Introduction
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra has been a headline‑grabbing flagship since its launch, and one of the first questions anyone asks is, “What does it actually cost?” In this massive guide we break down the current price landscape, explore why the numbers vary, and help you decide if the Ultra is worth the outlay. Whether you’re a tech‑savvy early adopter or a casual user hunting for a premium phone without blowing your budget, this article gives you a crystal‑clear picture of the Galaxy S21 Ultra price in today’s market.
What Makes the Galaxy S21 Ultra Different?
Before diving into numbers, it helps to understand what sets the S21 Ultra apart from other smartphones. Samsung packed the device with a 6.8‑inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, a 108MP main sensor, up to 12GB of RAM, and a massive 5,000 mAh battery. It also introduced the first 100× Space Zoom and support for the S‑Pen (sold separately). All these premium specs drive the price up, but they also deliver a flagship experience that rivals any high‑end phone on the planet.
Pricing History – From Launch to Today
When the Galaxy S21 Ultra debuted in January 2021, the launch price in the United States was US$1,199 for the base 128GB model. In Australia, the sticker price hovered around AU$1,799. Over the past three years the price has ebbed and flowed due to seasonal sales, carrier subsidies, and the arrival of newer Samsung flagships (S22, S23, and S24 series).
Here’s a quick timeline of the major price shifts:
- Jan 2021 – Launch: US$1,199 / AU$1,799
- Oct 2021 – First major discount: US$999 (often bundled with a carrier plan)
- Mar 2022 – Post‑S22 launch: US$899 (clearance price for older stock)
- Nov 2022 – Black Friday: US$749 (deep discount, limited stock)
- Jan 2023 – New S23 series: US$849 (price stabilised as a “premium mid‑range” option)
- Oct 2023 – Holiday sales: US$799 in many online stores
- May 2024 – Current average: US$749–$799 depending on configuration and retailer
These figures illustrate how the price has softened over time, making the S21 Ultra a more attainable flagship for many shoppers.
Current Retail Prices Around the World
Below is a snapshot of the typical price you’ll encounter in major markets as of November 2024. Prices are listed for the most common 256GB configuration, which balances storage and cost.
- United States: US$749 – US$799 (online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Samsung’s own store)
- Australia: AU$1,149 – AU$1,299 (major retailers such as JB Hi‑Fi, Harvey Norman, and the Samsung Online Store)
- United Kingdom: £649 – £699 (Currys, Argos, and Samsung UK)
- Canada: CAD$999 – CAD$1,049 (Best Buy Canada, Samsung Canada)
- India: INR 71,999 – INR 79,999 (Amazon India, Flipkart, Samsung India)
- European Union (Eurozone): €799 – €849 (MediaMarkt, Saturn, Samsung EU)
Note that these are “list prices” before any promotional codes, trade‑in discounts, or carrier subsidies. The actual amount you pay can be lower if you time your purchase right.
Factors That Influence the Galaxy S21 Ultra Price
Understanding why the price varies helps you spot the best deal. Here are the main drivers:
- Storage Capacity: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants each carry a price premium, typically AU$150–$250 more for the top‑end 512GB model.
- Retail Channel: Direct Samsung sales often include trade‑in credits, while third‑party retailers may run flash sales or bundle accessories.
- Carrier Contracts: Signing up for a 24‑month plan can reduce the upfront cost dramatically, but you’ll be locked into a contract.
- Regional Taxes and Import Duties: Australia’s GST and import tariffs push the price higher than in the US.
- Supply Chain Fluctuations: Chip shortages or shipping delays can temporarily raise prices.
- Seasonal Promotions: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end‑of‑financial‑year sales are prime times for discounts.
Comparing the S21 Ultra to Its Competitors
When you weigh the price, it’s useful to compare the S21 Ultra against other flagships released in the same era. Below is a quick side‑by‑side look:
| Device | Launch Price (USD) | Current Avg. Price (USD) | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S21 Ultra | $1,199 | $749–$799 | 108MP camera, 100× Space Zoom, 6.8″ display |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | $1,099 | $999 | A15 Bionic, 6.7″ OLED, ProMotion 120 Hz |
| Google Pixel 7 Pro | $899 | $649 | Tensor G2, 6.7″ LTPO, excellent AI photography |
| OnePlus 10 Pro | $899 | $699 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, 120 Hz Fluid AMOLED |
Even after price reductions, the S21 Ultra remains competitive, especially for users who crave a massive screen and a versatile camera system.
