Choosing among these four flagship Android phones comes down to a clear split: the OnePlus 15 is the strongest all-around choice on the supplied specifications, the Galaxy S21 Ultra offers the most ambitious zoom camera, and the Galaxy S23 FE brings a smoother modern display in a smaller body. The Moto Edge 2021 adds generous storage and a large battery, though its older model year and renewed condition make it a less direct match for shoppers seeking a current flagship.
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I rank these phones by how well their stated hardware supports flagship priorities: display quality, camera flexibility, performance, battery capacity, durability, and practical ownership details such as carrier compatibility and condition. That ranking has real caveats. The OnePlus is the most capable package on paper, but its large size and extensive feature set will not suit everyone. Both Samsung alternatives are renewed, and the S23 FE listing is tied to AT&T. The Motorola also arrives renewed and lacks water resistance. I would weigh those ownership tradeoffs alongside the headline specifications, rather than treating every phone here as an equal choice.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- OnePlus 15: My best overall pick, with 16GB RAM, 512GB storage, a 7,300mAh battery, a 165Hz AMOLED screen, and an unlocked 5G configuration.
- Galaxy S21 Ultra: The camera-focused alternative, with a 108MP main camera, up to 100x zoom, a 6.8-inch 120Hz display, and S Pen support; it is renewed.
- Galaxy S23 FE: The smaller Samsung option, with a 6.4-inch 120Hz OLED display and triple rear cameras, but this listing is renewed and configured for AT&T.
- Moto Edge 2021: It offers 256GB storage and a 5,000mAh battery, but its older model year and lack of water resistance put it behind the newer hardware.
- Check before choosing: The OnePlus listing claims broad unlocked compatibility, while the S23 FE is AT&T-specific; verify that the phone suits your carrier and that renewed condition fits your expectations.
| OnePlus 15 Unlocked Android Smartphone, 16GB RAM, 512GB Storage, Dual SIM, Ultra Violet |  | Best Overall | Operating system: Android 16 | Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 | Memory: 16GB RAM | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, US Version, 128GB, Phantom Black – Unlocked (Renewed) |  | Best for Zoom Photography | Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Main camera: 108MP | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 5G, 128GB, Graphite, AT&T (Renewed) |  | Best for a Smaller Samsung Screen | Display: 6.4-inch OLED, 1080 × 2340 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Processor: Snapdragon, stated 3GHz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Motorola Moto Edge 2021, 256GB, 8GB RAM, Nebula Blue, Unlocked (Renewed) |  | Best for Storage on a Renewed Motorola | Model: Moto Edge 2021 | Storage: 256GB | Memory: 8GB RAM | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| flagship Android smartphone | Storage | Display | Refresh rate | Processor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OnePlus 15 Unlocked Android Sm | 512GB | 6.78-inch AMOLED, 2772 × 1272 pixels | 165Hz | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | 128GB | 6.8-inch AMOLED | 120Hz | — |
| Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 5G | — | 6.4-inch OLED, 1080 × 2340 | 120Hz | Snapdragon, stated 3GHz |
| Motorola Moto Edge 2021 | 256GB | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
OnePlus 15 Unlocked Android Smartphone, 16GB RAM, 512GB Storage, Dual SIM, Ultra Violet
The OnePlus 15 is my best overall pick because its listed strengths cover the widest range of flagship needs. Its Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage give buyers more headroom for demanding apps, multitasking, and keeping photos or other files on the phone. The other models in this lineup offer less listed memory or storage: both Samsung listings have 128GB, while the Moto has 8GB of RAM. Those comparisons make the OnePlus the easiest choice here for someone who wants a high-capacity device without immediately running into storage constraints.
The 6.78-inch AMOLED display has a 165Hz refresh rate, the highest stated in this group. That spec is most useful to people who value fluid motion in scrolling and compatible games; it does not automatically make every task better than on the 120Hz Samsung screens. Its 7,300mAh battery is also the largest capacity listed here, though capacity alone cannot establish how long a phone lasts in a buyer’s daily routine. The triple 50MP rear camera system, 32MP front camera, wireless charging, and 5G round out a broad package.
