Top Refurbished Smartphones for Smart Shoppers
For most people, the Apple iPhone 13 is the best refurbished smartphone. It pairs flagship performance with a proven design, and refurbished units offer substantial savings over new. Its main limitation is the 60Hz display, which lacks the smoothness of newer Pro models.
Refurbished smartphones deliver premium features at a fraction of the original cost. They undergo rigorous testing and come with warranties that protect your purchase. This guide helps you choose the right model without overpaying.
We analyzed current listings and owner feedback to identify the most reliable options. Each phone balances performance, longevity, and price. Whether you prioritize battery life or camera quality, there is a refurbished phone that fits your lifestyle.
The top picks, ranked
Apple iPhone 13
The iPhone 13 offers excellent performance with the A15 Bionic chip and a great dual-camera system. Refurbished units often come with new batteries and a one-year warranty. Owners report reliable daily use and smooth iOS experience.
Pros
- Fast and fluid performance
- Excellent camera quality
- Strong resale value
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate
- Lightning port
Samsung Galaxy S22
The Galaxy S22 packs a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and a versatile triple camera into a compact body. Refurbished models often include a 12-month warranty. Its 120Hz AMOLED display is a standout.
Pros
- Compact and premium feel
- Bright and smooth display
- Versatile camera system
Cons
- Battery life is average
- Charging speed slower than rivals
Google Pixel 7
The Pixel 7 delivers Google’s computational photography magic at a lower cost. Its Tensor G2 chip ensures smooth performance and timely updates. Refurbished units are popular for their clean Android experience.
Pros
- Top-tier camera software
- Guaranteed OS updates until 2027
- Clean and bloatware-free UI
Cons
- No telephoto lens
- Fingerprint sensor can be finicky
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE
The Galaxy S21 FE offers many flagship features at a lower price. It has a 120Hz display, triple camera, and wireless charging. Refurbished models are affordable and reliable.
Pros
- Excellent value for specs
- Bright and smooth display
- Good battery life
Cons
- Plastic back
- No expandable storage
Apple iPhone 12
The iPhone 12 still holds up well with the A14 Bionic chip and 5G support. It offers a great camera and iOS updates for years to come. Refurbished prices make it an attractive entry point.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Solid performance
- Frequent iOS updates
Cons
- Battery health may be lower
- No telephoto lens
OnePlus 10 Pro
The OnePlus 10 Pro boasts 80W wired charging and a Hasselblad-tuned camera. Its 120Hz LTPO display is stunning. Refurbished units offer a premium experience at a fraction of the price.
Pros
- Blazing fast charging
- High-quality display
- Clean OxygenOS
Cons
- No wireless charging in some regions
- Camera is not top-tier
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
The Galaxy Note 20 Ultra is a productivity powerhouse with a built-in S Pen and expansive display. It excels at multitasking and note-taking. Refurbished models are a cost-effective way to get the Note experience.
Pros
- Built-in S Pen
- Huge and beautiful display
- Excellent zoom camera
Cons
- Large and heavy
- Older software support
What to look for
How they compare
| # | Model | Display | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apple iPhone 13 | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED | Overall best refurbished smartphone | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Samsung Galaxy S22 | 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz | Best compact Android flagship | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Google Pixel 7 | 6.3-inch OLED, 90Hz | Best camera for the price | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE | 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz | Best value flagship experience | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Apple iPhone 12 | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED | Best budget Apple option | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | OnePlus 10 Pro | 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz | Best for fast charging | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra | 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz | Best for productivity with S Pen | 8.2 | Check price |
Common questions
Are refurbished smartphones reliable?
Yes, when they are certified and come from reputable sellers. These phones undergo thorough testing and repairs to function like new. Always choose ones with a warranty and good return policy.
What is the difference between used and refurbished?
Used phones are sold as-is by the owner, while refurbished phones have been professionally inspected and repaired to meet quality standards. Refurbished phones typically come with a warranty.
Can I get a warranty on a refurbished phone?
Yes, most certified refurbished phones come with at least a 6-month to 1-year warranty. Third-party sellers may offer shorter warranties, so it’s important to read the listing.
Do refurbished phones have new batteries?
Not always. Some sellers replace batteries, while others may leave the original. Check the listing for battery health details or ask the seller. A battery health above 85% is preferable.
Are refurbished phones unlocked?
Many refurbished phones are unlocked, but some may be carrier-specific. Verify the network compatibility with your carrier before purchasing.
Will I receive software updates on a refurbished phone?
Yes, as long as the phone is still supported by the manufacturer. For example, iPhone 13 will receive iOS updates for several more years. Samsung and Google also provide extended support.
How can I check the battery health of a refurbished phone?
On iPhones, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. On Android, you can use diagnostic apps like AccuBattery or check in the settings if available.
What is the return policy if the phone is defective?
Return policies vary by seller. Most reputable sellers offer a 14 to 30 day return window for defective products. Always read the return policy before making a purchase.
Can I negotiate the price of a refurbished phone?
Prices are usually fixed on major platforms like Amazon, but you can look for coupons or wait for sales. Some sellers may offer discounts on multiple purchases.
Is it safe to buy a refurbished phone from Amazon?
Yes, if you buy from the Amazon Renewed program or highly rated sellers. Amazon provides a warranty and hassle-free returns for renewed products. Check the seller ratings and product condition carefully.
The bottom line
For most users, the Apple iPhone 13 is the clear winner due to its balance of performance, camera, and longevity. If you prefer Android, the Samsung Galaxy S22 offers a compact flagship with a superb display. For camera enthusiasts on a budget, the Google Pixel 7 is unbeatable. Avoid the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra unless you specifically need the S Pen. Always buy from certified sellers to ensure quality.
