Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G

Samsung Jan 29, 2021

Overview

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is a 2021 smartphone from Samsung. It features a 6.7" AMOLEDDynamic Amoled 2X display with 1080 x 2400 px resolution (393 ppi pixel density), offering a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate and impressive peak brightness of 1300 nits, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. The device is powered by the Samsung Exynos 2100 (5 nm process), 8GB RAM LPDDR5 RAM and ARM Mali-G78 MC14 GPU. The camera system features a 12MP Standard main sensor with f/1.8 aperture, accompanied by 12.2MP Wide Angle + Macro and 64MP Telephoto + portrait, plus a 10MP selfie camera. Power is provided by a 4800 mAh Li-Polymer battery with 25W fast charging. The phone runs on Android 11, upgradable to 15. Available in multiple configurations: 8GB RAM + 128GB storage, 8GB RAM + 256GB storage. Color options include Phantom Violet, Phantom Pink, Phantom Black, Phantom Silver, Phantom Gold, Phantom Red.

Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Review

Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Review

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G, released on January 29, 2021, is a premium smartphone targeting users seeking high performance and advanced features. It features the Exynos 2100 chipset for international markets and offers a sleek design with robust build quality.

Key Features

  • Display: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and peak brightness of 1300 nits.
  • Processor: Exynos 2100 (5 nm) Octa-core processor paired with Mali-G78 MP14 GPU (International).
  • Cameras: Triple rear camera system including 12MP wide, 12.2MP ultrawide, and 64MP telephoto lenses; 10MP front-facing camera.
  • Battery: 4800 mAh battery with 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging.
  • Operating System: Android 11, upgradable to Android 15.
  • Connectivity: 5G support, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and USB Type-C 3.2.
  • Build: Dimensions of 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm, weighing 200g; Gorilla Glass Victus protection.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Excellent Display: The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is vibrant, sharp, and offers smooth 120Hz refresh rate, enhanced by HDR10+ support and 1300 nits peak brightness.
  • Powerful Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset delivers robust performance suitable for gaming and heavy multitasking.
  • Versatile Camera System: Offers a variety of lens options (wide, ultrawide, and telephoto) with excellent image quality and 8K video recording capability, along with HDR and EIS support.
  • Fast Charging: 25W wired charging and 15W wireless charging capabilities ensure a quick recharge.
  • Future-Proof OS: Upgradable from Android 11 to Android 15, providing long-term software support.
  • Connectivity: Comprehensive 5G band support and modern connectivity options.
  • Build Quality: Robust design with Gorilla Glass Victus protection for enhanced durability.

Cons:

  • No Charger in Box: Lack of charger in the box, requiring users to purchase one separately.
  • Exynos Chipset Variations: Performance may slightly differ from Snapdragon variants in other regions.
  • Mid-Range Price: While not the most expensive, still falls into a medium-high price point, potentially making it less accessible.
  • No Expandable Storage: Does not include a microSD card slot, limiting storage expansion.

User Experience

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G provides a fluid and enjoyable user experience thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate display and powerful processor. The screen is exceptional for consuming media, while the responsive performance handles demanding applications and games with ease. The camera system offers a variety of features for both photography and videography, capturing high-quality results in diverse lighting conditions. The Android experience is smooth and customizable with Samsung’s One UI, ensuring a seamless transition for both new and existing Samsung users. However, the absence of a charger in the box is a notable inconvenience.

Hardware & Design

The device has a sleek and modern design with dimensions of 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm and a weight of 200g. The build quality is premium, featuring a Corning Gorilla Glass Victus front and back for scratch and impact resistance. The phone’s frame is made of aluminum, adding to its robust feel. It utilizes a USB Type-C 3.2 port and includes features like dual SIM support (Nano SIM + Nano SIM / eSIM). The device also incorporates under-display fingerprint scanner for secure unlocking.

