The Samsung Ultra 21 is a premium Android smartphone released in January 2021, featuring a 6.8-inch Changing AMOLED 2X display, a Snapdragon 888 chipset, and a 108MP primary camera sensor. It serves as Samsung's flagship device for the 2021 model year, targeting power users and mobile professionals.
At its core, the Samsung Ultra 21 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 SoC (for global markets) or the Exynos 2100 (in select regions), paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB of UFS 3.1 storage. It supports 5G connectivity across multiple bands, including mmWave and sub-6GHz variants. The device measures 165.1 x 75.7 x 8.9 mm and weighs 227 grams, making it larger and heavier than most smartphones.
Its display uses a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, which adjusts dynamically between 10Hz and 120Hz based on content. This reduces power consumption during static screens while delivering fluid motion during video playback or gaming. The screen achieves peak brightness of 1750 nits, enabling visibility in direct sunlight. According to DisplayMate, the panel earned an A+ rating for color accuracy, contrast, and brightness.
The Samsung Ultra 21 operates through a combination of hardware, software, and sensor integration. The Snapdragon 888 handles CPU and GPU tasks, while the integrated Adreno 630 GPU delivers 30% higher graphics performance compared to the previous generation. The device runs Android 11 with One UI 3.1, offering gesture navigation, dark mode, and enhanced privacy controls.
Internal sensors include an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner embedded under the display, which reads biometric patterns via sound waves rather than light. This allows for faster unlocking in low-light conditions and greater resistance to smudges. The device also includes an accelerometer, gyroscope, barometer, proximity sensor, ambient light sensor, and compass.
Wireless connectivity relies on Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and support for dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM). The phone supports Samsung's DeX mode, allowing it to function as a desktop environment when connected to a monitor via USB-C. Benchmarks show the device scores around 750,000 on AnTuTu v9, placing it among the top-performing Android devices of its time.
The Samsung Ultra 21 uses a glass front and back with an aluminum frame. The rear glass is treated with an anti-fingerprint coating, though it still shows smudges under certain lighting. The device is IP68 rated for dust and water resistance, surviving immersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes.
| Model Variant | Processor | RAM Options | Storage Options | Network Bands |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Global (Snapdragon) | Snapdragon 888 | 12GB, 16GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Sub-6GHz & mmWave (varies by region) |
| Europe/Asia (Exynos) | Exynos 2100 | 12GB, 16GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Sub-6GHz only |
Two distinct models exist due to regional chip availability. The Snapdragon version offers better thermal management and slightly improved 5G performance. The Exynos variant has lower peak clock speeds and higher power draw under sustained load, according to benchmark tests by GSMArena.
Users choose the Samsung Ultra 21 for professional photography, mobile productivity, and extended battery life. Its 5000mAh battery supports up to 18 hours of mixed usage, including streaming, browsing, and app work. With Adaptive Power Saving enabled, it lasts up to 2 days on moderate use.
Professional photographers value the 108MP main sensor with f/1.8 aperture, capable of capturing 12-bit RAW images. The device supports 8K video recording at 24fps, 4K at 60fps, and slow-motion at 1080p/120fps. The 10x optical zoom lens provides 100x digital zoom, though image quality degrades beyond 50x.
A real-world example: a freelance videographer used the Samsung Ultra 21 to shoot a 20-minute interview in 4K at 30fps. The footage was edited in DaVinci Resolve on a MacBook Pro using proxy files generated automatically by the phone's built-in codec converter. The final export took less than 15 minutes, demonstrating the device's capability for on-the-go media creation.
Many assume the Samsung Ultra 21 has a removable battery. It does not. All models feature sealed, non-removable batteries. This is a standard design for flagship phones since 2019, but confusion persists due to older models like the Galaxy S9 having removable backs.
Another misconception is that the 108MP camera captures photos at 108 megapixels in every setting. In reality, the sensor uses pixel binning-combining four pixels into one-to produce 27MP images by default. This improves changing range and low-light performance. Only when manually set to "Pro" mode does it output full 108MP resolution.
Some users report overheating during long gaming sessions. While the device does warm up during intensive tasks, it does not throttle unexpectedly. Testing by TechRadar showed a temperature rise of 4°C over 30 minutes of continuous gaming at maximum settings, with no frame drops or crashes.
I used the Samsung Ultra 21 for three months while traveling across Japan. I relied on its 5G speed for real-time translation apps, its 8K video mode for documenting street festivals, and its S Pen support (via optional accessory) for taking notes during meetings. The phone survived a drop from waist height onto concrete-minor scuffing on the back glass, no internal damage.
During a trip to Hokkaido, I recorded snowfall sequences at 1080p/60fps. The HDR processing stabilized colors in low-contrast scenes, preserving detail in both shadows and highlights. The footage looked nearly indistinguishable from a DSLR when viewed on a 4K monitor.
For protection, the OtterBox Defender series offers military-grade durability with shock-absorbing layers and screen guards. The case adds 15g to the weight but prevents cracks from falls above 1.5 meters. Users who prioritize aesthetics may prefer the Samsung Galaxy Ultra S 21 case line, which uses recycled materials and magnetic attachment for wireless charging.
The Samsung Ultra 21 remains a benchmark in mobile performance and imaging. Despite newer flagships releasing since 2021, it continues to deliver reliable results across demanding workflows. Its blend of hardware, software, and build quality makes it a durable choice for users seeking long-term utility.