In 2024, finding an affordable smartphone that still delivers a reliable experience is a challenge. With flagship models now priced over $1,000, many users turn to older devices like the Google Pixel 3 or the Samsung Galaxy S7 for budget-friendly options. But are these phones still viable today? The Pixel 3 launched in 2018 with strong camera performance and clean Android integration, while the Galaxy S7, released in 2016, was once a powerhouse of its era. Choosing between them isn’t just about price—it’s about usability, security, and long-term functionality.
This article breaks down the real-world performance of both devices in 2024, evaluates their software support, battery life, camera quality, and overall user experience, and provides a clear verdict on which device—despite its age—offers better value today.
Performance and Hardware: How Do They Hold Up?
The hardware gap between the Pixel 3 and Galaxy S7 reflects two different generations of mobile technology. The Pixel 3 features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor and 4GB of RAM, which was top-tier in 2018. In contrast, the Galaxy S7 runs on either the Snapdragon 820 or Exynos 8890 (depending on region), paired with 4GB of RAM as well.
While both processors were powerful in their time, the Snapdragon 845 holds up noticeably better in 2024. It handles light multitasking, social media apps, and even some modern games at lower settings. However, app loading times can be sluggish, and background app refresh is limited due to aging architecture.
The Galaxy S7’s older chip struggles more. Many newer versions of popular apps—especially those requiring heavy JavaScript or GPU rendering—run slowly or crash frequently. Even basic tasks like switching between Chrome tabs can feel frustratingly slow.
Software Support and Security: The Hidden Dealbreaker
One of the most critical factors in 2024 isn't raw power—it's software maintenance. The Pixel 3 received three years of guaranteed OS updates and security patches, ending in late 2021. Since then, it has not received official updates from Google. While some third-party ROMs exist, they require technical knowledge and void any remaining trust in system integrity.
The Galaxy S7 fared even worse. Samsung ended major OS updates shortly after launch and ceased security patches around 2019. That means both devices are running outdated Android versions—Android 10 at best—with known vulnerabilities.
“Using a phone without current security patches in 2024 is like leaving your front door unlocked. Data breaches, phishing attacks, and malware risks increase significantly.” — Lena Patel, Mobile Security Analyst at CyberShield Labs
Modern banking apps, messaging platforms, and even Google services are beginning to phase out support for older Android versions. Users report login issues, missing features, or outright app rejection on devices below Android 11.
Camera Quality: Where the Pixel 3 Still Shines
If there’s one area where the Pixel 3 still competes, it’s photography. Despite having only a single rear camera, Google’s computational photography—HDR+, Night Sight, and Super Res Zoom—delivers surprisingly good results in daylight and low light.
In side-by-side tests, the Pixel 3 consistently produces sharper images, more accurate colors, and better dynamic range than the Galaxy S7. The S7’s 12MP sensor was excellent in 2016, but without modern image processing, photos appear flat, noisy in dim lighting, and lack detail compared to even mid-range 2024 phones.
The front cameras tell a similar story. The Pixel 3’s 8MP selfie cam with portrait mode and face retouching still holds up for casual use. The S7’s 5MP front shooter lacks depth sensing and performs poorly in indoor lighting.
| Feature | Google Pixel 3 | Samsung Galaxy S7 |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | 12.2MP, f/1.8, OIS, PDAF | 12MP, f/1.7, Dual Pixel AF |
| Front Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, EIS | 5MP, f/1.7 |
| Night Mode | Yes (Night Sight) | No |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps |
| Photo Processing | Advanced HDR+, AI enhancements | Basic processing, no AI |
Battery Life and Charging: Degradation Is Real
Both phones originally shipped with batteries around 3,000 mAh. However, after 6–8 years, battery degradation is inevitable. Most used units today have 60–70% of original capacity, leading to poor all-day performance.
The Pixel 3 supports fast charging (18W with compatible charger) and wireless charging—a rare feature at its price point even among older models. The Galaxy S7 also supports fast and wireless charging, but replacements for its proprietary fast charger are harder to find.
Real-world usage shows the Pixel 3 lasting about 6–7 hours of screen-on time with light use. The S7 often struggles to reach 5 hours under similar conditions, especially if the battery hasn’t been replaced.
Real-World Example: Sarah’s Experience with a Used Pixel 3
Sarah, a college student on a tight budget, bought a refurbished Pixel 3 in early 2023 for $80. She wanted a phone that could handle her classes, notes, and social apps without breaking the bank. For six months, it worked reasonably well—she appreciated the clean Android interface and excellent camera for scanning documents.
But by late 2023, she began noticing problems. Apps like Instagram and TikTok started crashing. Google Play Services would freeze, requiring reboots. Her banking app stopped recognizing her device. By March 2024, she couldn’t log into her university portal due to unsupported TLS encryption.
She eventually upgraded to a used Pixel 4a for $120, which runs Android 13 and receives ongoing security updates. “I saved $40,” she said, “but lost six months of reliability. Next time, I’ll prioritize software support over nostalgia.”
Step-by-Step Guide: Should You Buy Either Phone in 2024?
- Evaluate your needs: Are you using the phone daily, or as a backup? Daily drivers need better performance and security.
- Check Android version: Ensure the device runs at least Android 10. Below that, compatibility drops sharply.
- Verify update status: Search online for official patch details. Devices without 2023+ security updates are high-risk.
- Inspect battery health: Ask the seller for battery cycle count or replace it immediately.
- Test core apps: Install WhatsApp, Gmail, Chrome, and your bank app before committing.
- Consider alternatives: Look at used Pixel 4a, Moto G Power (2022), or iPhone SE (2020)—all available under $150 with better longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Pixel 3 run Android 13?
No. Google officially ended OS updates for the Pixel 3 with Android 12. While some custom ROMs (like LineageOS) offer Android 13, they lack Google Play Services certification and may introduce instability or security flaws.
Is the Galaxy S7 waterproof?
Yes, the Galaxy S7 has IP68 water resistance, meaning it can survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. However, seals degrade over time—do not rely on this feature after 8 years.
Which phone has better resale value?
Neither holds significant resale value today. However, the Pixel 3 tends to sell slightly faster due to its camera reputation and cleaner software history.
Final Verdict: Neither Is Ideal, But One Is Less Risky
Between the Google Pixel 3 and the Samsung Galaxy S7 in 2024, the Pixel 3 is the lesser of two outdated options. It offers better app compatibility, superior camera processing, and more recent software support. However, calling it “worth it” depends heavily on context.
If you’re looking for a temporary backup phone, a device for a child, or a media player for offline use, a well-maintained Pixel 3 with a new battery might suffice for another year. The Galaxy S7, meanwhile, should be avoided unless used in a controlled environment with no internet access—such as a music player or GPS unit.
For anyone needing a reliable daily driver, even a modest investment in a newer used model—like the Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, or Samsung Galaxy A52—will provide dramatically better performance, security, and peace of mind.
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