Best old flagship phones to buy in 2025

Struggling to figure out if spending a fortune on the latest smartphone is truly worth it? You’re not alone! Many of us feel that pressure to always have the newest gadget, but here’s a little secret: snagging an older flagship phone in 2025 can be one of the smartest tech moves you’ll make. You get all the premium feels, top-tier performance, and incredible camera tech without that eye-watering price tag that comes with a brand-new device. Think about it – instead of dropping over a thousand dollars, you could grab a phone that was considered the absolute best just a year or two ago for a fraction of the cost, often under Used Smartphones $500 or even $300 for some models.

In a world where new phones are constantly popping up, with “revolutionary” features that sometimes feel… well, not so revolutionary, older flagships really stand their ground. They were built with the best components available at the time, and those high-quality materials and powerful processors don’t just magically become obsolete overnight. Plus, phone manufacturers like Samsung and Google are stepping up their game big time with software support, promising years of updates that keep these devices secure and snappy. So, if you’re looking to save some serious cash while still getting an amazing smartphone experience, sticking with a slightly older flagship is definitely the way to go. We’re talking about devices like the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, iPhone 14 Pro, and Google Pixel 8 Pro, which continue to deliver in spades.

Why Old Flagships Are Still Kings in 2025

You might be wondering, “Why bother with an ‘old’ phone when there are so many new ones?” Well, the truth is, the gap between last year’s flagship and this year’s model isn’t always as massive as marketing teams want you to believe. Often, you’re getting 90% of the premium experience for 50% of the price, which is a pretty sweet deal if you ask me.

Flagship Hardware Stands the Test of Time

When a company designs a flagship phone, they pack it with the best of everything. We’re talking about processors that are still lightning-fast years later, displays that are incredibly vibrant, and cameras that capture stunning photos and videos. This high-end hardware doesn’t just age gracefully. it often outperforms brand-new mid-range phones that cost a similar amount today.

Take, for example, the processors. A chip like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 found in the Galaxy S23 series or Apple’s A16 Bionic in the iPhone 14 Pro is still incredibly powerful in 2025. These chips handle everything from intensive gaming to heavy multitasking and even AI-powered apps without breaking a sweat. You’ll find that an older flagship will generally feel snappier and more fluid than a new mid-range device, especially when you’re pushing it.

Then there’s the display. Flagships boast gorgeous OLED panels with high refresh rates 120Hz is common and incredible brightness. These screens make everything look fantastic, whether you’re scrolling through social media, watching your favorite shows, or editing photos. They also tend to have premium build quality, often featuring durable glass like Gorilla Glass Victus and IP68 water and dust resistance, meaning they’re built to withstand daily life better than most budget options.

And let’s not forget the cameras. Older flagships come with sophisticated camera systems, often featuring multiple lenses ultrawide, telephoto with optical zoom, larger sensors, and advanced image processing. While new mid-range phones might have decent main cameras, they often skip out on dedicated zoom lenses or the faster processing that makes a real difference in challenging conditions like low light. So, if photography is important to you, an older flagship will almost always deliver superior results. You can find some fantastic deals on Premium Used Phones that still pack a punch.

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Software Support is Stronger Than Ever

One of the biggest worries people used to have about buying an older phone was getting stuck on outdated software. But honestly, that’s not really a concern anymore, especially with the major players. Google and Samsung have really stepped up their game, making sure their flagship devices stay updated and secure for years.

• Google Pixel: If you’re looking at Pixel phones, you’re in luck! Starting with the Pixel 8 series, Google is promising a whopping seven years of Android OS updates, security patches, and new feature drops. What’s even cooler is that they’ve retroactively extended support for older models like the Google Pixel 6 and Google Pixel 7 series, giving them extra years of Android updates too. This means a Pixel 7 Pro, for example, will still be getting official software love well into 2028 or even later, which is fantastic for longevity.
• Samsung Galaxy: Samsung is right there with Google, offering seven years of major OS upgrades and security updates for its flagship Galaxy S and Galaxy Z series models, starting from the Galaxy S24 series. Even if you go back to the Galaxy S23 or S22 series, you’re still looking at a very generous update timeline that keeps them relevant and secure for several more years. Samsung has a solid track record of delivering timely updates, which really adds peace of mind. You can explore Android phones with long support to see more options.
• Apple iPhone: Apple has always been the gold standard for long-term software support, and they continue to be. An iPhone 13 from 2021 will likely still get iOS updates through at least 2027, potentially even longer. And devices like the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro are set for many more years of updates, often exceeding five years, keeping them perfectly usable and secure. This long-term commitment is a huge reason why iPhones hold their value so well. For those deeply in the Apple ecosystem, checking out iPhones with extended updates is a smart move.
• OnePlus: While not quite as long as Google or Samsung, OnePlus has also improved, offering four years of major OS updates and six years of security updates for its recent flagships like the OnePlus 12. This is still a decent amount of support, ensuring your phone stays current for a good while.

