Best refurbished phones 2022 | Android Central

Best refurbished phones 2022

As much as we love playing with and testing the latest and greatest phones here at Android Central, there's something we can universally agree on that we're not fans of: paying full price for the best Android phones. So if you're in the market for a quality Android phone, but don't want to spend a thousand dollars, check out the best cheap Android phones, or grab one of the best refurbished phones that offer a great experience at a fraction of what you'd typically spend. Here are our favorite options.

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The Pixel 5 is the best-refurbished phone

(Image credit: Daniel Bader / Android Central)

Google launched the Pixel 3a in 2019 to much fanfare, as it seemed that Google was changing up its game plan. When the Pixel 4a and Pixel 5 arrived, it was clear that Google was looking to take over the budget market instead of competing with the likes of Samsung and Apple and other flagship models. After conquering this segment, Google went back to the top with the launch of the mid and upper-tier Pixel 6 and 6 Pro devices.

The Google Pixel 5 packs an impressive wallop, providing the same amazing camera as the Pixel 4a and an additional 16MP ultra-wide lens. It has a design that is comfortable to hold and still familiar to just about every Android user. We spoke very highly of the Pixel 5 in our review and that love hasn't gone anywhere. If anything, the additional features such as an IP68 waterproof rating and 12W wireless charging make the refurbished Pixel an even sweeter deal. Sure, the spec sheet isn't flagship-level, and the newer Pixel 5a has a better battery, but the 5 gets the leg up in the refurbished market. Plus, Google still plans on supporting this device until at least late 2023.

Want something a bit more flashy? Check out the OnePlus 9 or the Samsung Galaxy Note 10+

(Image credit: Alex Dobie / Android Central)

If you want to save a few bucks and get a device that will still turn heads, there's no better way to go other than OnePlus or Samsung. With the OnePlus 9, you're getting a sleek design with a stunning AMOLED display equipped with a 120Hz display. The silvery glass back has a striking aesthetic, though it may feel slippery without a case.

The camera system is splendid thanks to OnePlus's partnership with Hasselblad and noteworthy software improvements. The bigger benefit comes in the software department, as OxygenOS is one of the best Android skins available. The OPPO merger may have marred the company's track record, but the decision to cancel the unison of Color OS and Oxygen OS gives us courage.

(Image credit: Andrew Martonik / Android Central)

Looking back at 2019, the Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ was really the phone that stole our hearts. Arguably, the device featured the best design of all Samsung Galaxy phones to date. It may have been a fingerprint magnet, but the color-shifting glass back with the contrasting bright blue S Pen looked absolutely stunning. We praised the Galaxy Note 10+ in our review for its modern flagship design and specs. The refurbished version should grab your attention right away as you no longer have to pay the flagship premium to acquire this jewel of the past.

The 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is a dream to use, and there's then enough power to deliver uncompromising performance. Plus, Samsung upped the ante in the software department, promising up to three years of major Android software updates, along with the monthly security patch releases. Should you choose to buy the Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ today, you'll get an Android 12 update right away. So the Note 10+ really is the complete package, no matter how you look at it.