The internal hardware is built around the 5nm Exynos 2100 processor, an Octa-core CPU with a peak frequency of 2.91 GHz. It includes 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage, providing ample performance and speed. The phone houses a 4800 mAh battery and supports fast charging up to 25W and wireless charging up to 15W.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G offers a well-rounded package with a vibrant display, high-performing processor, and a versatile camera system. Its robust design, combined with long-term software support, makes it a solid contender in the premium smartphone category. While it lacks a charger in the box and expandable storage, the overall performance and user experience provided make it a compelling device for users seeking high-end features. The device positions itself well in the medium price range.

Basic Information

Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G
BrandSamsung
ModelSamsung Galaxy S21+ 5G
Launch DateFriday, January 29, 2021
Release Year2021
Dimensions161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm
Weight200 g
Volume95.23 cm³
Available Colors
  • Phantom Violet
  • Phantom Pink
  • Phantom Black
  • Phantom Silver
  • Phantom Gold
  • Phantom Red

Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G was released on Friday, January 29, 2021. The phone measures 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm with a volume of 95.23 cm³ and weighs 200g. It features a 6.7" AMOLEDDynamic Amoled 2X display with 1080 x 2400 px resolution (393 ppi pixel density) and 120 HzHz refresh rate. The device is available in the following colors: Phantom Violet, Phantom Pink, Phantom Black, Phantom Silver, Phantom Gold, Phantom Red.

Display

Size6.7"
TypeAMOLEDDynamic Amoled 2X
Resolution1080 x 2400 px
Pixel Density393 ppi
Aspect Ratio20:9
Refresh Rate120 Hz
BrightnessPeak: 1300 nits
Contrast RatioN/A
HDR SupportHDR10+
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass Victus
Additional Features
  • Hole-punch Notch
  • Always-On Display
  • Scratch resistant
  • Capacitive
  • Multi-touch
  • Frameless

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G features a 6.7" AMOLEDDynamic Amoled 2X display with 1080 x 2400 px resolution (393 ppi pixel density) in 20:9 aspect ratio. The display offers peak brightness of 1300 nits. It delivers smooth 120 Hz refresh rate. The screen supports advanced HDR formats including HDR10+. Display protection is provided by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. User-centric features include hole-punch notch, always-on display, multi-touch. Technical capabilities include capacitive, frameless. Additional protection features include scratch resistant.

Sensors

Security Sensors
  • Fingerprint (under display)
Motion Sensors
  • accelerometer
  • gyro
Environmental Sensors
  • proximity
  • compass
  • barometer
Health SensorsN/A

For security, the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G features fingerprint (under display). Motion tracking is handled by accelerometer gyro. Environmental monitoring includes proximity compass barometer.

Battery

Capacity4800 mAh
TypeLi-Polymer
Fast Charging25W
Wireless ChargingN/A
Features
  • Reverse charging
  • Non-removable
Additional Info
  • Wireless charging 15W
  • Reverse wireless charging 4.5W
  • No charge in-box

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is equipped with a 4800 mAh Li-Polymer battery. It features fast charging at 25W. The battery system includes reverse charging, non-removable. Additional features include wireless charging 15w, reverse wireless charging 4.5w, no charge in-box.

Hardware

ChipsetSamsung Exynos 2100
CPU
Processor Details
  • processor type: Octa-Core
  • production process: 5 nm
  • max freq: 2.91 GHz
  • 64-bit
GPUARM Mali-G78 MC14
RAM & Storage8GB RAM LPDDR5, 128GB UFS Storage 3.1
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Versions:
  • 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage
  • 8GB RAM + 256GB Storage
  • 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage
  • 8GB RAM + 256GB Storage
  • 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage
  • 8GB RAM + 256GB Storage
  • 8GB RAM + 256GB Storage
AnTuTu Score749,100 (v10)
Additional FeaturesN/A
Sensors
  • Fingerprint
  • Proximity
  • Light sensor
  • Accelerometer
  • Compass
  • Gyroscope
  • Barometer
  • Hall
  • Geomagnetic
Audio Features
  • Dolby Atmos
  • Hi-Res Audio
  • Noise cancellation microphone
  • Stereo Speakers
SD Card SlotNo
Battery4800 mAh

