Samsung's Newest Galaxy Phones: How to Decide Whether to Upgrade

Samsung launches flagship phones on a predictable yearly cycle: the Galaxy S range early in the year and the foldables around midyear. Each launch brings a lot of noise. This guide helps you decide whether to upgrade right now, and gives you a way to compare a new Galaxy with last year's.

For exact specifications of the newest models, rely on the individual product listing. Launch configurations vary by country and change with time, so we would rather point you to the precise details of the unit you are buying than generalise here.

Three questions to ask before upgrading

How old is your current phone? An upgrade from a phone that is one year old usually brings small gains. Upgrading from a phone that is three or four years old usually brings a much larger jump in camera, battery and speed.

What annoys you about your current phone? If it is storage, then buying a bigger model of a slightly older phone might solve the problem at a much lower cost. If it is battery life, consider replacing the battery. If the camera is the issue, a newer generation could be worth it.

How long will you keep it? Samsung's recent flagships carry long software promises, starting with seven years on the S24 family. Longer support makes a new flagship easier to justify if you keep phones for a long time.

Comparing with last year's model

Last year's flagship is often the value pick. The chip and screen are usually close to the current generation, and Samsung's software features frequently reach older flagships through updates. Galaxy AI features vary by model, though, so check before assuming your choice supports the one you care about.

Read about the S21 to S24 Ultra and the standard Galaxy S range for options that offer more value than a launch phone.

Foldables

New Fold and Flip models usually improve thinness, cameras and cover screens. Hinges and screens have become more durable over time, but foldables still require more care than ordinary phones.

Reducing the cost

Your present phone has trade-in value. Trading in takes it off your hands and lowers the price of the new one, subject to inspection. Note that Lipa Mdogo Mdogo is currently for iPhones, so plan other payment options for a Samsung.

Check warranty and origin

New phones can arrive in Kenya through different channels. Warranty terms can depend on where a unit was intended to be sold. Each of our listings states its warranty. Read how returns and warranty work so you know what is covered.

Accessories

A new body usually means a new case. Many Galaxy flagships no longer come with a charger, so check whether yours needs a fast USB-C charger. If you pick an Ultra, a replacement pen is available in our S Pen range.