Refurbished Tech with Warranties A Sustainable and Cost Effective Way to Upgrade Your Gear with Peace of Mind
Everything you need to know about refurbished technology
We all love a good deal, especially when it comes to tech. Unfortunately, with so many devices out thereand so many ways to transform your house into a smart homethe expenses can add up fast. But they don't have to.
Buying refurbished technology is a great solution. These preowned devices have been returned, revamped, and tested to make sure they're reliable. Whether you're looking to buy a computer for your college-bound teenager or tablets for your twin 8-year-olds, refurbished devices are less expensive than new ones.
Still skeptical? We get it. Here at Asurion, we've been working with refurbished smartphones and other tech for decades. And we've heard it all, from Is refurbished technology good or bad? to If I buy a device at a discounted rate, will it really work?
So we're uniquely qualified to walk you through everything you need to know about refurbished tech, including what to avoid so your devices lastand work the way you want them to.
What does "refurbished" mean?
Refurbished tech refers to used devices that have been tuned up and resold at a discounted rate. A properly refurbished device has been tested, thoroughly cleaned, and had its parts repaired or replaced if needed.
Refurbished isn't the same as used or open-box. Used devices are typically sold as-is, meaning you get what you get. Open-box refers to an item that someone else bought, opened, and then returned before using, say if the packaging was damaged or they ordered it by mistake.
Always pay attention to a seller's refurbishing practices to be sure you're getting a device that works properlywhether it's a refurbished mobile phone, a refurbished computer, a refurbished gaming system, or something else.
Why buy refurbished tech?
There are two main benefits to choosing refurbished tech over new devices.
Refurbished tech is less expensive
Refurbished tech generally costs less than its brand-new counterparts, so it's a good way to save money, especially if you don't need the latest model.
Refurbished tech helps the environment
Buying refurbished reduces our carbon footprint and our impact on the environment. The tech we use every day is critical for the way we live. But it also contains hazardous chemicals that can harm peopleand our planetif we don't dispose of them properly.
In 2019 alone, humans generated 53.6 million metric tons of electronic waste around the world, and we only collected and recycled 17% of it, according to the 2020 Global E-Waste Monitor report, which was produced by various United Nations agencies. To put that statistic into perspective, e-waste in 2019 weighed more than all the adults in Europe combined.
The same report estimates that global e-wasteincluding tablets, toasters, and washing machineswill grow to 75 million metric tons. The reasons for that astronomical increase include limited repair options, short tech life cycles, and people's desire for new devices.
By buying refurbished, however, you can have a positive environmental impact and help make a difference in the world we all share.
Do you need a protection plan and return policy on a refurbished device?
We highly recommend you buy a refurbished device from a seller with a warranty and a fair return policy. Look for at least a 90-day limited warranty, and if you don't see one listed, keep shopping. Some credit card companies will also extend coverage to certain refurbished items, assuming they have preexisting warranty coverage.
In addition to a seller's 90-day warranty, protection plans can offer peace of mind. Protection plans are great for covering accidental damage that happens during the normal use of a device, says Asurion procurement manager James Finney Sr. I would always recommend a protection plan for any eligible consumer electronic device.
At Asurion, we use high-quality refurbished phones in our mobile protection plans. These devices go through a multipoint refurbishment process that includes stringent quality standards. Our testing includes:
- Removing personally identifiable information.
- Updating to the latest software at time of repair.
- Inspecting devices visually for scratches, scuffs, gaps, discoloration, and other defects.
- Making sure that Bluetooth, touchscreen, and other features work properly.
- Confirming that 4G, LTE, 5G, etc. all work as they should.
What devices can you buy refurbished?
You can buy lots of refurbished tech products, including the following devices:
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Smart watches
- Game consoles
- Vacuums
- Blenders
- Coffee grinders
- Washers and dryers
Whatever device you're considering, do your homework. Checking warranty, return policy, and cosmetic condition should provide enough comfort buying any refurbished consumer electronic device, Finney says.
Some people do, however, avoid buying refurbished hard disk drives or solid-state drives because they can't be fully restored to their factory condition.
Where to buy a refurbished device?
To help get you started, here are some trusted resources for and reputable sellers of refurbished tech:
If you're considering buying refurbished electronics from an unfamiliar seller, be sure to research the company online and read reviews on social media and across multiple websites. While you may see refurbished devices for sale on Craigslist or similar sites online, we recommend you buy one from a company that backs their tech with a warranty and has an easily understood return policy.
Is it better to buy refurbished or new?
Only you can decide whether it's worth paying full price for a new device. Shopping for refurbished electronics can save you money and help the planet, and it can be a safe, trusted route when you choose a reliable vendor.
Sell
Choosing a refurbished device over a brand-new one or a simple second-hand device offers a multitude of benefits:
Quality Assurance: Unlike used or second-hand devices that are sold "as is," refurbished devices undergo a thorough inspection and repair process. Expert technicians test the battery, repair any dents or scratches, replace damaged parts, and ensure the device functions just like new. For instance, a broken camera would be fixed, a worn-out battery replaced, and any scratches would be buffed out to restore the device's pristine condition.
