Is the S9 still a good phone to buy?
A refurbished Android phone like the S9 is still a good value for the money, but you sacrifice key software updates and recent technology improvements. Here's what you need to know!
Updated Jan 25, 2023 - The S10 costs less than ever and still shows excellent performance with some nice upgraded features over the S9.
Since the Samsung Galaxy S10 was released in March 2019, it shared direct competition with the Apple iPhone XR and Apple iPhone 11 which were released in September 2018 and September 2019 respectively. So if we're comparing the S10 to these two iPhone models, then you'll find a better display and evenly matched specs on the Galaxy S10. In this case, it's really is a matter of brand preference when choosing between a flagship-level Samsung phone and an equivalent iPhone model from around the same time period. But if you want to get a more detailed look at how the Galaxy S10 compares, check out our smartphone comparison tool:
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As of January 2023, the Galaxy S10 series is still receiving Android OS and security software updates, but keep in mind that this could be one of its last. The S9 stopped receiving updates in 2022, just 4 years after its release, so Samsung will likely continue this pattern and discontinue updates for the S10 in 2023 (4 years after its release).
Looking for a better deal? The Pixel 4 has the same Snapdragon 855 chip as the S10, but has a much lower asking price on the refurbished market. Compare the Pixel 4 vs S10 using our comparison tool.
It's safe to estimate that most Samsung Galaxy models will continue performing well through about 4 years. As mentioned before, this is usually the point where Samsung will discontinue software updates and you'll no longer receive the newest Android OS version. The being said, as long as you're taking proper care to protect your Galaxy S10, this phone has the hardware to continue performing for even longer. You're biggest concern should be for battery performance, which tends to degrade over time, but a simple new battery replacement will quickly solve that. Otherwise, it's completely understandable to look for a replacement or upgrade smartphone around the 3 to 4 year mark, especially if you want to take advantage of new smartphone features and improved technology.
While we still think the S9 is a good phone, overall the Galaxy S10 has much more to offer and showcases a few notable upgrades from its predecessor. One of the biggest updates is to its camera, which now features 3 rear lenses (as opposed to just one on the S9) and improved photography capabilities. So if you're big into taking phone photos than you'll definitely want to lean towards the Galaxy S10, but both you'll be getting a deal on either model with prices for both hovering above and below $100.
Want to read more about the S9 vs S10? Click on the link to see a detailed comparison of the two devices :)
The Note 10 and S10 are very similar phones, but the Note 10 will give you a slightly bigger display and better battery life, while the S10 comes with the added perk of a headphone jack. Oh, and don’t forget that you’re also getting an S-Pen inside the Note 10! The S-Pen may not be a gamechanger, but it’s a nice feature to have and comes in handy if you like journaling :)
We're more than 3 Galaxy generations past the Galaxy S10 at this point, so it even worth considering anymore? If you're on a tight budget, the answer is yes - it's still a great, perfectly capable smartphone for the average user. That means you'll still get quality performance, a great display, new-age camera features and plenty of storage. Of course, technology has come a long way since the S10 was released in 2019, so you'll see better smartphone features that you feel like you can't miss with newer models. On top of that, the Galaxy S10 will likely stop receiving new software updates in 2023, so you'll want to take that into consideration as well. Overall, if you don't need all the bells and whistles that come with the newest smartphone models and you just need a phone to run a few apps with good quality and reliable performance, then there's no reason not to save some money and shop for the S10.
Buying from Back Market also guarantees that you're getting a reliable used and refurbished smartphone that has been expertly repaired, cleaned, inspected and tested before making its way to your door. If that's not enough, you can rest easy knowing that your purchase comes with free standard shipping, a 1 year warranty and 30 days to change your mind.
Do you have an older Samsung Galaxy model that you’re looking to upgrade? Let us help by paying you for your old phone so you have a little more room in your budget to get the Galaxy S10, S10e or S10 Plus that you've been eyeing. Selling your Samsung Galaxy to Back Market is as easy as it gets: get a free offer from us in under 2 minutes online and upon approval, we'll pay for your shipping and send you a direct cash deposit once it's been received. You get paid and the planet catches a break from electronic waste - win win!
Here are a few great options for older models that you might be looking to sell:
Since the Samsung Galaxy S10 was released in March 2019, it shared direct competition with the Apple iPhone XR and Apple iPhone 11 which were released in September 2018 and September 2019 respectively. So if we're comparing the S10 to these two iPhone models, then you'll find a better display and evenly matched specs on the Galaxy S10. In this case, it's really is a matter of brand preference when choosing between a flagship-level Samsung phone and an equivalent iPhone model from around the same time period.
As of January 2023, the Galaxy S10 series is still receiving Android OS and security software updates, but keep in mind that this could be one of its last. The S9 stopped receiving updates in 2022, just 4 years after its release, so Samsung will likely continue this pattern and discontinue updates for the S10 in 2023 (4 years after its release).
It's safe to estimate that most Samsung Galaxy models will continue performing well through about 4 years. As mentioned before, this is usually the point where Samsung will discontinue software updates and you'll no longer receive the newest Android OS version. The being said, as long as you're taking proper care to protect your Galaxy S10, this phone has the hardware to continue performing for even longer. You're biggest concern should be for battery performance, which tends to degrade over time, but a simple new battery replacement will quickly solve that. Otherwise, it's completely understandable to look for a replacement or upgrade smartphone around the 3 to 4 year mark, especially if you want to take advantage of new smartphone features and improved technology.
While we still think the S9 is a good phone, overall the Galaxy S10 has much more to offer and showcases a few notable upgrades from its predecessor. One of the biggest updates is to its camera, which now features 3 rear lenses (as opposed to just one on the S9) and improved photography capabilities. So if you're big into taking phone photos than you'll definitely want to lean towards the Galaxy S10, but both you'll be getting a deal on either model with prices for both hovering above and below $100.
The Note 10 and S10 are very similar phones, but the Note 10 will give you a slightly bigger display and better battery life, while the S10 comes with the added perk of a headphone jack. Oh, and don’t forget that you’re also getting an S-Pen inside the Note 10! The S-Pen may not be a gamechanger, but it’s a nice feature to have and comes in handy if you like journaling :)
We're more than 3 Galaxy generations past the Galaxy S10 at this point, so it even worth considering anymore? If you're on a tight budget, the answer is yes - it's still a great, perfectly capable smartphone for the average user. That means you'll still get quality performance, a great display, new-age camera features and plenty of storage. Of course, technology has come a long way since the S10 was released in 2019, so you'll see better smartphone features that you feel like you can't miss with newer models. On top of that, the Galaxy S10 will likely stop receiving new software updates in 2023, so you'll want to take that into consideration as well. Overall, if you don't need all the bells and whistles that come with the newest smartphone models and you just need a phone to run a few apps with good quality and reliable performance, then there's no reason not to save some money and shop for the S10.
Miguel is always looking for new ways to provide unique perspective on popular tech and has taken his writing to the refurbished industry to promote sustainability. Outside of creating content, you might find him travelling the globe, coaching a fitness class, or cheering on his favorite sports teams (Go Dolphins!)