This commitment to long-term software support means your “old” flagship won’t just feel fast on day one. it’ll stay secure and compatible with the latest apps and features for a significant portion of its life.

Significant Price Drops

This is where the magic really happens for your wallet. New flagship phones are incredibly expensive, often launching at over $1,000. But the moment a new generation drops, the prices of the older models take a nosedive – and not just a small dip. We’re talking about often being able to find them for half their original price or even less within a year or two.

For example, the Galaxy S23 Ultra which launched at a premium price, was available for nearly half off its original cost during sales in India, and that was for a sealed new unit, not even a refurbished one. If you’re willing to go for a refurbished or second-hand device, the savings can be even more substantial. This means you can get a phone with genuinely premium features and performance for what you’d typically spend on a mid-range device. It’s like getting a luxury car for the price of a compact car – it just makes financial sense. You can really snag a deal if you look at Refurbished Phones or keep an eye on Budget Flagship Phones. Best luxury bags to buy in 2025

Top Picks: Our Recommended Old Flagship Phones for 2025

Alright, let’s get down to the exciting part: which specific old flagship phones are worth your hard-earned cash in 2025? I’ve dug through the options to bring you the best of the best across different brands.

Samsung Galaxy Series: Still Reigning Supreme

Samsung flagships are renowned for their stunning displays, versatile cameras, and feature-rich software. Many of their older models are fantastic buys in 2025.

• Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: This phone is a true powerhouse that still punches way above its weight in 2025. It comes with an incredible 200MP main camera sensor and a versatile quad-camera setup that includes 10x optical zoom, which is still unmatched by most phones at its price point. Powered by the efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset, it offers lightning-fast performance for gaming, multitasking, and everything in between. The gorgeous QHD+ AMOLED display is a joy to behold, and yes, it still has the S Pen built right in, making it a productivity and creativity beast. Plus, it’s still receiving major software updates, keeping it fresh for years to come. Seriously, if you want a top-tier Android experience without buying the absolute newest model, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a phenomenal choice.
• Samsung Galaxy S23 / S23 Plus: If the Ultra is a bit too much phone for you, the standard Samsung Galaxy S23 and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus are also excellent options. They share the same powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor as the Ultra, meaning you get that same snappy performance in a more compact or balanced package. Their vibrant AMOLED displays and surprisingly capable camera systems make them fantastic everyday drivers. The regular S23, in particular, is perfect if you miss the days of genuinely pocketable flagship phones. These models are still under Samsung’s extended software support, so you’re good for updates well into the future.
• Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra: Stepping back another year, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra still holds its own. This phone brought that beloved Note-inspired design with an embedded S Pen to the S-series, offering a fantastic and versatile experience. It has a superb 6.8-inch AMOLED display and a very capable camera setup. While it might be nearing the end of its major OS update cycle compared to the S23 series, it still has solid performance and can be found at incredibly attractive prices in the used market, making it a “Swiss Army knife” of smartphones.
• Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra: Even in 2025, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is a beast. This phone was a must when it launched with its 108MP camera, dual telephoto zooms, and one of the best displays of its time. While it might be at the tail end of its official software support, the hardware is undeniably still flagship-grade. You can find this phone in excellent condition for around $250 in 2025, which is an absolute steal for the premium experience it offers, especially its zoom capabilities. Just be mindful that major Android updates might stop sooner than newer models, but security patches could continue for a bit longer.

Apple iPhone Series: Unmatched Longevity

iPhones are famous for their strong resale value and incredibly long software support, making even slightly older models excellent choices.

• iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max: these aren’t “old” in the traditional sense, but as the iPhone 17 series launches, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will see some price drops, making them fantastic value in 2025. You’re getting the powerful A17 Pro chip, the innovative Dynamic Island, a top-tier 48MP main camera, and crucially, USB-C charging. These phones will be supported by Apple for many years, giving you a truly future-proof device.
• iPhone 14 Pro / Pro Max: Released in 2022, the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max still offer a premium experience that easily competes with new phones. These were the first to introduce the Dynamic Island and Apple’s powerful 48MP main camera with the A16 Bionic chip. With Apple’s legendary long-term support, these models will likely receive updates until at least 2028-2029, making them a superb investment. They offer excellent battery life, a stunning 120Hz ProMotion display, and consistently great photos and videos.
• iPhone 13 Pro / Pro Max: For those looking for even better value, the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are still solid buys in 2025. You get that buttery-smooth 120Hz ProMotion display, the powerful A15 Bionic chip, and a versatile camera setup that includes a dedicated telephoto lens for those zoom shots and ProRes video recording. The iPhone 13 Pro Max, in particular, is known for its incredible battery life. These phones are expected to receive iOS updates through at least 2027, ensuring they remain secure and compatible for years.

Google Pixel Series: Camera and Software Savvy

Google’s Pixel phones are beloved for their exceptional cameras, clean Android experience, and cutting-edge AI features. Best lego sets to buy in 2025

• Google Pixel 8 Pro: This is a top contender for the “best old flagship” crown, especially if you prioritize camera and software. The Google Pixel 8 Pro launched with a promise of seven years of software updates, meaning it’s future-proof well into the 2030s. It features the Tensor G3 chip, which, while not the absolute fastest for raw gaming, is incredibly optimized for Google’s AI features and delivers a super smooth experience. The camera system is, as expected from a Pixel, superb, with advanced computational photography that keeps it competitive with newer models. Its bright LTPO OLED display and premium build quality make it a joy to use. You can often find it for under $500, which is fantastic value.
• Google Pixel 7 Pro: As a cheaper option, the Google Pixel 7 Pro remains an excellent choice in 2025. Powered by the Tensor G2 chip, it still offers a great camera experience with Google’s renowned computational photography and a clean, fluid Android interface. Thanks to Google’s retroactive update policy, the Pixel 7 series also gets extended software support, making it a smart long-term purchase. It’s a fantastic option for photography enthusiasts on a tighter budget.

OnePlus Series: Performance Powerhouses

OnePlus has carved out a niche for offering “flagship killer” performance at more competitive prices, and their older models continue that trend.

• OnePlus 12: While technically a 2024 phone, the OnePlus 12 is already seeing price drops, making it an incredible value in 2025. It boasts an excellent LTPO AMOLED display, the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, a large battery, and super-fast wired and wireless charging. With its Hasselblad-tuned cameras and robust software support up to Android OS 2028 and security updates until 2031, it delivers a truly premium Android experience that will last for years.
• OnePlus 11: The OnePlus 11 is another strong contender for an older flagship. It features the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, a beautiful QHD+ AMOLED display, and a capable Hasselblad camera setup. While it lacks wireless charging, it makes up for it with incredibly fast wired charging and premium build quality. With recent price cuts, it offers excellent value, often found around the same price as newer mid-range phones but with a significantly better overall experience.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

While older flagships offer fantastic value, there are a few important things to keep in mind, especially if you’re buying a used device.

Battery Health

This is probably the most crucial factor when buying a used phone. Batteries degrade over time, and a used flagship might come with a battery that’s not quite as spry as it once was.

• How to check: On iPhones, you can easily check the “Battery Health” percentage in Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. Aim for 85% or higher for a good experience. For Android phones, it’s a bit trickier, but apps like “AccuBattery” can give you an estimate, or you can use dialer codes e.g., *#*#4636#*#* on some Android devices to access testing menus.
• Replacement: Even if the battery isn’t perfect, remember that battery replacements are relatively easy and affordable for most flagship models, giving your phone a new lease on life. Budget around $70-$100 for a professional replacement, or less if you’re comfortable doing it yourself with a DIY Phone Repair Kit.

Software Update Lifespan

We’ve talked about how great the software support is, but it’s vital to check the specific model you’re interested in. Make sure it still has a few years of major OS updates left, and critically, security patches. These updates protect your phone from vulnerabilities and ensure compatibility with new apps. As a general rule, buying a phone that’s no more than two to three years old gives you the safest bet for continued updates.

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Condition and Source

Where and how you buy your old flagship matters a lot.

