I hadn't bought a new phone in something like 10-15 years... had an old Nexus 5 that held up really well, but finally started falling behind on software compatibility. Decided to take a chance on a refurb - the reviews had me a bit conflicted, but I pulled the trigger on it after doing some research online.
Have been using the phone for about a month at this point, and it's been great. May as well have been a new phone. The battery seemed a bit weird at first, but after adjusting some settings based on more research, it lasts as long as tests online indicate it should (the battery is supposed to be new in refurb devices, this seems to be the case with the one I received).
Downloaded the Android 11 update and everything is working just fine. As an extra note, the primary SIM card slot takes a nano sized SIM card.
Really happy with the purchase! The camera is great and the storage space is phenomenal (was running into that as an issue on the old phone - having a quarter TB is amazing).
The only thing I didn't quite realize is how MASSIVE this phone is. I go running a lot, and with an Otterbox case ("Commuter" series, the slimmest variant), the phone wouldn't even fit in my shorts' pocket, lol! This wasn't a problem after buying an arm-sleeve carrier for it (the "E Tronic Phone Holder" is compatible, if you're curious), but I definitely didn't expect it to be as chunky as it is. People with smaller hands may legitimately have some trouble holding onto this beast - it kind of feels like an old Xbox controller - it's big and it doesn't care. I have big hands, and the phone does feel more "prone to being dropped" than any other device I've held before due to the dimensions (ended up purchasing a "MilitaryShield" screen protector from their website directly - buying from a reseller will void the screen protector's warranty, and also got an "Inskin" tempered glass protector for the camera lenses). In exchange, you do get a bigger screen, tons of storage space, and a fantastic camera that's among the best according to reviews (and, in my limited experience using it, I can say the features are great).
With all of that said, like people have commented - it feels like a bit of a gamble ordering a refurb. I just wanted to share a positive experience to offset a lot of the mediocre/negative ones - but be sure to do your own research, and consider if it's the right choice based on your needs/situation!
| Brand | SAMSUNG |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Samsung |
| Place of Business | San Jose, CA 95134,US |
| Model | SM-N975U |
| Model Name | Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus |
| Model year | 2019 |
| Part Number | SM-N975-VERIZON |
| RAM | 12 GB |
| Memory storage capacity | 256 GB |
| Flash memory installed size | 256 GB |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 12 GB |
| Digital Storage Capacity | 256 GB |
| OS | Android 9 |
| Processor Speed | 2.7 GHz |
| Processor Type | Snapdragon |
| Scanner Resolution | 3040 x 1440 |
| Special features | S Pen (stylus) support |
| Mounting Hardware | Stylus, SIM Tray Ejector, Charger/Adapter |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Display Technology | AMOLED |
| Standing screen display size | 6.8 Inches |
| Display type | AMOLED |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Resolution | 3040 x 1440 |
| Optical Sensor Resolution | 10 MP |
| Video capture resolution | 4k |
| Battery Description | Lithium Ion |
| Battery Average Life | 16 Hours |
| Batteries included | Yes |
| Batteries Required | Yes |
| Battery Capacity | 4.3 Milliamp Hours |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
| Battery Power Rating | 4300 Amp Hours |
| Cellular technology | 5G |
| Connector Type | Bluetooth |
| Human Interface Input | Touchscreen |
| Form Factor | Slate |
| Manufacturer | Samsung |
| Item model number | SM-N975U |
| Product Dimensions | 16.23 x 7.72 x 0.79 cm; 195.04 g |
| ASIN | B07YXBRXKF |
