How to Choose Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge Phone: Ultimate Buying Guide

If you're searching for a reliable used flagship smartphone with premium design and solid performance, knowing how to choose the right Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge phone can save you money and frustration. These models offer curved-edge displays, water resistance, and strong cameras—ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking high-end features. However, older models like the Galaxy S7 Edge lack modern software support, while the S10 Edge delivers better battery life and security. For most users today, the Samsung S9 or S10 Edge offers the best balance of performance, camera quality, and update longevity 1.

Short Introduction

The Samsung Galaxy S7, S8, S9, and S10 Edge series represent some of the most influential Android smartphones of the late 2010s. Known for their sleek curved AMOLED displays, robust build quality, and advanced camera systems, these devices helped define the modern flagship experience. While no longer supported with official software updates, they remain popular in the secondhand market due to their premium feel and capable hardware. Choosing among them requires understanding key differences in performance, battery life, camera capabilities, and long-term usability.

About Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge Phone

The term "Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge phone" refers collectively to a line of premium Samsung Galaxy smartphones featuring curved-edge OLED displays. The "Edge" designation indicates a design where the screen wraps around the sides of the device, enhancing aesthetics and enabling edge panel features such as quick shortcuts and news feeds.

These phones were released between 2016 (S7 Edge) and 2019 (S10 Edge), targeting users who wanted top-tier performance, excellent cameras, and luxurious materials at the time of launch. Today, they are primarily purchased by individuals looking for affordable access to flagship-level hardware without paying new-model prices. Typical use cases include everyday communication, social media browsing, photography, and light gaming.

Why Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge Phone Is Gaining Popularity

Despite being discontinued, interest in Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge phones has seen a resurgence in the refurbished and secondhand markets. This popularity stems from several factors: first, their metal-and-glass construction still feels premium compared to many current mid-range phones. Second, features like IP68 water resistance were rare outside flagships during their era and remain valuable today.

Additionally, consumers are becoming more cost-conscious and environmentally aware, leading to increased demand for durable, reusable electronics. Many users find that a well-maintained S9 or S10 Edge performs adequately for basic tasks even in 2024, especially when paired with lightweight launchers or custom ROMs 2.

Types and Variants

Each generation in the S7–S10 Edge lineup introduced significant upgrades. Understanding the differences helps determine which model suits your needs.

Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge (2016)

Pros: Compact size, great display, IP68 rating, expandable storage.
Cons: Outdated processor (Exynos 8890 or Snapdragon 820), no longer receives security updates, smaller battery than later models.

Samsung Galaxy S8/S8+ Edge (2017)

Pros: Redesigned Infinity Display, improved ergonomics, Bixby introduction, consistent performance.
Cons: Lower rear camera pixel count than predecessors, iris scanner rarely used, software support ended in 2020.

Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ Edge (2018)

Pros: Superior low-light camera (f/1.5–f/2.4 variable aperture), brighter display, upgraded stereo speakers, longer update cycle.
Cons: Minimal design changes from S8, slightly shorter battery life on S9 vs S9+, now out of official support.

Samsung Galaxy S10/S10+ Edge (2019)

Pros: Largest battery in the series (especially S10+), ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, triple rear camera on Plus model, supports Wi-Fi 6 and reverse wireless charging.
Cons: Prone to screen burn-in over time, plastic back on some variants, higher price in refurbished market.

Key Features and Specifications to Evaluate

When evaluating any Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge phone, consider the following technical aspects:

Processor & RAM: The S7 uses older chips; S9 and S10 feature Snapdragon 845 and 855 respectively—better for multitasking.
Battery Health: Check actual capacity via dial code (*#*#4636#*#*) if possible. Batteries degrade after 2–3 years.
Display Condition: Look for signs of burn-in (ghost images), dead pixels, or touch sensitivity issues—common on aged OLED panels.
Camera Quality: Test both front and rear cameras in different lighting. S9’s variable aperture excels in dim environments.
Software Status: None receive Android OS updates, but S10 may have limited security patches depending on region.
Water Damage Indicators: Inspect SIM tray and port areas for red markings indicating past exposure.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Premium build quality with glass backs and aluminum frames.
Excellent AMOLED displays with deep blacks and vibrant colors.
Strong single-handed usability (especially S7, S8, S9).
Fingerprint sensors (side-mounted on S7–S9, in-display on S10) and face unlock options.
Expandable storage via microSD card (up to 512GB).

Disadvantages

No ongoing software or security updates—increasing vulnerability risk.
Aged batteries often require replacement within 1–2 years of purchase.
Lack modern AI-powered camera processing and night modes found in newer phones.
OLED screens susceptible to burn-in, especially if static elements are displayed frequently.
Some models use Exynos processors (in certain regions), which underperform compared to Snapdragon versions.

How to Choose Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge Phone

Follow this step-by-step guide to make an informed decision:

Determine Your Primary Use: If you mainly browse and message, even an S8 may suffice. For photography or gaming, prioritize S9 or S10.
Set a Realistic Budget: Expect $80–$150 for functional units. Avoid deals below $70 unless you're tech-savvy enough to repair.
Check Model Number: Verify whether it's SM-G9xxU (U.S. variant), SM-G9xxF (global), or another. U.S. models sometimes lack LTE bands used abroad.
Assess Battery Health: Ask the seller for battery cycle count or test it yourself using diagnostic codes.
Verify Unlock Status: Ensure the phone isn't carrier-locked. You can check IMEI status online through carrier tools.
Inspect Physical Condition: Look for cracks, scratches, discoloration, or misaligned components.
Test All Functions: Camera, speakers, microphone, charging port, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi should all work.
Avoid Red Flags: Phones sold “for parts,” those with activation locks, or devices showing inconsistent serial numbers.

