How does Galaxy S21 Hold Up in 2025
Performance and Chipset
The Galaxy S21 is powered by the Snapdragon 888 (or Exynos 2100 outside the U.S.), both of which are still quite capable in 2025. Everyday tasks, multitasking, and gaming remain smooth, thanks to the 8GB of RAM and flagship-grade CPU. While it’s no longer the fastest chip on the market, it holds up remarkably well for apps, streaming, and light productivity.
Display and Design
The 6.2-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate still looks great in 2025. It offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and smooth animations. Although newer phones may have slimmer bezels or brighter panels, the Galaxy S21’s display is far from outdated. Its compact and lightweight design also makes it easy to handle compared to the bulkier phones that dominate the market today.
Camera System
With a triple-camera setup (12MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, and 64MP telephoto), the Galaxy S21 still delivers quality photos and videos. It performs especially well in daylight and decent lighting conditions. Samsung’s camera software and computational enhancements continue to provide good results, although low-light performance has been surpassed by newer models like the S22 and S23.
Battery Life
Equipped with a 4,000 mAh battery, the Galaxy S21 offers average battery life by 2025 standards. It’s sufficient for moderate daily use—like calls, browsing, and video streaming—but may fall short for heavy users. Battery degradation in refurbished units could also impact endurance, so it’s something to keep in mind when buying used.
Software Update and Android Version
As of 2025, the Galaxy S21 still receives monthly security updates and supports the latest Android version—currently Android 15. Samsung committed to four years of OS updates and five years of security updates for the Galaxy S21 lineup, and that promise has held up. This means the S21 will continue receiving security patches through early 2026, with full Android version support ending soon after.
This level of ongoing software support makes the Galaxy S21 more secure and compatible with modern apps than many older or budget Android phones. For users who prioritize staying current on Android features and security, the S21 remains a reliable option—though it's nearing the end of its official support lifecycle. If you plan to use the device for another 1–2 years, it should remain safe and usable throughout that time.
Better Alternatives at Lower Prices
Galaxy S21 FE ($110+)
Specs Comparison: Galaxy S21 vs Galaxy S21 FE
| Feature | Galaxy S21 | Galaxy S21 FE |
|---|
| Release Year | 2021 | 2022 |
| Display | 6.2" AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.4" AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 | Snapdragon 888 |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB / 8GB |
| Rear Cameras | 12MP Wide + 12MP UW + 64MP Tele | 12MP Wide + 12MP UW + 8MP Tele |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 32MP |
| Battery | 4,000 mAh | 4,500 mAh |
| Software Support | Android 15 + Monthly Updates | Android 15 + Monthly Updates |
| Starting Price (2025) | $230+ | $110+ |
Display Size and Experience
While both phones offer 120Hz AMOLED panels, the S21 FE has a slightly larger 6.4-inch display compared to the S21’s 6.2 inches. This makes the S21 FE a better choice for media consumption and gaming. Despite the larger size, both deliver similarly vibrant colors and smooth refresh rates.
Camera System
The S21 has a more advanced telephoto camera (64MP vs 8MP), giving it an edge in zoom and detail for distance shots. However, the S21 FE fights back with a superior 32MP front camera—ideal for selfies and video calls. For casual users, the overall camera performance is very close, but photographers may prefer the standard S21.
Battery Life
Thanks to its 4,500 mAh battery (vs 4,000 mAh on the S21), the S21 FE has better battery endurance. Combined with Samsung’s efficiency optimizations, it provides longer screen time and better all-day reliability—especially important for heavy users.
Price and Value
Starting at just $110+, the S21 FE is over $100 cheaper than the Galaxy S21, yet it offers the same performance and better battery life. The only real trade-off is the less advanced telephoto camera. For most users, the S21 FE delivers better value without sacrificing day-to-day functionality.
Galaxy S22 ($170+)
Specs Comparison: Galaxy S21 vs Galaxy S22
| Feature | Galaxy S21 | Galaxy S22 |
|---|
| Release Year | 2021 | 2022 |
| Display | 6.2" AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.1" AMOLED, 120Hz, Brighter |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Rear Cameras | 12MP Wide + 12MP UW + 64MP Tele | 50MP Wide + 12MP UW + 10MP Tele |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 10MP |
| Battery | 4,000 mAh | 3,700 mAh |
| Software Support | Android 15 + Monthly Updates | Android 15 + Monthly Updates (longer support) |
| Starting Price (2025) | $230+ | $170+ |
Performance and Speed
The S22 uses the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, which provides faster performance, better AI processing, and improved energy efficiency compared to the S21’s Snapdragon 888. If you're planning to keep your phone for a few more years, the S22 is the better choice in terms of long-term performance.