Safety: Refurbished devices are tested for safety, eliminating the risks associated with used tech. This ensures that you're not only getting a device that looks and feels new but also one that won't pose any safety hazards.
Economic and Eco-Friendly: Opting for a refurbished device from Techable.com not only saves you money but also reduces your environmental footprint. On average, a refurbished smartphone emits 91.6% less carbon compared to a new one. It also utilizes significantly fewer resources, making it a sustainable choice.Guarantees: Refurbished devices often come with warranties and return policies, giving you peace of mind. For instance, many refurbished devices include a warranty and a 30-day return policy.
Techable's Commitment: At Techable.com, we take the concept of refurbished to the next level. By directing you to our detailed model identifier and serial number decoder on techable.com/apple, you can learn about every Apple product ever created, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Better Than New: Interestingly, refurbished can often be better than new. When you purchase a refurbished device, you're not only getting a product that functions like new but also contributing to a more sustainable planet.
When you choose refurbished, especially from a trusted platform like Techable.com, you're making a choice that's good for your wallet, good for the planet, and ensures you receive a high-quality product.
Buying refurbished and second handtech
An incredible 57.4 million tonnes of e-waste was produced in 2021, according to the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Forum (WEEE).
The global IT industry produces 272 million laptops every year, with each laptops production responsible for an average of 331 kg of CO2.
With pressure to upgrade your devices frequently, many of these devices are thrown away, but they could be reused, bought second hand, or be recycled, but instead many end up in landfill, with human and environmental consequences.
Buying second hand tech can therefore reduce the amount of tech waste going to landfill, and sends a signal to the tech companies that people want devices that last for longer.
What's the difference between second hand and refurbished?
While the terms second hand and refurbished can be used interchangeably, there can be a difference.
According to Which?, a refurbished, or reconditioned, item will usually have been professionally restored by a manufacturer or retailer to the closest it can get to as new condition. Refurbished tech often come with warranties.
In contrast, tech items sold as second hand are generally sold as-is by their previous owners, and their condition will be far more variable. They may not come with warranties.
We use both terms on this page, but if you want to be more certain of what you're buying, look for refurbished items.
Best Place To Buy A Refurbished iPhone? 2023 Guide
Best Place To Buy A Refurbished iPhone? 2023 Guide
Pin If youre strapped for cash or looking to reduce the cost of your next phone, without scrimping on the brand you use, a refurbished phone specifically, a
Refurbished Phones: KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Refurbished vs. Second-Hand: A
refurbished iPhone differs from a second-hand phone. Refurbished iPhones are phones returned to the network/retailer for various reasons, tested, repaired if necessary, and then resold. - Value for Money: Refurbished iPhones offer the same functionality as new phones but at a fraction of the cost.
- Best Places to Buy: Reliable platforms to buy refurbished iPhones include Gazelle, REBOXED, and Amazon Renewed. Your choice can depend on your geographical location and specific needs.
- Quality Grades: Refurbished iPhones come in different quality grades, usually classified as excellent, good, and average. The price increases with the quality grade.
- Benefits of Refurbished Tech: Refurbished technology, from iPhones to MacBooks, provides cost-effective solutions without compromising the quality or performance of the devices.
- Price Breakdown: Prices of refurbished iPhones can vary significantly based on the model and the retailer. Gazelle, for instance, offers a variety of iPhone models at competitive prices.
If you like the latest and best quality tech but you want to save some money in 2022, buying a
I have bought and used refurbished iPhones and MacBooks for years now. Theyre cheaper to buy, so you no longer need to do an expensive contract and, because theyre iPhones, they hold their value, so when the time comes to sell it on, itll still be worth something.
Case in point: an iPhone 13 Pro Max in 2023 delivers FAR more value for money than a brand new iPhone 14 Pro Max.
But you NEED to be careful where you buy them from; not all retailers are the same some are downright dodgy.
For this reason, we have limited the best place to get a
Both are excellent. Both do extensive testing on all the products they sell so that they look and function as good as new, and both have an extensive range of products from iPhones to Samsungs and even things like wearables like Apple Watch. If you want a refurbished phone, and you care about quality, these are the only places you need to be looking.
Top Refurbished Phone Retailers
Best Refurbished iPhone Retailer In USA
Gazelle: The US #1 Refurb iPhone SpecialistGazelle is the USAs biggest and most trusted refurbished tech retailer. It sells everything from iPhones to MacBooks and Samsung phones. All Gazelle phones are extensively tested before theyre sold, meaning they look and function as good as new. If youre in the US, Gazelle is the one to go for.
