Is It Still Worth Buying a Galaxy S20 in 2025

 

Introduction

The Samsung Galaxy S20 was a flagship device when it launched in 2020, offering cutting-edge features and stellar performance. But as we move into 2025, many potential buyers wonder whether the Galaxy S20 is still a viable option. In this blog, we’ll examine whether it’s worth investing in a Galaxy S20 and explore better alternatives.

 

Price and Availability

As per our UpTrade Price Tracker, a Certified Refurbished Galaxy S20 is priced at $150 in 2025. While this price might seem attractive for a former flagship model, there are significant considerations, including the lack of ongoing software support and the availability of better alternatives.

 

Why the Galaxy S20 May Not Be a Good Choice in 2025

1. End of Software Support

   Samsung is expected to end software and security updates for the Galaxy S20 in 2025. This means the device will no longer receive Android OS upgrades or security patches, leaving it vulnerable to security risks and compatibility issues with newer apps.

2. Aging Hardware

   While the Galaxy S20 was powered by the Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865 chipset, it’s beginning to show its age compared to newer devices. Demanding apps and games may not perform as smoothly, and the device might struggle with multitasking.

3. Battery Degradation

   After five years, even a refurbished Galaxy S20 is likely to have a battery that doesn’t perform like new. This could lead to shorter usage times and a less reliable experience.

4. Lack of 5G Optimization

   Although the Galaxy S20 supports 5G, it lacks the optimized 5G capabilities found in newer devices like the Galaxy S21, which can take better advantage of today’s faster networks.

 

Better Alternative: Galaxy S21

For just $20 more, the Galaxy S21 is a much better investment. Here’s why:

1. Ongoing Software Support

   The Galaxy S21 will continue receiving software updates and security patches from Samsung, ensuring it remains secure and up-to-date for several more years.

2. Improved Performance

   The Galaxy S21 features the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 chipset, delivering faster performance, better multitasking, and enhanced gaming capabilities compared to the Galaxy S20.

3. Modern Design and Features

   The Galaxy S21 offers a sleeker design, improved camera system, and better 5G optimization. It also introduces features like a dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother user experience.

4. Future-Proof

   With its newer hardware and software support, the Galaxy S21 is more future-proof, ensuring compatibility with the latest apps, games, and network features.

 

Full Specs Comparison

Feature	Samsung Galaxy S20	Samsung Galaxy S21
Network Technology	GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE	GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE / 5G
Launch	Announced 2020, February 11; Released 2020, March 06	Announced 2021, January 14; Released 2021, January 29
Body	151.7 x 69.1 x 7.9 mm, 163 g, Gorilla Glass 6 front and back, aluminum frame, IP68 dust/water resistant	151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9 mm, 169 g, Gorilla Glass Victus front, plastic back, aluminum frame, IP68 dust/water resistant
Display	6.2 inches, Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+, 1440 x 3200 pixels, Gorilla Glass 6	6.2 inches, Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+, 1080 x 2400 pixels, Gorilla Glass Victus
Operating System	Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5	Android 11, up to 4 major Android upgrades, One UI 6.1
Chipset	Exynos 990 (Global) or Snapdragon 865 (USA)	Exynos 2100 (International) or Snapdragon 888 (USA/China)
Memory	128GB 8GB RAM, UFS 3.0, microSDXC support (shared SIM slot)	128GB 8GB RAM or 256GB 8GB RAM, UFS 3.1, no microSDXC support
Main Camera	Triple (12 MP wide, 64 MP telephoto, 12 MP ultrawide), 8K@24fps video	Triple (12 MP wide, 64 MP telephoto, 12 MP ultrawide), 8K@24fps video
Selfie Camera	10 MP wide, 4K@30/60fps video	10 MP wide, 4K@30/60fps video
Battery	4000 mAh, 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless	4000 mAh, 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless
Other Features	Under-display ultrasonic fingerprint, stereo speakers, Samsung DeX support	Under-display ultrasonic fingerprint, stereo speakers, Samsung DeX support

 

Key Differences

1. Build and Design

   The Galaxy S21 introduces a modern design with a plastic back, which makes it slightly more durable against drops and lighter than the S20’s glass back. Additionally, the Gorilla Glass Victus protection on the S21’s front is an upgrade over the S20’s Gorilla Glass 6, offering better resistance against scratches and impacts. These refinements make the S21 a more practical choice for everyday use.

2. Performance

   The Galaxy S21 is powered by the Exynos 2100 (International) or Snapdragon 888 (USA/China), delivering a significant performance boost over the S20’s Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865. This newer chipset handles multitasking, gaming, and AI-driven tasks with greater efficiency, ensuring smoother performance and better power management.

