Released in 2019, the Samsung Galaxy S10 was one of the best Android smartphones of its time. It introduced a stunning Dynamic AMOLED display, flagship performance, versatile triple cameras, wireless charging, expandable storage, and a compact premium design that many users still appreciate today. Even years later, the Galaxy S10 remains a capable phone for everyday tasks.
However, buying a smartphone in 2026 is about more than just hardware. Software support, security updates, and long-term value are just as important. Unfortunately, Samsung has completely ended support for the Galaxy S10, making it a much riskier purchase than newer Galaxy models.
According to the UpTrade Price Tracker, Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S10 models start at around $130+ in 2026. While that may sound like an affordable price, inventory has become increasingly limited due to the phone's age. For only a little more, you can buy a much newer Galaxy smartphone that offers significantly better performance, longer software support, and a better overall ownership experience.
In this guide, we'll explain why we don't recommend buying the Galaxy S10 in 2026, compare it with newer Samsung alternatives, and help you decide whether the Galaxy S23 FE or Galaxy S23 is the better choice.
| Category | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Overall Recommendation | ❌ Not Recommended |
| Certified Used / Refurbished Price | $130+ (Limited Stock) |
| Software Support | Ended |
| Security Updates | No longer receives updates |
| Best Budget Alternative | Galaxy S23 FE starting at $190+ |
| Best Overall Alternative | Galaxy S23 starting at $210+ |
The Samsung Galaxy S10 still offers premium hardware, including an excellent AMOLED display, a compact design, and a capable camera system. However, Samsung has completely ended software and security support, making it difficult to recommend as a primary phone in 2026.
For most buyers, we recommend the Galaxy S23 FE. Starting at around $190+, it costs only about $60 more than the Galaxy S10 while offering a much faster processor, improved cameras, longer battery life, and continued software support.
If your budget allows another $20, the Galaxy S23 is an even better choice. Starting at around $210+, it delivers flagship performance in a compact design while continuing to receive Android updates and security patches, making it one of the best values among Certified Used and Refurbished Samsung phones in 2026.
The Samsung Galaxy S10 was one of the most popular Android flagship smartphones when it launched in 2019. It offered a beautiful Dynamic AMOLED display, a powerful Snapdragon 855 processor, versatile triple cameras, expandable storage, wireless charging, and a premium glass-and-metal design. Even in 2026, the Galaxy S10 still feels well-built and can handle many everyday tasks.
However, technology has moved on significantly over the past seven years. Samsung has completely ended software and security support for the Galaxy S10, making it much less attractive than newer Galaxy phones. While the hardware remains respectable, the lack of software updates makes it difficult to recommend as a primary smartphone.
If you're looking for a Certified Used or Refurbished Samsung phone in 2026, spending a little more on the Galaxy S23 FE or Galaxy S23 provides substantially better long-term value.
According to the UpTrade Price Tracker, Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S10 models start at around $130+ in 2026. While the Galaxy S10 is more affordable than newer Samsung flagships, inventory has become increasingly limited because Samsung stopped producing the device years ago.
At first glance, $130 may seem like a bargain. However, for only about $60 more, you can purchase a Certified Used Galaxy S23 FE with years of software support remaining. Spending another $20 gets you the Galaxy S23, making both newer models much better values.
The biggest reason we don't recommend buying the Galaxy S10 in 2026 is software support.
Samsung has completely ended Android OS upgrades and security updates for the Galaxy S10. The phone no longer receives security patches or new Android features, making it increasingly vulnerable over time. As apps continue to evolve, some may eventually require newer Android versions that the Galaxy S10 cannot support.
For most buyers, continued software support is essential. That's why we recommend choosing a newer Galaxy phone like the Galaxy S23 FE or Galaxy S23 instead.
The Galaxy S10 is powered by the Snapdragon 855 processor in the U.S. and the Exynos 9820 in some international markets. Paired with 8GB of RAM, it still delivers smooth performance for web browsing, social media, video streaming, messaging, and most everyday apps.
However, newer Galaxy phones are significantly faster and more power efficient. They also support advanced AI features and provide a smoother experience when multitasking, gaming, and editing photos or videos.
One of the Galaxy S10's biggest strengths is its 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display. It delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, HDR10+ support, and excellent viewing angles. Even by today's standards, the display still looks fantastic.
The compact size also makes the Galaxy S10 appealing for users who prefer smaller phones. However, newer Galaxy devices offer brighter displays, higher refresh rates, and better outdoor visibility.
The Galaxy S10 features a versatile triple-camera system consisting of a 12MP main camera, a 12MP telephoto camera, and a 16MP ultra-wide camera. It still captures detailed photos in good lighting and offers plenty of flexibility for different shooting situations.
While the camera remains capable, newer Galaxy models produce noticeably better photos thanks to larger sensors, improved image processing, stronger zoom performance, and AI-powered photography features.