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is equipped with Samsung Exynos 2100 built on 5 nm process technology with 64-bit architecture. Graphics processing is handled by ARM Mali-G78 MC14. The device comes with 8GB RAM (RAM LPDDR5) and 128GB storage (UFS Storage 3.1). In AnTuTu benchmark v10, it achieves 749,100 points. Audio capabilities include Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone. Integrated sensors include Fingerprint, Proximity, Light sensor, Accelerometer. The device is powered by a 4800 mAh battery. The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is available in 8GB RAM + 128GB storage, 8GB RAM + 256GB storage, 8GB RAM + 128GB storage, 8GB RAM + 256GB storage, 8GB RAM + 128GB storage, 8GB RAM + 256GB storage, 8GB RAM + 256GB storage configurations.

Connectivity

WiFi
WiFi Standards
  • 802.11a
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
  • 802.11n 5GHz
  • 802.11ac
  • WiFi 6 (802.11ax)
Other WiFi Features
  • Dual band
  • Wi-Fi Hotspot
  • Wi-Fi Direct
  • Wi-Fi Display
BluetoothBluetooth 5.0 LE Low energy consumption
Bluetooth Features
  • A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile)
  • AVRCP (Audio/Visual Remote Control Profile)
  • DIP (Device ID Profile)
  • HFP (Hands-Free Profile)
  • HID (Human Interface Profile)
  • HSP (Headset Profile)
  • LE (Low Energy)
  • MAP (Message Access Profile)
  • PAN (Personal Area Networking Profile)
  • OPP (Object Push Profile)
  • PBAP/PAB (Phone Book Access Profile)
  • ANT+
  • APT-x
  • SBC
GPS
  • GPS
  • A-GPS
  • GLONASS
  • Beidou
  • Galileo
  • GPS (L1+L5)
  • Galileo (E1+E5a)
Network Bands
5G

  • n1 (2100)
  • n3 (1800)
  • n5 (850)
  • n7 (2600)
  • n8 (900)
  • n20 (800)
  • n28b (700)
  • n28a (700)
  • n38 (2600)
  • n40 (2300)
  • n41 (2500)
  • n66 (1700)
  • n77 (3700)
  • n78 (3500)

4G LTE

  • B1 (2100)
  • B2 (1900)
  • B3 (1800)
  • B4 (1700/2100 AWS 1)
  • B5 (850)
  • B7 (2600)
  • B8 (900)
  • B12 (700)
  • B13 (700)
  • B17 (700)
  • B18 (800)
  • B19 (800)
  • B20 (800)
  • B25 (1900+)
  • B26 (850)
  • B28b (700)
  • B28a (700)
  • B32 (1500)
  • B38 (TDD 2600)
  • B39 (TDD 1900)
  • B40 (TDD 2300)
  • B41 (TDD 2500)
  • B66 (1700/2100)

3G

  • B1 (2100)
  • B2 (1900)
  • B4 (1700/2100 AWS A-F)
  • B5 (850)
  • B8 (900)

2G

  • B2 (1900)
  • B3 (1800)
  • B5 (850)
  • B8 (900)
SIMDual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM / eSIM)
USB
  • Charging
  • Mass Storage
  • USB OTG
  • USB Host
  • USB Type-C
NFCYes

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G supports 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11n 5GHz, 802.11ac, WiFi 6 (802.11ax) with features like Dual band, Hotspot, Direct, Display. The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G comes with Bluetooth 5.0 LE Low energy consumption supporting A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP (Audio/Visual Remote Control Profile), DIP (Device ID Profile), HFP (Hands-Free Profile), HID (Human Interface Profile), HSP (Headset Profile), LE (Low Energy), MAP (Message Access Profile), PAN (Personal Area Networking Profile), OPP (Object Push Profile), PBAP/PAB (Phone Book Access Profile), ANT+, APT-x, SBC. For cellular connectivity, the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G uses Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM / eSIM). The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G features Charging, Mass Storage, OTG, Host, USB Type-C connectivity. The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G includes NFC support for contactless payments and quick device pairing. The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G supports 5G bands, 4G LTE bands, 3G bands, 2G bands.