Compared with the S21 Ultra, the OnePlus offers more listed storage, a larger battery, and a higher refresh rate, while the Samsung specifies 100x zoom and S Pen support. The S23 FE is smaller and may feel easier to manage, but its AT&T configuration is a real compatibility question. OnePlus lists IP66/IP68/IP69 and IP19K ratings, giving it the clearest stated protection credentials among these options. Its main drawbacks are practical: the large screen may be awkward for one-handed use, and buyers should verify the unusually extensive water and dust ratings against the exact model and seller documentation before relying on them. This pick makes the most sense for people who want the strongest breadth of stated hardware and are comfortable with a large phone.
Pros:- 16GB RAM and 512GB storage provide the most memory and storage in this group.
- 7,300mAh battery is the largest stated capacity among these four phones.
- 6.78-inch AMOLED panel with a 165Hz refresh rate.
- Unlocked 5G listing, dual Nano SIM, wireless charging, and stated water and dust resistance.
Cons:- The large 6.78-inch body may be less comfortable for one-handed use.
- The listing does not specify software-support duration or camera test results.
- The extensive protection claims should be checked against the exact model documentation.
Best for: Buyers who want a high-capacity, unlocked Android phone with abundant RAM and storage, a large high-refresh display, and a large stated battery.
Not ideal for: People who prefer a compact phone, want a specifically documented long-term software-support commitment, or need independently confirmed network and durability details before purchase.
- Operating system:Android 16
- Processor:Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
- Memory:16GB RAM
- Storage:512GB
- Display:6.78-inch AMOLED, 2772 × 1272 pixels
- Refresh rate:165Hz
- Rear cameras:Triple 50MP
- Battery:7,300mAh
- Network and protection:5G, unlocked; IP66/IP68/IP69 and IP19K stated
Our verdict“I would choose the OnePlus 15 for the broadest set of flagship specifications and the most storage headroom in this comparison.”
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, US Version, 128GB, Phantom Black – Unlocked (Renewed)
The Galaxy S21 Ultra is the camera specialist in this group. Its listing pairs a 108MP main camera with zoom advertised up to 100x, giving it the most explicitly long-range camera feature among these four phones. That makes it a more targeted choice than the OnePlus 15, whose listing describes three 50MP rear cameras but does not state a zoom range. Buyers who often photograph distant subjects may find the Samsung’s stated reach more relevant than the OnePlus’s broader memory and battery advantages.
Its 6.8-inch AMOLED display and 120Hz refresh rate also place it firmly in large-screen flagship territory. The OnePlus panel refreshes faster at 165Hz, while the S23 FE’s 6.4-inch screen takes up less space; the S21 Ultra sits between those alternatives as a large display paired with a specific zoom and stylus pitch. S Pen support can appeal to people who annotate, sketch, or prefer handwriting, although the supplied listing does not say whether an S Pen is included. I would confirm that detail before buying if the stylus is a deciding feature.
The core compromise is ownership condition. This listing is renewed, so it is a pre-owned device rather than a new phone, and the supplied information allows for minor cosmetic imperfections. The listing gives 128GB of storage and does not state battery capacity or expected battery life. Compared with the new OnePlus listing, it leaves more uncertainty around condition and battery; compared with the renewed S23 FE, it has the more ambitious zoom spec but a larger screen and no stated refresh advantage. It is unlocked and identified as the US version, which is useful for buyers checking domestic carrier fit, but I would still confirm support with the carrier. This is a compelling camera-led choice only if its renewed status and storage limit are acceptable.
Pros:- 108MP main camera with zoom advertised up to 100x.
- Large 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- S Pen support adds a note-taking and handwriting option.
- Unlocked US version with 5G connectivity.