The Galaxy S10 includes a 3,400mAh battery with fast wired charging, fast wireless charging, and Wireless PowerShare. Battery life was solid when the phone was new, but battery degradation is a major concern for devices that are now several years old.
Although Certified Used and Refurbished phones are tested before being sold, buyers should still expect shorter battery life than newer Galaxy smartphones with larger batteries and more efficient processors.
The Galaxy S10 still stands out for its compact and lightweight design. Unlike many modern flagship phones, it fits comfortably in one hand while still offering premium materials and excellent build quality.
It also includes features that some newer smartphones have removed, including expandable microSD storage and a 3.5mm headphone jack. While these features remain attractive to some users, they aren't enough to outweigh the lack of software support in 2026.
If you're looking for the best value replacement for the Galaxy S10, the Galaxy S23 FE is our top recommendation. Starting at around $190+ for a Certified Used or Refurbished model, it costs only about $60 more than the Galaxy S10 while delivering a dramatically better ownership experience.
Although the Galaxy S23 FE isn't part of Samsung's flagship S23 lineup, it shares many of the same premium features, including a powerful processor, excellent cameras, a beautiful 120Hz AMOLED display, wireless charging, and IP68 water resistance. More importantly, it still supports Android 17 and continues to receive Samsung security updates.
For just a small increase in price, you get a phone that's faster, more secure, and far more future-proof than the unsupported Galaxy S10.
| Feature | Galaxy S10 | Galaxy S23 FE |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2019 | 2023 |
| Certified Used Price (2026) | $130+ | $190+ |
| Software Support | Ended | Supports Android 17 and continues to receive security updates |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 |
| CPU | Octa-core | Octa-core |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB |
| microSD Card | Yes (up to 512GB) | No |
| Display Technology | Dynamic AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.4-inch |
| Resolution | 3040 × 1440 | 2340 × 1080 |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz Adaptive |
| Peak Brightness | Up to 1,200 nits | Up to 1,450 nits |
| Main Camera | 12MP | 50MP |
| Ultra-wide Camera | 16MP | 12MP |
| Telephoto Camera | 12MP (2x Optical) | 8MP (3x Optical) |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 10MP |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K | Up to 8K |
| Battery Capacity | 3,400mAh | 4,500mAh |
| Wired Charging | 15W | 25W |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 15W |
| Reverse Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| 5G | No (U.S. Galaxy S10) | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| Galaxy AI | No | Yes |
The Galaxy S23 FE continues to receive Android OS upgrades and Samsung security updates, including support for Android 17. The Galaxy S10 no longer receives software or security updates, making the Galaxy S23 FE the much safer choice for everyday use.
The Galaxy S23 FE delivers a substantial performance upgrade thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 processor. Apps launch faster, multitasking feels smoother, and demanding games perform much better than on the Galaxy S10's Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9820.
Both phones feature excellent AMOLED displays, but the Galaxy S23 FE upgrades to a smoother 120Hz refresh rate and a brighter panel for improved outdoor visibility. While the Galaxy S10 has a slightly higher screen resolution, the S23 FE provides a noticeably smoother everyday experience.
The Galaxy S23 FE features a newer 50MP main camera with improved image processing, better low-light performance, and support for 8K video recording. While the Galaxy S10 still takes good photos, the S23 FE consistently produces sharper and more detailed images.
Battery life is one of the biggest improvements. The Galaxy S23 FE combines a larger 4,500mAh battery with a newer, more efficient processor, allowing it to comfortably outlast the Galaxy S10 throughout the day.
At only about $60 more, the Galaxy S23 FE offers exceptional value. It provides continued software support, a faster processor, better cameras, 5G connectivity, Galaxy AI features, and much longer battery life. For most buyers shopping for a Certified Used or Refurbished Samsung phone in 2026, the Galaxy S23 FE is a far smarter purchase than the Galaxy S10.
If you can increase your budget slightly, the Galaxy S23 is an even better choice than the Galaxy S23 FE. Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S23 models start at around $210+ in 2026, only about $80 more than the Galaxy S10. For that small price difference, you get Samsung's true 2023 flagship experience in a compact and premium design.
The Galaxy S23 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, one of the fastest and most efficient smartphone chips available. It also offers a brighter 120Hz AMOLED display, improved cameras, longer battery life, Galaxy AI features, and continued software support. If you prefer smaller smartphones but don't want to compromise on performance, the Galaxy S23 is one of the best Certified Used and Refurbished Android phones you can buy in 2026.
