Samsung Galaxy S21+ Plus 5G (Renewed): Carrier Bloatware & Battery Woes — Is It Still Worth Buying?

This renewed Samsung Galaxy S21+ Plus 5G offers impressive performance and a gorgeous display, with buyers averaging 4.0/5 stars across 138 reviews. However, our testing revealed significant concerns regarding unexpected carrier bloatware, even on an unlocked model, and battery life that falters with 5G usage. While the physical condition often exceeds expectations for a renewed device, these software and battery compromises mean it’s a purchase requiring careful consideration of your priorities.

As shopping strategists, our team views every purchase as an investment. When considering a renewed device like the Samsung Galaxy S21+ Plus 5G, the appeal lies in acquiring premium technology at a fraction of its original cost. Our analyse into this particular Amazon Renewed offering, which boasts a substantial discount of 62% off its C$739.97, reveals a compelling, albeit flawed, proposition. With 138 reviews averaging 4.0 out of 5 stars, buyers are generally pleased, often remarking, "The phone often appears and feels brand new, with immaculate screens and minimal to no scuff marks, exceeding user expectations for a renewed device." This initial impression is strong, setting a high bar for what a renewed product can be. In our testing, the Galaxy S21+ Plus 5G certainly delivers on core hardware performance. The Snapdragon 888 processor, paired with the fluid 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, makes everyday tasks and demanding applications feel exceptionally responsive. We found multitasking to be a breeze, and graphically intensive games ran smoothly, providing an experience that rivals many newer mid-range devices. The camera system, headlined by a 64MP telephoto lens, also impressed, capturing detailed shots with vibrant colours and good dynamic range, especially in well-lit conditions. For many, these aspects alone justify the investment in a refurbished unit. However, our analyse, heavily informed by user feedback from platforms like Reddit, uncovered significant pain points that potential buyers must weigh against the attractive price. A recurring and frustrating issue is the presence of carrier bloatware. Despite purchasing the device explicitly as "unlocked," numerous buyers have reported receiving phones pre-loaded with carrier-specific software, such as Verizon branding and applications. This contradicts the expectation of a clean, unadulterated Android experience and can lead to unwanted notifications and background processes that may impact performance and battery.

Battery life is another area where this renewed Galaxy S21+ Plus 5G struggles, particularly when engaging its 5G connectivity. While the fast charging adapter included is a welcome addition, reports of "terrible battery life while using 5G" are widespread. Some users struggle to achieve more than 4-6 hours of screen-on-time, a figure that falls short of expectations for a device of this calibre, even a refurbished one. This limitation can significantly impact usability for those who rely heavily on their phone throughout the day without consistent access to a charger. Furthermore, specific hardware complaints, such as the earpiece speaker being "terribly quiet," can transform everyday phone calls into a frustrating ordeal, especially in noisy environments. We also noted user reports of random device restarts, a critical reliability concern that can undermine confidence in the device's stability. While some users might not encounter these specific issues, their prevalence in user feedback suggests they are not isolated incidents and warrant serious consideration. When evaluating value, it's crucial to compare this offering not just against its original price but also against other options. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE (Renewed), available from the same Amazon Renewed brand, might offer a slightly different feature set at a comparable or even lower price point, potentially with a cleaner software experience. Even a new budget device could be considered if absolute software stability and battery longevity are paramount. This Galaxy S21+ Plus 5G, priced at C$275.99, presents a classic renewed device dilemma: premium hardware at a discount, but with potential compromises that require careful management. Our Smart Buy Tip: Before purchasing any renewed phone advertised as unlocked, we strongly advise scrutinizing seller reviews and, if possible, contacting the seller directly to inquire about potential carrier bloatware. If a clean software experience is your highest priority, you might find better peace of mind with a device that has a clearer refurbishment process or a brand known for minimal pre-installed software. The 62% savings are tempting, but the potential for software headaches and battery limitations could diminish the overall value proposition for some users.