Galaxy S7 Edge Overview — A Classic Flagship from 2016
When it launched in early 2016, the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge set a new benchmark for smartphone design and innovation. With its curved-edge 5.5-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED display, premium glass-and-metal build, water resistance, and outstanding camera, it was one of the most admired Android phones of its generation.
The device was powered by the Snapdragon 820 processor (in the U.S.) and paired with 4GB of RAM — a powerful combination at the time. Its 12MP f/1.7 camera introduced Dual Pixel autofocus, delivering some of the best low-light photos ever seen on a smartphone. Combined with a 3600 mAh battery and expandable storage, the S7 Edge became a favorite among Android enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
However, fast-forward to 2025, and the Galaxy S7 Edge’s once-flagship features now feel ancient. While its curved design remains iconic, the hardware and software limitations make it a poor choice for modern use — especially as security risks and app incompatibility continue to grow each year.
Galaxy S7 Edge Review in 2025
Price and Availability
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S7 Edge units are completely out of stock in 2025. The phone is simply too old for most professional refurbishers to support — parts are scarce, resale value is too low, and Samsung’s official software support ended years ago.
You might still find a few used listings on peer-to-peer marketplaces like eBay or Facebook Marketplace for around $100, but these are uncertified and typically come with heavily worn batteries, scratched screens, or replaced components. In short, it’s a risky purchase with no warranty or reliability guarantee.
By contrast, much newer Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22 models have dropped to around $150+, offering far superior performance, cameras, and ongoing software support.
Chipset and Performance
The Galaxy S7 Edge is powered by the Snapdragon 820 — a chip that was impressive in 2016 but is now vastly outdated. Paired with 4GB of RAM, it struggles to handle modern apps, multitasking, and web browsing. Even lightweight tasks like scrolling social media or streaming video can result in stutters or lag.
By 2025 standards, the S7 Edge’s performance is comparable to a low-end budget phone. The Adreno 530 GPU can no longer keep up with newer games or high-resolution video playback, and the device’s internal storage (UFS 2.0) feels slow compared to modern standards.
In contrast, newer Samsung models like the Galaxy S22 use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, offering up to 4x faster performance, better efficiency, and long-term stability — making the S7 Edge feel sluggish and outdated in comparison.
Camera and Display
Back in 2016, the S7 Edge’s 12MP Dual Pixel camera was revolutionary, offering lightning-fast autofocus and outstanding low-light results. But in 2025, it’s showing its age. Modern smartphones feature multiple lenses, AI optimization, and advanced HDR — all of which the S7 Edge lacks. The result: photos that look flat and grainy, especially in low-light environments.
Its 5.5-inch Super AMOLED display still looks crisp, but it’s limited to a 60Hz refresh rate and lower peak brightness than newer models. Over the years, many S7 Edge screens also suffer from burn-in or fading, which further diminishes visual quality. While its curved design remains attractive, the durability and display performance are no longer up to flagship standards.
Battery
Battery life is one of the Galaxy S7 Edge’s biggest weaknesses in 2025. Its 3600 mAh battery, once considered large, has likely degraded significantly after nearly a decade of use. Most units last only a few hours of screen time before needing a recharge.
The phone also supports only 15W wired charging, which feels painfully slow compared to modern standards. While battery replacement is technically possible, reliable OEM parts are difficult to find, and the process is not cost-effective given the phone’s age.
Software Support (Most Important)
This is where the Galaxy S7 Edge completely falls behind. Samsung officially ended all major software and security updates for the S7 Edge back in 2020, leaving it stuck on Android 8.0 (Oreo) with Samsung Experience UI.
That means the phone no longer receives critical security patches or compatibility updates. Many modern apps — especially banking, productivity, and entertainment platforms — either fail to install or perform poorly on the outdated Android version.
Without ongoing support, the S7 Edge is not only inefficient but also unsafe to use for sensitive tasks like online shopping or storing personal data. In short, while the hardware might still power on, the software is too far behind to be reliable or secure in 2025.
Better Alternative: Galaxy S22
Specs Comparison
| Feature | Galaxy S7 Edge | Galaxy S22 |
|---|
| Launch Year | 2016 | 2022 |
| Display | 5.5" Quad HD Super AMOLED, 60Hz | 6.1" FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, 1300 nits |
| Processor (U.S.) | Snapdragon 820 (14nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) |
| RAM / Storage | 4GB / up to 64GB (UFS 2.0) | 8GB / up to 256GB (UFS 3.1) |
| Main Camera | 12MP (single) | 50MP (wide) + 12MP (ultrawide) + 10MP (telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 5MP | 10MP |
| 5G Connectivity | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Battery | 3600 mAh, 15W charging | 3700 mAh, 25W charging |
| Software Support | Up to Android 8.0 (Oreo) | Android 16 (One UI 8), Supported through 2028 |
| Certified Used / Refurbished Price (2025) | ~$100 (individual sellers only) | ~$150+ (Certified Resellers, holiday promo) |
Performance and Speed
The Galaxy S7 Edge was fast for its time, but the Snapdragon 820 simply can’t compete with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 that powers the Galaxy S22. The difference in speed, responsiveness, and efficiency is enormous. The S22 opens apps instantly, handles multitasking effortlessly, and runs demanding games smoothly — all while consuming less power.