Cons:- Renewed condition may include minor cosmetic imperfections.
- The listing does not specify battery capacity or battery life.
- 128GB storage is less than the Moto Edge 2021 and OnePlus 15 listings.
Best for: Photography-minded buyers who want a large AMOLED screen, a stated 108MP main camera, long-range zoom, and S Pen support in an unlocked US-version phone.
Not ideal for: Buyers who want a new device, a stated large battery, more than 128GB of storage, or a compact handset.
- Display:6.8-inch AMOLED
- Refresh rate:120Hz
- Main camera:108MP
- Zoom:Up to 100x advertised
- Storage:128GB
- Connectivity:5G, unlocked
- Stylus support:S Pen support
- Version and condition:US version, renewed
Our verdict“I would pick the renewed S21 Ultra when its stated zoom range and S Pen support matter more than newer listed hardware or storage capacity.”
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 5G, 128GB, Graphite, AT&T (Renewed)
The Galaxy S23 FE is the most compact phone here by listed display size, with a 6.4-inch OLED screen and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is still a large-screen phone by everyday standards, but it is easier to distinguish from the 6.78-inch OnePlus and 6.8-inch S21 Ultra. For buyers who want a high-refresh display and Samsung’s triple-camera layout without choosing the largest device in the roundup, this is the natural fit.
Its 8GB RAM and 128GB storage are more modest than the OnePlus 15’s 16GB and 512GB, and it has less storage than the Moto Edge 2021 listing. The tradeoff is a more restrained screen footprint alongside a stated 3GHz Snapdragon processor and three rear cameras. The listing names HDR and slow-motion modes, plus 1080p video capture at 60 frames per second, so it gives a clearer outline of everyday video options than the S21 Ultra listing does. It does not specify the individual camera resolutions, however, so I would not infer that its camera system matches the OnePlus or S21 Ultra on image quality from camera count alone.
Two purchase details deserve attention. First, this is a renewed phone, and the supplied listing does not promise a new-device condition. Second, the title identifies an AT&T configuration. That can be suitable for an AT&T customer, but anyone using another carrier should confirm that the specific device is compatible and can be activated as intended. The OnePlus listing explicitly claims unlocked compatibility across carriers, and the S21 Ultra is identified as unlocked; those are simpler starting points for shoppers who switch networks. The S23 FE also states water resistance, but does not provide an IP rating in the supplied specifications. I would choose it for the smaller screen and Samsung display, after confirming condition and carrier fit.
Pros:- 6.4-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Triple rear camera system with HDR and slow-motion modes.
- 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, and stated 5G connectivity.
- Water resistance is stated in the listing.
Cons:- Renewed condition may mean the phone was previously used.
- AT&T configuration may limit compatibility with other carriers.
- The listing does not provide an IP rating or rear-camera resolutions.
Best for: Samsung fans who want a 6.4-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a three-camera rear setup, and who can use the AT&T configuration.
Not ideal for: People who need an unlocked listing, want more than 128GB of storage, or prefer a new phone with clearly stated water-resistance ratings.
- Display:6.4-inch OLED, 1080 × 2340
- Refresh rate:120Hz
- Processor:Snapdragon, stated 3GHz
- Memory and storage:8GB RAM, 128GB
- Rear cameras:Triple camera system
- Video capture:1080p at 60 fps
- Connectivity:5G; AT&T configuration
- Condition:Renewed
- Water resistance:Stated as water resistant; rating not specified
Our verdict“I would choose the S23 FE for its smaller Samsung OLED screen, provided the renewed condition and AT&T configuration suit the buyer.”
