Samsung Galaxy S24: Is It Still Worth Buying in 2026?

Introduction

The Samsung Galaxy S24, launched in January 2024 at a price of $800, continues to serve as a capable smartphone more than two years later. However, with several compelling alternatives available on the market, the question arises: is it still worth buying today? This guide evaluates the Galaxy S24's performance, its pricing in the current landscape, and assesses whether purchasing this model is a sensible decision for prospective buyers.

Pricing Landscape of the Samsung Galaxy S24

As of September 2026, the price of a refurbished Galaxy S24 can vary significantly. Prices for unlocked refurbished models hover around $350, while models with better condition or higher storage can exceed $400. Samsung's Certified "Re-Newed" version starts at $519. This pricing positions the S24 alongside numerous new mid-range phones that may offer better battery life, newer camera technology, and longer software support. Therefore, it is increasingly difficult to recommend the S24 unless found at a considerably lower price point.

Key Features of the Galaxy S24

The Galaxy S24 has some standout features that still make it appealing:

• Display: A 6.2-inch AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate provides smooth visuals in a compact form factor.
• Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the US model, it handles everyday applications and demanding games effectively. Note that international variants may use the Exynos 2400 CPU.
• Camera System: The phone features a versatile camera setup with a 50-megapixel main camera, 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a dedicated 3x telephoto camera.
• Software Support: Samsung promises seven generations of OS updates and seven years of security updates, extending into 2031.
• Battery Life: When new, the 4,000mAh battery lasted about 24.5 hours under a video rundown test.

Why Buying a Refurbished Galaxy S24 is Challenging

While the Galaxy S24 appears appealing, purchasing a refurbished unit entails several challenges. One of the biggest concerns is battery condition. The longevity of a lithium-ion battery diminishes with use, and determining the remaining capacity of a refurbished phone can be difficult. If possible, prospective buyers should physically examine the battery condition via the device's settings and ask the seller detailed questions about battery health and history. Additionally, cosmetic grades such as "excellent" can be misleading and may not guarantee battery replacement.

Samsung’s Certified Re-Newed program does provide reassurance by offering phones with new batteries and genuine parts, backed by a single-year manufacturer warranty. However, at a starting price only $80 less than the Certified Refurbished Galaxy S25 priced at $599, buyers should carefully weigh the benefits of choosing the older model over newer offerings.

Alternatives to the Galaxy S24

Many models launched in 2026 are worthy contenders to the Galaxy S24:

Google Pixel 10a

Starting at $499, the Pixel 10a is a solid choice for Android enthusiasts. It features a 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED display and a robust battery that promises longevity. Furthermore, it has exceptional camera software that excels in photography, albeit with relatively slower charging capabilities. While it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, it provides seven years of OS and security updates.

Nothing Phone 4a Pro

Also priced at $499, the Nothing Phone 4a Pro gives users a 6.83-inch display and a periscope telephoto camera. Although it boasts strong battery life and photo quality for stills, its video recording capabilities do not perform as well. With lesser update commitments compared to Samsung or Google, it appeals to users looking for a larger phone with a unique design.

Samsung Galaxy A37 5G

The A37 is the most straightforward alternative for Samsung loyalists, starting at $449.99. With a larger 6.7-inch OLED display and a 5,000mAh battery, it offers considerable features but lacks the advanced photography potential of the S24. It still ensures six generations of OS updates, making it a dependable option at a lower price.

iPhone 17e

If considering an iOS switch, the iPhone 17e at $599 offers an A19 processor and better base storage options. Its lower display refresh rate and camera setup might not compare favorably to the S24, but it still offers modern hardware for those looking to keep their device long-term.

Final Thoughts on the Galaxy S24

Ultimately, locating an unlocked Galaxy S24 priced between $300 to $350 could make it a worthwhile purchase. It particularly appeals to users who prefer smaller flagship devices with reliable performance. However, this decision hinges on critical factors such as battery life, storage capacity, warranty, and sellers' reliability. Buyers should conduct thorough evaluations and consider their needs relative to newer models before finalizing a purchase.

Key Takeaways

• The Galaxy S24 can be found refurbished for around $350.
• It features a 6.2-inch AMOLED display and a solid camera system with a 50-megapixel main camera.
• Samsung provides seven years of software support for the S24, extending to 2031.
• Alternatives like the Google Pixel 10a and Samsung Galaxy A37 offer competitive features for similar prices.
• Always check battery health and warranty terms when considering a refurbished phone.