Smartphone Galaxy S21 color deep dive: The Nitty Gritty

Why you can trust this Samsung Galaxy S21 color guide  

Some might say we’re picky at Back Market, and we won’t deny it. In fact, we’re proud of our pickiness because it means we offer our customers better quality refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21s.  

At Back Market, we work with professional industry experts who refurbish S21s in all their color options. They spend days examining the devices, cleaning them, repairing them, and restoring them to premium quality before they appear on our virtual shelves.  

During refurbishment, a Samsung Galaxy S21 — regardless of color — will undergo specialized testing that covers everything from screen brilliance and camera clarity to battery health and casing quality to get its grading. But that’s not all.  

You might also be pleased to learn that every Samsung S21 is thoroughly inspected against our detailed 25-point evaluation checklist, ensuring that the Phantom Violet, Phantom Gray, Phantom Pink, or Phantom White device you choose looks exactly as stunning as you'd hope.  

In addition, you don't need to worry about imperfections because our tech partners have years of experience identifying and fixing the smallest issues during refurbishment. What all of this means is that you can confidently trust this Samsung Galaxy S21 colors guide — and your phone — to meet your expectations.  

Our favorite Samsung Galaxy S21 colors  

In our opinion, and based on data from our tech team, Phantom Violet and Titanium lead the pack in popularity with their respective bold and eye-catching charm and subtle class. However, these colors are closely followed by Phantom Gray and Phantom White, which boast a sleek and timeless appeal with a versatility other colors can’t match.  

Then there's Phantom Pink. Although it is our least favorite Samsung Galaxy S21 color, we cannot deny that it is a playful choice loved by many. Phantom Red, Brown, Gold, and Navy are also worth considering. 

Color overview table 

*Popularity ratings are based on Back Market customer preferences and our tech team’s expert picks. 

The Samsung Galaxy S21 colors explored 

Now, it’s time to closely examine each color option for the Samsung Galaxy S21 base phone and what makes each one unique. If you’re ready to explore your options and figure out which color best suits your style, you’ll want to have a look below.  

Samsung Galaxy S21 in Phantom Violet 

How do you feel about having a festival in your pocket? According to Patrick Holland from CNET, this is what you can expect if you choose the Phantom Violet color: “The purple and gold S21 I reviewed (the color's called Phantom Violet) gives off some major Mardi Gras vibes.” 

This is all well and good, but finding a purple phone can feel like a monumental task, and if we’re being honest, purple phones are so easy to get wrong that it can feel like there isn’t one that fits your needs. Luckily, Samsung stepped up its game with the Samsung Galaxy S21 Phantom Violet.  

This beautiful matte-finish phone features a well-balanced purple color that doesn’t lean too blue or too pink, which is often the case with purple phones. It also offers stunning rose gold accents on the camera module, frame, and buttons, which give a softer and warmer air to its appearance.  

It looks absolutely incredible in real life, as one Reddit user said: “Violet looks amazing in real life. The almost rose-gold camera bump and sides go so well with the violet back.” 

It's also worth noting that this is the only color option in the lineup where the camera bump and rear are noticeably different colors. It is only available for the 128GB storage option, but the Samsung Galaxy S21+ also offers this color choice.  

We think you might want to choose Phantom Violet if you’re looking for a phone color that inspires boldness and creativity and if you love experimenting with your smartphone look.   

Samsung Galaxy S21 in Phantom Gray 

Some might think that choosing a Samsung Galaxy S21 in Phantom Gray — or Phantom Silver as it's sometimes known — is a boring option, but this isn’t the case. This is THE phone choice for those who want to feel fancy, considering it's shiny, attractive, and absolutely a head-turner.  

This matte-finish color screams luxe and stylishly complements the silver frame and camera bump, giving the phone a slightly bluish-tinted silver coloring. Although the silver is somewhat subdued, it still gives off classy, elegant vibes and looks trendy and fresh.  

It also looks brighter than the other color options, and it's a color that blends well with various case types and accessories. So, if this matters to you, and you want a phone with natural charisma — as much as an inanimate object can have — it's a safer and better color choice.  

Samsung Galaxy S21 in Phantom White 

Do you love a minimalist approach to everything in life, including your tech? If so, there might be no better color option than Phantom White. The Phantom White Samsung S21 evokes a sleek and sexy appeal, especially if you pair it with monochromatic accessories. It's also a color that goes with everything.  

This color option offers a matte white back with a silver frame blended quite well to exude a simplistic elegance. However, you should know that this color has a bad reputation since white tends to show everything — it will show every scratch, every speck of dust, and every tiny abrasion. But this doesn’t have to be the case with yours.  