Motorola Moto Edge 2021, 256GB, 8GB RAM, Nebula Blue, Unlocked (Renewed)
The Moto Edge 2021 is the practical capacity pick: its listing offers 256GB storage and a 5,000mAh battery, both useful for people who keep a large collection of files on their phone or prefer less frequent charging. The storage exceeds the 128GB listed for either Samsung, while its battery capacity is stated more clearly than the S21 Ultra’s. It does not catch the OnePlus 15, which lists 512GB storage, 16GB RAM, and a 7,300mAh battery. That makes the Motorola a narrower choice rather than the overall flagship leader.
The 108MP rear camera gives the phone an appealing headline specification, but the supplied listing only states 1080p video capture and does not describe zoom range or additional camera hardware. In comparison, the S21 Ultra has a specified zoom figure of up to 100x, while the OnePlus names a triple 50MP rear setup. A megapixel count alone does not tell a buyer how well a camera handles distant subjects, low light, or moving objects. I would treat the Moto’s resolution as one data point, not a reason to assume it outperforms the other camera systems.
Condition and durability weigh heavily here. This is a renewed, pre-owned phone, and the listing explicitly says it is not water resistant. That is a sharper limitation than the S23 FE’s stated water resistance or the OnePlus’s listed protection ratings. The Moto is unlocked and has dual Nano SIM support, which gives it a more flexible starting point than the AT&T-specific S23 FE. Still, shoppers should confirm carrier compatibility for their region and check what renewed condition means for the exact unit. At 8GB RAM, it matches the S23 FE but trails the OnePlus’s 16GB. I would consider it when storage, an unlocked listing, and a substantial battery matter more than newer flagship features or water protection.
Pros:- 256GB storage exceeds the capacity listed for both Samsung phones.
- 5,000mAh battery capacity is specified.
- Unlocked listing with dual Nano SIM support.
- 108MP rear camera resolution is stated.
Cons:- Renewed and pre-owned condition may not suit buyers seeking a new phone.
- The listing says the phone is not water resistant.
- Video capture is listed at 1080p, and camera zoom details are absent.
Best for: Buyers who want 256GB of storage, a 5,000mAh stated battery, and an unlocked dual-SIM Motorola at a renewed-device condition.
Not ideal for: People who need water resistance, want a current-generation flagship specification set, or prioritize detailed camera capabilities and video resolution beyond 1080p.
- Model:Moto Edge 2021
- Storage:256GB
- Memory:8GB RAM
- Rear camera:108MP
- Video capture:1080p
- Battery:5,000mAh
- Network and SIM:Unlocked; dual Nano SIM
- Condition:Renewed
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“I would choose the Moto Edge 2021 for its 256GB storage and stated battery capacity only if its renewed condition and lack of water resistance are acceptable.”
How We Picked
I treated “flagship” as a buying standard, not just a label: a phone should offer a strong combination of screen quality, camera range, processing capability, battery capacity, durability, and useful ownership details. I compared the four supplied listings on those points and gave more weight to the choices that make everyday flagship use practical. That is why the OnePlus 15 leads: its stated processor, 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, large battery, high-refresh AMOLED display, water-resistance ratings, and unlocked 5G address several needs at once.
Camera capability and form factor separate the Samsung picks. I gave the S21 Ultra a distinct camera role because its listing specifies a 108MP main camera, up to 100x zoom, and S Pen support. The S23 FE ranks as the more compact Samsung choice, with a 6.4-inch 120Hz OLED panel and three rear cameras. Its AT&T configuration and renewed condition count against it for buyers who need broad carrier flexibility or prefer a new device.
The Moto Edge 2021 earns a place for its 256GB storage and 5,000mAh battery, but those strengths do not make it equivalent to the newer models in this group. Its listing does not provide a water-resistance rating and explicitly says it is not water resistant. It is also renewed. I used the information provided in each listing and did not assume unlisted features, software support timelines, real-world camera results, battery endurance, or network compatibility beyond the stated details. Where a listing leaves a key point unclear, I treat that uncertainty as part of the buying decision.
