The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ are nearing their three-year anniversary and now that the Galaxy S21 is just around the corner, you might be able to find the 2018 flagship on sale for a great price. The question is whether or not you should buy the Galaxy S9 or Galaxy S9+ in late 2020, lower price and all.
If you’ve read our previous story on buying the Galaxy Note 9 in 2020 then you might already have an idea of where this is headed, seeing how the two series were released six months apart and share many characteristics. See, the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ are still powerful and featureful-enough to be relevant in 2020, but they are far from futureproof.
In addition, the Galaxy Note 9 series offers the advantage of an S Pen paired with an updated S Pen suite of apps. In a way, the Galaxy Note 9 can represent an inexpensive way to acquire the S Pen, whereas the Galaxy S9 series doesn’t have a unique feature like the S Pen to cling onto. It’s slightly less relevant than the Galaxy Note 9 in this day and age because of this, but let’s take a quick look at a few other reasons why you’d want to buy or avoid the Galaxy S9 series in 2020.
Reasons to buy the Galaxy S9 / Galaxy S9+ in 2020
In short, the reasons why you’d want to buy the Galaxy S9 / Galaxy S9+ in 2020 lie in a few older features that have aged surprisingly well. For example, the Super AMOLED display doesn’t support 120Hz but it still has a high pixel count of 2960 x 1440 while supporting HDR10, and for better or for worse, it doesn’t have a notch or cutout.
The fingerprint scanner’s location is not very convenient but the sensor itself is very fast and accurate, more so than current under-display solutions. In addition, it’s equipped with an iris scanner as well as an Sp02 sensor – two technologies that are no longer included in the latest Galaxy flagship models.
Last but not least, the Galaxy S9 series is equipped with USB-C and 3.5mm ports. Granted, a lot more smartphone users are transitioning to wireless solutions but the 3.5mm port remains relevant for many people, whether it’s because they want to spend less money on earbuds or they reside in the completely opposite camp and wish to pair their smartphones with audiophile-grade headphones, many of which lack USB-C connectivity.
Reasons to avoid the Galaxy S9 / Galaxy S9+ in 2020
First things first, this isn’t a reason to avoid the Galaxy S9 series per se but it is an unavoidable fact that might cause you to lose interest in the lineup: it’s very difficult to come by in 2020. As of this writing, the Galaxy S9+ is M.I.A. on the Samsung USA portal whereas the Galaxy S9 is listed but it’s not available for purchase. Your best bet is finding a refurbished model sold by a third-party at a discount.
Then there’s the fact that the Galaxy S9 series will no longer undergo significant firmware changes. The lineup received One UI 2.5 last month as its last major update. Meanwhile, newer flagships that were shipped with Android 9 out of the box are now eligible for three major Android OS updates following Samsung’s change of policy.
Finally, even if the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ remain relatively competent today, their age is starting to show in certain areas. The Galaxy S9, in particular, has only 4GB of RAM, so if you really want to buy one of the two models then you’d probably want to go for the Galaxy S9+ with 6GB of RAM. Either way, they both lack 5G support and amenities such as Wireless PowerShare and faster-than-15W wired charging.
In conclusion, the S Pen is giving the Galaxy Note 9 more relevance in 2020 but the Galaxy S9 series isn’t as lucky. Should you buy the Galaxy S9 or Galaxy S9+ in 2020? Assuming you find a good deal and you’re not put off by the lack of new firmware updates, 5G, top-end performance, super-fast charging, a full-screen design, and newer One UI features, then it could still be a decent choice. It is a tough sell indeed…
Just remember that 4GB of RAM can become an issue, and depending on your expectations, you might be tempted to replace the Galaxy S9/S9+ with a newer phone sooner rather than later. The Galaxy S20 FE is already a good value proposition and it’s a newer, better phone even though it may lack some of the Galaxy S9’s older features. Check our new device comparison widget below for a closer look, or a reminder of what hardware the Galaxy S9 series has to offer.
Model: SM-G960F
Dimensions: Bar: 147.7 x 68.7 x 8.5 mm
Display: 5.8 inch / 147.32 mm Super AMOLED Display
CPU: Exynos 9810
Camera: 12MP
Model: SM-G965F
Dimensions: Bar: 158.1 x 73.8 x 8.5 mm
Display: 6.2 inch / 157.48 mm Super AMOLED Display
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.
