Are the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge overpriced?

If you’re thinking of buying a new smartphone, chances are the new Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge have crossed your mind. Arguably Samsung’s best ever smartphones, the new devices are packed full of features but as the saying goes – everything comes at a price – and this has never been truer than with Samsung’s new devices.

The biggest change in the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge is the lack of removable storage which means – just like the iPhone – you are limited the storage option you buy. With previous Samsung devices, you could buy the lowest storage option and then increase this using a microSD card but with the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge, this is no longer an option.

Related – Best Android Phones of 2015

With the lack of expandable storage in mind, we want to ask the question – are Samsung’s Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge overpriced? To answer this, first we’ll look at what the smartphone gives you and then we’ll look at how it compares in pricing to the Apple iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, which are traditionally the most expensive smartphones on the market.

The devices

Armed with almost everything Samsung can pack into a mobile device, the range of features includes an outstanding 16MP OIS camera, an Octa-Core 7420 Exynos processor, 3 GB of industry leading LPDDR4 RAM and UFS 2.0 memory (seriously quick stuff) a stunning glass finish and a Quad HD 2k Super AMOLED display that offers an eye-popping 577 pixels per inch density. As we said before however – all of these outstanding features come at a price and a hefty one at that.

The other notable features include a revamped fingerprint sensor, all new TouchWiz experience and dual-wireless charging allowing you to use either the PMA or Qi wireless charing standards. The latter especially is a new feature for mobile devices which have traditionally used either of the standards but not both and as it’s baked into the device, there’s also no need for an awkward after-market accessory. There’s a lot more to both of Samsung’s new devices which you can read in Josh’s Galaxy S6 review and Lanh’s Galaxy S6 Edge review.

Related – Wireless charging in 2015 – what you need to know! 

Is the price too high?

Now to the price – as the most expensive Samsung smartphones made, how do they compare to the smartphone price benchmark set by the Apple iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus?

In the table below, we’ve included the US and UK pricing for each of the handsets from either the supplier direct or Amazon (in the US, Samsung sells the Galaxy S6 off contract through Amazon). Pricing in bold is estimated based on the latest available market information and is not a confirmed price.

Storage	iPhone 6	iPhone 6 Plus	Galaxy S6	Galaxy S6 Edge
16GB	$649 / £539	$749 / £619	N/A	N/A
32GB	N/A	N/A	$699 / £599	$849 / £ N/A
64GB	$749 / £619	$849 / £699	$799 / £660	$949 / £760
128GB	$849 / £699	$949 / £789	$885 / £730	$990 / £899

On average, the Galaxy S6 is about $50 more expensive than the comparative iPhone 6 variant in the USA whilst the Galaxy S6 Edge works out at around $100 more than the iPhone 6 Plus (except for the 128GB model which is approximately $50 more). That’s not too bad when you consider the Galaxy S6 has vastly superior specs compared to Apple’s latest smartphones.

The key issue of the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge pricing comes in the UK where Samsung’s availability is somewhat suspect. Firstly, the 128GB models aren’t available (the pricing in the table is based upon inside information that’s an estimate) which means importing them from Amazon Germany which actually works out cheaper than buying from Samsung UK. Secondly, the Galaxy S6 Edge is only available in 64GB – the 32GB model doesn’t seem to be coming to the UK – which is priced at £760 and is £60 more than the iPhone 6 Plus.

Overpriced or value for money?

So are Samsung’s devices overpriced or do they deserve their tag as the most expensive Samsung smartphones ever made? At first glance, the handsets do seem to be overpriced but once you begin to experience them and use them, you quickly realise there’s a reason they have such a large price tag.

We’ve already covered the key specs here but how do they compare to the iPhone and iPhone 6 Plus? Let’s take a look:

