz vs 950 MHz). The average smartphone has a GPU frequency of 950 MHz.
    854 MHz vs 950 MHz
  • Supports older OpenGL version
    This smartphone supports a lower OpenGL version than the average smartphone (3.1 vs 3.2). The average smartphone supports OpenGL version 3.2.
    3.1 vs 3.2
  • No live text recognition
    This smartphone does not support live text recognition, the average smartphone does. 50.9% of smartphones offer real-time text recognition.
  • Older Android version
    This smartphone runs an older Android version than the average smartphone (Android 11 vs Android 14). The average smartphone runs Android version Android 14.
    Android 11 vs Android 14
  • Does not allow app offloading
    This smartphone does not support app offloading, the average smartphone does. 51.9% of smartphones support app offloading to save space.
  • No scrolling screenshot support
    This smartphone does not support scrolling screenshots, the average smartphone does. 81.1% of smartphones allow scrolling screenshots.
  • Does not allow play while downloading
    This smartphone cannot play games while downloading, the average smartphone can. 77.3% of smartphones support play-while-downloading.
  • Lower front camera megapixels
    This smartphone has lower front camera megapixels than the average smartphone (10 MP vs 16 MP). The average smartphone has a 16 MP front camera.
    10 MP vs 16 MP
  • Narrower main camera aperture
    This smartphone has a narrower main camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/1.8 & f/2 & f/2.2 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4). The average smartphone aperture is f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4.
    f/1.8 & f/2.0 & f/2.2 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    This smartphone uses an older Bluetooth version than the average smartphone (5.1 vs 5.2). The average smartphone uses Bluetooth 5.2.
    5.1 vs 5.2
  • 0.3% lower pixel density
    This smartphone has a lower pixel density than the average smartphone (394 ppi vs 395 ppi). The average smartphone has a pixel density of 395 ppi.
    394 ppi vs 395 ppi
  • No reverse wired charging
    This smartphone does not support reverse wired charging, the average smartphone does. 60.8% of smartphones support reverse wired charging.
  • 4% smaller battery capacity
    This smartphone has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartphone (4800 mAh vs 5000 mAh). The average smartphone has a capacity of 5000 mAh.
    4,800 mAh vs 5,000 mAh
  • 25% slower wireless charging speed
    This smartphone has a slower wireless charging speed than the average smartphone (15 W vs 20 W). The average smartphone wireless charging speed is 20 W.
    15 W vs 20 W
  • 24.2% slower charging speed
    This smartphone has a slower charging speed than the average smartphone (25 W vs 33 W). The average smartphone charges at 33 W.
    25 W vs 33 W
  • 10% slower reverse wireless charging speed
    This smartphone has a slower reverse wireless charging speed than the average smartphone (4.5 W vs 5 W). The average smartphone speed is 5 W.
    4.5 W vs 5 W
  • No aptX HD
    This smartphone does not support aptX HD, the average smartphone does. 50.7% of smartphones support aptX HD.
  • 3 year/s older release date
    This smartphone is an older model than the average smartphone (2021 vs 2024). 3.00% of smartphones were released more recently.
    January 2021
    2021 vs 2024
  • Poor brand origin
    This smartphone has a poorer brand origin compared to the average smartphone. 0.00% of smartphones come from top-tier brand origins.
    South Korea vs China

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

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techradar.com
05/07/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus review - TechRadar
S
sammobile.com
23/09/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21+ review: Feels like money well spent
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toptenreviews.com
27/07/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus review
D
dxomark.com
15/04/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G (Exynos) Camera review
D
digitalcameraworld.com
04/03/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus review
A
androidpolice.com
19/03/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21+ review, one month later: Peak Samsung design
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tomsguide.com
15/03/2022
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus review: A big-screen phone that...
C
consumerreports.org
03/03/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Cell Phone Review - Consumer Reports(www.notebookcheck.net) | February 14, 2021 | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Smartphone Review: The...
D
digitaltrends.com
02/02/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G review: Not as good as one, but better than the other
A
androidauthority.com
19/05/2023
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus review: The typical middle child
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theguardian.com
19/04/2021
Summary of the review
Galaxy S21+ review: the big-screen Samsung phone for slightly less
J
journaldugeek.com
21/02/2012
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21 and S21+ review: Pitch perfect
(Translated)Show original
0
01net.com
21/03/2018
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21+ review: why this excellent smartphone is... disappointing
(Translated)Show original
N
nextpit.fr
09/02/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21+ Review: Beauty Isn't Everything
(Translated)Show original
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clubic.com
03/03/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21+ Review: A solid release that struggles to stand out
(Translated)Show original
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lesnumeriques.com
20/02/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21+ review: the same smartphone, only bigger
(Translated)Show original
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techzine.nl
13/02/2021
Summary of the review
Samsung Galaxy S21: the high-end smartphone for everyone
(Translated)Show original
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tweakers.net
05/02/2021
Summary of the review
Thorough and independent Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G reviews
(Translated)Show original
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consumentenbond.nl
Onbekend
Summary of the review
Consumentenbond: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G (256 GB) - Test Results
(Translated)Show original
A
androidplanet.nl
29/01/2021
Summary of the review
Android Planet: Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus - review, price, specifications and more
(Translated)Show original

Third-party reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
Reviews last updated: August 2026 · How we calculate this

What we like about Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB)

  • Excellent and fast performance for daily tasks and gaming
  • Vibrant and bright 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a smooth 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
  • Impressive camera quality, especially in daylight, for both photos and videos
  • Long-lasting and excellent battery life, capable of easily lasting a full day with heavy use
  • Premium and attractive design with durable build quality and IP68 water resistance
  • Fast and reliable in-display fingerprint sensor
  • 5G connectivity is fast and works well
  • Guaranteed with a solid number of software and security updates

What we don't like about Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB)

  • No microSD card slot for expandable storage, a major drawback for many users
  • No 3.5mm headphone jack, requiring the use of wireless options or an adapter
  • Does not include a charger or headphones in the box
  • Some users report issues with call quality, including distant sound or dropped connections
  • Connectivity problems, such as unstable Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections, have been noted by some users
  • The screen can scratch easily compared to previous models, according to some users
  • Can occasionally overheat or experience battery drain, especially with intensive use or after some software updates
  • Rear camera performance in low light is only decent and can have high noise compared to newer flagships

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus 5G (8GB + 128GB) is a premium flagship smartphone featuring a large 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X flat display with a smooth 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and a robust glass and aluminum build with an IP68 rating. It is powered by either the speedy Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100 5nm processor, depending on the region, and offers a versatile triple camera system (12MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 64MP telephoto with 3x hybrid zoom) capable of 8K video recording. Key pros include its excellent performance, impressive battery life from the 4,800mAh cell that easily lasts a full day, and a bright, vibrant display. The main cons are the lack of a microSD card slot for storage expansion, the removal of the charger and headphones from the box, and a slightly lower screen resolution (FHD+) compared to its predecessor.

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