The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is a remarkable smartphone that balances cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features. This US version comes with 128GB of storage and is available in the stunning Phantom Gray color. As an unlocked and renewed device, it offers excellent value for those seeking a premium smartphone experience without the hefty price tag.
Stunning Display
The Galaxy S21 features a 6.2-inch AMOLED display that boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and an impressive 1300 nits brightness. This combination ensures vivid visuals and smooth scrolling, making it perfect for gaming, streaming, or simply browsing through your favorite apps. The touchscreen interface is highly responsive, providing an enjoyable user experience.
Exceptional Camera System
Photography enthusiasts will love the rear dual camera setup that includes a 64MP main lens and a 12MP ultrawide lens. This powerful camera system allows users to capture stunning photos and videos in various conditions. Whether you’re shooting landscapes or close-ups, the Galaxy S21 does an exceptional job of delivering quality images that are sure to impress.
Power and Performance
Equipped with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, the Galaxy S21 can handle a multitude of apps and files without compromise. The 4000mAh battery ensures that you have all-day power, keeping you connected and productive throughout your daily activities. Whether you’re streaming movies, playing games, or browsing social media, you can count on the Galaxy S21 to keep up with your needs.
Connectivity Features
As a 5G-capable device, the Galaxy S21 supports GSM, CDMA, and Wi-Fi networks, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity. Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can enjoy seamless internet access. Additional connectivity features include Bluetooth capability, making it easy to connect to wireless headphones and other devices.
Durability and Design
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is not only stylish but also built to withstand everyday wear and tear. With water resistance and durable materials, this phone can handle various environments. The sleek Phantom Gray color adds a touch of elegance to its design, ensuring that you stand out from the crowd.
What’s in the Box
Your purchase includes an adapter and a USB cable, providing you with everything you need to get started with your new smartphone right away.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, available as an unlocked and renewed device, offers an impressive array of features wrapped in a stylish design. With its exceptional display, powerful camera system, and reliable performance, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone in the market for a premium smartphone experience. If you’re looking for a device that combines quality, versatility, and affordability, the Galaxy S21 is undoubtedly worth considering.
X Jia –
I ordered the phone on September 20th for $339, with shipping around $34 and Moroccan VAT about $80, totaling $449. The delivery process was quite smooth. It was shipped on the 25th, and on the 30th, I received a DHL message stating that delivery was scheduled for October 3rd. That same day, I got an email requesting a copy of my national ID and a description of the contents for customs clearance. As I am neither a Moroccan resident nor citizen, I sent my foreign passport instead. On October 3rd, Amazon’s tracking indicated a delay due to the need for additional documents. I contacted DHL, and they informed me the delivery would be postponed to the 4th.
On the 4th, there was another delay message posted on Amazon’s tracking. I tried to reach DHL multiple times without success, so I sent an email inquiry and received a prompt response saying they were addressing the issue. Later that afternoon, I finally received the package.
Upon opening it, I noticed the seal had a large enough opening to fit a hand, but not large enough to remove the phone. I decided not to complain about it. Inside, the phone’s packaging was in excellent condition, resembling the original packaging but marked as “amazonrenewed” without any Samsung branding. There was a protective film on the screen, similar to what you’d find on a new device. The phone appeared to be in great shape, with only a small scratch on the back and a minor hairline scratch on the screen that was only visible under bright light from a specific angle. However, I could not turn on the phone initially; it was unresponsive. The box included a USB-C cable and a low-quality non-Samsung charger made in China, so I used my own Samsung charger to power it up. The battery indicator showed 0%, so I let it charge completely.
Once it powered on, I found it was fully unlocked and my Moroccan SIM card worked with 4G. The phone’s software appeared to be reset, but I decided to reset it again and update it to the latest Android 12 system, then installed all my necessary apps. During the first week, the battery life was disappointing; it only lasted about a day with moderate use. I tried various settings to conserve battery, but to no avail. Recently, however, it has improved significantly, lasting around 45 hours. I’ve read that this could be due to AI processes from either Android 12 or Samsung learning from initial usage. It’s unfortunate that the phone doesn’t provide any battery information.
Overall, I am very pleased with the phone, especially given my past negative experiences with Samsung. My last Samsung phone was the S7 Edge, purchased new in Thailand for about $800. I initially wanted the regular S7 but it was out of stock. I never liked the “edge” design; it seemed unnecessary to me. Although the phone worked fine at first, I faced multiple issues over the next couple of years. Five months later, while in Vietnam, the screen started showing shaded bands. Just as I was considering returning to Thailand for service, the bands disappeared after a month. A few months later, while in Azerbaijan, the phone failed to start after a system update, rendering it unusable for weeks until I reached Tbilisi, where I had it flashed. About a year later, while in Morocco, it died again. After a failed re-flashing attempt, I eventually reached a Samsung service center in Fes, where they informed me of a motherboard issue. I was shocked; I had never experienced such problems with any of my devices, regardless of their price. In the end, I sold it to a local repair shop for $200, as they intended to use only the screen.