Plenty of clear cases on the market will allow you to enjoy the crisp white coloring of your phone. These cases will allow it to pull off its classic, premium look while protecting it from the world's harsh realities. It’s a win-win.  

In addition, if you’re going to use a case, what have you got to lose? As this Reddit user said: “White looks cool. To be honest, I do not care about colors at all. When I own a cover... color doesn't matter at all…”  

You be the judge. Does color matter if you’re going to use a cover?  

Samsung Galaxy S21 in Phantom Pink 

Pink is a bold choice and won’t be to everyone's liking, but we must admit it's a pretty color option. This one is for those who want a phone that’s different from the norm and that will stand out. This is especially true considering that the pink on the S21s exhibits an almost gold-like tint.  

The Phantom Pink color option is warmer-toned than the other color options, but it still manages to look fresh and vibrant at the same time. The matte, almost tan-salmon pink back is complemented by the frame's and the camera bump’s pink-gold hue. Sadly, the camera bump coloring doesn’t stand out as much as it does on the Phantom Violet, but it's still stunning, despite being muted.  

You should also know that the Phantom Pink color option is only available for the 128GB Samsung Galaxy S21. This means that if you’re buying one, you should look for a refurbished model with this storage capacity, as you won’t find this coloring elsewhere in the lineup. 

The Samsung Galaxy S21+ and S21 Ultra colors explored 

Now that we have had a chance to look at the Samsung S21 base colors, it's time to explore the color options available with the Galaxy S21+ and the Galaxy Ultra.  

However, before we discuss these colors, you should know that a few shades overlap with the regular S21 model, like Phantom Violet, Phantom Silver, and Phantom Black, so we won’t discuss these in detail.  

Instead, the following sections will explore the exclusive and more premium-looking color options.  

Samsung Galaxy S21+ color options 

The S21+ is available in the following color finishes: 

• Phantom Violet (shared with the base S21) 

• Phantom Black 

• Phantom Silver 

• Phantom Red 

• Phantom Gold 

Since Phantom Violet is covered earlier in the guide, we’ll now explore the exclusive and standout finishes below. 

Samsung Galaxy S21+ in Phantom Red  

It takes a particularly bold person to choose a visually stunning statement color like Phantom Red. When the Samsung Galaxy S21+ came out, this color was only available through the Samsung online store, but nowadays you can get it second-hand or through a refurbisher like Back Market.  

This beautifully bold color features a glossy, deep red shade that feels sporty and luxurious. In our opinion, it almost feels like you're holding a sleek sports car in the palm of your hands, and that's an experience unlike any other. It also features an elegant gold frame.  

Although it's true that this color isn’t for everyone, much like the Phantom Pink, it did give many FOMO, with one Reddit user even saying, ‘I sold my Phantom Black S21+ after contemplating for two months to get the red. It was definitely worth it. I wish I had made the decision right off the bat.’  

However, there are two sides to every story; some weren’t a fan of the gold trim: ‘I love the red, but not a fan of it with the gold trim. It would have looked so much better if they had a red and black or even red and silver color option.’ 

Regardless, as one of the rarest finishes, getting your hands on one might be a struggle, but it's well worth the hunt if you want a color-popping phone.  

Samsung Galaxy S21+ in Phantom Gold 

If you’re all about understated elegance, you should consider the Samsung Galaxy S21+ in Phantom Gold. This refined and stylish finish perfectly balances subtlety and luxury. Although the color is technically gold, its tone leads more toward a warm champagne hue, so it's chic without being flashy or gaudy. It’s perfect for those who want a premium look without going full glam. 

You might also want to know that, unlike the Phantom Red color, the Phantom Gold is a matte finish, but it also comes with the gold frame, and the camera bump is painted the same gold color. Additionally, it's worth noting that the gold can look more like a silvery gold color. 

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra color options 

The Galaxy S21 Ultra is available in the following shades:  

• Phantom Black 

• Phantom Silver 

• Navy Blue  

• Titanium  

• Brown 

Since Phantom Silver and Phantom Black are shared across models, we’ll focus on the three Ultra-exclusive colors below. 

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra in Navy Blue 

The Samsung S21 Ultra's navy blue color is perfect for those needing a durable color choice. Although we can't say the color makes the phone durable, we can say that individuals have found it to withstand some pretty harsh conditions without falling victim to color scratches and dents.  

For example, one Reddit user said: ‘Best color I've ever had for a phone. I've had it for about 6 months. I work on wind turbines, so even with a case it gets a lot of crap in-between the case and the phone, but still no blemishes.’ Besides being a hardy color choice, it's also beautiful.  

