Consumers choosing refurbished devices for sustainability or cost savings are in for an expensive surprise with Samsung’s latest flagship lineup. Through its proprietary Certified Re-Newed (CRN) program, the manufacturer now also offers Galaxy S26 series models in Germany—yet second-hand prices are currently sitting significantly above street prices for brand-new devices.
What Samsung’s Certified Re-Newed Program Offers
Samsung launched its CRN program in Germany, France, and the UK in early 2026. According to the company, returned devices undergo thorough cleaning along with more than 100 quality and functional tests. If components require replacement, genuine OEM parts are used. Devices also receive a certified battery that meets Samsung’s standards, a fresh IMEI number, and are updated to the latest software release prior to delivery.
Buyers receive a 24-month warranty on refurbished smartphones—matching what is offered for brand-new devices. The commitment to seven years of Android OS upgrades and security patches from launch also remains fully in effect for these handsets.
Topsy-Turvy Pricing in the Official Store
Despite the certification, pricing on the manufacturer’s own online store is currently proving to be a cost trap. While CRN models are priced below the original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP), temporary promotional discounts flip the pricing structure on its head.
A new Galaxy S26 Ultra with 256 GB of storage carries an MSRP of 1,450 euros, but promo codes displayed directly in the Samsung store bring the price down to 1,050 euros. In contrast, the refurbished CRN version of the exact same model costs 1,229 euros—and discount codes do not apply. As a result, the refurbished device is roughly 180 euros more expensive than a factory-new unit bought directly from the manufacturer.
A similar picture emerges with the 512 GB Galaxy S26 Plus: buying it new with the code costs 1,050 euros, whereas the CRN variant comes in at 1,230 euros. For the base Galaxy S26 with 512 GB, Samsung charges 899 euros for a new device on promotion instead of the regular 1,099 euros.
Third-Party Retailers Undercut Refurbished Prices Significantly
The gap widens even further when looking at general electronics retailers. Because Samsung smartphone prices typically drop noticeably months after release, retailers easily undercut the second-hand prices:
- Galaxy S26 Ultra (256 GB): Available brand-new at retail for under 1,000 euros (over 200 euros cheaper than Samsung’s CRN model).
- Galaxy S26 Plus: Listed at third-party retailers starting at 850 euros (256 GB) and 930 euros (512 GB).
- Galaxy S26: Available new from under 700 euros (256 GB) and 770 euros for the 512 GB edition.
Buyer’s Advice
Anyone considering a Galaxy S26 series model should not blindly rely on the promised savings of refurbished hardware. Before purchasing, it pays to check price-comparison portals and current store promotions carefully. For shoppers seeking a more budget-friendly option within the current generation, the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE might also be worth considering, offering brand-new hardware at lower price points.
Sources: Heise – News