Camera Features

Video Resolution
  • 8K
  • 4K
  • 1080p
  • 720p
Frame Rates
  • 24fps
  • 30fps
  • 60fps
  • 240fps
  • 960fps
Video Features
  • HDR
  • EIS
  • Stereo Sound

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G features a 3-camera setup with a 12MP Standard main sensor (f/1.8) of 1/1.76" size and 1.80 µm pixel size. The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G also includes a 12.2MP Wide Angle + Macro (f/2.2) and a 64MP Telephoto + portrait (f/2.0). For selfies, the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G uses a 10MP front camera with f/2.2 aperture featuring 1/3.2" sensor size and 1.22 µm pixel size. The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G's camera system includes 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom.

DxOMark Scores

Mobile Camera DxOMark Scores

111
Overall
118
Photo
89
Video

Camera details

Rear Camera

Resolution: 12 MP
Aperture: f/1.8
Sensor Model: Sony IMX555
Sensor Type: CMOS
Pixel Size: 1.80 µm
Sensor Size: 1/1.76"

Resolution: 12.2 MP
Aperture: f/2.2
Sensor Model: Sony IMX563
Sensor Type: CMOS
Pixel Size: 1.40 µm
Sensor Size: 1/2.55"

Resolution: 64 MP
Aperture: f/2.0
Sensor Model: Samsung Bright S5KGW2
Sensor Type: ISOCELL
Pixel Size: 0.80 µm
Sensor Size: 1/1.72"

Selfie Camera

Resolution: 10 MP
Aperture: f/2.2
Sensor Model: Sony IMX374
Sensor Type: CMOS
Pixel Size: 1.22 µm
Sensor Size: 1/3.2"

Additional Features

Extra:
  • Ultra wide angle lens 120º
  • Ultra wide angle Video 4K HDR10+ @ 60fps
  • Ultra wide angle Dual Pixel Autofocus
  • Telephoto lens with OIS
  • 3x hybrid zoom
Flash:
  • LED
Optical Stabilisation:
  • Yes
Slow Motion Video:
  • Yes, 960 fps
Features:
  • 4K Video
  • 8K Video
  • Digital zoom
  • Optical zoom
  • Triple camera
  • Digital image stabilization
  • Optical Stabilization (OIS)
  • Autofocus
  • Touch focus
  • Continuous autofocus
  • Manual focus
  • Phase detection autofocus (PDAF)
  • Continuous shooting
  • Geotagging
  • Panorama
  • HDR
  • Face detection
  • White balance settings
  • ISO settings
  • Exposure compensation
  • Scene mode
  • Self-timer
  • RAW
  • Night Mode

Software

OSAndroid
OS Version11
Max OS Version15

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G runs on Android 11 and is upgradable to 15. It is powered by the Samsung Exynos 2100 chipset .

Prices

Store Price Storage RAM
Amazon DE EUR 326.00
USD 353.25
256 GB 8 GB
Amazon US USD 203.07
USD 203.07
256 GB 8 GB
Samsung USD 679.00
USD 679.00
256 GB 8 GB
Best Buy USD 899.99
USD 899.99
256 GB 8 GB
Amazon UK GBP 179.95
USD 234.11
256 GB 8 GB
Amazon DE EUR 326.00
USD 353.25
256 GB 8 GB
Amazon US USD 203.07
USD 203.07
256 GB 8 GB
Samsung USD 679.00
USD 679.00
256 GB 8 GB
Best Buy USD 899.99
USD 899.99
256 GB 8 GB
Amazon UK GBP 179.95
USD 234.11
256 GB 8 GB