Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 5G

Buy a refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 SIM-free with 85%+ battery health, 12-month warranty, 45-day returns and fast UK delivery.

Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 5G

Sorry, all Samsung Galaxy S21 5Gs are currently out of stock ☹️

Overview

Buy a Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 SIM-Free

There's something refreshing about a phone that doesn't try to be everything to everyone. The S21 just gets on with it. It’s fast, responsive and capable in all the ways that matter most day to day. Great camera, great display, great build. No unnecessary complexity, no features you'll never use. Just a well made Samsung smartphone that does its job beautifully.

In a world that constantly tells you to upgrade, the S21 makes the case for enough. And enough, here, is really rather good.

Every refurbished S21 we sell at The Big Phone Store is tested and graded in-house — data-wiped, battery checked, unlocked and covered by a 12-month warranty. Uncomplicated. Underpriced. Underrated.

What you get, at a glance

  • Network: SIM-free and unlocked for compatible UK networks

  • Testing: 90+ point quality check before dispatch

  • Battery health: Minimum 85% as standard

  • Like New battery: 100% guaranteed battery health

  • Warranty: 12 months included

  • Returns: 45-day returns process

  • Delivery: Free UK delivery over £30, free fast delivery over £150

  • Preparation: Tested, graded, data-wiped and dispatched in-house

Direct answer: Is a reconditioned Samsung Galaxy S21 worth it?

Yes. A reconditioned Samsung Galaxy S21 is worth it if you want a compact Samsung flagship with 5G, a bright AMOLED display, strong cameras and a much lower price than newer models. It is a smart choice for buyers who want value over the latest label. Testing, battery checks, warranty and returns make it safer than buying used privately.

Why Buy from The Big Phone Store?

Buying an older flagship can be a very smart move. You avoid the high price of a new phone, keep quality tech in use for longer and still get the protection of a proper retailer. The Big Phone Store has specialised in refurbished, recycled and reused electronics since 1999.

  • Experience: Refurbishing electronics since 1999 - You buy from a long-standing specialist

  • Trust: 4.8 Trustpilot rating with 80,000+ reviews - You can see proof from real UK shoppers

  • Security: Data-wiped and history checked, including CheckMEND where relevant - Lower risk than a private sale

  • Quality: 90+ point quality check - Core features are tested before dispatch

  • Support: UK-based customer support - Help is available if you need it

  • Sustainability: WEEE-certified recycler - Your upgrade helps reduce electronic waste

  • Stock: Website stock means it is actually in stock - No false availability

  • Device quality: OEM-quality parts or higher where parts are used - Repairs are handled to a proper standard

Key Features That Matter Day to Day

  • 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display: Bright, sharp and compact enough for easy everyday use.

  • 120Hz refresh rate: Makes scrolling, browsing and switching apps feel smoother.

  • Exynos 2100 processor: Strong enough for social media, banking, maps, streaming, photos and daily multitasking.

  • 8GB RAM: Keeps normal app switching responsive.

  • Triple rear camera system: Wide, ultra-wide and telephoto-style shooting give you more photo options.

  • 3x hybrid optical zoom: Useful for pets, events, travel and detail shots without moving closer.

  • 4,000mAh battery: A sensible size for a compact flagship, with battery health checked before dispatch.

  • 5G connectivity: Fast mobile data on compatible UK networks.

  • IP68 rating: Added dust and water resistance for everyday confidence.

Refurbished vs Used Samsung Galaxy S21

A refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 is professionally prepared before sale. A typical used Samsung Galaxy S21 from a private seller may look cheaper, but it can come with unknown battery health, unclear history and no useful warranty.

Professionally Refurbished

Typical Used Phone

90+ point testing before dispatch

May only be briefly checked

Minimum 85% battery health

Battery health may be unknown

Professionally data-wiped

Data removal may not be complete

12-month warranty included

Usually no warranty

Clear cosmetic grade

Condition can be unclear

Network and history checks completed

Hidden finance or network risk may remain

Direct answer: Is refurbished safer than buying used privately?

Yes. Refurbished is usually safer because the phone is tested, graded, data-wiped and sold with a warranty and returns process. A private used Samsung Galaxy S21 may seem like a saving, but you often lose battery checks, support, history checks and a clear route back if something goes wrong.

Condition Grades Explained

Every refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 we sell is fully functional. The grade describes cosmetic condition, not performance.

  • Like New: Best for the cleanest look and 100% guaranteed battery health

  • Pristine: Best for excellent condition with very light signs of use

  • Very Good: Best for smart savings with minor cosmetic marks

  • Good: Best for the lowest price if visible wear does not bother you

“The Galaxy S21 is a smart buy for people who want flagship Samsung quality without paying flagship money.” - The Big Phone Store Refurbishment Team

Battery Health and Everyday Use

Every refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 comes with at least 85% battery health as standard. This matters more on older models, because a private seller may not give you a reliable battery reading or any support after purchase.

Choose a Like New Samsung Galaxy S21 if you want 100% guaranteed battery health. This is the best option if you use your phone heavily for maps, photos, work calls, social media, streaming or long days away from a charger.

Direct answer: What battery health will I get?

You will get at least 85% battery health as standard. If you choose a Like New refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21, you get 100% guaranteed battery health. For older flagship models, Like New is the strongest choice if battery life matters most.

