Introduction
When the Samsung Galaxy S8 launched in 2017, it redefined smartphone design. Its edge-to-edge Infinity Display, slim bezels, and premium build made it one of the most futuristic Android phones ever released. It was also one of the first devices to introduce Samsung’s intelligent assistant, Bixby, and featured the reliable Snapdragon 835 processor with solid performance for its time.
Fast forward to 2025, and the Galaxy S8 now feels like a relic of another era. While it still holds nostalgic value, it’s no longer practical for modern use. According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S8 models are almost impossible to find, as most professional resellers have stopped refurbishing such an old model. Even when available through individual sellers, they typically cost around $100+ and come with degraded batteries, outdated software, and zero warranty.
For anyone seeking an affordable Samsung flagship in 2025, the Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22—often available for around $140+—is a much better option. It delivers modern performance, camera quality, and ongoing software updates, making it a smarter and longer-lasting purchase.
Galaxy S8 in 2025
Price and Availability
By 2025, the Samsung Galaxy S8 has become extremely difficult to find through professional resellers. According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S8 units are practically out of circulation, as most refurbishers have stopped servicing models this old. The lack of replacement parts, poor resale margins, and expired software support make it unviable for certified refurbishing programs.
That said, you may still come across a few listings from individual sellers on peer-to-peer marketplaces for around $100–$120. However, these units typically have heavily degraded batteries, scratched displays, and no warranty or certification. The risks of buying such an old, unsupported phone far outweigh the savings.
In contrast, the Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22—often priced around $140+—offers exponentially better performance, cameras, and software longevity. It’s the smarter and safer choice for anyone shopping for a Samsung device in 2025.
Software Support — Ended in 2021
The Galaxy S8 officially reached its end of software support in 2021, marking the end of major Android and security updates. It last received Android 9 (Pie) and One UI 1.0, which means it’s now several generations behind Samsung’s current software platform, One UI 8 (Android 16).
Without these updates, the S8 no longer benefits from security patches, app compatibility fixes, or performance optimizations. Many popular apps—especially banking, streaming, and productivity tools—are beginning to phase out support for older Android versions. This leaves the S8 vulnerable to security risks, app crashes, and unstable performance.
Even for casual users, the lack of updates means diminished usability and safety. It’s one of the biggest reasons why the Galaxy S8 is no longer viable as a daily driver in 2025.
Performance and Hardware — Struggles to Keep Up in 2025
At its launch, the Snapdragon 835 chip was cutting-edge, powering the Galaxy S8 with impressive speed and efficiency. But nearly eight years later, that performance has fallen far behind. With only 4GB of RAM and aging internal components, the phone struggles to handle modern multitasking, high-resolution streaming, and graphic-intensive apps.
Modern smartphones—especially models like the Galaxy S22—offer significantly faster chipsets (Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and newer), 8GB or more of RAM, and optimized storage speeds that make daily use far smoother. In comparison, the S8 often feels laggy, slow to respond, and limited by older app compatibility.
The outdated GPU also struggles with newer games and camera processing. While it can still handle basic tasks like calling, texting, and light web browsing, it’s simply not built for modern demands in 2025.
Battery and Display — Aging Technology Shows Its Limits
Even the Galaxy S8’s once-beautiful 5.8-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display shows its age today. Though still sharp, it’s limited to a 60Hz refresh rate and lower peak brightness than modern panels, making it less vibrant and harder to view outdoors compared to Samsung’s latest Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays.
Battery life is an even bigger issue. Most original batteries are now severely degraded, often holding only 60–70% of their original capacity. Even refurbished units rarely last a full day on a charge without replacement—and aftermarket batteries are hit or miss in quality.
Combined with its outdated charging speed (15W) and USB-C 3.0 limitations, the S8 simply can’t keep up with modern expectations for endurance and convenience.
Recommended Alternative — Galaxy S22 ($140+)
If you’re considering a Samsung upgrade in 2025, the Galaxy S22 is easily the best alternative to the aging S8. Despite being five years newer, Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22 models have dropped to around $140+, putting them in nearly the same price range as old, uncertified Galaxy S8 units.
Specs Comparison
| Feature |
Galaxy S8 |
Galaxy S22 |
| Launch Year |
2017 |
2022 |
| Display |
5.8" Quad HD+ Super AMOLED, 60Hz |
6.1" FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, 1300 nits |
| Processor (U.S.) |
Snapdragon 835 (10nm) |
Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) |
| RAM / Storage |
4GB / up to 64GB (UFS 2.1) |
8GB / up to 256GB (UFS 3.1) |
| Main Camera |
12MP (single) |
50MP (wide) + 12MP (ultrawide) + 10MP (telephoto) |
| Front Camera |
8MP |
10MP |
| 5G Connectivity |
❌ No |
✅ Yes |
| Battery |
3000 mAh, 15W charging |
3700 mAh, 25W charging |
| Software Support |
Up to Android 9 (One UI 1.0) |
Android 16 (One UI 8), Supported through 2028 |
| Certified Used / Refurbished Price (2025) |
~$100 (individual sellers only) |
~$140+ (Certified Resellers) |
1. Performance and Speed
The difference in performance between the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S22 is like night and day. The Snapdragon 835 chip in the S8, while groundbreaking in 2017, struggles to handle today’s demanding apps and multitasking. In contrast, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 in the S22 offers more than 3x faster CPU speeds and vastly improved energy efficiency thanks to its 4nm architecture. Everyday tasks like app switching, photography, and gaming feel instant and fluid on the S22 — something the S8 can no longer deliver.