	Galaxy S6	Galaxy S6 Edge	iPhone 6	iPhone 6 Plus
Display	5.1-inch Super AMOLED 2560 x 1440 resolution 577 ppi	5.1-inch Super AMOLED 2560 x 1440 resolution 577 ppi	4.7-inch IPS LCD 1334 x 750 resolution 326 ppi	5.5-inch IPS LCD 1920 x 1080 resolution 401 ppi
Processor	Exynos 7420	Exynos 7420	1.4 GHz dual-core Apple A8	1.4 GHz dual-core Apple A8
RAM	3 GB	3 GB	1 GB	1 GB
Storage	32/64/128 GB	32/64/128 GB	16/64/128 GB	16/64/128 GB
Camera	16 MP rear camera with OIS 5 MP front-facing camera with 90 degree wide angle lens	16 MP rear camera with OIS 5 MP front-facing camera with 90 degree wide angle lens	8 MP rear camera 1.2 MP front-facing camera with OIS for iPhone 6 Plus	8 MP rear camera with OIS 1.2 MP front-facing camera
Connectivity	WiFi a/b/g/n/ac Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, GPS+GLONASS	WiFi a/b/g/n/ac Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, GPS+GLONASS	WiFi a/b/g/n/ac Bluetooth 4.0, NFC (Apple Pay only), GPS+GLONASS	WiFi a/b/g/n/ac Bluetooth 4.0, NFC (Apple Pay only), GPS+GLONASS
Networks	LTE cat 6 300Mbps down 50Mbps up	LTE cat 6 300Mbps down 50Mbps up	LTE cat 4 150Mbps down 50Mbps up	LTE cat 4 150Mbps down 50Mbps up
Battery	2,550 mAh Fast charging WPC and PMA-compatible wireless charging	2,600 mAh Fast charging WPC and PMA-compatible wireless charging	1,810 mAh	2,915 mAh
Software	Android 5.0 Lollipop	Android 5.0 Lollipop	iOS 8	iOS 8
Dimensions	143.4 x 70.5 x 6.8 mm 138 grams	142.1 x 70.1 x 7 mm 132 grams	138.1 x 67 x 6.9 mm 129 grams	158.1 x 77.8 x 7.1 mm 172 grams
Colors	Black, white, gold, blue	Black, white, gold, green	Space gray, silver, gold	Space gray, silver, gold

On average the Galaxy S6 is $50 more than the iPhone 6 whilst the Galaxy S6 Edge is around $100 more. Buying a handset off-contract is certainly an expensive proposition and on contracts (both in the UK and the USA) the pricing of both handsets is quite comparative. In the UK, the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge are on average around £5 per month more than the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus launch price.

Looking at the comparative specs, it’s clear that the extra money is definitely worth it. Sure we’re comparing Apples and Oranges here (pun intended) but spec-for-spec, the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge are far superior to Apple’s new devices. Apple has always insisted that specs don’t equal the experience and this has been proven before but this doesn’t prevent comparisons of the specs.

The best specs that money can buy

The Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge are certainly the most expensive main-stream commercial handsets made but there’s good reason for that – simply put, they feature the best specs that money can buy. From the best display to the fastest processor and from an excellent camera to outstanding design, the handsets are packed full of the best that Samsung has to offer.

To the original point – are they overpriced or do they offer value for money? This answer is one that will change for each person but from an impartial view, they certainly offer value for money. The question really is whether you will gain enough from the device for it to offer you value for money.

Do you think the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge are overpriced or should the best specs that money can buy come with the highest price tag? Let us know your views in the comments below.

Related – Here’s where you can get the best deals on the Galaxy S6 & S6 Edge now

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Here’s where you can get the Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge in the US

Today’s the big day, three of the most anticipated phones of 2015 have now arrived to the U.S.! While you’ve been able to pre-order the Samsung Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, and HTC One M9 for a little while now, starting today you’ll be able to pick up the phone through your favorite brick-and-mortar locations or you’ll be able to snag the handset of your choice online for immediate shipping.

We’ll be publishing an article about where to buy the HTC One M9 in the US a bit later today, but for now let’s focus on the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge.

U.S. Carriers

All four major US carriers now have the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge in stock, as does the fifth largest carrier, US Cellular. For those interested in going the prepaid route, so far Boost Mobile appears to be your only option for the Galaxy S6 (S6 Edge isn’t an option).

AT&T

AT&T customers can get the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge in white, black, or gold color choices and with storage configuration options of 32,64, or 128GB. Pricing varies considerably, depending on if you’re going with AT&T Next, a contract, or paying outright. AT&T Next pricing for the GS6 and GS6 Edge will be dependent of the model you choose, the version of Next you use (Next 12 or Next 18).

The on contract pricing for the Galaxy S6 begins at $199, tapping out at $399.99 for the 128GB model. Outright pricing starts at $684.99 and goes as high as $884.99.

As for the Galaxy S6 Edge, on contract pricing begins at $299.99 and goes up to $499.99 for the 128GB version. Outright pricing for the 32GB model is $814.99 and goes up all the way to $1014.99 for the 128GB model.

