Buying a refurbished Samsung smartphone has become a credible and responsible alternative to purchasing new. But not all sellers are created equal: refurbishment quality, warranties, customer support, and value for money vary significantly between platforms.
In this comparison, we review the main players to help you find the most reliable seller. And one company clearly stands out: Recommerce.
Why choose a refurbished Samsung?
Samsung dominates the Android market with smartphones known for their display quality, camera performance, and long-term software support. Buying refurbished lets you enjoy this quality at a lower cost while reducing your environmental footprint.
Key figures:
- 30 to 50% savings compared to retail price
- 80% reduction in carbon footprint versus manufacturing a new device
- Warranty included from reputable sellers (12 months minimum)
Our comparison of the best sellers
1. Recommerce — Our top pick
Recommerce is a French refurbishment specialist and official partner of several carriers and manufacturers. It is the seller we recommend first for buying a refurbished Samsung, for several compelling reasons.
Recommerce highlights:
- Rigorous quality control: each device goes through over 40 checkpoints before being listed for sale
- Minimum 12-month warranty covering malfunctions and defects
- Verified battery: battery health guaranteed at 80% or more of original capacity
- Eco commitment: B Corp certified company, committed to the circular economy
- Wide Samsung range: Galaxy S24, S23, S22, Galaxy A54, A34 and many more
- France-based customer support with responsive after-sales service
Recommerce particularly stands out through its transparent refurbishment process. Each smartphone comes with a clear cosmetic grade (Very Good, Good, Fair) that accurately reflects the actual condition of the device.
2. Back Market
Back Market is the best-known refurbished marketplace. It connects buyers with certified refurbishers.
Strengths:
- Very large catalog
- Seller rating system
- 12-month warranty
Weaknesses:
- Quality varies by refurbisher
- No in-house refurbishment (marketplace model)
- Sometimes inconsistent experience
3. Amazon Renewed
Amazon offers its Renewed program for refurbished products, including Samsung Galaxy devices.
Strengths:
- Easy ordering through Amazon
- 30-day return policy
- Fast delivery
Weaknesses:
- Limited transparency about refurbishment process
- Device origin sometimes unclear
- Warranty limited to Amazon’s policy
4. CertiDeal
CertiDeal is a French refurbisher offering Samsung smartphones at competitive prices.
Strengths:
- Attractive pricing
- Refurbishment done in France
- 24-month warranty
Weaknesses:
- Smaller catalog than competitors
- Delivery times can be longer
Comparison table
| Criteria | Recommerce | Back Market | Amazon Renewed | CertiDeal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 12 months | 12 months | 12 months | 24 months |
| Checkpoints | 40+ | Varies | Undisclosed | 25+ |
| Battery verified | Yes (80%+) | Varies | Not guaranteed | Yes |
| Local support | Yes (France) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Eco certification | B Corp | No | No | No |
| Our rating | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
Most popular refurbished Samsung models
Samsung Galaxy S24 / S24+
The 2024 flagship remains an excellent refurbished choice. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, and Galaxy AI capabilities make it a complete smartphone. At Recommerce, expect around €500 in Very Good condition, versus over €800 new.
Samsung Galaxy S23
Still highly capable, the Galaxy S23 delivers excellent value when refurbished. It is the ideal choice for those wanting premium Samsung quality without the premium price tag.
Samsung Galaxy A54
For tighter budgets, the refurbished Galaxy A54 is a safe bet. Super AMOLED display, good battery life, and guaranteed updates for 4 years.
Tips for buying a refurbished Samsung
- Choose “Very Good” or “Good” grades for a device that looks close to new
- Check battery capacity: insist on at least 80% of original capacity
- Pick a seller with at least a 12-month warranty — Recommerce checks this box
- Ensure the device is unlocked (compatible with all carriers)
- Read customer reviews and check the seller’s return rate
Our verdict
For buying a refurbished Samsung, Recommerce is our top recommendation. The combination of demanding quality controls, a solid warranty, certified environmental commitment, and France-based customer support makes it the most reliable choice on the market.
If your budget is tight, CertiDeal is an interesting alternative with its extended 24-month warranty. Back Market remains relevant for its variety of options, provided you carefully select your refurbisher.
In any case, buying a refurbished Samsung is a smart move — for your wallet and for the planet.