2. Display and Design
The Galaxy S8 introduced Samsung’s iconic Infinity Display, but its 60Hz refresh rate and lower brightness make it feel dated in 2025. The Galaxy S22’s 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen is smoother, brighter (1300 nits), and more color-accurate. Design-wise, both are premium, but the S22’s flat-edge build with Gorilla Glass Victus+ offers better durability and a modern aesthetic that’s easier to hold and repair.
3. Camera Technology
This is where the difference is most striking. The Galaxy S8’s single 12MP camera simply can’t compete with the S22’s triple-lens system featuring 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto lenses. The S22 also benefits from AI-powered image processing, night mode, optical zoom, and 8K video recording. Whether it’s daylight photography or low-light performance, the S22 captures significantly more detail and dynamic range.
4. Software and Support
Samsung ended software updates for the Galaxy S8 back in 2021, leaving it stuck on Android 9. The Galaxy S22, on the other hand, ships with Android 16 (One UI 8) and will continue to receive monthly updates through 2026, followed by quarterly patches until 2028. That’s a five-year window of ongoing improvements and security protection — a critical factor for safe, modern smartphone use.
5. Battery and Charging
After eight years of use, most Galaxy S8 batteries have lost over 40% of their original capacity. Even new replacement batteries can’t match the efficiency of modern hardware. The Galaxy S22’s 3700 mAh cell not only lasts longer but also supports 25W fast charging, recharging far quicker than the S8’s outdated 15W charging speed. Combined with the S22’s power-efficient 4nm chip, users can easily get through a full day of heavy use.
Conclusion — Should You Still Buy the Galaxy S8 in 2025?
No — the Samsung Galaxy S8 is no longer worth buying in 2025. While it remains a nostalgic and well-designed piece of Samsung history, it’s far too outdated to serve as a reliable smartphone today. With its software support ending in 2021, the S8 no longer receives updates, patches, or compatibility improvements — leaving it vulnerable and increasingly incompatible with modern apps and security standards.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S8 units are virtually unavailable because most professional resellers have stopped refurbishing them. The few units sold by individuals—typically around $100+—come with degraded batteries and no warranty, making them a risky investment.
Instead, the Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22, available from trusted sellers for around $140+, is a far better option. It offers flagship-level performance, 5G connectivity, and long-term software support through 2028. For nearly the same price, the Galaxy S22 delivers a vastly better and more future-proof experience in every way.
FAQ: Buying the Galaxy S8 in 2025
1. How old is the Galaxy S8 in 2025?
The Galaxy S8 was released in April 2017, making it eight years old in 2025. It’s one of Samsung’s oldest flagships that’s still occasionally seen on resale markets.
2. Does the Galaxy S8 still receive software updates?
No. Samsung officially ended software and security updates in 2021, leaving the device stuck on Android 9 (Pie).
3. Is the Galaxy S8 safe to use in 2025?
Not really. Without recent security patches, the Galaxy S8 is vulnerable to malware and privacy risks, especially for banking or sensitive apps.
4. How much does the Galaxy S8 cost in 2025?
Most listings from individual sellers price the S8 around $100–$120, but these units are typically uncertified, used heavily, and lack warranties.
5. Can I still find Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S8 models?
Rarely. Professional refurbishers have stopped selling the S8 due to its age, lack of software support, and unavailability of replacement parts.
6. What’s the last Android version the Galaxy S8 supports?
The Galaxy S8 maxed out at Android 9 (One UI 1.0) and never received Android 10 or later versions.
7. How is the Galaxy S8’s camera compared to modern phones?
The single 12MP camera still takes decent photos in daylight, but it lacks AI processing, Night Mode, and multiple lenses that newer phones like the S22 offer.
8. How does the Galaxy S8 compare to the Galaxy S22?
The Galaxy S22 outperforms the S8 in every way — speed, battery life, camera quality, software support, and connectivity. It’s also surprisingly affordable, starting around $140+ for Certified Used or Refurbished models.
9. Is it worth repairing or replacing the battery on the S8?
No. Battery replacements are hard to source and not cost-effective given the phone’s age and lack of updates.
10. What’s the best alternative to the Galaxy S8 in 2025?
The Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S22 is the best choice. It delivers flagship performance, 5G, and long-term software support at nearly the same price as an outdated S8.
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