For users still relying on the Samsung Galaxy S9 in 2024, the question isn't whether the phone still works—it does—but whether it still makes sense. The S9 was a flagship powerhouse in 2018, praised for its display, audio quality, and solid camera. But nearly six years later, technology has advanced significantly. The Samsung Galaxy S21, released in 2021, represents a generational leap in design, processing power, and long-term software viability. So, if you're holding onto an aging S9, is upgrading to the S21 truly worthwhile today?
The answer depends on your usage, expectations, and how much future-proofing you value. While the S9 remains functional for basic tasks, the S21 offers tangible improvements across every major category—from performance and camera capabilities to 5G connectivity and Android update support. Let’s explore what’s changed and whether the upgrade delivers real-world value in the current mobile landscape.
Performance: A Clear Generational Gap
The most immediate difference between the S9 and S21 lies under the hood. The S9 was powered by either the Exynos 9810 or Snapdragon 845, depending on region—both were top-tier chips in 2018. By 2024 standards, however, they struggle with modern multitasking, gaming, and even some UI animations in updated apps.
In contrast, the S21 launched with the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 (again, region-dependent), delivering nearly double the CPU and GPU performance. This means faster app launches, smoother scrolling, better handling of AR features, and more responsive overall operation—even with heavy workloads like video editing or cloud-based productivity tools.
Beyond raw speed, the S21 benefits from newer memory management and UFS 3.1 storage, which drastically reduces load times compared to the S9’s UFS 2.1. Real-world impact? Opening large photo libraries or transferring files feels instantaneous now, whereas on the S9, delays are noticeable.
Camera Evolution: More Than Just Megapixels
The S9’s 12MP dual-aperture rear camera was groundbreaking at launch, adapting between f/1.5 and f/2.4 based on lighting. It produced excellent low-light shots for its time. However, the S21 expands the photography experience with not just better hardware, but smarter software processing.
The S21 features a triple-camera setup: a 12MP main sensor, a 64MP telephoto lens with 3x hybrid zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide. This gives users far greater creative flexibility—shooting expansive landscapes, detailed close-ups, or crisp portraits with depth control that wasn’t possible on the S9.
Samsung’s AI-powered scene optimizer and Night Mode have also matured significantly. On the S21, Night Mode applies multi-frame stacking across all lenses, not just the main one. This means usable low-light photos from the ultra-wide and telephoto cameras—something the S9 simply can’t match.
“Camera systems today rely as much on computational photography as on optics. The S21’s processor enables real-time HDR, better noise reduction, and consistent color science across lenses.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechLens
Display and Design: Subtle Shifts, Big Impact
Both phones feature beautiful AMOLED displays, but the S21 introduces a 120Hz refresh rate—a game-changer for smoothness. Scrolling through feeds, playing games, or even just swiping between home screens feels dramatically more fluid than the S9’s 60Hz panel.
While both have similar screen sizes (S9: 5.8”, S21: 6.2”), the S21 uses a flatter, hole-punch design versus the S9’s curved edges and front-facing speaker cutout. Some users prefer the S9’s immersive curves, but the S21’s flat screen reduces glare and improves touch accuracy, especially with screen protectors.
Design-wise, the S21 adopts a minimalist “contour cut” camera housing that blends into the frame, giving it a more modern aesthetic. It’s also IP68-rated like the S9, so water resistance hasn’t declined—but build materials shifted from glass back (S9) to recyclable plastic (S21), which some may see as a downgrade, though it reduces weight and improves drop resilience.
Software and Longevity: Where the S21 Shines
This is perhaps the most compelling reason to upgrade. The S9 originally shipped with Android 8.0 Oreo and received updates up to Android 10. It no longer receives security patches from Samsung, leaving it vulnerable to emerging threats and incompatible with newer app requirements.
The S21, however, launched with Android 11 and is supported up to Android 14, with monthly security updates continuing into 2025. Samsung also committed to four years of OS upgrades for the S21 series, meaning users benefit from new features like improved privacy controls, enhanced Google integration, and better foldable compatibility.
