When Samsung launched the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra in early 2021, it set a new benchmark for flagship smartphones with its stunning display, powerful performance, and groundbreaking camera system. Fast forward to 2025, and this used device, priced at PKR 70,000 to PKR 82,000 in Pakistan, is still making waves in the second-hand market. With 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and a condition rated 8.5/10, this phone offers flagship-level features at a fraction of its original price. The listing also mentions that an exchange is possible, adding flexibility for buyers. But in a market filled with newer models, is the S21 Ultra still a smart buy in 2025? Let’s dive into its features, performance, and value to help you decide.
Why the Samsung S21 Ultra Remains a Flagship Contender in 2025
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra was a trailblazer when it debuted, and even four years later, it holds its own against many modern smartphones. With its premium design, top-tier specs, and versatile camera system, the S21 Ultra continues to appeal to buyers looking for a high-end experience on a budget. At PKR 70,000 to PKR 82,000, this used device in “good” condition (8.5/10) with no major dots or scratches on the display is a tempting deal for anyone in Pakistan. Let’s break down what makes this phone a standout choice.
1. Unmatched Performance with Snapdragon 888
The S21 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 chipset (in some regions, it’s the Exynos 2100), a flagship processor from 2021 that still delivers exceptional performance in 2025. Paired with 12GB of RAM, this phone can handle anything you throw at it—whether it’s multitasking with multiple apps, playing graphics-intensive games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile, or editing 4K videos. The 256GB of storage provides ample space for your apps, photos, and media, though it’s worth noting that the S21 Ultra doesn’t support expandable storage via microSD.
For professionals or students in Pakistan, the S21 Ultra’s performance ensures you can run productivity apps like Microsoft Office, Zoom, and Google Workspace without any slowdowns. The phone also supports dual SIM functionality, as mentioned in the listing, making it a great choice for those who need to manage two numbers for work and personal use.
2. Stunning 6.8-Inch Dynamic AMOLED Display
The S21 Ultra features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a Quad HD+ resolution (3200 x 1440) and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. This screen is one of the best in its class, even by 2025 standards, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent brightness (up to 1500 nits). Whether you’re watching HDR content on Netflix, scrolling through social media, or gaming, the display delivers an immersive experience that’s hard to beat.
The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and animations, and the adaptive technology helps save battery by adjusting the refresh rate based on what you’re doing. The display also supports the S Pen (sold separately), a feature that was groundbreaking for the S-series at the time, making it a great choice for note-taking or creative tasks like sketching.
3. Versatile Camera System for Photography Enthusiasts
The S21 Ultra’s camera system is one of its biggest selling points. It features a quad-camera setup on the back: a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and two 10MP telephoto lenses (3x and 10x optical zoom). The 108MP sensor captures incredibly detailed photos, even in challenging lighting conditions, while the dual telephoto lenses offer up to 100x Space Zoom for capturing distant subjects. The 40MP front camera is equally impressive, delivering sharp and natural-looking selfies for your Instagram feed or video calls.
In 2025, while newer phones may have more advanced computational photography, the S21 Ultra’s camera system still holds up for photography enthusiasts. Features like 8K video recording, Director’s View, and Single Take mode give you plenty of creative options, making it a great choice for content creators or anyone who loves capturing life’s moments in high quality.
Who Should Buy the Samsung S21 Ultra in 2025?
At PKR 70,000 to PKR 82,000, the S21 Ultra is a flagship phone at a mid-range price, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s who might find it a perfect fit:
1. Tech Enthusiasts on a Budget
If you love flagship features but can’t afford the latest models like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, the S21 Ultra offers a premium experience at a fraction of the cost. Its high-end specs and camera system make it a great choice for tech enthusiasts in Pakistan who want a taste of luxury without breaking the bank.
2. Content Creators and Photographers
The S21 Ultra’s versatile camera system and S Pen support make it an excellent tool for content creators, vloggers, and photographers. Whether you’re shooting high-quality videos, editing photos on the go, or sketching ideas, this phone has the features to support your creative projects.