For more details on pricing, features, or to buy now, click on one of the links below:

• Order the Galaxy S6 from AT&T
• Order the Galaxy S6 Edge from AT&T

Verizon

 

Like AT&T, Verizon is offering up both the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge in storage sizes of 32, 64, and 128GB. The ame black, gold, and white color choices are also available. Pricing for Verizon is $199.99 with 2-year contract for the Galaxy S6 32GB, $299.99 for 64GB, and $399.99 for 128GB. Verizon also is offering the phone through its Edge program starting at $24.99 a month, or outright starting at $599.99 and tapping out at $799.99.

Pricing for the Verizon Galaxy S6 is $199.99 with 2-year contract for 32GB, $299.99 for 64GB, and $399.99 for 128GB. Verizon also is offering the phone through its Edge program starting at $24.99 a month, or outright starting at $599.99 and tapping out at $799.99.

The Galaxy S6 Edge is a little higher, starting at $299 for a 2-year contract, with the 64GB and 128GB models costing $399.99 and $499.99, respectively. Verizon Edge plans begin at $29.16 a month, and full retail pricing starts at $699.99.

For more details on pricing, features, or to buy now, click on one of the links below:

• Order the Galaxy S6 from Verizon
• Order the Galaxy S6 Edge from Verizon

Sprint

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While Sprint does offer all three storage configurations for the Galaxy S6, the GS6 Edge is only offered in 32 or 64GB storage configurations. Both phones are also only limited to the colors of black or white.

As for pricing, Sprint offers multiple ways to pay, including 12 or 24 month leasing, a 24-month “Easy Pay” program, a traditional contract, or buying the phone outright.

For those interested in leasing, Sprint is offering a $20 credit for the 24-month lease that covers the cost of the 32GB Galaxy S6 completely, or helps complement the cost of leasing higher capacity models of the Galaxy S6 or the S6 Edge. To get the credit, you’ll have to bundle the lease with a qualifying phone plan. Easy Pay, on the other hand, is zero down for either the Galaxy S6 or S6 Edge, though the monthly payments will differ depending on the size of the phone and whether or not you’re going with the Galaxy S6 or S6 Edge.

Contract pricing for the Galaxy S6 is set at $199.99, $299.99, and $399.99 for the 32, 64, and 128GB models – respectively. Off-contract, outright pricing begins at $648 for the Galaxy S6, with the 64GB model costing $768 and the 128GB model costing $864.

Contract pricing for the Galaxy S6 Edge is set at $299.99 for the 32GB model and $399.99 for the 64GB version. Outright pricing is $768 and $864, respectively.

For more details on pricing, features, or to buy now, click on one of the links below:

• Order the Galaxy S6 from Sprint
• Order the Galaxy S6 Edge from Sprint

T-Mobile

T-Mobile offers all three color choices available in the United States, and all three storage configurations. One big advantage found with T-Mobile over the others is a free year of Netflix.

As for pricing, the Galaxy S6 is $679.92, $759.99, and $859.99 for the 32, 64, and 128GB models respectively. Payment plans are zero down and $28.33 a month for the 32GB model, $99.99 down ana $27.50 a month for the 64GB, and $199.99 down and $27.50 for the 128GB.

The Galaxy S6 Edge is priced at $779.76, $859.83, and $959.83 respectively. The payment plan for the 32GB model requires zero down and $32.49 a month, the 64GB model is $99.99 down and $31.66 a month, and the 128GB model is $199.99 down and $31.66 a month.

For more details on pricing, features, or to buy now, click on one of the links below:

• Order the Galaxy S6 on T-Mobile
• Order the Galaxy S6 Edge on T-Mobile

US Cellular

US Cellular carries both the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, but only in white or black with storage options of only 32 or 64GB. On-contract Galaxy S6 pricing is set at $199.99 for 32GBs, or $299.99 for 64GBs. Outright pricing is $680 and $770 respectively.

For the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge, you’ll pay $299.99 on-contract for the 32GB model or $399.99 for the 64GB model. Outright pricing is $790 and $880 respectively.

For more details on pricing, features, or to buy now, click on one of the links below:

• Order the Galaxy S6 on US Cellular
• Order the Galaxy S6 Edge on US Cellular

Prepaid options

Boost only offers the 32GB Galaxy S6, and the pricing structure is pretty straightforward. You can pick up the device in black for $649.99 by following the link below.

• Buy through Boost Mobile

Retailers

Tthere are a number of retailer partners (online and in-store) where you can pick up the Galaxy S6 and sign up for service with your favorite carrier. Here’s a list of some of the best places to begin your search for the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge:

• Amazon
• Walmart
• Target
• Best Buy

Interestingly enough, Staples seems to be the only one currently offering the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge unlocked, though I’m sure this will change in the hours and days to come.