Modern apps—from banking to fitness trackers—are increasingly optimized for newer APIs. On the S9, you may encounter crashes, missing features, or outright refusal to install. The S21 ensures compatibility with current and near-future software ecosystems.
Connectivity and Future-Proofing
The S9 supports LTE and Bluetooth 5.0 but lacks 5G. In 2024, 5G is no longer a luxury—it’s becoming standard, especially in urban areas and for high-bandwidth applications like cloud gaming or 4K video streaming.
The S21 includes 5G (sub-6GHz), Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2, offering faster downloads, lower latency, and better network efficiency. Even if you don’t need 5G today, having it ensures your device remains relevant as carriers phase out older networks.
Battery life also sees a modest improvement. The S21 packs a 4000mAh battery versus the S9’s 3000mAh, and while the 120Hz screen demands more power, optimizations in the chipset and software balance consumption. With moderate use, the S21 easily lasts a full day; the S9 often requires midday charging.
Comparison Table: S9 vs S21 Key Specs
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S9 | Samsung Galaxy S21 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2018 | 2021 |
| Processor | Snapdragon 845 / Exynos 9810 | Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 64GB (UFS 2.1) | 128GB (UFS 3.1) |
| Display | 5.8” Quad HD+ AMOLED, 60Hz | 6.2” FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Rear Cameras | 12MP (f/1.5–2.4) | 12MP (main) + 64MP (tele) + 12MP (ultra-wide) |
| Front Camera | 8MP | 10MP |
| Battery | 3000mAh | 4000mAh |
| Charging | Fast charging (15W), Wireless | Fast charging (25W), Wireless, Reverse Wireless |
| OS Support | Up to Android 10 | Up to Android 14, security until 2025 |
| Network | 4G LTE | 5G + Wi-Fi 6 |
Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision
Sarah, a freelance photographer and part-time educator, used her S9 daily for three years beyond its prime. By 2023, she noticed her editing apps crashed frequently, her cloud backups stalled, and her students couldn’t share QR codes fast enough due to slow NFC response.
She considered repairing the aging battery but realized the camera couldn’t handle RAW files efficiently, and Zoom meetings lagged during screen sharing. After testing an S21 at a retail store, she was sold on the responsiveness and clarity of video calls. She upgraded and now uses Samsung DeX for desktop-like productivity, something impractical on the S9.
Her verdict? “It wasn’t just about new features—it was about reliability. The S21 just works without constant troubleshooting.”
Upgrade Checklist: Is the S21 Right for You?
- ✅ Are you experiencing frequent app crashes or slowdowns on your S9?
- ✅ Do you want better photo quality, especially in low light or zoomed shots?
- ✅ Is your phone no longer receiving security updates?
- ✅ Do you stream video, play mobile games, or use navigation heavily?
- ✅ Do you plan to keep your phone for 2+ years?
- ✅ Is 5G available and useful in your area?
If you answered yes to three or more, the S21 upgrade delivers meaningful, lasting benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the S9 still be used safely in 2024?
Yes, but with caveats. Without regular security patches, the S9 is vulnerable to malware and phishing attacks, especially when downloading apps or visiting unsecured sites. Use caution and avoid sensitive transactions.
Is the S21 still available new?
Officially discontinued, but widely available refurbished or renewed through retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Samsung’s own marketplace. Prices typically range from $250–$350, making it a cost-effective upgrade.
Does the S21 camera really outperform the S9?
Objectively, yes. Beyond higher resolution and additional lenses, the S21’s AI processing, Night Mode across all cameras, and 8K video recording offer capabilities the S9 lacks entirely. For casual and enthusiast photographers alike, the difference is clear in side-by-side comparisons.
Conclusion: Time to Move Forward
The Samsung Galaxy S9 was a landmark device in its era, but technology waits for no phone. In 2024, the limitations of its hardware, lack of software support, and absence of modern connectivity make it increasingly impractical as a daily driver.
The S21 addresses these shortcomings comprehensively—not just with faster performance and better cameras, but with future-ready features like 5G, extended software support, and a smoother user experience. At current price points, the upgrade offers exceptional value for former S9 owners seeking reliability, security, and longevity.
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