While everyone’s talking about Samsung’s shiny new foldable phones and the latest Galaxy S25 Ultra, there’s a quieter revolution happening at Best Buy. The Galaxy S24 Ultra, once Samsung’s premium flagship at $1,299, has suddenly become the most compelling smartphone deal of the year at just $799.
This isn’t some limited-time flash sale or a refurbished device deal. We’re talking about a brand-new, unlocked Galaxy S24 Ultra with a full $500 discount that happens instantly at checkout. That’s a 38% price reduction on a phone that was considered the gold standard just months ago.
What Makes This Deal So Special?
Unlocked Freedom
One of the biggest advantages of this particular offer is that you’re getting an unlocked device. This means you’re not tied to any specific carrier, giving you the flexibility to choose your network provider or easily switch if you find a better deal elsewhere. Whether you’re with Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or any smaller carrier, this phone will work seamlessly.
Premium Features at Mid-Range Pricing
The Galaxy S24 Ultra wasn’t just any phone when it launched – it was Samsung’s everything-included flagship. You’re getting a stunning 6.8-inch AMOLED display that makes watching videos and playing games an absolute pleasure. The screen quality alone justifies a significant portion of the price tag.
Camera Performance That Rivals Current Flagships
The Photography Powerhouse
Here’s something most people don’t realize: the camera system in the Galaxy S24 Ultra is essentially identical to what you’ll find in the newer Galaxy S25 Ultra. Recent side-by-side comparisons involving hundreds of test photos have shown that the performance gap between these two generations is practically negligible.
The quadruple camera system includes everything you need for professional-quality photos and videos. Whether you’re cphone
apturing family moments, travel memories, or trying your hand at mobile photography, this camera setup delivers results that would have cost thousands in professional equipment just a few years ago.
AI-Enhanced Photography
The Galaxy AI features built into this device aren’t just marketing fluff – they genuinely improve your photography experience. From automatic scene optimization to advanced night mode capabilities, the phone does a lot of the heavy lifting to ensure your photos look their best.
Why Choose This Over the Galaxy S25 Ultra?
The $500 Question
When the Galaxy S25 Ultra launched earlier this year, it maintained that $1,299 price point. While it offers incremental improvements over the S24 Ultra, the question becomes whether those small upgrades are worth an extra $500.
That $500 difference isn’t just abstract money – it’s enough to buy a Nintendo Switch 2, upgrade your home setup, or simply keep in your pocket for other priorities. For most users, the Galaxy S24 Ultra offers 95% of the experience at significantly less cost.
Future-Proofing Through Software Updates
Samsung has an excellent track record of supporting their flagship phones with major software updates. The Galaxy S24 Ultra is expected to receive the upcoming One UI 8 software, bringing many of the same features and improvements that newer devices enjoy.
While it might not get every single feature of the latest software (like some of the newest AI capabilities), the core experience and functionality improvements should carry over. This means your “older” phone will continue feeling fresh and current for years to come.
Performance That Still Impresses
Daily Use Excellence
The Galaxy S24 Ultra wasn’t underpowered when it launched, and it certainly isn’t underpowered now. The processor handles everything from basic messaging and web browsing to intensive gaming and video editing without breaking a sweat.
Battery life remains excellent, easily getting most users through a full day of heavy use. The combination of efficient hardware and Samsung’s battery optimization means you’re not constantly hunting for chargers.
Build Quality and Design
This phone still looks and feels premium. The titanium construction gives it a substantial, high-quality feel that cheaper phones can’t match. It’s built to last, with durability features that protect your investment over time.
Smart Shopping in Today’s Market
The Psychology of New vs. Value
There’s something psychologically appealing about having the absolute latest technology, but smart consumers look beyond the marketing hype. The Galaxy S24 Ultra represents that sweet spot where you get flagship performance without paying flagship prices.
Real-World Performance vs. Spec Sheets
On paper, newer phones always look better. But in real-world use, the differences between the Galaxy S24 Ultra and S25 Ultra are often imperceptible. Both phones load apps instantly, take gorgeous photos, and handle multitasking effortlessly.
Who Should Consider This Deal?
This deal makes sense for several types of buyers:
Budget-conscious enthusiasts who want flagship features without flagship pricing will find this irresistible. Users upgrading from older phones (anything more than two years old) will see a dramatic improvement in every aspect of their mobile experience.
Photography lovers who want professional-quality cameras without buying dedicated equipment will appreciate the versatile camera system. Heavy users who demand all-day battery life and smooth performance will find this phone more than capable.
The Bottom Line
In a market where new phones are released constantly, it’s easy to get caught up in the cycle of always wanting the latest model. But sometimes, the smartest choice is the one that gives you exceptional value rather than cutting-edge novelty.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra at $799 represents exactly that kind of smart choice. You’re getting a phone that was premium-priced just months ago, with performance that remains competitive with current flagships, at a price that leaves money in your pocket for other priorities.
This isn’t about settling for less – it’s about recognizing when “last generation’s flagship” is actually this generation’s best value.