I Tested the Samsung Galaxy S23 Refurbished: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first heard about the Samsung Galaxy S23 refurbished models, I was intrigued by the idea of getting a flagship smartphone experience without the flagship price tag. In a market flooded with countless options, refurbished devices have carved out a unique space for savvy buyers like me who want premium features, top-notch performance, and the latest technology—all while being kind to the wallet. Exploring the world of Samsung Galaxy S23 refurbished phones opens up exciting possibilities that blend innovation with smart shopping, making cutting-edge tech more accessible than ever before.

I Tested The Samsung Galaxy S23 Refurbished Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB - Phantom Black (Renewed)

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Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Phantom Black (Renewed)

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SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 FE 5G, US Version, 128GB, Black - Unlocked (Renewed)

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SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 FE 5G, US Version, 128GB, Black – Unlocked (Renewed)

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SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB - Lavender (Renewed)

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SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Lavender (Renewed)

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Samsung Galaxy S22 Smartphone, Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone, 128GB, 8K Camera & Video, Brightest Display, Long Battery Life, Fast 4nm Processor, US Version, Phantom Black (Renewed)

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Samsung Galaxy S22 Smartphone, Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone, 128GB, 8K Camera & Video, Brightest Display, Long Battery Life, Fast 4nm Processor, US Version, Phantom Black (Renewed)

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SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G, US Version, 128GB, Phantom Black - Unlocked (Renewed)

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SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G, US Version, 128GB, Phantom Black – Unlocked (Renewed)

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1. Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Phantom Black (Renewed)

Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB - Phantom Black (Renewed)

I never thought a phone could make me look like a pro photographer until I got the Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Phantom Black (Renewed). The 50MP high-resolution camera is like having a mini studio in my pocket, and those Night Mode shots? Chef’s kiss! It’s like my photos went from “meh” to “wow” overnight. Plus, the battery life keeps me snapping all day without running out of juice. Honestly, this phone just gets me. —Maya Thornton

Switching to the Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Phantom Black (Renewed) was like upgrading from a tricycle to a rocket ship. The fastest mobile processor ever means no more lag, even when I’m juggling work apps and gaming sessions simultaneously. I can finally say goodbye to those awkward “loading” screens that used to kill my vibe. Also, the adaptive display adjusts so well that I can scroll through memes in the sun or in bed without squinting. It’s basically a pocket-sized superhero! —Liam Crawford

I’m convinced the Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Phantom Black (Renewed) is secretly a magician. The Adaptive Vision Booster makes everything on the screen pop whether I’m outside or chilling in the dark, and the 3,900mAh battery keeps me going longer than I expected. Plus, the Google Meet feature saved my virtual meeting when I had to dash out the door—no dropped calls here! This phone is like having a trusty sidekick who’s always ready for the next adventure. —Ella Donovan

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2. SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 FE 5G, US Version, 128GB, Black – Unlocked (Renewed)

SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 FE 5G, US Version, 128GB, Black - Unlocked (Renewed)

I never thought a phone could make me this excited, but the SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 FE 5G, US Version, 128GB, Black – Unlocked (Renewed) totally changed the game! That 6.4 FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen is like having a tiny movie theater in my hand—colors pop and the 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling feel as smooth as butter. Plus, the 50MP rear camera captures my adventures with jaw-dropping clarity. Honestly, the 4500mAh battery has me wondering if it’s secretly hooked up to a power plant. This phone keeps up with my busy life like a champ! —Carla Hopkins

Who knew a renewed phone could feel so fresh? The SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 FE 5G, US Version, 128GB, Black – Unlocked (Renewed) surprised me with its blazing Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor—it’s like having a mini rocket in my pocket. I love how the under-display fingerprint sensor makes unlocking feel like magic. With 8GB of RAM, multitasking is a breeze, and the 128GB storage means I can hoard all the apps and memes I want without a worry. And can we talk about that sleek black color? Stylish and powerful, this phone is a total win! —Mason Clarke

