- Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Buy a refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra SIM-free with 85%+ battery health, 12-month warranty, 45-day returns and fast UK delivery.
Overview
Buy a Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra SIM-Free
Here's an honest truth about smartphones, most people buying the latest Ultra today are getting remarkably similar results to someone who bought an S21 Ultra a few years ago. Not because nothing has changed, but because the S21 Ultra set a bar so high that everything since has been refining rather than reinventing. A 108-megapixel camera with 100x Space Zoom that still produces images worth stopping for. An S Pen compatible for the first time. And a display so accomplished it remains one of the finest Samsung has ever produced.
The technology inside hasn't aged. Only the price tag has… in your favour.
Every refurbished S21 Ultra 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. Older by the calendar. Barely by anything else.
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 Ultra worth it?
Yes. A reconditioned Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is worth it if you want a premium Samsung phone with a big display, strong cameras, 5G and Ultra-level features at a lower price. It is best for buyers who want maximum value, not the newest label. The warranty, testing, battery checks and returns process make it safer than buying used privately.
Why Buy from The Big Phone Store?
Buying an older flagship is often the smartest way to save. The key is buying it from a place that checks it properly. The Big Phone Store has specialised in refurbished, recycled and reused electronics since 1999, with in-house testing and UK-based support from real people.
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 keep quality tech in use for longer
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
6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display: A large, sharp screen for films, browsing, gaming, maps and work.
120Hz refresh rate: Smooth scrolling and cleaner movement across apps and menus.
Exynos 2100 processor: Strong performance for everyday apps, media, multitasking and photos.
108MP quad camera system: High-detail photos with wide, ultra-wide and zoom options.
3x and 10x optical zoom: A major value feature for travel, events, pets, sports and distant shots.
40MP front camera: Sharp selfies and clear video calls.
5,000mAh battery: Built for long daily use, especially with maps, video and social apps.
S Pen support: Helpful for notes, sketches and precise control when paired with a compatible S Pen.
5G connectivity: Fast mobile data on compatible UK networks.
Refurbished vs Used Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
A refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is professionally prepared before sale. A typical used Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra from a private seller may seem cheaper, but it can leave you with unknown battery health, unclear device 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 Ultra may look 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 Ultra 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 S21 Ultra was the first non-Note Samsung to support the S Pen. It didn't include one in the box, but compatibility was there from day one. At refurbished prices today, picking up an S21 Ultra and an S Pen separately still costs a fraction of a current Ultra. Worth knowing." - The Big Phone Store Refurbishment Team
Battery Health and Everyday Use
Every refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra comes with at least 85% battery health as standard. That matters more on older flagship phones, because a cheap private-sale device may have an ageing battery with no clear test result.
Choose a Like New Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra if you want 100% guaranteed battery health. This is the best choice if you use your phone heavily for maps, video, work calls, photos, social media 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 Ultra, you get 100% guaranteed battery health. For older premium models, Like New is the strongest option if battery life is your top concern.
How We Test Each Device
A cheap Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 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 Ultra Detail | Benefit |
Display | 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Large premium screen for media and work |
Resolution | 1440 x 3200 pixels | Crisp detail for photos, text and video |
Refresh rate | Up to 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and gaming |
Chip | Exynos 2100, UK model | Strong everyday flagship performance |
Storage | 128GB, 256GB or 512GB | Options for apps, photos and files |
Rear camera | 108MP wide, 10MP periscope telephoto, 10MP telephoto, 12MP ultra-wide | Flexible shooting from wide scenes to long zoom |
Video | Up to 8K recording | High-detail video capture |
Front camera | 40MP | Sharp selfies and clear video calls |
Battery | 5,000mAh | Built for demanding daily use |
Charging / port | USB-C, wired and wireless charging support | Modern charging options |
Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC | Fast networks and easy payments |
What Comes in the Box?
Your order includes:
Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra handset
Charging cable
Sustainable packaging
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 Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra |
Display | 6.8-inch QHD+ AMOLED | 6.8-inch QHD+ AMOLED |
Processor | Exynos 2100 | Exynos 2200 |
Main camera | 108MP quad camera | 108MP quad camera |
Zoom | 3x and 10x optical zoom | 3x and 10x optical zoom |
S Pen | Supported, not built in | Built-in |
Best for | Maximum Ultra value and lower cost | Premium Ultra feel with built-in S Pen |
Choose the refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra if your main goal is to save money while still getting a big-screen Ultra phone with excellent zoom and 5G. Choose the Galaxy S22 Ultra if you want the built-in S Pen and a newer design.
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 Ultra 5G you want, take a look at the reviews our customers have left for us.
4.9/5
Based on 14 customer
reviews
F
Frances
8 months ago
I bought the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, and I’m thrilled! The phone was in pristine condition. It looks and feels brand new. The battery lasts all day, even with heavy use. Ordering was really easy and delivery was super quick. I would definitely recommend buying refurbished from here!
Value for money
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Recycled packaging
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Karen
9 months ago
I’m so happy with my Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra! It looks amazing and works perfectly. The screen is clear and bright; I take stunning photos. I also got a new battery, and it’s great! The team was really helpful too when I had questions. Highly recommended!
Value for money
Overall performance
Phone condition
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Recycled packaging
S
Sam
1 year ago
Perfect
Value for money
Overall performance
Phone condition
Battery
Delivery speed
Recycled packaging
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 a large premium display, 108MP camera, long zoom, 5G and Samsung Ultra features at a much lower refurbished price.
Yes. It has a 108MP quad rear camera system with ultra-wide, 3x optical zoom and 10x optical zoom, making it strong for travel, events, portraits and detailed photos.
The Galaxy S21 Ultra supports S Pen input, but it does not have a built-in S Pen slot like the S22 Ultra and later Ultra models. Check the product listing for what is included.
Yes. It is still worth buying if you want Ultra features for less, especially the large QHD+ display, 5G, 108MP camera and 10x optical zoom.
Yes. Older refurbished flagships can offer excellent value because much of the premium hardware is still useful, while the price is far lower than newer models. It also helps reduce e-waste.
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.