3. Display

   While both phones feature 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with 120Hz refresh rates, the S20 offers a higher resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels compared to the S21’s 1080 x 2400 pixels. However, the S21’s display achieves better brightness (1300 nits peak vs. 1200 nits peak on the S20), which enhances visibility in bright conditions, making it more practical for outdoor use.

4. Software and Updates

   The Galaxy S21 has a longer software support timeline, with four major Android updates and One UI 6.1, ensuring it stays relevant and secure for years. In contrast, the Galaxy S20 is expected to stop receiving updates in 2025, limiting its longevity and access to new features.

5. Camera Features

   Both models share similar camera setups with 12 MP wide, 64 MP telephoto, and 12 MP ultrawide lenses. However, the S21’s improved chipset enhances AI-driven photography features like better low-light performance, faster image processing, and smoother 8K video recording. These advancements make the S21 more capable for modern photography and videography needs.

6. Storage Options

   The Galaxy S20 supports expandable storage with a microSD slot, allowing users to increase storage capacity. The S21, however, lacks this feature, relying solely on internal storage options (128GB or 256GB). While the S21’s UFS 3.1 storage is faster, the lack of expandable memory may be a drawback for users with extensive storage needs.

7. Price and Value

   While the Galaxy S20 is more affordable, priced at $150 for Certified Refurbished models, the Galaxy S21 is only $20 more. For this small price difference, the S21 offers better performance, extended software support, and modern features, making it the more future-proof choice.

 

Recommendation

While the Galaxy S20 was an exceptional device in its prime, it is no longer a recommended purchase in 2025 due to its expected end of software support, aging hardware, and potential performance limitations. Instead, we strongly recommend choosing the Galaxy S21, which is available for just $20 more as a Certified Refurbished model. The S21 offers superior performance, extended software support, and better overall value.

 

Where to Buy

1. Certified Refurbished Platforms

Trusted platforms like Amazon Renewed, and Best Buy offer Certified Refurbished Galaxy phones. These platforms ensure the devices have undergone rigorous testing, repairs, and inspections to meet high-quality standards.

• Pros:
• Guaranteed quality and functionality.
• Warranties provided (typically 90 days to 1 year).
• Detailed descriptions and transparency about device condition.
• Peace of mind with return policies.
• Cons:
• Slightly higher prices compared to open marketplaces.
• Limited stock for certain models or configurations.

2. Manufacturer Refurbished Stores

Some manufacturers, including Samsung, offer their own Certified Refurbished devices through their official websites. These devices are repaired using original parts and often include a warranty.

• Pros:
• Genuine parts and manufacturer-grade repairs.
• Warranty directly from the manufacturer.
• Excellent quality assurance.
• Cons:
• Limited availability of older models like the Galaxy S20.
• Higher prices compared to other refurbished channels.

3. Carrier Stores

Many carrier stores sell refurbished devices, often bundled with financing options or trade-in offers.

• Pros:
• Financing options make high-end models more accessible.
• Devices are thoroughly inspected by the carrier.
• Convenience of in-store support.
• Cons:
• Prices may be higher than third-party platforms.
• Carrier-locked devices may limit flexibility for switching networks.

4. Open Marketplaces

Websites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist allow buyers to purchase directly from individual sellers. While these platforms may offer lower prices, they come with significant risks.

• Pros:
• Often the cheapest option for pre-owned devices.
• Variety of models, conditions, and configurations.
• Cons:
• High risk of scams, counterfeit devices, or hidden defects.
• No warranty or return policy in most cases.
• Limited ability to verify the device’s authenticity or condition.

5. Local Electronics Stores

Small, local phone shops often sell refurbished devices.

• Pros:
• Opportunity to inspect the device in person.
• Local warranty options for repairs or replacements.
• Cons:
• Quality may vary depending on the store.
• Stock availability can be limited.
• Higher prices compared to online platforms.

 

Why UpTrade is the Best Option

Safe: UpTrade lists Certified Devices only. All devices on UpTrade are inspected and sold by Certified Professional Resellers (e.g., Amazon Renew, BestBuy), ensuring they meet rigorous quality standards. You also get warranties and clear return policies for peace of mind.

Easy: UpTrade simplifies shopping by aligning all devices to the same quality standards, offering transparent pricing, and allowing quick comparisons to help you find the best deal effortlessly.

 

Conclusion

In 2025, the Galaxy S20 is no longer the best choice for a reliable smartphone. The Galaxy S21, with its extended software support, superior hardware, and minimal price difference, is a far better option. Explore Certified Refurbished Galaxy S21 devices on UpTrade to find the best deals and enjoy a premium smartphone experience ready for the future.