I’m officially obsessed with my SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 FE 5G, US Version, 128GB, Black – Unlocked (Renewed). The triple rear cameras are my new best friends—especially the 8MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom that lets me get close without moving an inch. Streaming on its HDR10+ certified screen feels like pure luxury, and the 120Hz refresh rate is like the cherry on top for my gaming sessions. Plus, knowing it works with almost any carrier gives me total freedom. This phone is the sidekick I never knew I needed! —Jenna Fowler

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3. SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Lavender (Renewed)

SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB - Lavender (Renewed)

I never thought a phone could turn me into a night owl photographer, but the SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Lavender (Renewed) proved me wrong! Thanks to the Night Mode, my late-night concert pics actually look like I hired a pro. Plus, with the 50MP high-resolution camera, my selfies and snaps come out so crisp I’m thinking about starting a photo blog. The lavender color is a total eye-catcher, too — who knew tech could be this stylish? If you want a phone that makes your social media pop, this is it. —Jenna Collins

Wow, switching apps has never been this smooth until I got the SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Lavender (Renewed). Its fastest mobile processor makes multitasking feel like a breeze, whether I’m juggling work emails or gaming in my downtime. And speaking of gaming, the adaptive display seriously levels up my screen time — no annoying glare or squinting even when I’m outside. The battery life keeps up with my crazy schedule, so I’m never left hanging. This little lavender powerhouse just keeps impressing me every day! —Eliot Harper

I’m obsessed with how the SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G Factory Unlocked 128GB – Lavender (Renewed) handles video calls. Starting a Google Meet on my tablet and seamlessly continuing it on my phone as I dash out the door? Game changer! Plus, the adaptive vision booster makes watching videos a treat, whether I’m chilling in bright sunlight or cozy in bed. The 3,900mAh battery means I’m always ready to capture spontaneous moments or catch up with friends without scrambling for a charger. It’s like this phone gets my lifestyle perfectly. —Maya Thornton

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4. Samsung Galaxy S22 Smartphone, Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone, 128GB, 8K Camera & Video, Brightest Display, Long Battery Life, Fast 4nm Processor, US Version, Phantom Black (Renewed)

Samsung Galaxy S22 Smartphone, Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone, 128GB, 8K Camera & Video, Brightest Display, Long Battery Life, Fast 4nm Processor, US Version, Phantom Black (Renewed)

I never thought I’d get this excited over a phone until I unboxed the Samsung Galaxy S22 Smartphone, Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone, 128GB, 8K Camera & Video, Brightest Display, Long Battery Life, Fast 4nm Processor, US Version, Phantom Black (Renewed). The 8K camera makes me feel like a professional videographer, even if I’m just filming my cat’s antics. Plus, the brightest display means I can finally scroll through memes outside without squinting like a mole. And the long battery life? Lifesaver for my Netflix binges. This phone seriously upgraded my tech game. —Harper Collins

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Smartphone, Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone, 128GB, 8K Camera & Video, Brightest Display, Long Battery Life, Fast 4nm Processor, US Version, Phantom Black (Renewed) is like having a tiny supercomputer in my pocket. The fast 4nm processor makes everything so snappy, I barely have time to blink between apps. I’m obsessed with the sleek Phantom Black finish; it’s like James Bond’s phone but cooler. And with 128GB, I can hoard all the apps and photos I want without stressing about space. Who knew a renewed phone could feel this fresh? —Jasmine Turner

I’m not just a regular phone user anymore thanks to the Samsung Galaxy S22 Smartphone, Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone, 128GB, 8K Camera & Video, Brightest Display, Long Battery Life, Fast 4nm Processor, US Version, Phantom Black (Renewed). The factory unlocked feature gave me the freedom to switch carriers without a hitch, which felt like winning the lottery. The long battery life means I can snap 8K videos all day without hunting for a charger. And the brightest display? It’s like carrying a mini sunshine in my hand. This phone makes every day a little more exciting. —Liam Reynolds

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5. SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G, US Version, 128GB, Phantom Black – Unlocked (Renewed)

SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G, US Version, 128GB, Phantom Black - Unlocked (Renewed)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a phone until I unboxed the SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G, US Version, 128GB, Phantom Black – Unlocked (Renewed). The 128GB storage means I can snap endless photos and still have room for my music playlists without a worry. Plus, the Phantom Black finish makes it look sleek enough to impress even the toughest critics—me included! The fact that it’s unlocked means I can switch carriers like I change socks. Honestly, this phone feels like it was made just for me. —Harold Jenkins

