PSA: Galaxy S26 preorders end soon — here

If you’re thinking about picking up one of the latest Samsung Galaxy S26 series phones, then take note that the initial preorder phase ends on March 11. In short, you’ve only got a few days left to pick up a device before it’s actually released.

Why the urgency? Well, if you’re someone who follows the best cell phone deals, then you’ll know that the initial preorders phase usually has particularly good promotions on new releases. Outside of Black Friday, it’s usually when you can get the biggest discounts on an upgrade.

The biggest discounts? Locked behind plans and trade-ins, of course. But, it is possible to get upwards of $1,299 / £900 off if you’re willing to hand over an old device.

Over at T-Mobile, for example, you can actually get a free Galaxy S26 Ultra right now with one of the carrier’s high-end plans. In the UK, the biggest discount is Three’s whopping trade-in rebate of up to £914 — one of the highest I’ve ever seen in this territory.

Samsung Galaxy S26 deals in the US

Samsung Galaxy S26 deals in the UK

Is it worth preordering a Galaxy S26?

• Improved cameras and screen on the Ultra
• Better chipsets and charging
• Enhanced AI features

Overall, the Galaxy S26 series is worth considering if you want the latest performance improvements, upgraded cameras, and Samsung’s newest AI features. However, the upgrades are relatively modest year-over-year, so owners of the S25 series may not find the jump essential. For those coming from older devices, the S26 lineup is a strong option.

The phones feature a slightly slimmer design with more rounded edges, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a refreshed camera housing and improved display processing for sharper visuals. Performance is a clearer step forward, however, with the standard models powered by the new Exynos 2600 chip and the Ultra using the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy.

Otherwise, upgrades are very much focused on the Ultra, which gets expanded camera features and a potentially useful new privacy display.

You can check out our freshly published Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review if you’re interested in seeing this device in more detail.

Alex is TechRadar’s retail editor, specializing in buying advice and general tips on how to save our readers as much cash as possible. He’s covered major retail events in some capacity for over seven years now; both in editorial and other ecommerce adjacent roles on TechRadar, T3, GamesRadar, and other Future PLC sites. Alex’s expertise touches on most areas, but he has a particular love for phones, laptops, and cameras, being an avid photographer.