Unlike some other recent product launches—like the chronically sold out PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X—you can actually buy a Samsung Galaxy S21 today. Let’s get you a quick refresher before going over the best carriers and retail stores to buy the Samsung Galaxy S21, including loads of lucrative deals for trade-ins, in-store credit for switching wireless providers and freebies.
The Galaxy S21 family is comprised of three models: the base Galaxy S21 along with the Galaxy S21+ and top-of-the-line Galaxy S21 Ultra. They all feature fast Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processors and 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED displays, though your pocket will notice the difference between the models. The S21 has a 6.2-inch display, while the Plus steps up to 6.7 inches and the Ultra has a pocket-popping 6.8 inch screen. There are other significant differences among the models, like camera configuration and the presence of ultrawideband (UWB) wireless tech in the more premium phones.
Thinking about upgrading? Because the Galaxy S21 is the hot phone of the season, virtually every carrier and retailer is offering it for sale. But all offers aren’t the same, so we rounded up the best deals you can get right now and you will find them below.
One note about these deals: There are a lot of variables when choosing a phone, including memory, cellular carrier, and whether you’re trading in your existing phone. Remember that trade-in values are generally described as “up to” because the discount depends on the specific model you are trading in and its aesthetic and functional condition. And to keep this simple, all the prices below assume the base memory for each model (128GB) and monthly payments assume a 24-month payment period. Keep in mind that the final price may differ if you opt for more memory or a different payment schedule.
Samsung
If you buy directly from Samsung, you can get up to $700 in trade-ins and a $100 credit to spend on accessories.
Galaxy S21: $800, or as low as $100 with trade-in.
Galaxy S21 Plus: $1000, or as low as $300 with trade-in.
Galaxy S21 Ultra: $1200, or as low as $500 with trade-in.
Best Buy
Best Buy is offering trade-ins of up to $1,000 when you sign up for a qualified activation with one of the retailer’s cellular partners (Verizon, AT&T or T-Mobile).
Galaxy S21 Ultra: $1200 or $40 per month. As low as $400 with trade-in and unlimited plan.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile has two major deals in play right now. First, you can save up to $800 when you trade in your phone and pay the balance over 24 months. T-Mobile is also offering a buy-one-get-one-free deal: Activate two lines and buy two new Galaxy S21s (or a handful of other qualifying models) and get a credit for up to $800 spread over 24 monthly payments.
Galaxy S21 Ultra: $1200 or $50 per month. As low as $400 with trade-in and unlimited plan.
Verizon
You can save the most money at Verizon if you’re switching from another carrier—you’ll get a $250 Verizon credit and Verizon Stream TV when you switch. That’s on top of the option to trade in an existing phone and get an unlimited plan to save up to $750. In addition to that $1000, Verizon is also offering up to $200 for those applying for its branded credit card. Verizon has its usual array of other deals in play as well. In particular, the buy-one-get-one-free offer can grant you up to $1000 off a second phone.
Galaxy S21 Plus: $1000 or $41.66 per month (you can also pay $33.33 for 30 months). As low as $200 with trade-in and unlimited plan.
Galaxy S21 Ultra: $1200 or $50 per month (you can also pay $40 for 30 months). As low as $400 with trade-in and unlimited plan.
Amazon
Amazon’s trade-ins are not remarkable. Compared to $750 and $800 discounts offered elsewhere, Amazon trade-ins top out around $311 for the Galaxy S20 FE or $455 for the iPhone 11 Pro. That said, Amazon’s phones are unlocked and carrier-free, so you can sign up for any plan anywhere, which can save you a lot of money in the long term.
Galaxy S21 Plus: $1000 (minus rebate based on model)
Galaxy S21 Ultra: $1200 (minus rebate based on model)
Walmart
Walmart is not offering any trade-in incentives or any other cash back offers for buying the smartphone through its online store. Additionally, you can only finance the AT&T and Verizon models.
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
