Yes, the Galaxy S24 can still be worth buying in 2026—but only at a clearly lower price than a comparable newer phone, and only if the specific unit’s condition checks out. Its compact size and active Samsung software support remain meaningful advantages. If its price is close to a newer Galaxy, the newer model is usually the better value for its longer remaining support runway and updated features.
What makes the Galaxy S24 still worth considering?
Samsung support is still active
Samsung currently lists the Galaxy S24 among devices receiving monthly security updates. Its policy says support is extended “by up to 7 years”; that is Samsung’s stated maximum, not a promise that every regional or carrier version receives a patch on the same schedule or an exact end date. Samsung’s current security-update scope is the best place to check the model’s listing.
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There is also a recent update record for the international SM-S921B variant: Samsung lists Android 16 as released on September 30, 2026, with a September 5, 2026 security patch level. Samsung cautions that exact changes can differ by model, country, and service provider, so this date should not be assumed for every S24. Check the update history for SM-S921B, or look up the record for your exact model and carrier.
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The S24 remains a sensible option if you prefer a smaller Samsung flagship and do not need the newest generation. Samsung’s 2026 Galaxy S26 announcement lists the base S26 display as 6.3 inches full rectangle, or 6.1 inches accounting for rounded corners; that is a useful size reference, but compare the phones’ actual dimensions and handling before deciding which feels compact to you. Samsung’s S26 announcement identifies the newer generation as current.
#1 Best Overall
- 6.7" Dynamic AMOLED 2X FHD+, 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate, 1900nits Peak brightness, 1080x2340px, 4700mAh Battery, Android 14, One UI 6.1
- 128GB, 8GB RAM, No SD Card Slot, Exynos 2400e (4nm), 10-core CPU, Xclipse 940 GPU, Bluetooth 5.3
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 (wide) + + 12MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide) + 8MP, f/2.4 (telephoto), 3x Optical Zoom, Front Camera: 10MP, f/2.4
- CDMA 800/1900, 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/17/18/19/20/25/26/28/32/38/40/41/66, 5G: 1/2/3/5/7/8/12/20/25/26/28/38/40/41/66/75/77/78 SA/NSA/Sub6 - Nano-SIM and eSIM
- US Model. Compatible with Most GSM and CDMA Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Straight Talk.
When is the S24 a poor value?
The S24 is a poor buy when a like-for-like newer phone costs nearly the same. Newer generations can offer more time remaining on their support schedules and updated hardware or features; whether those matter depends on your priorities. For example, newer battery capacity, storage, performance, and AI features may be more valuable to someone who games, keeps many large apps and files, or wants newer software capabilities. The S24’s core package may still be adequate for everyday use, but price and condition decide the deal.
Do not treat a displayed refurbished price as settled without checking the actual S24 checkout flow. On October 7, 2026, Samsung US’s Certified Re-Newed page showed entries of $599 for the S25 and $929 for the S26, alongside a displayed $849 S24 entry. However, the page heading said “Galaxy S23 Ultra Certified Re-Newed,” conflicting with its product selections. Those figures are not reliable proof of a current S24 offer; verify the exact device, condition, and price directly. Samsung US Certified Re-Newed phones.
Rank #2
- 6.2" Dynamic AMOLED 2X FHD+, 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate, 416ppi, 2600nits (Outdoor Peak), 1080x2340px, 4000mAh Battery
- 128GB, 8GB RAM, No SD Card Slot, Exynos 2400 (4 nm), 10-Core Processor, Xclipse 940
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 + 10MP, f/2.4 + 12MP, f/2.2, 30X Space Zoom, Front Camera: 12MP, f/2.2, Android 14, One UI 6.1
- CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, 4G LTE: Global Bands 5G: 1/2/3/5/7/8/12/20/25/26/28/38/40/41/66/75/77/78 SA/NSA/Sub6 - Dual SIM and eSIM (Max 2 SIMs or ESIMs Combined)
- International Model – Global Connectivity – Plug & Play with an active SIM on AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and most U.S. carriers. New activations are only supported on T-Mobile, AT&T & Verizon in the U.S., as some carriers may not recognize International IMEI's as Compatible. (No U.S. manufacturer warranty; Seller Return policy applies.)