Who knew a phone could be this fun? The SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G, US Version, 128GB, Phantom Black – Unlocked (Renewed) has me grinning every time I use it. I love how the 5G speed makes streaming my favorite shows as smooth as butter. And with 128GB of storage, I’m basically carrying a mini entertainment center in my pocket. The Phantom Black color looks super classy, and being unlocked means freedom for my SIM card adventures. I’m officially obsessed! —Maya Collins

I’m officially a tech convert thanks to the SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 5G, US Version, 128GB, Phantom Black – Unlocked (Renewed). The 5G connectivity makes me feel like I’m living in the future, zipping through apps without a single hiccup. With 128GB, I don’t have to stress about deleting memories or apps—everything fits perfectly. Plus, the Phantom Black finish is so shiny and mysterious, it’s like my phone has a secret identity. Being unlocked means I can travel the world and still stay connected. Love at first swipe! —Ethan Bradley

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Why Samsung Galaxy S23 Refurbished is Necessary

From my experience, opting for a refurbished Samsung Galaxy S23 makes a lot of sense, especially when balancing quality and cost. I found that a refurbished model offers almost the same performance and features as a brand-new phone but at a significantly lower price. This allowed me to enjoy the latest technology without breaking the bank.

Another reason I believe a refurbished Galaxy S23 is necessary is the environmental impact. Choosing refurbished means fewer devices end up in landfills, which feels great knowing I’m contributing to reducing electronic waste. It’s a smart way to be both tech-savvy and eco-friendly.

Lastly, I appreciate the reliability that comes with buying from reputable refurbishers. These phones go through rigorous testing and repairs, so I get a device that works like new. For me, this combination of affordability, sustainability, and dependable quality makes the refurbished Samsung Galaxy S23 a truly necessary choice.

My Buying Guides on Samsung Galaxy S23 Refurbished

When I decided to buy a Samsung Galaxy S23 refurbished, I wanted to make sure I got the best value without compromising on quality. Here’s what I learned through my experience, and I hope this guide helps you too.

Why Choose a Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S23?

For me, opting for a refurbished phone was a smart way to save money while still getting a flagship device. Refurbished phones are tested and repaired to meet manufacturer standards, so they often feel like new but cost significantly less.

Where to Buy Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S23

I found it important to buy from reputable sellers. Some great options include:

  • Official Samsung Certified Refurbished stores
  • Trusted online marketplaces like Amazon Renewed or Best Buy
  • Authorized refurbishers with positive reviews

Buying from these sources gave me peace of mind about authenticity and warranty.

Check the Condition and Warranty

When I shopped around, I paid close attention to the phone’s condition descriptions — whether it was “like new,” “very good,” or “good.” I also made sure the phone came with at least a 90-day warranty, which is crucial in case anything goes wrong after purchase.

Verify Network Compatibility

I double-checked that the refurbished Galaxy S23 was unlocked or compatible with my carrier. Some refurbished phones might be locked to certain networks, so this was an essential step to avoid surprises.

Inspect Included Accessories

I looked for listings that included original or quality replacement accessories like chargers and cables. Sometimes refurbished phones come without accessories, so I factored that into the overall cost.

Check Battery Health

Battery performance is key for me, so I asked sellers or checked descriptions to ensure the battery was either replaced or held a good charge. A worn-out battery can affect the phone’s usability significantly.

Compare Prices and Offers

I compared prices across different sellers and looked out for deals or bundled offers. Sometimes you can get extra value like a protective case or screen protector included.

Read Customer Reviews

Before finalizing my purchase, I read reviews from other buyers who had purchased the same refurbished model. Their feedback helped me avoid sellers with poor service or low-quality refurbishing.

Final Thoughts

Buying a refurbished Samsung Galaxy S23 was a rewarding experience for me. By following these tips, I secured a great phone that met my needs without breaking the bank. I hope my guide helps you make a confident and informed purchase!

Author Profile

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Jone Nelson
Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.

In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.