Camera Improvements
While the S21 has a higher-resolution telephoto lens (64MP vs 10MP), the S22 introduces a new 50MP main sensor that offers significantly better image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance. For most users, this improvement outweighs the slight downgrade in zoom capabilities.
Build and Display
Both phones have premium AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates, but the S22 screen is brighter and better optimized for outdoor viewing. It also has slimmer bezels and a more modern design, making it feel more current in 2025.
Battery Trade-Offs
The S22 has a smaller 3,700 mAh battery compared to the S21’s 4,000 mAh. However, efficiency gains from the newer chip help make up for this. If battery life is a top priority, the S21 wins—but for average users, the difference isn’t drastic.
Software Longevity
Because it’s a newer model, the S22 will receive Android updates and security patches for a longer period—making it the more future-proof option between the two.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
At just $170+, the S22 is cheaper than the S21 in 2025 and offers better hardware, longer software support, and improved camera performance. Unless you find the S21 at a deep discount, the S22 is clearly the better deal.
Conclusion: Limited Stock, Good Phone—But Better Options Exist
The Samsung Galaxy S21 still holds its own in 2025. It’s fast, compact, and supports the latest Android version with ongoing monthly security updates. If you find one in good condition for around $230+, it’s a solid device that can last another year or two with ease.
However, its limited availability and relatively higher price compared to newer alternatives make it harder to recommend over models like the Galaxy S21 FE ($110+) or Galaxy S22 ($170+). Both offer excellent performance, better value, and are easier to find.
If you already own a Galaxy S21, there’s no urgent reason to upgrade. But if you’re shopping for a used Android flagship today, the Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S21 FE and Galaxy S22 are smarter choices in 2025.
FAQ: Buying Galaxy S21 in 2025
1. Is the Galaxy S21 still supported in 2025?
Yes. As of 2025, the Galaxy S21 receives monthly security updates and supports Android 15. Samsung’s update cycle ensures the phone will likely stay secure through at least 2026.
2. How much does a refurbished Galaxy S21 cost in 2025?
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S21 models start at around $230+, depending on condition and storage.
3. Is the Galaxy S21 better than the Galaxy S21 FE?
Not necessarily. While the S21 has a slightly better telephoto camera and a more compact build, the S21 FE offers nearly identical performance, better battery life, and a much lower price—starting around $110+.
4. What’s a better alternative to the Galaxy S21?
The Galaxy S22 is a better alternative. It’s faster, has a better main camera, and costs less at around $170+. The S21 FE is also an excellent value option with similar specs.
5. Will the Galaxy S21 still run future Android versions?
Android 15 is likely the last major version the S21 will receive. While security updates may continue into 2026, you won’t get new Android features beyond that point.
6. Is the Galaxy S21 still good for gaming or multitasking?
Yes. With the Snapdragon 888 and 8GB RAM, the Galaxy S21 can still handle modern games, streaming, and productivity apps smoothly in 2025.
7. Does the Galaxy S21 support 5G?
Yes. The S21 supports full 5G connectivity, including sub-6GHz and mmWave bands in most models.
8. Is the camera on the S21 still competitive in 2025?
The triple-camera setup is still capable, with strong performance in daylight and decent results in low light. However, newer models like the S22 offer better image processing and improved low-light capabilities.
9. Should I buy the Galaxy S21 or the Galaxy S22?
Unless you find a Galaxy S21 at a deep discount, the Galaxy S22 is the better pick. It’s newer, faster, and has a longer update lifespan—for less money.
10. Why is the Galaxy S21 inventory limited?
Samsung released the S21 in early 2021, and by 2025, most units have either been sold or phased out. Supply is tight, and demand for mid-range Android phones remains strong, making the S21 harder to find than the newer FE and S22 models.
11. How old is the Galaxy S21?
The Galaxy S21 was released in January 2021, making it over 4 years old as of 2025. While the hardware still holds up well, it's reaching the tail end of its official software support window.
12. Will the Samsung S21 get Android 16?
Most likely not. Android 15 is expected to be the last major OS update for the Galaxy S21. Samsung originally promised three years of Android updates and four years of security updates for this model.
13. Will the S21 get Android 15?
Yes. The Galaxy S21 is eligible for Android 15, which was released in January 2025. After that, only security updates will continue; no new Android features or UI changes will be introduced.
14. Is S21 still good in 2025?
Yes, the S21 remains a solid phone in 2025 in terms of performance, display, and camera quality. However, with limited inventory and better alternatives like the Galaxy S21 FE and S22 available at lower prices, it may not be the best choice for new buyers.