In benchmarks and real-world use, the S22 is roughly four times faster than the S7 Edge. That means smoother animations, faster updates, and no slowdowns, even years after purchase.
Display and Design
The S7 Edge’s curved 5.5-inch AMOLED display was stunning in 2016, but it’s limited to 60Hz refresh and lower brightness levels. The S22’s 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is brighter (up to 1300 nits), more color-accurate, and far smoother.
Design-wise, both devices feature premium glass builds, but the S22 is sleeker, sturdier, and protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+. It’s also IP68 water-resistant, slimmer, and easier to handle — blending durability with modern minimalism.
Camera System
The S7 Edge’s single 12MP rear camera was legendary for its time, but it can’t hold up in 2025. The S22’s triple-camera setup — 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto — delivers dramatically better image quality, color accuracy, and low-light performance.
The addition of AI-enhanced photography and Night Mode gives the S22 a massive edge. Whether it’s portraits, landscapes, or videos, the difference is night and day — literally.
Battery and Charging
After nine years, the S7 Edge’s battery capacity has degraded significantly, often lasting just a few hours of moderate use. Even a replacement battery can’t match modern efficiency.
The S22, on the other hand, includes a 3700 mAh battery with 25W fast charging, allowing a 50% charge in under 30 minutes. Combined with its energy-efficient 4nm processor, it offers full-day endurance — something the S7 Edge can’t match.
Software and Longevity
Software support is where the Galaxy S7 Edge completely falls behind. It’s stuck on Android 8.0 (Oreo), making it incompatible with many modern apps and features.
The Galaxy S22, however, runs Android 16 (One UI 8) and is guaranteed support through 2028, including monthly security updates through 2026 and quarterly patches afterward. That’s ensuring long-term reliability and resale value.
Conclusion — Should You Still Buy the Galaxy S7 Edge in 2025?
No — the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge is no longer worth buying in 2025. While it was a groundbreaking device in its time, it has long surpassed its usable lifespan. With outdated hardware, limited app compatibility, and no software or security updates since 2020, it’s simply not safe or practical for daily use today.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S7 Edge units are out of stock, as professional refurbishers have stopped supporting models this old. You may still find used listings for around $100, but these are uncertified and often come with worn-out batteries, slower performance, and no warranty — making them a risky purchase.
Instead, the Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22 is a far better investment. Starting at around $150+, it delivers flagship-level performance, a stunning 120Hz AMOLED display, 5G connectivity, and long-term software support through 2028. With modern cameras, efficient battery life, and guaranteed updates, the Galaxy S22 is the smarter, safer, and more future-proof choice in 2025.
FAQ: Buying the Galaxy S7 Edge in 2025
1. How old is the Galaxy S7 Edge in 2025?
The Galaxy S7 Edge was released in March 2016, making it nine years old in 2025.
2. Does the Galaxy S7 Edge still receive software updates?
No. Samsung ended official support for the S7 Edge in 2020, leaving it stuck on Android 8.0 (Oreo) with no security or feature updates.
3. Is the Galaxy S7 Edge safe to use in 2025?
Not really. Without ongoing security patches, it’s vulnerable to modern threats and data breaches. It’s best avoided for banking or personal use.
4. How much does the Galaxy S7 Edge cost in 2025?
Used, uncertified units typically sell for around $100 on marketplaces, but they lack warranties and may have degraded batteries or screens.
5. Can I find a Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S7 Edge?
No. The S7 Edge is too old for Certified Resellers, who now focus on newer models with available replacement parts and software support.
6. What Android version does the Galaxy S7 Edge run?
The S7 Edge maxed out at Android 8.0 (Oreo) and no longer supports newer Android versions.
7. Does the Galaxy S7 Edge support 5G?
No. The phone only supports 4G LTE networks and lacks 5G hardware.
8. Is it worth repairing or replacing the battery?
No. Replacement batteries are difficult to find and not worth the cost for such an outdated phone.
9. How does the Galaxy S7 Edge compare to the Galaxy S22?
The S22 is superior in every way — speed, camera quality, software support, display, and battery life — while costing only slightly more.
10. What’s the best alternative to the Galaxy S7 Edge in 2025?
The Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22 offers top-tier performance, modern design, and years of support at a great price — making it the best upgrade choice.
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