The navy blue color is dark and moody, lending it a classy feel without being boring. The color is also reflective, and the rich shades of blue shift depending on the lighting.  

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra in Titanium 

Warm tones aren’t everyone's cup of tea; nothing is wrong with that. If you fall into this category, there are cool-toned color options for the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, such as titanium. This color choice is similar to the Phantom Silver options in that it is ideally suited to those looking for a modern, minimalistic look in a phone. Its sleek matte gray finish allows it to look good in a clear case.  

 We feel this exclusive matte finish has a modern, steely vibe that makes the phone feel like a premium piece of tech gear. If you want something minimalist but still unique, Titanium fits the bill.  

This color was exclusive to Samsung's online store, but you can still find it on Back Market if you don’t mind a refurbished option.  

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra in Brown 

How often does a phone line come out with a brown color option? Not very often, that’s for sure. Brown may not be a common phone color, but that’s the appeal in this case. While brown can be boring and bland or plain hideous to some, many love its uniqueness in the S21 Ultra model.   

One Reddit user even said, ‘Wow, the brown looks way better in person than the Samsung photos. It's more like a reddish wine color rather than brown.’ Based on our experience at Back Market refurbishing brown S21 Ultras, we can say this phone color is prettier than expected.   

The brown color option offers a warm, leather-inspired tone that feels cozy and rare, perfect for those who want a natural aesthetic in a tech product. 

H3: Color overview table 

H2: Why buy a refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 at Back Market 

Since the Samsung Galaxy S21 is an older phone — we won't sugarcoat things — it can be difficult to get your hands on the color you want. That's where choosing refurbished comes in handy. When you shop Verified Refurbished with Back Market, you're far more likely to get your hands on the phone color you actually want if color matters to you.  

Refurbished marketplaces like Back Market often carry rare or discontinued colorways. However, beyond color, you'll also get a phone that is expertly restored after rigorous testing to ensure it's in the best possible condition. So when you really think about it, it's a win-win situation. 

Shopping tips for the Samsung Galaxy S21 color range 

Considering the Samsung S21 is an older model, it's important to remember a few shopping tips to ensure you don’t experience buyer regret. If you’re looking into purchasing a Samsung S21 in a color you love, here are a few of our best tips:  

• Choose a color that fits your style: It's important to choose a Samsung Galaxy S21 in a color you love and that matches your style. Think about it this way: versatility equals the Phantom White or Phantom Gray with their neutral colors, whereas Phantom Violet and Phantom Pink are great standout options.  

• Think about how you use your phone: If you always use a case — especially one that isn’t transparent — the color of your phone may not be a big factor. But if you prefer a clear case or no case at all, your phone’s finish will mean more. 

• Know which colors are tied to storage options: Some finishes, like Phantom Pink and Phantom Violet, were mainly offered on the 128GB model. Double-check availability before you shop so that you don’t set your heart on a color that doesn’t come in the size you need.  

• Explore refurbished options: New stock of specific colors can be limited since the phone was released a few years ago, but refurbished marketplaces like Back Market often carry rare or discontinued colorways in excellent condition. Shop refurbished when you can since you'll be more likely to get the color you want in good condition. 

Save more with Back Market’s Trade-in program 

If you're 'downgrading’ to a Samsung Galaxy S21, don't let your old tech gather dust. Our trade-in program is a smart way to reduce e-waste and get some value back in your pocket.  

We accept a wide range of devices in various conditions, and you’ll receive credit toward your next refurbished purchase in the color you want.  

So, why toss it when you can trade it? Our process is simple and straightforward at Back Market, and thousands have benefited from our trade-in program, so don’t be afraid to join the fray. 

2: The wrap-up on available Samsung Galaxy S21 colors 

With multiple color options available for the Samsung S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra devices, we know it can be challenging to choose. Hopefully, the information we shared about the different colors will help you determine which suits your personality and aesthetic preferences best.  

No matter which color you choose, buying refurbished from us is a solid choice. If you’re not yet convinced, however, you might be after checking out our thousands of good reviews on Samsung Galaxy S21s. You can also benefit from our trade-in program and align yourself with our commitment to saving the planet one less e-waste device at a time.  

Ultimately, our testing process, knowledge, and trustworthiness set us apart from other resellers. When you buy a Samsung Galaxy S21 from us, regardless of color, you know you’re getting a product that will last you a good while yet. So what’s left to think about? Buy from us today. We promise you won't regret your choice.