Flagship Samsung power at budget prices from Back Market.
Pros & Cons
Why We Like It
Should You Buy This Or New?
| Cost | Refurbished: $259.99 | New: $799.99 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Same chip, screen, and cameras | Same phone hardware |
| Software | Security support until 2028 | Same software support |
| Savings | $540.00 | $0 saved |
Unless you specifically need a sealed retail box, buying refurbished is the better-value move here.
Key Specs
| Display | 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Main Camera | 50MP + 12MP + 10MP triple |
| Battery | 3900 mAh, 25W wired |
| Water Resistance | IP68 |
| Max OS | Android 13 at launch |
Our Review
The Galaxy S23 packs a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120Hz refresh, which handles everything from scrolling to video smoothly. IP68 water resistance and a slim 168g build make it durable for daily pocket carry. As a flagship, it avoids the crowded mid-range pitfalls Samsung often falls into.
In day-to-day use, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and 8GB RAM keep apps snappy, multitasking easy, and even light gaming playable. I've run it alongside newer phones, and it doesn't feel dated for emails, browsing, or social media. One UI holds up well, though it's not as clean as stock Android.
Cameras deliver reliable shots with the 50MP main sensor shining in daylight and the 10MP telephoto useful for zoom. Battery lasts a full day with moderate use from the 3900mAh cell, but heavy days need a top-up. 25W charging is okay, not blazing.
Refurb from Back Market at $185-192 is a steal for this calibre—savings over new flagships run hundreds. It's for budget-conscious users wanting high-end without new-phone premiums; Back Market's grading ensures quality. Drawback: battery isn't class-leading for power users.
Full Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, its Snapdragon power handles daily tasks fine and the compact design beats bloated newer models. I've used one recently—it's not flagship-fresh but far from obsolete. Avoid if you game heavily or crave the absolute latest.
our recommended retailers grades from Fair to Excellent, testing function, battery health, and cosmetics rigorously. Most in this price are Good or better with minimal wear. They replace faulty parts, so it arrives reliable.
At $185-192 from our recommended retailers, you're saving 70-80% off original flagship pricing. That's hundreds pocketed versus new equivalents. Refurb value shines here for spec-to-cost ratio.
our recommended retailers offers a 30-day return window and typically 12 months coverage on refurbs. It covers defects, giving peace of mind. Check listing for exact terms.
Options were 128GB, 256GB, mostly—refurbs often list 128GB at this price. 256GB costs a bit more but future-proofs better. Base handles cloud users fine.
If you're upgrading from a two-year-old phone and want flagship performance without mid-range compromises, grab this. It's perfect for anyone prioritising compact size and solid basics over the latest hype.
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