Know of any other great places to buy, or special promos going on for the Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 Edge? Be sure to let us know in the comments. We’ll also be sure to update this post in the days to come as we learn more about possible promotions and deals related to Samsung’s latest devices.

Best Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge cases

We’re sure you’ve heard a lot about Samsung’s new Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge flagships, especially pertaining to the super premium build quality both devices have this time around. Sandwiched between two panels of Gorilla Glass 4 and an aluminum edge, these devices are without a doubt the best looking smartphones Samsung has ever produced. But when the phone is covered in glass as opposed to plastic, you’ll want to take extra caution when handling this device. With that said, we’ve rounded up some of the best cases you can buy for the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge.

See also: 15 things you should know about the Galaxy S6

Verus Thor Active Case (S6 and S6 Edge)

The Verus Thor Active Case for the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge is one of the cheapest, most protective cases we could find. It doesn’t add much extra bulk to the device, and offers great protection from the shock absorbing core and the polycarbonate exterior shell. All four corners of the case are reinforced for added drop protection.

Available in nine different colors, this case can be yours for just $16.99 from Amazon. Head to the links below if you’re interested.

Buy now for the Galaxy S6

Buy now for the Galaxy S6 Edge

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Spigen Neo Hybrid Case (S6 and S6 Edge)

Spigen cases are becoming a favorite in the Android Authority community, offering a sleek design at a very affordable price point. The Neo Hybrid series cases are among Spigen’s most popular products. This two piece case for the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge offers a durable build thanks to the shock-absorbing TPU case and polycarbonate bumper. The metalized buttons give the power button and volume rocker a satisfying click, which is something we find important when choosing a case.

You can grab this case from Amazon starting at just $17.99 for the S6 variant, or $20.99 for the Edge version. Head to the Amazon links below to check them out.

Buy now for the Galaxy S6

Buy now for the Galaxy S6 Edge

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Poetic Affinity Series Protective Hybrid Case (S6 and S6 Edge)

Poetic is known in the case industry for offering great cases for about half the price of the competition’s offerings. The company’s Affinity Series is no exception. This bumper case is made of dense TPU to protect your device from drops. The transparent back is made so you can still see the aesthetics of your device without sacrificing durability. The bumper’s molded edges are made to give you a sturdier grip, and it even has a raised lip that will protect your screen if you happen to drop your phone.

The Poetic Hybrid Case is available in three colors for both devices on Amazon, starting at just $7.95. Check out the links below if you’re interested.

Buy now for the Galaxy S6

Buy now for the Galaxy S6 Edge

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Spigen Ultra Hybrid Bumper Case (S6 and S6 Edge)

Here we have another popular case from Spigen – the Ultra Hybrid Series. Unlike the Neo Hybrid, this case is one piece but doesn’t skimp on the quality. This one is made of a protective TPU material to shield your device from bumps and scratches. It also has a clear back panel so the design of your new Galaxy S6 or S6 Edge can shine through. It also features embossed buttons to make pressing the power key and volume rocker easy.

The Spigen Ultra Hybrid Bumper is available for the S6 and S6 Edge on Amazon starting at just $11.99. Check out the links below if you’re interested.

Buy now for the Galaxy S6

Buy now for the Galaxy S6 Edge

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Spigen Tough Armor Case (S6 and S6 Edge)

If you’re really looking to protect your Galaxy S6 or S6 Edge, we’d suggest you check out Spigen’s Tough Armor Case. It has a shock-absorbing TPU interior and a polycarbonate exterior for maximum protection. The lip on the front is even raised 2mm to add some extra protection to your screen. The outer shell has a built-in kickstand, so you can easily watch videos without having to hold the device.

The Spigen Tough Armor Case is available for both devices on Amazon starting at $16.99. For a case that adds a ton of protection to your device, this is a really great deal. Head to the links below for more information.

Buy now for the Galaxy S6

Buy now for the Galaxy S6 Edge

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Griffin Reveal Case for Galaxy S6

Griffin is known for making quality cases for a wide range of smartphones. While these aren’t the most inexpensive cases on the market, they offer great protection and premium build quality. This ultra-thin hardshell case will let your GS6’s design shine through the clear back panel. At just 1.6mm thick, the one-piece design won’t add much extra bulk to your new smartphone. The outer edges are made from a rubbery plastic material for maximum grip while the device is in your hand.

If the Griffin option appeals to you, the Reveal Case can be found in two color options on Griffin’s website for $19.99.