Where to Buy the Galaxy S21 Ultra
Choosing the right retailer can shave off a few hundred dollars. Here are the most reliable places to snag a deal:
- Samsung Official Store: Offers trade‑in credits and the option to purchase unlocked devices.
- Major Electronics Chains (e.g., JB Hi‑Fi, Harvey Norman, Currys): Often run in‑store promotions and bundle accessories.
- Online Marketplaces (Amazon, eBay, Kogan): Look for “new, sealed” listings with high seller ratings.
- Carrier Stores (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone): Good for contract‑based reductions, but read the fine print.
When buying online, always verify the seller’s return policy and warranty coverage. Samsung’s standard one‑year warranty is transferable, but some third‑party sellers may only offer limited protection.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal
Here are practical, down‑to‑earth strategies to land the lowest possible price on your Galaxy S21 Ultra:
- Set Price Alerts: Use tools like CamelCamelCamel or Keepa for Amazon price tracking. You’ll get notified when the price dips below your target.
- Leverage Trade‑In Programs: Samsung’s trade‑in can shave up to AU$300 off the list price when you hand over an eligible older device.
- Shop During Major Sales Events: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day are notorious for deep discounts on premium phones.
- Bundle with Accessories: Some retailers offer a free case or wireless charger when you purchase the phone and accessories together.
- Consider Open‑Box or Refurbished Units: Certified refurbished phones from Samsung or reputable sellers can be up to 20% cheaper and still carry a warranty.
- Check Carrier Promotions: Even if you don’t want a long‑term contract, some carriers provide “no‑contract” discounts when you pay upfront after a promotional period.
By combining a few of these tactics, you could realistically bring the cost down to under AU$1,000 in Australia.
Is the Galaxy S21 Ultra Worth the Price?
Value is subjective, but let’s break it down by user type:
- Power Users & Creators: If you need a top‑tier camera, a large canvas for media editing, and 5G speed, the S21 Ultra still feels future‑proof. The price premium is justified.
- Everyday Consumers: For regular browsing, social media, and streaming, a mid‑range device like the Galaxy A54 or Pixel 7a will serve you just fine for a fraction of the cost.
- Gamers: The 120 Hz refresh rate and Snapdragon 888 (or Exynos 2100 depending on region) deliver smooth gameplay. If mobile gaming is a hobby, the Ultra offers a premium experience worth the spend.
- Budget‑Focused Shoppers: If you’re looking to stay under AU$800, consider waiting for a flash sale or opting for a refurbished model.
In short, the Galaxy S21 Ultra remains a solid investment for anyone who wants a flagship without paying the current S‑Series top‑tier price (the S24 Ultra now sits above US$1,200).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to buy a Galaxy S21 Ultra in Australia?
Typically, the cheapest route is a certified refurbished unit from Samsung’s online store or a major retailer’s clearance sale during the end‑of‑financial‑year period. Expect prices around AU$1,050 for the 256GB model.
Does the price include the S‑Pen?
No. The S‑Pen is sold separately for the S21 Ultra and adds roughly AU$80–$100 to the total cost.
Will the price drop further now that the S24 Ultra is out?
Yes, we anticipate modest further reductions, especially on older stock and refurbished units. Expect a 5–10% dip over the next six months.
Is there a difference in price between the Snapdragon and Exynos versions?
In most markets the price is the same, but some carriers price‑differentiate based on the chipset. In Australia the Snapdragon variant is the standard.
Can I get a warranty extension?
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Samsung offers an extended warranty for an additional fee, typically adding AU$150 for two extra years of coverage.
Conclusion – Making an Informed Decision
The Galaxy S21 Ultra price has come down considerably since its 2021 launch, making it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a premium Android experience without paying the latest flagship premium. By understanding the price dynamics, shopping at the right time, and using the tips above, you can secure a great deal that fits your budget.
Ready to take the next step? Head over to your favourite retailer, compare the current offers, and enjoy the confidence that comes with owning one of the most capable smartphones on the market today.