How We Test Each Device

A cheap Samsung Galaxy S21 usually reflects condition grade, storage, colour or a current offer, not weak functionality. Each device is checked before dispatch so you can save money without accepting private-seller uncertainty.

Testing includes:

  • Battery health and charging

  • Display and touchscreen

  • Fingerprint and face recognition

  • Rear and front cameras

  • Speakers and microphones

  • Buttons and haptics

  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and mobile signal

  • USB-C port, sensors and core functions

Three quality checks buyers rarely see anywhere else

  • Network and history checks: We complete checks, including CheckMEND where relevant, to reduce hidden-device risk.

  • Part-quality review: Where parts are used, we use OEM-quality parts or higher.

  • In-house control: Devices are tested, graded and dispatched by our own team, not passed through an unknown chain.

Technical Specifications

Specification

Samsung Galaxy S21 Detail

Benefit

Display

6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Compact, bright screen for daily use

Resolution

1080 x 2400 pixels

Clear detail for apps, photos and video

Refresh rate

Up to 120Hz

Smooth scrolling and gaming

Chip

Exynos 2100, UK model

Strong everyday flagship performance

Storage

128GB or 256GB

Options for apps, photos and downloads

Rear camera

12MP wide, 64MP telephoto, 12MP ultra-wide

Flexible photos without newer-model pricing

Video

Up to 8K recording

High-detail video capture

Front camera

10MP

Clear selfies and video calls

Battery

4,000mAh

Built for everyday compact use

Charging / port

USB-C, wired and wireless charging support

Modern charging options

Connectivity

5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC

Fast networks and easy payments

What Comes in the Box?

Your order includes:

  • Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 handset

  • Charging cable

  • Sustainable packaging

  • Warranty support

  • SIM tool where applicable

A plug is only included if stated on the listing. This helps reduce unnecessary electronic waste and avoids sending chargers many buyers already own.

Reconditioned Samsung Galaxy S21 vs Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus

Feature

Samsung Galaxy S21

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus

Display

6.2-inch AMOLED

6.7-inch AMOLED

Battery

4,000mAh

4,800mAh

Storage

128GB or 256GB

128GB or 256GB

Camera

Triple rear camera

Triple rear camera

Feel

Smaller and easier one-handed

Bigger and more immersive

Best for

Low-cost S21 flagship entry

Bigger screen and stronger battery value

Choose the refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 if you want the cheapest, easiest entry into the S21 flagship range. Choose the Galaxy S21 Plus if you want a larger screen and bigger battery while still keeping costs below newer models.

Warranty, Delivery and Returns

Benefit

Detail

Warranty

12-month warranty as standard

Warranty upgrades

Upgrade to 2 years, 5 years or lifetime where available

Returns

45-day returns process

Standard delivery

Free UK delivery over £30

Fast delivery

Free fast delivery over £150

Support

UK-based support from real people

Customer Reviews

We value the opinions of all of our customers, and we're sure that you do too! If you're still unsure about buying the Galaxy S21 5G you want, take a look at the reviews our customers have left for us.

4.9 stars 4.9/5
Based on 15 customer reviews
E
Erin 6 months ago
5 stars

I bought a Samsung Galaxy S21 from The Big Phone Store and it's amazing! The screen protector they applied looks great and I’m happy with the battery upgrade. Delivery was quick too. My niece absolutely loved it when I showed her! Great value for everything I got. Would definitely recommend!

Value for money

4 stars

Overall performance

5 stars

Phone condition

4 stars

Battery

5 stars

Delivery speed

5 stars

Recycled packaging

5 stars
K
Karen 10 months ago
5 stars

Just got my Galaxy S21 and I love it! The phone is in excellent condition and looks brand new. It came with all the accessories fitted, like the screen protector. The service was smooth and fast. I'm really happy with my second phone after buying one for my partner. Definitely recommend!

Value for money

5 stars

Overall performance

5 stars

Phone condition

5 stars

Battery

5 stars

Delivery speed

5 stars

Recycled packaging

5 stars
n
nick 11 months ago
5 stars

I'm really happy with my new phone! It's in great condition and works perfectly. The battery lasts all day, which I love. Plus, the case is so sleek and fits like a glove. My friend recommended Big Phone Store and I see why. Great service from start to finish.

Value for money

5 stars

Overall performance

5 stars

Phone condition

5 stars

Battery

4 stars

Delivery speed

5 stars

Recycled packaging

5 stars

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. It is SIM-free and unlocked for compatible UK networks, so you can use your current SIM or choose a SIM-only deal.

Yes. It is a strong value choice because you get 5G, an AMOLED display, smooth 120Hz scrolling and Samsung flagship features at a much lower refurbished price.

Yes. It has a triple rear camera system with wide, ultra-wide and zoom options, making it strong for everyday photos, travel, portraits and video.

It depends on what you need. The S21 is cheaper and easier to hold. The S21 Plus gives you a bigger 6.7-inch screen and larger 4,800mAh battery.

Yes. Older refurbished flagships can offer excellent value because they still have useful premium hardware, while costing much less than newer models. Reusing a phone also helps reduce e-waste.

Second hand usually means previously owned. Refurbished means the device has been tested, graded, cleaned, data-wiped and sold with warranty support.

Yes. Lower prices usually reflect grade, storage, colour or current offers. Functionality is still checked before dispatch.

Delivery depends on the option chosen at checkout. Free UK delivery is available over £30, with free fast delivery over £150.