Buy now from Griffin

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Speck CandyShell Grip Case for Galaxy S6

The Speck CandyShell Grip case is next up on the list, offering a unique design with a solid build. This case has been military-grade drop tested to ensure your new smartphone won’t break when dropped. The rubber stripes provide a no-slip grip while the hard outer shell guards your device against impact. The raised rubber bezel around the case makes it so you can set your phone face down without worrying about it sliding or scratching.

The Speck CandyShell Grip case is one of the more stylish offerings on our list, but that unfortunately comes at a cost. You can find this case on Amazon in four different colors for $34.95.

Buy now on Amazon

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Incipio Octane Pure Case (S6 and S6 Edge)

The Incipio Octane Pure Case features a features a unibody design that won’t add much bulk to your new smartphone. The shock absorbing co-molded design marries impact resistant Flex2O TPU and Plextonium polycarbonate to give you enough protection against bumps and scratches. This is probably the most low profile case on the list, but there’s nothing wrong with that.

You can find Incipio’s Octane Pure Case for $24.99, though the case isn’t quite available for purchase yet. It’s available for both the S6 and S6 Edge, and you can find both pre-order links below.

Buy now for the Galaxy S6

Buy now for the Galaxy S6 Edge

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UAG Outland Case for Galaxy S6

For the folks who want incredible protection for their new smartphones but aren’t a fan of the extra bulk, the UAG Outland Case will do the trick. It’s made of a hard outer shell and impact resistant inner shell to add extra protection. The edges are made of a rubberized plastic for a non-slip grip. And if you can’t tell by the design, this case meets military drop test standards, so you know it will protect your GS6.

The case is back-ordered right now, but you can still place your order for the UAG Outland Case for $34.95. UAG says the case will ship on 4/15/15, so you won’t have to wait long if you order this one. Head to the link below for some more information.

Buy the UAG Outland Case

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Caseology Wavelength Series True Grip Case for Galaxy S6

The Caseology Wavelength True Grip Case combines premium protection and beautiful aesthetics. It’s mostly made of TPU, giving it the look of a smooth plastic case but the protection of a rubber case. It’s grippy, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and is being offered for a super low price.

You can buy this Caseology Wavelength True Grip Case in five different colors from Amazon starting at just $12.99. Head to the link below to pick one up today.

Buy now on Amazon

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Ringke Fusion Bumper for Galaxy S6 Edge

If you’re looking to save some money on your case, perhaps the Ringke Fusion Bumper is for you. The entire case is made of a clear plastic which doesn’t mask the design of your smartphone. This may not be the most protective case on the market, but it’s surely enough to protect your device from small drops and scratches. It even has dust caps covering the USB port and audio jack, so there’s no need to worry about lint or dust getting inside your phone.

You can grab this case in two color options from Amazon for just $10.99.

Buy now on Amazon

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Obliq Shock Resistant Bumper for Galaxy S6 Edge

The Obliq Shock Resistant Bumper shares a similar design to Spigen’s Neo Hybrid cases, but comes with a few added benefits. Both cases feature a matted rubber interior shell and a a metallic bumper, offering a similar feel in-hand. But with the Obliq option, three different bumper colors are included with each case. You have the choice between Green Emerald, Pink and White or Gold Platinum, Satin Silver or Black Sapphire bumper colors.

You can find this case on Amazon for just $14.99. Head to the link below to pick one up for yourself.

Buy now on Amazon

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Verus Verge Case for Galaxy S6 Edge

The Verus Verge Case for the Galaxy S6 Edge is tough, slim and form-fitting. It’s composed of a hard shell frame with a soft yet rugged inner shell to provide enough durability to protect your device from drops and scratches. Although it’s made of two pieces, we can assure you that this case won’t add a ton of extra bulk.

You can find the Verus Verge Case in five different colors from Amazon for just $16.99.

Buy now on Amazon

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UAG Ash Case for Galaxy S6 Edge

Like we said with the UAG offering for the S6, if you’re looking for top of the line protection without adding extra bulk, this case might be for you. It’s made of a hard outer shell and impact resistant inner shell to add extra protection. The edges are made of a rubberized plastic for a non-slip grip. And if you can’t tell by the design, this case meets military drop test standards, so you know it will protect your GS6 Edge.

You can find the UAG Ash case for $34.95 on UAG’s site. It’s a little pricier than the other cases on this list, but we’re sure the added protection will make up for that. Head to the link below if you’re interested.

Buy the UAG Ash case

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If you’re not a fan of third party cases, Samsung has a good number of official cases, chargers and audio accessories available on its site. If you’re interested in checking out what Samsung has to offer, follow this link. So how did you like our list? Did we miss anything? Be sure to let us know if you have any suggestions down in the comment section below.