Since then, I haven’t purchased a Samsung and would never buy one at full price again. Although I recognize the S series has its merits, particularly the camera, I never felt inclined to buy one at a significantly reduced price from reputable sellers. So when I came across this Amazon-reviewed phone with some warranty, I was intrigued. While there’s some risk involved, based on my past experiences, I believe the risk is not much greater than buying a new phone from Samsung, especially at a much lower cost.
Mario Orsini –
I purchased this phone after my Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra stopped sending texts, and nobody could figure out the problem. I even factory reset it twice, and Verizon went through all the settings, but nothing worked. I was looking for a phone in the $200 range when I came across this one. It’s smaller, but I don’t need a huge screen anymore. I’ve had the phone for about four months now, and it’s been fantastic. It’s lightweight and fits comfortably in my hand and pocket.
I transferred all my apps, music, and contacts using Samsung Smart Switch in just 10 minutes. However, the glass isn’t as durable as the S20 Ultra, which withstood many drops without scratches or cracks. Unfortunately, this S21 didn’t hold up as well; I accidentally dropped it from a height of about two feet while half asleep on my couch, and it ended up with three cracks across the screen. I didn’t notice the cracks until a few days later when the sun hit it at the right angle. I’m still using the shipping screen protector, and I’m not sure if it’s helping hold everything together, so I’m hesitant to remove it. Despite the cracks, the digitizer and screen tracking have been functioning perfectly for over a month.
The phone features an octa-core processor and 8GB of RAM, which makes it fast enough for all my needs, even with multiple tabs open in the browser and other apps running in the background. I often run it on battery saver mode, and you wouldn’t even notice—it wakes up quickly and switches between screens seamlessly. The phone arrived in excellent condition, just as described. I’d recommend investing in a protective case, as it might have survived the drop otherwise. Overall, this is a great option for saving money on your phone plan without having to buy overpriced flagship models.
TheScoskopp –
I purchased what was advertised as an “excellent” device from Synergy, a seller I typically trust on Amazon. They were helpful in tracking down the seller, but unfortunately, I ended up receiving a device that could only be described as fair at best. The bezels were covered in pits and grooves, and there was a significant scratch running from the middle to the edge of the back. The screen also left much to be desired; it came with a film-type screen protector that I found unusual. Upon inspection, I realized I needed to remove it to properly assess the device.
The display was not functioning correctly, with the AMOLED screen and digitizer failing to consistently recognize fingerprints and gestures. I suspect this was an issue with the optical fingerprint sensor—though I believe the S21 has a digital sensor—but regardless, the performance was poor, and it wasn’t due to the operating system, which I updated to Android 13 UI 5.1 from 11.
Disappointed, I wish I had documented the poor condition of the back of the device. It took me 30 minutes to properly clean it, peeling off stickers and glue to really inspect it, even though I already knew it would be going back. The fact that it arrived dirty with sticker residue was a clear red flag.
Additionally, the device was not refurbished as advertised, and the battery was at 74% health—clearly below the acceptable 80% threshold for an “excellent” condition device. I work in IT and know that a device in such condition will likely require a battery replacement within six months.
Contacting ChubbiesTech for support was equally frustrating; they offered no assistance and told me to reach out to Amazon instead. My follow-up inquiry about the battery health received the same lackluster response.
Now, as of November 18th, I’ve learned that UPS has lost my return package. Amazon is unable to process my refund manually for another two weeks, which feels entirely unfair. I’ve done everything correctly, including purchasing insurance for the return, and now I find myself out of both a device and my money because of ChubbiesTech’s poor business practices.
It’s disappointing to see how difficult it has become to find reliable solutions in today’s market. If I had received the excellent device I paid for, I wouldn’t be in this predicament. Sellers like this shouldn’t be allowed on the platform; Amazon isn’t eBay. This has turned into a headache, and I strongly advise others to avoid this seller. If your device isn’t up to standard, you’ll be on your own. I’m now a week into this ordeal, out of money and without a device. The charging port also showed signs of wear, indicating it had been dropped, which is acceptable in itself, but the device should have been properly refurbished and tested.
I truly hope Amazon doesn’t censor this review, as it reflects the real-life experiences that result from not getting what you pay for. I trusted in Amazon and its sellers, and now I’m left without a device and no refund. This is unacceptable, and the A-Z guarantee feels non-existent in this case. This is an honest account of my experience, and I believe it’s crucial for potential buyers to be aware of the poor business practices associated with this seller.
Nadia Rosalia Alcazar Martinez –
The product arrived in good condition, though there was a minor issue with the phone’s screen. However, I’ve been using it for almost a year now, and it functions well without any problems.
TheScoskopp –
In excellent condition and functions flawlessly. I would definitely purchase again.
Jorge Iván Martínez Daza –
I was really concerned after seeing some reviews, but I ended up being fortunate—mine looks like it’s brand new. I’m thrilled!
Neil Wager –
This is my first purchase of a renewed product, and it was definitely worth it. The quality is excellent, and I will certainly buy again.
Shyla Stevens –
The device arrived with no damage to the screen, just a few “marks” or scratches on the back, but they are covered by the protector. It comes with a generic charger, although a Samsung one can be used as well. There were no scratches on the device, the battery works well (it does drain a bit quickly, but that’s typical for Samsung), it’s fast, and it worked perfectly with my Telcel SIM card. Overall, a great purchase considering the price.