In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra stands as a beacon of innovation, blending cutting-edge technology with a sleek design that captures the imagination. This S21 Ultra review dives deep into what makes this device a standout choice for American tech enthusiasts seeking a premium experience. From its stunning display to its versatile camera system, the S21 Ultra promises to deliver on every front. However, with a premium price tag and high expectations, does it truly live up to the hype? Let’s explore the features, performance, and real-world usability of this flagship powerhouse, drawing insights from experts and user experiences shared on platforms like Reddit.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Review: Design and Build Quality
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra exudes sophistication with its refined design. Measuring 6.50 by 2.98 by 0.35 inches and weighing 8.08 ounces, it’s a substantial device that feels solid in hand. The matte Phantom Black finish resists fingerprints, offering a sleek, modern look that’s both stylish and practical. Unlike its predecessor, the S20 Ultra, the S21 Ultra features a more integrated camera module, reducing the bulkiness while maintaining a premium glass-and-metal construction. Users on Reddit, particularly in r/GalaxyS21, praise its ergonomic feel, with one user noting, “The size is a shock and pleasant surprise, one-handable enough for my use cases”.
Durability and Practicality
Moreover, the S21 Ultra is built to withstand daily wear and tear. With Gorilla Glass Victus protecting the front and back, it offers enhanced scratch and drop resistance. The IP68 rating ensures water and dust resistance, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. However, some Reddit users express concerns about the lack of a microSD card slot, a feature removed from the S21 series. One user in r/Android lamented, “I was ready to buy the S21 Ultra, but no microSD is a deal breaker”. While this omission may disappoint some, the base 128GB storage, with options up to 512GB, should suffice for most users.
Display: A Visual Masterpiece
Transitioning to the display, the S21 Ultra boasts a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen with a 3200 x 1440 resolution and 515 PPI. This panel delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional clarity, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and photo editing. The adaptive refresh rate, ranging from 10Hz to 120Hz, ensures smooth scrolling while optimizing battery life. According to a Reddit user in r/Android, “The best OLED screen, 1000+nits, 1440p, 120Hz, HDR10+” sets it apart from competitors. The display’s 1600-nit peak brightness ensures visibility even in direct sunlight, a feature American users will appreciate during outdoor activities.
S Pen Compatibility
Additionally, the S21 Ultra introduces S Pen support, a first for the Galaxy S series. While the stylus is sold separately and lacks Bluetooth functionality, it enhances productivity for note-taking and creative tasks. This feature bridges the gap with the Note series, appealing to users who value precision input. As tech expert Marques Brownlee noted, “The S Pen compatibility turns the S21 Ultra from a really good phone to a great one”. This addition makes the device versatile for professionals and creatives alike.
Camera System: A Photographer’s Dream
The S21 Ultra’s camera system is a highlight, featuring a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and two 10MP telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom). This setup offers unmatched flexibility, from expansive landscapes to detailed close-ups. The laser-guided autofocus addresses the S20 Ultra’s focus issues, delivering sharp images even in challenging conditions. A user in r/samsung shared, “I’ve used the 108MP camera for professional car photography, and the results are stunning”. The 100x Space Zoom, while more of a novelty, performs better than its predecessor, with usable results up to 30x in good lighting.
Low-Light and Video Capabilities
Furthermore, the S21 Ultra excels in low-light photography with its improved Night mode, producing bright, detailed images with minimal noise. The 40MP front-facing camera ensures crisp selfies, ideal for social media enthusiasts. For videographers, the device supports 8K recording and Super Steady mode, delivering smooth, cinematic footage. A review from Tom’s Guide praised, “The S21 Ultra’s footage looks stunning, delivering near movie-quality results”. These capabilities make it a top choice for content creators and photography buffs.
Performance and Software: Powerhouse Performance
Under the hood, the S21 Ultra is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 chipset (Exynos 2100 in some regions), paired with 12GB or 16GB of RAM. This combination ensures blazing-fast performance, handling multitasking, gaming, and video editing with ease. Reddit users in r/Android commend its speed, with one stating, “The S21 Ultra is rock solid reliable with top-notch speed”. Running One UI 3.1 based on Android 11 (upgradable to newer versions), the software is intuitive and feature-rich. However, some users on Reddit note minor bloatware, including Samsung’s ads, which can be disabled with customization.
Connectivity and Future-Proofing
Moreover, the S21 Ultra supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, and Ultra-Wideband (UWB), ensuring future-proof connectivity. American users benefit from robust 5G performance, with download speeds exceeding 160 Mbps on T-Mobile, as reported by Tom’s Guide. The inclusion of UWB enables seamless file sharing and potential use as a digital car key, adding practical value for tech-savvy consumers.
Battery Life: All-Day Endurance
The S21 Ultra houses a 5,000mAh battery, delivering impressive endurance. With moderate use, it easily lasts a full day, while heavy users can expect it to power through until evening. A Reddit user in r/samsung shared, “With moderate use, it powers through till night, like a mini power station”. The adaptive display and efficient chipset contribute to this longevity, though intensive tasks like 4K video recording may drain it faster.
Charging and Limitations
However, the absence of a charger in the box, following industry trends, has sparked debate. Reddit users in r/Android express frustration, with one noting, “Losing the charger isn’t a deal breaker, but it’s annoying for a $1,200 phone”. The device supports 25W fast charging, fully charging in about an hour, and wireless charging is also available. For American users, investing in a compatible fast charger is a minor inconvenience given the device’s overall value.
User Feedback: Real-World Insights from Reddit
Reddit communities like r/GalaxyS21 and r/Android provide valuable insights into the S21 Ultra’s real-world performance. Users consistently praise its display, camera versatility, and build quality. One user in r/GalaxyS21 noted, “The S21 Ultra is the smoothest Samsung phone I’ve ever owned”. The device’s ability to handle demanding tasks, from gaming to professional photography, resonates with power users. Its resilience is also a recurring theme, with a user in r/samsung stating, “Despite being dropped countless times, it only has minor scratches”.
Common Complaints
On the flip side, some users highlight drawbacks. The lack of a microSD slot and headphone jack remains a sore point, particularly for long-time Samsung fans. A user in r/Android commented, “I’m still pissed about no headphone jack and microSD”. Additionally, the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, while secure, can be unreliable with wet or dry fingers, as noted in r/GalaxyS21. These issues, while minor, may influence purchasing decisions for some American consumers.
Conclusion: Is the S21 Ultra Worth It?
In conclusion, this S21 Ultra review reveals a device that pushes the boundaries of what a smartphone can achieve. Its stunning display, versatile camera system, and robust performance make it a top contender for American consumers seeking a flagship experience. While the absence of a microSD slot, headphone jack, and charger may disappoint some, the S21 Ultra’s strengths far outweigh its shortcomings. For photographers, gamers, and professionals, it offers unmatched value, especially with trade-in deals and discounts bringing it below its $1,199 starting price. As Reddit users and experts agree, the S21 Ultra is a refined masterpiece that sets a high bar for Android flagships. If you’re ready to invest in a premium smartphone, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is a compelling choice that delivers on its promise of excellence.
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