3. Buyers Open to Exchange Deals
The listing mentions that an exchange is possible, which is a big plus for those looking to trade in their old phone to offset the cost. If you have a device to exchange, you might be able to snag the S21 Ultra for even less than PKR 70,000, making it an even better deal.
What to Consider Before Buying
While the S21 Ultra is a fantastic device, there are a few things to keep in mind before making your purchase.
1. Condition and Warranty
The listing describes the phone as being in “good” condition with a rating of 8.5/10, with no major dots or scratches on the display or camera glass. However, since this is a used device, it’s a good idea to ask the seller for more details about its history—has it been repaired, and are there any minor cosmetic flaws? The listing doesn’t mention a warranty, so you’ll need to factor in the risk of buying a used phone without a safety net.
2. Software Updates
The S21 Ultra launched with Android 11 and is eligible for four years of OS updates, meaning it should be running Android 15 by 2025, with security updates continuing until early 2026. While this is great for a 2021 phone, it’s nearing the end of its software support lifecycle. If having the latest software is a priority, you might want to consider a newer device.
3. Battery Life
The S21 Ultra has a 5000mAh battery, which was excellent in 2021 but may show signs of wear in a used device by 2025. Depending on its usage history, you might get a full day of battery life with moderate use, but heavy users may need to charge midday. The phone supports 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging, so you have plenty of options to keep it powered up.
How Does the S21 Ultra Compare to 2025 Smartphones?
In 2025, the smartphone market in Pakistan is filled with options, from budget devices to the latest flagships like the Galaxy S25 series. So, how does the S21 Ultra stack up?
Compared to newer mid-range phones in the PKR 70,000 range, like the Samsung Galaxy A55 or Xiaomi 14T, the S21 Ultra’s Snapdragon 888 still offers flagship-level performance, and its camera system is more versatile. The Dynamic AMOLED display with 120Hz is also a step above the LCD or lower-quality AMOLED panels found in many mid-range phones.
However, newer devices will have more recent processors, better battery optimization, and longer software support. If you prioritize raw performance and camera quality over the latest software, the S21 Ultra is a better value than most 2025 mid-range phones. Against the latest flagships, it can’t compete in terms of processing power or new features, but at less than half the price, it’s a compelling alternative.
Tips to Maximize Your S21 Ultra Experience
To get the most out of your Samsung S21 Ultra, here are a few tips:
- Explore Camera Features: Use the 100x Space Zoom and 8K video recording to capture stunning photos and videos, and experiment with modes like Single Take for creative shots.
- Take Advantage of the S Pen: If you don’t already have an S Pen, consider getting one to unlock the phone’s note-taking and drawing capabilities.
- Optimize Battery Usage: Enable Adaptive Battery and lower the refresh rate to 60Hz when you don’t need the extra smoothness to extend battery life.
- Protect Your Investment: Since the phone is in good condition, invest in a high-quality case and screen protector to keep it looking pristine.
Final Thoughts: Is the Samsung S21 Ultra Worth PKR 70,000 in 2025?
At PKR 70,000 to PKR 82,000, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is a fantastic deal for a used flagship phone in 2025. Its powerful performance, stunning display, and versatile camera system make it a top choice for tech enthusiasts, content creators, and anyone looking for a premium smartphone experience on a budget in Pakistan. The option to exchange your old device adds even more value, potentially bringing the cost down further.
While it may not have the latest software or the battery life of a brand-new phone, the S21 Ultra’s flagship features still make it a worthy contender in 2025. If you’re comfortable with a used device and don’t need the latest and greatest, this phone offers incredible value for the price. Just be sure to inspect it thoroughly upon purchase (especially since the listing offers public meetup or door pickup options) and take care of it to ensure it lasts. For PKR 70,000, you’re getting a piece of flagship history that still feels premium in 2025.