Samsung launches preorders for the Galaxy S9 in 128GB, 256GB storage varieties

Samsung is charging $50 to jump up a storage tier, shipments start May 18.

If you're looking for a US Galaxy S9 with more than 64GB of space, Samsung is starting preorders today for two higher-storage variants of its flagship smartphone. Samsung has announced that 128GB and 256GB versions of the Galaxy S9 can now be preordered in the US, with shipments starting May 18.

The Galaxy S9 originally launched in the US in March with only an entry-level 64GB storage tier. Samsung forfeited the spec sheet bragging rights to its biggest rival, Apple, which launched its latest iPhone with a 256GB storage tier. Extra built-in storage isn't as necessary on Samsung phones since they have a MicroSD slot, allowing digital pack rats to buy the 64GB phone and slap in a giant SD card later.

The move to only launch with 64GB in the US certainly seems carrier-driven, as all the carrier models are 64GB and Samsung's new higher storage models are exclusively available on Samsung.com. Thankfully, Samsung is only charging $50 for each 64GB jump in storage. Here's the price breakdown for the new models:

• Galaxy S9:
  • 64GB: $719.99
  • 128GB: $769.99
  • 256GB: $819.99
• Galaxy S9+
  • 64GB: $839.99
  • 128GB: $889.99
  • 256GB: $939.99

Samsung is even offering a deal for S9 buyers: customers that buy the S9 or S9+ on Samsung.com between now and May 17th can get a free pair of Gear IconX (2018) wireless earbuds (regularly $199.99) or they can buy a Gear S3 Frontier Tizen smartwatch for $99 (regularly $279.99).