Refurbished Phones

A refurbished phone is a previously purchased handset that has been repaired or inspected to ensure it is in good working order. The handset has likely been wiped of the previous user’s data and it may have a few scratches or minor dents but should still be in perfect functional condition. Often, these phones have also been given a new battery and are restored to factory settings. They’re then resold by the retailer and are generally cheaper than a brand new handset but can sometimes have less up to date software and security updates.

Buying a refurbished handset is one of the most sustainable ways to upgrade your smartphone as it reduces the amount of electronic waste produced and cuts down on the energy, water and other resources needed to manufacture a new device. However, it’s important to understand how a refurbished handset is graded as this will influence its price and quality.

There are a few different types of refurbished mobiles but the best ones are those that are sold by the manufacturer of the handset, like Apple or Samsung. These companies are most familiar with their products and will be able to inspect them more thoroughly and repair them to a “like-new” condition.

How Are Refurbished Phones Graded?

Some of the other most popular refurbished phones come from third-party retailers who are certified to sell these devices. These companies will usually have a clear grading system and an easy returns policy that protects buyers. They’ll usually offer a warranty too and will be held to the same standards as the manufacturer’s refurbished devices.

Other refurbished smartphones are sold by wireless carriers. These devices will have been returned by other customers and will be resold with a contract that requires monthly payments in addition to an activation fee and other charges. Typically, these smartphones will be a few years old but are still very functional and can be sold for a much lower cost than a new device.

Many of these refurbished smartphones can be found on eBay, Facebook Marketplace and other peer-to-peer trading websites. These sellers tend to have a more lenient returns and refund policy than the reputable manufacturers and third-party retailers. This means that you should always make sure to check the terms and conditions carefully when making a purchase. Always be aware of the return window, refund stipulations and warranty period before making your final decision.

Make sure the retailer you’re considering has a high in-house standard for their refurbished devices and always keep copies of any documentation you receive. This way, if something goes wrong, you can refer back to the details and seek compensation. You can also ask to see a refurbished smartphone’s Phonecheck certification before buying. It will reveal if the handset has been wiped and has been restored to factory settings, which is a sign that it’s in a very good condition. This is particularly useful if you’re considering buying an older model smartphone as there’s a risk that it won’t be compatible with future software updates.