Price & Market Insights

As of 2024, typical price ranges for working condition models are:

S7 Edge: $50–$90 — lowest value due to age and obsolescence.
S8 Edge: $70–$110 — moderate value, but rapidly declining.
S9 Edge: $100–$160 — best value for performance-to-price ratio.
S10 Edge: $130–$180 — highest cost, justified by better specs and slightly longer usability.

Prices vary based on storage (64GB vs 128GB), color, and regional version. Refurbished units from reputable sellers often come with 90-day warranties, adding peace of mind. Consider total cost of ownership—if a battery needs replacing ($40–$60), factor that into your budget.

Model	Release Year	Processor	Battery (mAh)	Rear Camera	Current Update Status
Galaxy S7 Edge	2016	Snapdragon 820 / Exynos 8890	3600	12 MP	No updates since 2019
Galaxy S8 Edge	2017	Snapdragon 835 / Exynos 8895	3000	12 MP	No updates since 2020
Galaxy S9 Edge	2018	Snapdragon 845 / Exynos 9810	3000	12 MP (variable aperture)	No updates since 2021
Galaxy S10 Edge	2019	Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820	3400 (S10), 4100 (S10+)	12 MP + 16 MP + 12 MP (triple)	Limited security patches until 2022

Top-Seller & Competitive Analysis

In online marketplaces like eBay and Swappa, the Galaxy S10 Edge is currently the top-selling model among this group due to its relatively recent release and superior specifications. It competes with other retired flagships like the Google Pixel 3 XL and iPhone XR in the sub-$200 category.

The S10 Edge stands out with its larger battery, expandable storage, and dual front cameras—features absent in many rivals. However, the S9 remains a strong contender thanks to its excellent camera and lower price point. Buyers should compare not just specs but also real-world reliability reports before choosing.

Customer Feedback Synthesis

Analysis of hundreds of user reviews across forums and marketplaces reveals consistent themes:

Common Praises:

'The screen still looks amazing—even years later.'
'Great camera for the price, especially low-light shots on the S9.'
'Feels much more premium than plastic-bodied phones.'
'Easy to customize with third-party launchers and ROMs.'

Common Complaints:

'Battery dies by noon unless replaced.'
'Got stuck with a phone that had hidden water damage.'
'Face unlock doesn’t work well in sunlight.'
'Burn-in started appearing after six months of use.'
'Couldn’t verify if the phone was fully unlocked before shipping.'

Sourcing & Supplier Tips

Buy from trusted sources: certified refurbishers (e.g., Amazon Renewed, Best Buy Outlet), peer-to-peer platforms with buyer protection (Swappa, eBay), or local sellers who allow in-person testing.

For bulk purchases (e.g., resale or repair business), request detailed diagnostics reports and inspect each unit individually. Always verify IMEI status to ensure devices aren’t reported lost or stolen. When buying internationally, confirm voltage compatibility and frequency band support for your region’s carriers.

Maintenance, Safety & Legal Considerations

To extend lifespan:

Use a protective case and screen protector to prevent physical damage.
Avoid fast charging constantly; it accelerates battery wear.
Keep software updated to the latest available version to minimize security risks.
Never charge unattended or under pillows—older batteries pose fire hazards if damaged.

Legally, ensure the device is not carrier-locked or blacklisted. Selling or purchasing stolen property violates federal laws in most countries. Also, be aware that modifying firmware (e.g., installing custom ROMs) may void remaining warranties or affect resale value.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge phone depends on balancing budget, desired features, and expected usage. While all models deliver a premium look and feel, the S9 and S10 Edge offer the most practical performance and usability in 2024. The S7 and S8 are only recommended for very light use or as backup devices. Always inspect battery health, verify unlock status, and buy from reputable sources to avoid costly mistakes. With proper care, one of these classic flagships can still serve as a functional daily driver—for a fraction of the cost of new smartphones.

FAQs

Q: Can I still get software updates on a Samsung S10 Edge?
A: No official Android version updates are available. Limited security patches may have been issued until 2022, depending on region and carrier.

Q: Which Samsung Edge phone has the best camera?
A: The Galaxy S9 Edge generally offers the best camera in this lineup, thanks to its variable aperture lens that adapts to lighting conditions.

Q: Are Samsung S7 S8 S9 S10 Edge phones waterproof?
A: Yes, all models have IP68 rating, meaning they can survive brief submersion in fresh water up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes.

Q: How do I check if a used Samsung Edge phone is clean?
A: Verify the IMEI number using carrier tools or websites like Swappa’s IMEI checker to confirm it's not lost, stolen, or locked.

Q: Is it worth buying a Samsung S9 Edge in 2024?
A: Yes, if priced under $150 and the battery is healthy. It remains capable for calls, messaging, and light apps, though not ideal for heavy gaming or long-term secure use.