• Refurbished vs. Used: Refurbished phones typically undergo a professional inspection, repair, and cleaning process, often coming with a warranty. Used phones bought directly from a previous owner might be cheaper but carry more risk. Look for certified refurbished sellers on platforms like Amazon Renewed or reputable local electronics stores.
• Physical Checks: Always inspect the physical condition thoroughly. Look for major scratches, cracks especially on the screen, and signs of water damage. Test all the buttons, ports, speakers, and microphones. For OLED screens, check for “burn-in” by viewing a solid gray or white image.
• Carrier Locks: Be sure the phone is unlocked or compatible with your carrier. Some used phones might be locked to a specific network, which can be a headache.

Regional Compatibility

If you’re buying a phone internationally or from a different region, double-check its network band compatibility, especially for 5G. Different regions use different bands, and you wouldn’t want to end up with a phone that can’t get the best speeds in your area.

Your Specific Needs

Finally, think about what you really need in a phone.

• Are you a photography enthusiast? Prioritize Pixel or Ultra models.
• Are you a heavy gamer? Focus on phones with the latest Snapdragon or A-series chips.
• Do you need a compact device? The standard Galaxy S23 or even an iPhone 13 Pro might be perfect.
• Do you love to draw or take notes? Samsung’s S Pen models are ideal.

By keeping these points in mind, you can confidently find an amazing old flagship that feels brand new to you and saves you a considerable amount of money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is buying an old flagship phone still worth it in 2025?

Absolutely! Buying an old flagship phone in 2025 is often a much smarter financial decision than buying a new mid-range phone or even a brand-new flagship. You get premium hardware, excellent camera systems, and top-tier performance for a fraction of the original price. With many brands now offering extended software support for several years, these phones remain secure and up-to-date, providing fantastic value and longevity. Best kindle to buy in 2025 reddit

Which old Samsung flagship phone is best to buy in 2025?

For the best all-around experience, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is arguably the top pick among old Samsung flagships in 2025. It still boasts an incredible 200MP camera, the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, a stunning QHD+ AMOLED display, and the versatile S Pen. For a more compact option, the standard Samsung Galaxy S23 is also excellent, offering similar performance in a smaller package. If you’re on a tighter budget, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra or even the Galaxy S21 Ultra can offer fantastic premium features at even lower prices, though you’ll want to check their remaining software support.

How many years of software updates do old flagship phones get?

Software support has significantly improved for older flagships. Google’s Pixel 8 series and retroactively, the Pixel 6 and 7 offers an impressive seven years of OS and security updates. Samsung also provides seven years of major OS upgrades and security patches for its flagship Galaxy S24 series and Z series, with older flagships like the S23 series also getting very generous support. Apple typically offers five to six years or more of iOS updates for its iPhones. OnePlus provides four years of OS updates and six years of security updates for its newer flagships.

What are the risks of buying a used flagship phone?

The main risks when buying a used flagship phone include potential battery degradation, which might lead to shorter battery life. There’s also the chance of physical damage like screen scratches or dents that weren’t clearly disclosed, or even internal issues. You might also encounter carrier-locked devices or models not fully compatible with your local network bands. To mitigate these risks, always buy from reputable sellers, thoroughly check the phone’s condition and battery health, and ensure it’s unlocked and compatible with your region.

Are old iPhone flagships better than new Android mid-range phones?

In many cases, yes, an old iPhone flagship is still a better choice than a new Android mid-range phone. Older iPhones, like the iPhone 13 Pro or 14 Pro, often have superior processors, better camera systems especially for video and low light, more premium build quality, and significantly longer software support compared to many new Android mid-rangers. While some new mid-range Androids are improving, they often cut corners on features like high refresh rate displays, water resistance, or dedicated telephoto lenses, which older flagships include as standard.

Where can I buy reliable old flagship phones in 2025?

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• Amazon Renewed: This platform offers certified refurbished devices with a warranty, giving you peace of mind. You can find excellent deals on models like the Amazon Renewed Smartphones.
• Carrier Refurbished Programs: Many mobile carriers offer refurbished devices that have been tested and often come with a warranty.
• Manufacturer Certified Pre-Owned: Some manufacturers, like Apple and Samsung, have their own certified pre-owned programs which guarantee quality and come with strong support.
• Reputable Third-Party Retailers: Stores specializing in electronics often have good selections of used or refurbished phones.
• Trusted Second-hand Marketplaces: If buying from platforms like eBay or local classifieds, ensure the seller has excellent reviews, provides detailed photos, and offers a return policy. Always meet in a safe, public place for in-person transactions.