
Refurbished price:€108.00
Versus €399.00 new

Refurbished price:€229.00
Versus €1,297.00 new
Ratings
The Samsung Galaxy A32 5G and the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, both released in early 2021, target different segments of the smartphone market. The Galaxy A32 5G focuses on essential smartphone functionalities with 5G connectivity, while the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G offers a premium experience with advanced features and high-end specifications. Both devices launched with Android 11, providing a consistent software foundation, but their hardware capabilities cater to distinct user needs.
Both the Galaxy A32 5G and the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G were released in early 2021, starting their software support cycles around the same time. Samsung typically provides several years of Android OS updates and security patches for its devices. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, a flagship model, generally receives longer and more frequent software support compared to the A-series. This extended support means the S21 Ultra 5G is likely to remain current with the latest Android features and security updates for a longer duration. In terms of physical durability, the S21 Ultra 5G features a more robust build with Gorilla Glass Victus on both the front and back, offering enhanced resistance to drops and scratches compared to the A32 5G's glass front and plastic back.
Year of Release
Compatible with latest Update
OS
Foldable
The performance capabilities of the Galaxy A32 5G and the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G differ significantly, impacting how smoothly they handle various tasks. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is equipped with a high-end processor designed for demanding applications, intensive multitasking, and graphic-heavy gaming. This allows for rapid app loading, seamless transitions between multiple open applications, and a fluid experience even with complex tasks. In contrast, the Galaxy A32 5G's processor is optimized for everyday usage, providing reliable performance for browsing, social media, and lighter applications. While it handles common tasks well, users engaging in more intensive activities might notice slower response times or occasional stutters. The S21 Ultra 5G also offers higher RAM configurations, further enhancing its multitasking prowess.
Memory (GB)
The display experience is a key differentiator between these two Samsung smartphones. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. Its higher resolution (1440 x 3200 pixels) provides exceptional clarity and sharpness, making text and images appear very detailed. This display also boasts an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, which contributes to incredibly smooth scrolling and fluid animations. The Galaxy A32 5G, on the other hand, comes with a 6.5-inch TFT LCD display. While it offers a decent viewing experience for general use, its lower resolution (720 x 1600 pixels) and LCD technology mean colors are less vibrant, blacks are not as deep, and overall clarity is not as refined as the S21 Ultra 5G. It does offer a 90Hz refresh rate, which is an improvement over standard 60Hz screens.
Resolution
Screen type
The camera systems on the Galaxy A32 5G and the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G cater to different photographic ambitions. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is equipped with a versatile quad-camera setup, including a high-resolution 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and two 10MP telephoto lenses offering significant optical zoom capabilities (3x and 10x). This configuration allows for exceptional detail capture, impressive low-light performance, and the flexibility to shoot a wide range of subjects from close-ups to distant objects. Its video recording capabilities are also advanced, supporting 8K video at 24fps. The Galaxy A32 5G features a quad-camera system with a 48MP main lens, an 8MP ultrawide, a 5MP macro, and a 2MP depth sensor. It performs well for everyday photography in good lighting conditions, capturing clear and shareable images. However, its low-light performance and zoom capabilities are more limited compared to the S21 Ultra 5G. The front camera on the S21 Ultra 5G (40MP) also offers a much higher resolution for detailed selfies and video calls compared to the A32 5G (13MP).
Main camera
Front camera
Beyond the core features, several practical elements distinguish the Galaxy A32 5G and the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. Both devices support 5G connectivity, ensuring access to faster mobile networks. However, the S21 Ultra 5G supports newer Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 standards, offering potentially faster and more stable wireless connections compared to the A32 5G's Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0. In terms of physical design, the S21 Ultra 5G has a more premium feel with its glass and aluminum construction, while the A32 5G uses a glass front and a plastic back. The S21 Ultra 5G also features an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor and supports the S Pen for added functionality, which is not present on the A32 5G. The A32 5G retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature absent on the S21 Ultra 5G.
Weight
Screen size (in)
Network
SIM card
Carrier compatibility
Connector
User feedback often highlights the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G as a device that delivers a comprehensive flagship experience. Users frequently praise its exceptional camera system, particularly its zoom capabilities and low-light performance, as well as its stunning display and powerful performance for demanding tasks. Common criticisms sometimes point to its larger size and weight, which might not suit all users, and its battery life, while good, can be heavily impacted by intensive use of its high-resolution, high-refresh-rate screen. The Galaxy A32 5G is generally well-regarded for its reliable everyday performance, long battery life, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack, making it a practical choice for users seeking core smartphone functions without premium features. Some users note its display resolution and camera performance are not on par with higher-end models, which is expected given its positioning.
Users prioritizing an advanced camera system, a top-tier display for media consumption, and robust performance for gaming or heavy multitasking will find the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G well-suited to their needs. Its premium build and additional features like S Pen support cater to those seeking a versatile and high-end device. Conversely, users who value extended battery life for daily use, a traditional headphone jack, and solid performance for general smartphone activities will likely prefer the Galaxy A32 5G. It serves as a dependable option for those who do not require the absolute latest in camera technology or processing power. Both devices are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers looking to make an informed and sustainable choice.