Samsung Galaxy S21 Models Explained

15/09/2023

Nicole Newton

Samsung Galaxy S21 models explained: Everything you need to know

The S21 range is Samsung’s 2021 flagship series, with four models in total completing the collection. As they’re only two years old, the S21 Samsung range are still a very popular series – and for good reason!

If you’re debating upgrading to one of the Samsung S21 models, we’re here to guide you through your purchase. From the S21 vs S21 Ultra to the Samsung S21 FE model, here’s the Samsung S21 comparison you’ve been looking for!

Models at a glance

If you want to get into the nitty gritty of each S21 model, we’ve laid out all the specs for you! From display and size to battery and camera capabilities, here’s the specs of each model at a glance:

Specs	Galaxy S21	Galaxy S21 Plus	Galaxy S21 Ultra	Galaxy S21 FE
Display	6.2” Dynamic AMOLED Flat FHD+	6.7” Dynamic AMOLED Flat FHD+	6.8” Dynamic AMOLED Curved WQHD+	6.4” AMOLED 2X HDR10+
Processor	Exynos 2100	Exynos 2100	Exynos 2100	Exynos 2100
RAM	8GB	8GB	12GB/16GB	6GB/8GB
Storage	128GB/256GB	128GB/256GB	128GB/256GB/512GB	128GB/256GB
MicroSD	No	No	No	No
Battery	4000mAh	4800mAh	5000mAh	4500 mAh
S Pen	No	No	Yes	No
Water resistance	IP68	IP68	IP68	IP68
Weight	171g	202g	229g	177 g
Dimensions	71.2 x 151.7 x 7.9mm	75.6 x 161.5 x 7.8mm	75.6 x 165.1 x 8.9mm	155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm
Front camera	10MP	10MP	40MP	32MP
Back cameras	12MP wide 64MP telephoto 12MP ultra wide	12MP wide 64MP telephoto 12MP ultra wide	108MP wide 10MP telephoto x2 12MP ultra wide Laser AF	12MP wide 8MP telephoto 12MP ultra wide

Samsung S21

Starting with the baseline model of the series, the Samsung S21 is a great budget option for those who’d rather spend less and get a phone that fits comfortably in one hand. The S21 Samsung model offers a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, which is the smallest display of the entire series.

Along with being the smallest of the range, the S21 is one of the cheapest models too. When you compare the prices of the S21 vs S21 Ultra or even the S21 Plus, you’ll see a noticeable difference.

With the lower price tag, you can expect to see some lower-ranged specs. You’ll get a mere 4000mAh battery and a set of three rear cameras (this is standard for all models in this range, with the exception of the S21 Ultra). Unfortunately, you won’t be able to use an S Pen with the S21, but it’s a small price to pay for an affordable Samsung phone!

Samsung S21 Ultra

If you’re looking for a phone with ultra power (see what we did there?), you’ll want the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra. The Samsung S21 Ultra is the most powerful model in the series, but it’s also the most expensive.

You’ll get a large 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display and a huge 5000mAh battery. Plus, the Samsung S21 Ultra is the only model in the series that is S Pen-compatible! It also comes in the standard 12GB or bigger 16GB storage options.

The S21 Ultra also offers the best camera setup out of the entire range. You’ll get a 108MP wide lens, two 10MP telephoto lenses, a 12MP ultra wide lens and a laser AF sensor. In terms of the front camera, you’ll get a 40MP selfie shooter.

Samsung S21 FE

Wondering what the difference is between the Samsung S21 vs S21 FE? You’re about to find out! Samsung’s S21 FE model is comprised of all the features fans want to see from the S21 range, rolled into one affordable phone – think of it like the standard S21, but better.

Priced slightly lower than the S21, the S21 FE has a 6.4-inch AMOLED display and a decent-sized 4500mAh battery. You won’t be able to use an S Pen with this model, but considering the price and the upgraded display size and battery, all can be forgiven.

The cameras are a little hit-and-miss, so depending on which cameras you use the most will determine whether this device is right for you. The 12MP wide lens and 12MP ultra wide lens and exactly the same as the S21 and S21 Plus models, however the telephoto lens on the S21 FE has been downgraded to an 8MP lens.

To compensate for the lower-quality telephoto lens, the front-facing camera has been upgraded to a 32MP lens, which is almost as good as the Ultra’s 40MP lens.

Samsung S21 Plus

The Samsung S21 Plus may not be the biggest of the bunch, but its 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED display definitely packs a punch! Like the standard S21 model, the S21 has three rear cameras: a 12MP wide lens, a 64MP telephoto lens and a 12MP ultra wide lens.

You can expect 8GB of RAM and an impressive (but not quite the most impressive) 4800mAh battery. The Samsung S21 Plus is slightly cheaper than the Ultra, but it’s one of the pricier models from the series due to the size of the display and battery.

If you like the look of the S21 but you prefer a bigger handset, the Samsung S21 Plus is for you – it’s got exactly the same storage, processor and cameras, just with a bigger screen and a better battery!

Decided on your upgrade? Whichever model you choose, get it for less by switching to refurbished! You can buy refurbished Galaxy S21 models including refurbished S21 Ultra and refurbished S21 Plus devices for less on the musicMagpie Store. Plus, make some extra cash when you trade in your old phone with us.