How to compare an S24 offer with a newer phone
Compare the actual offers rather than relying on a broad claim that one model is better. Match storage, condition, warranty and return terms, then weigh the traits you care about:
- Total price and recourse: Compare the complete price and return or warranty terms. A low refurbished price is not attractive if battery condition is undisclosed or the seller offers little recourse.
- Support: The S24 remains listed for monthly security updates, but the model’s policy and local rollout are not the same as a guaranteed patch date for every unit.
- Size: Choose based on the actual dimensions and in-hand feel of the S24 and the alternative, not just display diagonal.
- Workload: Think about whether you mainly handle everyday tasks or need extra performance for gaming or demanding editing.
- Battery and charging: Compare supported specifications and credible measured endurance where available; capacity alone does not establish real-world runtime.
- Camera and software: Identify specific features you will use instead of relying on a generic “better camera” claim.
- Storage and variant: Match storage tiers and confirm the exact model number, network compatibility, and local software-update record.
What to check before buying used or refurbished
- Confirm the exact S24 model and storage. Regional variants can differ, so make sure the listed model matches the one you intend to use.
- Verify the final price and condition. Check the S24-specific purchase or checkout page rather than relying on a search snippet or a mismatched heading.
- Check network compatibility. Confirm the phone is unlocked or supported by your carrier, and that it can be activated on your intended network.
- Review the seller’s terms. Read the return policy and warranty details before paying.
- Inspect the device and battery disclosure. Check screen and body condition, and ask how battery condition is represented if it is not stated clearly.
- Check updates for the exact variant. Do not assume the SM-S921B update record applies to every regional or carrier model.
Who should buy the Galaxy S24?
- Consider it if the verified price is substantially below a comparable newer phone, you want a compact Samsung flagship, and the specific unit has clear condition and return terms.
- Choose a newer phone if the price gap is small, battery condition is uncertain, or longer remaining support, storage, performance, or newer features matter more to you.
- Keep your current S24 if it meets your needs; a new phone is not automatically worthwhile simply because a newer generation exists.
Verdict
The Galaxy S24 remains a viable purchase, not a default bargain. Buy it when the actual price and condition make it clearly cheaper than a comparable newer option and its compact Samsung experience suits you. If those conditions are not met, paying a little more for a newer model can make better long-term sense.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 6.2 Dynamic AMOLED 2X FHD+, 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate, 416ppi, 2600nits (Outdoor Peak), 1080x2340px, 4000mAh Battery
- 128GB, 8GB RAM, No SD Card Slot, Qualcomm SM8650-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm), Octa-Core, Adreno 750
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 + 10MP, f/2.4 + 12MP, f/2.2, 30X Space Zoom, Front Camera: 12MP, f/2.2, Android 14, One UI 6.1
- 2G: GSM 850/900/1800/1900, CDMA 800/1900, 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/12/13/14/20/30/25/26/28/29/38/39/40/41/48/66/71, 5G: 2/5/12/26/28/30/41/66/70/71/77/78/260/261 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Nano-SIM and eSIM
- No Warranty. Compatible with Most GSM and CDMA Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Sprint.
Rank #4
- 6.8″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X QHD+ display with a 1–120 Hz adaptive refresh rate and up to ~2600 nits peak brightness — delivering a bright, sharp screen with smooth scrolling and great outdoor visibility.
Rank #3
- Galaxy S23 sports a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X flat display with adaptive 48–120 Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and a peak brightness high enough for strong outdoor visibility — giving you vibrant, crisp visuals and smooth motion while staying compact.
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