Introduction
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra hit the market with a price tag that made many shoppers pause. Fast forward to 2025, and you might be wondering whether that price still makes sense. In this deep‑dive we’ll unpack the current price landscape, compare it to rivals, and help you decide if the S21 Ultra is still a smart buy for your wallet and your lifestyle.
Current Retail Price Snapshot
As of November 2025, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is typically listed between AUD 1,099 and AUD 1,399 for the base 128GB model, depending on the retailer and any promotional discounts. The 256GB variant usually sits a shade higher, ranging from AUD 1,199 to AUD 1,499. Prices can fluctuate based on seasonal sales, trade‑in offers, and bundled accessories.
Why the Price Still Holds Value
Even though newer flagships have entered the market, the S21 Ultra retains several premium features that keep its price justified:
- 6.8‑inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- 108MP main sensor with up to 100× Space Zoom.
- Powerful Snapdragon 888 (or Exynos 2100 in some regions) chipset.
- 5000mAh battery with fast‑wireless charging.
- Integrated S‑Pen support for note‑taking and drawing.
Price History: From Launch to Today
When the S21 Ultra launched in early 2021, its MSRP in Australia was around AUD 1,799 for the 128GB model. Over the past four years the price has steadily declined as newer models arrived and the device entered the mid‑range market segment. The most notable drops occurred during:
- Black Friday 2022 – up to 20% off.
- End‑of‑year clearance 2023 – additional 10% markdown.
- Quarterly trade‑in promotions 2024 – extra $150 credit.
These historical dips illustrate how Samsung’s pricing strategy aims to keep older flagships attractive for budget‑conscious power users.
How It Stacks Up Against 2025 Competitors
To gauge whether the S21 Ultra’s price is still competitive, let’s compare it with two of the most popular 2025 flagships: the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the Google Pixel 8 Pro.
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra | iPhone 15 Pro Max | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.8″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz | 6.7″ Super Retina XDR, 120Hz | 6.7″ LTPO OLED, 120Hz |
| Primary Camera | 108MP + 12MP + 10MP + 10MP | 48MP + 12MP + 12MP | 50MP + 48MP + 12MP |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 | A17 Bionic | Google Tensor G3 |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 45W wired | 4325mAh, 27W wired | 5000mAh, 30W wired |
| Price (AUD) | 1,099‑1,399 | 1,399‑1,699 | 1,199‑1,499 |
On paper the S21 Ultra still offers a larger display and a higher‑resolution main sensor for a slightly lower price than the iPhone 15 Pro Max, making it a compelling option for Android enthusiasts.
Who Should Still Consider Buying the S21 Ultra?
If you fit into any of the following categories, the S21 Ultra’s price may feel like a bargain:
- Photography hobbyists who want a versatile zoom range without splurging on a dedicated camera.
- Productivity power users who appreciate the built‑in S‑Pen for note‑taking, sketching, and remote control functions.
- Gamers who crave a large, buttery‑smooth 120Hz screen for mobile titles.
- Tech collectors who enjoy having a flagship from each generation in their arsenal.
Where to Find the Best Deals
Shopping smart can shave a few hundred dollars off the sticker price. Here are the top avenues to explore:
- Official Samsung Store – often runs exclusive bundle offers that include wireless earbuds or a protective case.
- Major Australian retailers such as JB Hi‑Fi, Harvey Norman, and The Good Guys – keep an eye on flash sales and price‑match guarantees.
- Online marketplaces – platforms like Amazon AU and eBay can have competitive listings, but verify seller reputation.
- Trade‑in programs – Samsung’s own trade‑in scheme can give you up to AUD 300 off when you hand over an older flagship.
Tips for Maximising Value
Even after you’ve secured a good price, there are ways to stretch that dollar further:
- Purchase a compatible Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro or Buds 2 during a bundle promotion – you’ll save on accessories.
- Enroll in Samsung’s Free Up to 5 GB data plan for the first year if you’re on a carrier that supports it.
- Use a high‑capacity power bank to avoid buying an extra charger.
- Activate Samsung’s Secure Folder to protect your data without needing third‑party security apps.
Common Questions About Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Price
Is the S21 Ultra still covered by Samsung’s warranty?
Yes. Samsung provides a two‑year limited warranty on all new devices purchased in Australia. If you buy a refurbished unit from an authorized reseller, check that the warranty is still valid.
Will the price drop further in 2026?
Historically, flagship prices dip by about 10‑15% each year after launch, especially when a new generation arrives. Expect modest reductions during major sales events, but a dramatic plunge is unlikely unless Samsung announces a clearance campaign.
Can I get the S21 Ultra with 5G at this price?
All S21 Ultra models sold in Australia are 5G‑compatible out of the box. The price quoted includes full 5G capability.
Is it worth buying the 256GB version?
If you regularly store large video files, use the device for gaming, or keep a sizable photo library, the extra 128GB can be a lifesaver. The price difference is usually around AUD 100‑150, which many find justified.
Final Verdict: Is the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Price Justified?
In 2025 the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra sits at a sweet spot between premium performance and a now‑reasonable price. While it isn’t the newest model on the block, its feature set—especially the massive display, powerful camera system, and S‑Pen integration—still competes strongly against newer flagships. If you value those capabilities and can snag a good deal, the current price range of AUD 1,099‑1,399 offers solid value for money.
Take the Next Step
Ready to see the price for yourself or grab a deal? Head over to The Australian Store Home for the latest listings, or explore the Best Australian store page for curated offers. For broader tech insights and price‑tracking tools, check out Strategies Beer – they’ve got a handy guide on budgeting for high‑end gadgets.
Happy hunting, mate! Whether you’re snapping epic surf shots or streaming the latest footy highlights, the S21 Ultra can still be a top‑tier companion without breaking the bank.