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Best Samsung Phones of 2021: Top Expert Picks for Every Budget and Need

Best Samsung Phones of 2021: Top Expert Picks for Every Budget and Need

What to Look for in a Samsung Phone in 2021

Buying a Samsung phone doesn't have to be overwhelming, even with their vast lineup. From flagships to budget options, Samsung offers devices at every price point, all unified by One UI software for a consistent experience.

Key considerations include screen size, camera quality, battery life, and performance. As tech experts who've tested dozens of Samsung models, we've curated top picks across categories to match your needs.

Samsung's commitment to long-term software support—even surpassing some competitors—ensures your phone stays secure and up-to-date. Let's find the perfect Galaxy for you.

The Best Samsung Phone Overall: Galaxy S21

Best Samsung Phones of 2021: Top Expert Picks for Every Budget and Need

For most users, the Galaxy S21 strikes the ideal balance. Lacking the Ultra's extravagance, it delivers premium features in a compact package.

Its 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with minimal bezels, 1080p resolution, and 120Hz refresh rate offers stunning visuals. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 and 8GB RAM, it handles gaming and multitasking effortlessly without lag.

Cameras include a 12MP front, 12MP ultrawide, and 64MP main rear sensor supporting 8K video and solid optical zoom. At around $800, it provides flagship perks at a more accessible price.

The Best Samsung Mid-Range Phone: Galaxy S20 FE

Best Samsung Phones of 2021: Top Expert Picks for Every Budget and Need

The Galaxy S20 FE (Fan Edition) brings near-flagship performance to mid-range pricing by smartly trimming non-essentials.

Equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 and 6GB RAM, it rivals pricier models in power. The 6.5-inch Super AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate matches premium Samsung displays.

Rear cameras feature 12MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 8MP 3x telephoto, plus a 32MP front shooter—impressive for the category. Launched at $700, it's now often $600 on Amazon.

Samsung's Best Budget Phone: Galaxy A32

Best Samsung Phones of 2021: Top Expert Picks for Every Budget and Need

The Galaxy A32 proves Samsung excels in budget phones under $300, blending reliability with essential features.

A 5,000mAh battery delivers all-day endurance, powered by the MediaTek Helio G80 and 4GB RAM—solid for the price. Expandable storage via microSD adds versatility.

The quad rear setup includes 64MP main, 8MP ultrawide, and 5MP macro/depth lenses, outperforming many budget rivals. The 6.4-inch Super AMOLED screen is vibrant, though resolution is lower. With 5G and four years of updates, it's future-proof value at $280.

The Best Samsung Phone for Battery Life: Galaxy S21 Ultra

Best Samsung Phones of 2021: Top Expert Picks for Every Budget and Need

For unmatched endurance, the Galaxy S21 Ultra's massive 5,000mAh battery powers its 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 120Hz display through heavy use.

The Snapdragon 888 and 12GB RAM ensure smooth performance in gaming and multitasking. Our tests confirm it outlasts most flagships. Cameras shine too (detailed below), but at $1,200, it's for those prioritizing power—financing options help.

The Best Samsung Camera Phone: Galaxy S21 Ultra

Best Samsung Phones of 2021: Top Expert Picks for Every Budget and Need

The S21 Ultra dominates photography with a 108MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP 3x telephoto, and 10MP 10x telephoto—plus 40MP front.

Dual telephotos deliver crisp zoomed shots without digital artifacts, excelling in landscapes, portraits, and distant subjects. In our hands-on reviews, it rivals top DSLRs for versatility. Worth $1,200 for photography enthusiasts.

Samsung's Best Foldable Phone: Galaxy Z Fold 2

Best Samsung Phones of 2021: Top Expert Picks for Every Budget and Need

In 2021's emerging foldables, Samsung leads with the Galaxy Z Fold 2, blending phone portability and tablet productivity.

A 6.2-inch cover screen acts like a Galaxy S21 when folded; unfold to a 7.6-inch interior display. Snapdragon 865 and 12GB RAM handle demanding tasks adeptly.

Cameras: Rear 12MP main/ultrawide/telephoto, plus 10MP cover selfie and inner selfie. At $1,800 MSRP, it's premium without water resistance, but ideal for innovators.