| flagship Android smartphone | Processor | Rear cameras | Water resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| OnePlus 15 Unlocked Android Sm | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 | Triple 50MP | — |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | — | — | — |
| Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 5G | Snapdragon, stated 3GHz | Triple camera system | Stated as water resistant; rating not specified |
| Motorola Moto Edge 2021 | — | — | Not water resistant |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Flagship Android Smartphones
I would start by deciding which flagship trait matters most in daily use. These phones divide into a broad-spec leader, a zoom-focused Samsung, a smaller-screen Samsung, and an older Motorola with ample storage. Their differences in condition and carrier setup may matter as much as the camera or display.Choose the feature you will use most
If your priority is a balanced, high-capacity device, the OnePlus 15 is the clearest fit in this lineup. It combines the highest listed RAM and storage with the largest stated battery, a fast AMOLED screen, and a current processor specification. That breadth is why I rank it first. A buyer who mostly wants long-range framing, though, may value the S21 Ultra’s advertised 100x zoom more than the OnePlus’s general-purpose hardware. People who want Samsung and a less expansive screen should look at the S23 FE. The Moto Edge 2021 makes a narrower case around 256GB storage and a 5,000mAh battery.
Do not use a single camera number as a shortcut for choosing. The Moto and S21 Ultra both list a 108MP camera, but only the S21 Ultra listing gives a zoom range, while OnePlus describes three 50MP rear cameras. The S23 FE lists three rear cameras but not their individual resolutions. Those details show what the product information emphasizes; they do not establish comparative photo quality. If your phone photography depends on portraits, action, low light, or video, check current sample images and full camera specifications for the exact model before deciding.
Match the screen to your hand and habits
The S23 FE’s 6.4-inch display is the smallest listed here and may be the more manageable choice for someone who wants a Samsung OLED screen without moving to a nearly 7-inch panel. The OnePlus at 6.78 inches and S21 Ultra at 6.8 inches give more room for reading, videos, maps, and split-screen use, but they can take up more space in a pocket and require a wider grip. The Moto listing does not provide a screen size, so I would check the full product details before comparing its physical fit.
Refresh rate is another useful distinction, though it should not dominate the decision. OnePlus lists 165Hz, and both Samsung models list 120Hz. A higher refresh rate can make supported motion look smoother, particularly while scrolling or gaming. It does not make every app, video, or task feel proportionally better. I would choose screen size and comfort first, then use refresh rate as a differentiator between otherwise suitable options.
Treat battery capacity as a clue, not a runtime promise
The OnePlus lists a 7,300mAh battery, ahead of the Moto’s 5,000mAh figure. Those are useful capacity comparisons, and they give the two phones a more concrete battery specification than the S21 Ultra listing, which provides no capacity. The S23 FE description mentions battery features but does not give a capacity in its specifications. Capacity alone does not determine how long a phone lasts. Screen brightness, network conditions, camera use, software, and battery age all affect daily runtime.
That last factor deserves extra attention for renewed phones. The Moto, S23 FE, and S21 Ultra listings are renewed; the supplied descriptions do not state the remaining health of their batteries. If dependable all-day use is a priority, ask the seller what condition checks apply and review the replacement or return terms. The OnePlus listing provides a one-year manufacturer warranty and is the most straightforward option on condition in the information supplied, though buyers should read the listing for the exact coverage terms.
Check condition and carrier compatibility before ordering
Three phones here are explicitly renewed. That can be suitable for buyers who accept a previously owned device, but cosmetic appearance and battery history deserve attention. The S21 Ultra listing specifically allows for minor cosmetic imperfections. The Moto description says it has been professionally inspected and tested and refers to the Amazon Renewed Guarantee. I would still review the current listing’s condition grading and replacement or refund terms rather than assuming that all renewed devices are alike.
Carrier setup separates the phones as well. OnePlus claims an unlocked configuration for all carriers, and the S21 Ultra is identified as unlocked and as a US version. The Moto is also described as unlocked. By contrast, the S23 FE listing names AT&T. If you use another network, travel often, or plan to switch carriers, confirm the exact model number and network bands with your provider before purchase. A phone’s 5G label does not guarantee that every carrier’s bands, activation rules, or features will be supported.
