Buy Galaxy phone from carrier vs from Samsung

[DTS]

Would appreciate advice on buying Galaxy phone direct from Samsung vs from carrier (Rogers in my case).  What are the downside risks if I buy directly from Samsung?  Any glitches on phone usage with carrier or set up / activation challenges?  Thanks!

[defconphil]

when you buy from Samsung, you won't be locked into a contract but you'll have to pay the full price. +if you already have a low monthly payment, it stays the same.


at the retailer, you get a device discount. but you pay a higher monthly plan plus a device payment monthly.
the phones are the same.

[DTS]

Thanks, appreciate the info!

[GG2]

There are no risks buying from Sansung. If you buy it outright, you're better off buying it from Samsung as it's cheaper with them . If you have an infinity plan and go on a monthly payment, Rogers will give you a monthly rebate which which at the end, comes out at around the same price as Samsung's price, plus if you're eligible for an upgrade and have an infinity plan, you can get an additional $200 rebate with Rogers so it's actually cheaper. You also have an upfront option with Rogers that will give you even lower monthly payments but at the end, you have to give them back the phone or pay the balance to keep it. Samsung offers a 3 yr plan vs 2 yr with Rogers.

As for the rest, activation,glitches etc.. no difference.

[DTS]

Thank you, good to know there's no difference re activation and no use glitches.

[GG2]

curiosity, which phone are you looking to purchase?

[DTS]

pondering on the S21 Ultra but not yet decided.

[GG2]

I'm thinking about it also. I have the Note10+ but that Phantom black S21U is really nice, I'm tempted.

[DTS]

lack of a SD card slot gave me a pause but the 512GB with 16GB RAM option sounds okay, thoughts?

[GG2]

Although i disagree with the removal of the SD card, i have to say for me personally, no biggie as i haven't used one in yrs. I would be moren than good with the 512GB with 16GB RAM. Im debating between the Phantom Navy and Phantom Black if i decide to go ahead.