Samsung Galaxy S22 S901U Phantom Black 128GB

The refurbished Galaxy S22 delivers flagship-level cameras and a pocket-friendly 6.1-inch design for as little as $299. Battery life is its biggest weakness, often failing to last a full day. If you can live with that trade-off, the camera performance here is almost a steal. For battery-focused users, look elsewhere.

The Samsung Galaxy S22 might be a few years old, but it's still one of the most comfortable phones you can slip into a pocket. At 168 grams with a 6.1-inch screen, it feels refreshingly small in a world of giant slabs. And because these are hitting the refurb market at steep discounts, you can grab one for under $300 in very good condition.

This one's for the shutterbug who refuses to carry a brick. Samsung stuffed a triple camera system with a 50MP main sensor, a proper 3x telephoto with OIS, and an ultrawide. We score the camera in the 91st percentile, meaning it's still one of the best on the market, rivaling even today's $800 flagships.

There's a catch, of course. The 3700mAh battery was already mediocre in 2022, and our database puts it at a 63.9 rating, well below average. If you're doomscrolling all day, you'll need a charger nearby. But if you care most about image quality and one-handed usability, the trade-off might be worth it.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor paired with 8GB of RAM lands in the 76th percentile for performance, which translates to still being snappy for everyday apps, social media, and even some light gaming. It won't match the latest silicon for sustained heavy lifting, but for 90% of what we do, it chugs along without stuttering. Apps launch quickly, and the 120Hz display keeps everything fluid.

Where you'll feel the age is in heavy multitasking or demanding games like Genshin Impact at max settings. The chip runs warmer than newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or Gen 3 variants, and the smaller body doesn't dissipate heat as well. That 76th percentile means it's still above average, but it's not a powerhouse. For casual users, it's a non-issue.

At $299 to $439 for a refurb unit, you're getting a camera system that lives in the 91st percentile, something you'd typically pay double for. Newegg's very good condition models sit near the lower end of that range, so you can get a lot of phone for the price of a budget Android. Yes, the battery is a trade-off, but for photography-first users on a tight budget, this is hard to beat.

Compare this to a new Pixel 8a at $499. The Galaxy S22 gives you a telephoto lens and a more premium glass-and-metal build. The Pixel has better battery life and longer software support. If you can live with a charger nearby and don't need the latest Android version for four more years, the S22 is a better value in pure hardware terms. The price spread across vendors is about $140, so shopping around can net you a significant discount.

Against the Google Pixel 10a, the S22 wins on camera versatility thanks to that dedicated telephoto, and it feels more premium in hand. But the Pixel 10a will likely outlast it with cleaner software and better battery management. The Motorola G Stylus has a stylus and a huge battery, but its cameras are miles behind the S22. If photography is your priority, the Samsung is the clear choice.

The iPhone 17 sits in a different universe price-wise, but if you're cross-shopping, the S22 offers a high-refresh screen and that compact size Apple only puts on the Pro models now. On the Android side, the Honor 400 Pro and Xiaomi 17 Pro are larger, faster-charging powerhouses with bigger batteries, but they feel bulky in comparison. The S22 is the only one you'll truly forget is in your pocket.

If battery life is non-negotiable, skip this. The S22's endurance is genuinely mediocre; heavy users will be reaching for a charger by mid-afternoon. You're better off with a Motorola G Stylus or a Pixel 10a, both of which last much longer on a charge. Also, if you plan to keep your phone for more than three years, the aging Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and limited software updates mean you'll start feeling left behind sooner. A newer mid-ranger with a bigger battery and longer support makes more sense for you.

If you want a tiny phone that takes brilliant photos and won't empty your wallet, the refurbished Galaxy S22 is a gem. It's ideal for anyone who prioritizes camera quality and one-handed comfort over battery endurance. Street photographers, parents capturing fast-moving kids, or someone who just hates phablets will find a lot to love.

But it's not for everyone. If your typical day involves hours away from a charger, or you plan to keep your phone for four or five years, you're better off with a newer device that has a bigger battery and longer update promise. Still, as a secondary camera-centric phone or a compact daily driver, the S22 punches far above its current price tag.