Think about water protection and storage together
Durability is a clear dividing line. The OnePlus listing gives several protection ratings, while the S23 FE is described as water resistant without a specific rating. The Moto is explicitly not water resistant; the S21 Ultra listing does not state a rating in the information provided. For a phone that may face rain, spills, or dusty environments, favor the model with clear documentation, then verify the rating for the exact device. I would not treat missing information as proof of protection.
Storage is easier to compare: OnePlus lists 512GB, the Moto lists 256GB, and both Samsung listings list 128GB. Choose based on how you keep media and apps. People who download large video libraries, record frequently, or keep years of photos locally may appreciate the extra room. A buyer who relies on cloud storage may care more about the S21 Ultra’s zoom or the S23 FE’s smaller screen. The supplied information does not describe expandable storage for these phones, so check that detail if a memory card is part of your plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone is the best overall flagship choice in this comparison?
I rank the OnePlus 15 first because it combines the strongest stated specifications across several categories: 16GB RAM, 512GB storage, a 7,300mAh battery, a 165Hz AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and an unlocked 5G listing. Its large screen may not suit every buyer, and the supplied listing does not give a software-support timeline. For someone whose priority is zoom photography or S Pen use, the S21 Ultra may be a better personal fit despite ranking second overall.
Which phone should I choose for zoom photography?
The Galaxy S21 Ultra is the clearest camera choice for long-range framing because its listing specifies a 108MP main camera and zoom advertised up to 100x. The OnePlus 15 lists three 50MP rear cameras but does not state a zoom range, while the other product details do not offer the same stated reach. The S21 Ultra is renewed, and its battery capacity is not supplied, so weigh those uncertainties against the zoom feature before buying.
Is the Galaxy S23 FE suitable for a non-AT&T carrier?
The product title identifies this S23 FE listing as an AT&T configuration, so buyers on another carrier should confirm compatibility and activation directly with their provider before ordering. The 5G label does not by itself confirm support for every network or carrier feature. If you want a simpler starting point for carrier flexibility, the OnePlus 15 and Moto Edge 2021 are listed as unlocked; the S21 Ultra is also identified as unlocked and as a US version.
How do the renewed phones differ from the OnePlus listing?
The Moto Edge 2021, Galaxy S23 FE, and Galaxy S21 Ultra are described as renewed, which means buyers should account for prior use and check the current condition grading and return terms. The S21 Ultra listing mentions possible minor cosmetic imperfections, and the Moto listing says it was inspected and tested. The OnePlus description lists a one-year manufacturer warranty. Warranty coverage, battery condition, and included accessories can vary by listing, so I would confirm those details for the exact unit.
Which model has the most storage and largest stated battery?
The OnePlus 15 has both the most listed storage, at 512GB, and the largest stated battery capacity, at 7,300mAh. The Moto Edge 2021 follows on storage with 256GB and lists a 5,000mAh battery. The Samsung phones each list 128GB, while the S21 Ultra product details do not specify battery capacity. Capacity figures help compare hardware, but they do not guarantee a specific runtime in everyday use.
Conclusion
I would choose the OnePlus 15 for the most complete flagship specification set here, especially if storage, battery capacity, and unlocked 5G matter most. For a camera-led purchase, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is the specialist pick when its advertised zoom and S Pen support outweigh renewed condition and 128GB storage. The Galaxy S23 FE suits buyers who prefer the smallest listed screen and a Samsung OLED display, as long as the AT&T setup is compatible. The Moto Edge 2021 is for shoppers who want 256GB storage and a stated 5,000mAh battery in an unlocked renewed phone and can accept no water resistance. My ranking favors broad flagship capability, but the right choice depends on which of those tradeoffs matters most to you.
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