iPhone vs Samsung Refurbished: 2026 Australian Buyer's Guide
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iPhone vs Samsung Refurbished: 2026 Australian Buyer's Guide
It's the eternal question. iPhone or Samsung? When you're buying refurbished, the decision gets even more interesting — because the price gap between equivalent models isn't always what you'd expect.
Let's compare them across the things that actually matter.
Want a deeper dive into iPhone options? See our best value refurbished iPhones ranking →
The Contenders
We're comparing equivalent generations. Here's how they line up:
| Release Year | iPhone | Samsung Galaxy |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | iPhone 13 | Galaxy S21 |
| 2022 | iPhone 14 | Galaxy S22 |
| 2023 | iPhone 15 | Galaxy S23 |
| 2024 | iPhone 16 | Galaxy S24 |
| 2025 | — | Galaxy S25 |
Price: Samsung Wins (Usually)
Refurbished Samsung phones depreciate faster than iPhones. That means you often get a newer Samsung for the same price as an older iPhone.
| Model | iPhone Refurbished (As New) | Samsung Refurbished (As New) |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 flagships | iPhone 14 Pro: $800 | Galaxy S22 Ultra: $640 |
| 2023 flagships | iPhone 15 Pro: $950 | Galaxy S23 Ultra: $770 |
| 2024 flagships | iPhone 16: $990 | Galaxy S24 Ultra: $965 |
At the 2022–2023 level, Samsung gives you more phone for less money. The gap narrows with newer models.
Winner: Samsung — but only if you're shopping 1–2 generations back.
Software Updates: iPhone Wins
This is where Apple's advantage is clearest. An iPhone 12 from 2020 is still getting full iOS updates in 2026. A Galaxy S21 from 2021 is nearing the end of its major update cycle.
| Model | Last Major Update | Security Updates Until |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 12 (2020) | ~2027 | ~2029 |
| Galaxy S21 (2021) | 2025 | 2026 |
| iPhone 13 (2021) | ~2028 | ~2030 |
| Galaxy S22 (2022) | 2026 | 2027 |
If you plan to keep your phone for 3+ years, iPhone is the safer bet.
Winner: iPhone
Camera: Depends What You Shoot
Samsung wins for zoom and versatility. The Galaxy S22 Ultra, S23 Ultra, and S24 Ultra have 10x optical zoom — you can read a street sign from across a field.
iPhone wins for video and point-and-shoot. iPhones consistently produce more natural-looking photos and smoother video.
Winner: Tie — Samsung for zoom, iPhone for video and ease of use.
Battery Life: Samsung Wins (Barely)
Samsung phones typically have larger batteries. Samsung's 45W fast charging is a genuine advantage — you'll go from 0 to 65% in about 30 minutes vs. 50% on iPhone.
Winner: Samsung — faster charging tips the scale.
Display: Samsung Wins
Samsung makes the best phone displays in the world — including the ones Apple buys for iPhones. The S23 Ultra and S24 Ultra have brighter, more colour-accurate displays than any iPhone.
Winner: Samsung
Ecosystem: iPhone Wins
If you already own a MacBook, iPad, Apple Watch, or AirPods, the iPhone integrates seamlessly. AirDrop, Handoff, Universal Clipboard — these aren't gimmicks.
Winner: iPhone — but only if you're already in the Apple ecosystem.
Resale Value: iPhone Wins
iPhones hold their value better. After 2 years, an iPhone typically retains 50–60% of its original price. A Samsung might retain 35–45%.
Winner: iPhone
Which Should You Buy?
| If You... | Buy This |
|---|---|
| Want the best camera zoom | Samsung Galaxy S22/S23/S24 Ultra |
| Shoot lots of video | iPhone 13 Pro or newer |
| Plan to keep it 4+ years | iPhone (longer updates) |
| Want the best screen | Samsung Galaxy S23/S24 Ultra |
| Are on a tight budget | Samsung (more phone per dollar) |
| Already use Apple products | iPhone |
| Want maximum customisation | Samsung (One UI is more flexible) |
| Just want it to work simply | iPhone |
Our Top Picks by Budget
Under $500 AUD: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra (As New, $470) — 10x zoom, 120Hz display, 5G. Unbeatable at this price.
$500–$700 AUD: iPhone 13 (As New, $540) — the overall best value in the refurbished market right now.
$700–$900 AUD: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra (As New, $770) or iPhone 14 Pro (As New, $800) — you can't go wrong with either.
$900+ AUD: iPhone 15 Pro (As New, $950) — Apple Intelligence, USB-C, and premium build.
Shop all refurbished iPhones →
Shop all refurbished Samsung →
Shopping on a budget? Here are the best refurbished phones under $500 →
All prices in AUD, correct as of July 2026. All phones unlocked for Australian networks with 12-month warranty. Inspected and graded at Mayfield Phone Repair, Newcastle.