

Refurbished price:£128.00
Versus £829.00 new

Refurbished price:£258.00
Versus £1,199.99 new
Ratings
The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, released in early 2021, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, launched in early 2023, represent two distinct generations of Samsung’s flagship smartphone series. While both devices operate on the Android platform with Samsung’s intuitive One UI software, they offer different physical experiences and internal capabilities that cater to varying user needs. The Galaxy S21 5G is a compact device tailored for portability and ease of use, whereas the Galaxy S23 Plus is a larger, more powerful model designed for users who demand more screen space and longer battery life for their daily tasks. Over the years, the S-series has evolved to refine the balance between performance and efficiency, and these two models highlight that progression clearly.
Assessing the longevity of these devices involves looking at both their physical build quality and the software support they will receive over the coming years to ensure they remain functional. Choosing a sustainable choice like a refurbished model ensures that these high-quality devices continue to serve users well into the future while reducing environmental impact.
Year of Release
Compatible with latest Update
OS
Foldable
In everyday use, both smartphones provide a responsive experience, but the newer internal hardware of the Galaxy S23 Plus offers clear benefits for more demanding users who multitask heavily. The evolution in internal components between 2021 and 2023 has focused on improving efficiency and reducing heat during intensive tasks.
Memory (GB)
Both phones feature vibrant displays with high refresh rates, but the difference in physical size and peak brightness levels impacts how they are used in different lighting environments. The display technology used by Samsung ensures that both models provide deep blacks and rich colours for an engaging viewing experience.
Resolution
Screen type
The camera systems on these devices are designed to capture high-quality memories, though the Galaxy S23 Plus introduces several refinements in sensor technology and image processing. Both models offer a versatile triple-lens setup that includes wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto options for various photography styles.
Main camera
Front camera
Practical features like connectivity standards and physical handling play a large role in the overall user experience and how these two Samsung models fit into a modern lifestyle. These small differences in hardware can affect everything from internet speeds to how the phone feels during a long phone call.
Weight
Screen size (in)
Mobile network
SIM card
Carrier compatibility
Public sentiment on various technology forums suggests that the Galaxy S21 5G is still highly regarded for its comfortable size and reliable performance, though some users have noted that its battery life can feel limited for heavy users. In contrast, the Galaxy S23 Plus receives consistent praise for its exceptional battery performance and its large, bright display, which many users find ideal for entertainment and productivity. Some criticisms of the S23 Plus focus on its larger footprint, which can feel slightly bulky for those transitioning from more compact devices. Users who prioritise a lightweight, compact phone that is easy to manage with one hand will likely find the Galaxy S21 5G to be a suitable companion for their daily needs. Conversely, users who prioritise a large screen for media consumption and a battery that can comfortably last through a long day of heavy use will find the Galaxy S23 Plus to be the more appropriate choice. Opting for a quality-assured refurbished option for either of these models is a practical way to access high-end technology while supporting a more circular economy and reducing electronic waste. Ultimately, both smartphones offer a high-quality experience, and the right choice depends on whether you value portability or the enhanced endurance of a larger device.