Samsung’s foldable phones have steadily evolved from niche tech experiments into genuine productivity devices, and now the company is making it even easier — and more affordable — to get in on the action. Samsung has quietly added the Galaxy Z Fold 5 to its Certified Re-Newed program, meaning customers in select regions can buy an officially refurbished unit directly from Samsung at a reduced price.
But does a refurbished Fold 5 still deliver in 2025, when newer foldables are already on the market? Here’s what you need to know.
What “Certified Re-Newed” Actually Means
Samsung’s Certified Re-Newed (CRN) program refurbishes returned or lightly used devices to Samsung’s internal standards. Unlike generic refurbished phones sold on third-party marketplaces, CRN products go through multi-point inspections, use genuine Samsung parts, ship in official packaging and include a Samsung warranty (typically 12 months in supported regions).
You can also add Samsung Care+ coverage for accidental damage — particularly useful for foldable devices and their more complex hinge mechanics.
CRN includes:
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Full diagnostic and cosmetic inspection
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Component replacement using official parts
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Warranty coverage (1 year in most regions)
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Official packaging and USB-C cable
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Many units sold unlocked
Galaxy Z Fold 5: What You’re Buying
Even as a previous-generation model, the Z Fold 5 still offers a flagship-level experience:
Feature | Details |
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Display | 6.2-inch outer / 7.6-inch inner (120 Hz) |
Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
RAM / Storage | 12GB + 256/512GB/1TB (varies) |
Cameras | 50MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP telephoto |
Battery | 4,400 mAh with 25W wired + Fast Wireless |
IP Rating | IPX8 (water resistance) |
S Pen Support | Yes (Fold Edition or Creator Edition) |
Software Support | Up to 4 OS updates / 5 years security |
The inner display is still one of the best for multitasking and productivity, helped by Samsung’s One UI features such as the multitasking taskbar, split-screen drag-and-drop, and Flex Mode.
Is the Certified Re-Newed Fold 5 a Good Value?
In many cases, yes — especially if:
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You find a discounted 512GB version or stack the price with a trade-in offer
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You want official warranty coverage and avoid unknown refurbishers
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You value the larger foldable form factor, but don’t need the very latest chipset
While third-party refurbished listings may appear cheaper, they generally don’t include Samsung’s quality control or warranty coverage — a critical advantage when buying foldables.
Fold 5 vs. Newer Foldables
Aspect | Fold 5 (Certified Re-Newed) | Latest Fold (New) |
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Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
Hinge/Durability | Improved from Fold 4 | Slight further refinements |
Software Window | ~3 full years remaining | ~4+ years |
Display Experience | Excellent (unchanged) | Very similar |
Price | Significantly lower | Premium (full MSRP) |
You give up minor refinements and an extra year of software window — but retain the large display, premium cameras, multitasking tools, and strong battery life.
Who Should Consider It
✅ Buy it if you are…
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A productivity-focused user who values a tablet-like workspace
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A student or traveler who wants one device instead of two
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A value-minded buyer prioritizing warranty and OEM refurbishment
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A media consumer (streaming, e-books, games = excellent experience)
❌ Skip it if…
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You need the longest possible OS support window
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You want the absolute latest durability improvements
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You’re sensitive to even mild cosmetic imperfections
The Samsung Certified Re-Newed Galaxy Z Fold 5 remains a compelling option in 2025. You’re getting a flagship foldable with a large, flexible display, powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance, excellent multitasking features, and Samsung’s official warranty — all at a significantly lower price than a brand-new foldable.
If you don’t need the latest CPU or slightly thinner hinge, the CRN Fold 5 is one of the best-value ways to experience a foldable phone right now — especially during promotions or with a solid trade-in.