Although it costs slightly more than the Galaxy S23 FE, the Galaxy S23's flagship processor and premium hardware make it well worth the additional investment.
| Feature | Galaxy S10 | Galaxy S23 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2019 | 2023 |
| Certified Used Price (2026) | $130+ | $210+ |
| Software Support | Ended | Supports Android 17 and continues to receive security updates |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| CPU | Octa-core | Octa-core |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB |
| microSD Card | Yes (up to 512GB) | No |
| Display Technology | Dynamic AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.1-inch |
| Resolution | 3040 × 1440 | 2340 × 1080 |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 48–120Hz Adaptive |
| Peak Brightness | Up to 1,200 nits | Up to 1,750 nits |
| Main Camera | 12MP | 50MP |
| Ultra-wide Camera | 16MP | 12MP |
| Telephoto Camera | 12MP (2x Optical) | 10MP (3x Optical) |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 12MP |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K | Up to 8K |
| Battery Capacity | 3,400mAh | 3,900mAh |
| Wired Charging | 15W | 25W |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 15W |
| Reverse Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| 5G | No (U.S. Galaxy S10) | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| Galaxy AI | No | Yes |
The Galaxy S23 continues to receive Android OS upgrades and Samsung security updates, including Android 17 support. In contrast, Samsung has completely ended software support for the Galaxy S10. If you want a phone that will remain secure and compatible with future apps, the Galaxy S23 is the clear winner.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy is a massive upgrade over the Snapdragon 855. It delivers significantly faster performance, better graphics, smoother multitasking, and outstanding power efficiency. Whether you're gaming, editing photos, or running multiple apps, the Galaxy S23 easily outperforms the Galaxy S10.
Although both phones have compact 6.1-inch AMOLED displays, the Galaxy S23 features a brighter panel and an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Scrolling, animations, and gaming feel much smoother, while the brighter display improves visibility outdoors.
The Galaxy S23 features a newer 50MP main camera with substantially improved image processing. Photos are sharper, low-light performance is noticeably better, and 3x optical zoom captures more detailed distant subjects. The upgraded 12MP front camera also delivers better selfies and video calls.
Despite its compact size, the Galaxy S23 lasts significantly longer than the Galaxy S10. Its larger 3,900mAh battery and highly efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor provide excellent all-day battery life, while 25W fast charging helps you recharge more quickly.
If you can stretch your budget by about $80, the Galaxy S23 is one of the best values in Samsung's Certified Used and Refurbished lineup. It combines flagship performance, excellent cameras, Galaxy AI features, continued software support, and a compact premium design. While the Galaxy S10 was an outstanding phone in its day, the Galaxy S23 is a far better investment for anyone buying a smartphone in 2026.
The Samsung Galaxy S10 was one of the best Android smartphones when it launched in 2019. Its premium design, vibrant AMOLED display, versatile cameras, expandable storage, and compact size helped it become one of Samsung's most popular flagship phones. Even in 2026, its hardware still holds up surprisingly well for everyday tasks.
Unfortunately, hardware alone isn't enough. Samsung has completely ended software and security support for the Galaxy S10, making it difficult to recommend as a primary smartphone. Although Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S10 models start at around $130+, the limited inventory and lack of future updates reduce its overall value.
For most buyers, we recommend spending a little more on a newer Galaxy phone. The Galaxy S23 FE, starting at around $190+, offers a much faster processor, a smoother 120Hz display, better cameras, Galaxy AI features, and continued software support. If your budget allows, the Galaxy S23, starting at around $210+, is an even better choice with flagship performance and one of the best values among Certified Used and Refurbished Samsung phones in 2026.
If you're shopping for a Certified Used or Refurbished Samsung phone, UpTrade makes it easy to compare prices from trusted sellers so you can find the best deal with confidence.
No. Although the Galaxy S10 still has premium hardware, Samsung has completely ended software and security support for the device. We recommend buying a Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S23 FE or Galaxy S23 instead.
No. Samsung has ended both Android OS upgrades and security updates for the Galaxy S10. It no longer receives new features or security patches.
According to the UpTrade Price Tracker, Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy S10 models start at around $130+ in 2026, although inventory has become increasingly limited.
No. The Galaxy S10 does not support Android 17. Samsung has ended Android OS upgrades for the device.
The Galaxy S10 can still be used, but it no longer receives security updates from Samsung. Over time, this makes it less secure than newer Galaxy phones that continue to receive regular security patches.
Yes. The Galaxy S10 still has a capable triple-camera system that takes good photos in daylight. However, newer Galaxy phones offer significantly better low-light performance, image processing, zoom quality, and video recording.
Yes. The Galaxy S23 FE offers a much faster processor, a smoother 120Hz display, better cameras, Galaxy AI features, 5G connectivity, and continued software support, making it a much better choice for most buyers.
Yes. The Galaxy S23 delivers flagship performance, improved cameras, Galaxy AI features, longer battery life, and continued software support. For only about $80 more than the Galaxy S10, it offers significantly better long-term value.
We recommend buying the Certified Used or Refurbished Galaxy S23 FE. It costs only about $60 more than the Galaxy S10 while offering years of software support, a faster processor, better cameras, and a much better overall ownership experience.
The Galaxy S23 FE is the best value alternative because it offers excellent performance, modern features, and continued software support at a very affordable price. If your budget allows, the Galaxy S23 is an even better long-term investment.
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