The Android 13 update is now available for the carrier-unlocked Galaxy S21 series in the United States, making the entry-level Galaxy S21 model an affordable ticket to One UI 5.0 and high-end performance for prospective smartphone buyers in the United States. That is if you are willing to purchase a certified refurbished smartphone from Samsung directly.
The unlocked Galaxy S21 is no longer for sale as a brand-new item. It’s a shame, given the phone’s impressive specifications and potential discounts this time of year. Therefore, if you want a Galaxy phone with high-end performance to enjoy the new One UI 5.0 update, the unlocked Galaxy S22 is your only other option. Or is it?
A brand-new Galaxy S22 costs $725 after a $75 instant rebate at the time of writing. After a $100 rebate, the certified refurbished Galaxy S21 5G costs $525. And if you’re considering purchasing the unlocked Galaxy S21 FE instead, you may want to reconsider. Android 13 is not yet available on the unlocked Galaxy S21 FE in the United States, and the phone costs more than the updated Galaxy S21 5G. The price is $599 after a $100 discount.
Get the Galaxy S21 and One UI 5.0 for approximately $500
If you can overlook the fact that the Galaxy S21 is not brand-new and you are receiving a certified refurbished phone, the 2021 flagship sounds like a good deal. Especially if you’re looking for a cheap upgrade to Android 13 and you require top-tier performance from your phone. Given the circumstances, this appears to be an offer worthy of consideration, even though we do not typically discuss phone renewals.
The Galaxy S21 FE costs an additional $75 and does not yet support Android 13 and One UI 5.0. In addition, the Galaxy S21 5G is technically superior in every way (save for the fact that the FE launched with more recent firmware), even though both phones utilize the same Snapdragon 888 5G chipset. And if you desire a superior phone with access to One UI 5.0, the Galaxy S22 is a viable option. However, it costs $200 more, so it’s not a viable option if you’re seeking a One UI 5.0 Galaxy phone with respectable performance for less than $600.
Samsung USA’s online store offers certified, refurbished, carrier-unlocked Galaxy S21 5Gs at a relatively affordable price. And for a more in-depth look at One UI 5.0, albeit on the Galaxy S22, you can view the videos provided below.