Pros:- 30-Point Test on ALL Products
- 40% Cheaper Than Buying New
- Sells Phones, Tablets, MacBooks & More
- Excellent Warranty, Prices & Delivery Times
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
Best Refurbished Phone Retailer In UK
REBOXED: The Best For UK & EUREBOXED has a massive selection of refurbished iPhones, Samsung phones, Apple Watch devices, AirPods, and more. If youre after quality, reliability, and the best prices on the market, REBOXED is where it is at for users in the UK and Europe.
Pros:- 70-Point Test on ALL Products
- 40% Cheaper Than Buying New
- Sells Phones, Tablets, Headphones & More
- Excellent Delivery Times & Packaging
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
What is a Refurbished iPhone ?
A refurbished phone is NOT the same as a second-hand phone one you might buy from eBay, for instance, or Craigs List. Refurb phones are returned phones; they might have had a fault or the user might have sold it back to the network/retailer in order to get an upgrade. The phone is then fixed and put through a series of tests before being resold to a customer.
The phone, therefore, while used is NOT the same as a used phone you would buy via eBay or some random person on Facebook Marketplace.
PinIt has been vetted and, if there were issues, fixed and returned back to its optimal state.
But because the phone cannot be classed as new it automatically loses a large portion of its value which, if youre savvy, is great news for the end-user. Why?
Simple: you get a phone that functions as well as a new phone for a fraction of the cost.
I mean, whats not to like!?
The Best Place To Buy Refurbished iPhones?
So what is the best place to buy a
from? Right now, you have several solid options when buying refurbished iPhones in the UK and USA. And they are as follows:
- Gazelle (Our #1 Pick) Gazelle is a US company that specializes in refurbished iPhones, as well as iPads, MacBooks, and Samsung phones. All phones bought via Gazelle have been vetted and passed its 30-point process test, meaning they always look and function as good as new. But the best part? The prices you can save upwards of 40% on iPhones buying through Gazelle. This is why it is our #1 recommended place to buy refurbished iPhones.
- REBOXED If youre in the UK / Europe and are looking for refurbished iPhones, Reboxed would be our #1 choice right now it carries a range of refurbished iPhones, from new models down to older models like the iPhone 6 and iPhone 7. On top of this, REBOXED also does tablets and Samsung phones too. Plus, youll save 40% on average going with them.
- Verizon If youre in the US and you want a great deal on a
refurbished iPhone , Verizon has some great offers. You can pick up the iPhone XR for less than $250 right now. - Amazon Renewed Amazons a big deal these days; you can buy everything from Amazon. And now that includes refurbished iPhones. Whether youre looking for an iPhone X or an iPhone 6, Amazon has plenty of options inside its Renewed program. Prices are good too, though not quite as low as Gazelle or REBOXED.
Which is Best Overall?
If youre based in the US, its simple: Gazelle. You can browse thousands of phones, some carrier-branded, others unlocked, from all the biggest brands in technology.Gazelle carries both Apples iPhone and Samsungs Galaxy S and Galaxy Note range handsets. It also has iMacs, MacBooks, and iPads both standard and Pro models.
This is ALL it does, so the entire service is geared around getting you the best
If youre in the UK or Europe, go with REBOXED. It is essentially the same deal as Gazelle, only its testing process is even more extensive it has a 70-point test, whereas Gazelle uses a 30-point testing protocol. REBOXED has a great selection of phones and models as well as the best prices on the market.
For this reason, a refurb phone is infinitely more preferable than a second-hand phone; a refurb phone is checked, has had to pass tests before it can be resold. And for all intents and purposes will function as good as new.
The Different Grades of Quality Explained
Most refurbished phone makers offer a range of options too, based on quality. And it normally looks something like this:
- Excellent (looks good as new);
- Good (there might be some cosmetic bumps/scratches);
- And, finally, average (wear and tear likely).
Obviously, the better the condition, the higher the price.
You can buy all kinds of refurbished tech too from refurbished headphones to refurbished MacBooks and iMacs.
You can see a video of me unboxing my
Benefits of Using Refurbished Tech
PinRefurbished iPhones: Price Breakdown
How much do refurbished iPhones cost? As always, it depends on where you look.
Out of all the retailers online, we tend to use Gazelle the most as it has the best selection of product and, for the most part, the lowest prices, as you can see below:
How Much Are Refurbished iPhones?
- iPhone 8 From $269
- iPhone 8 Plus From $359
- iPhone X From $429
- iPhone XS From $544
- iPhone XS Max From $504
- iPhone XR From $449
- iPhone 11 From $499
>> Check Out All Prices & Models Here.
Do Refurbished iPhones Look As Good As New Ones?
The main thing most people worry about when considering a
This is not the case, though, especially if you pay a little more for a phone that is in mint condition, as I always do.
I recently bought myself an iPhone XS Max via Gazelle.
I wanted a new phone, I wanted it to be an iPhone, and Ive always liked the XS range, so I decided to pick myself up a gold iPhone XS Max, Apples flagship phone from 2018.
In the video below, you can see that the iPhone XS Max is in very good condition; there are no bumps or scratches.
The display is in perfect condition and, for all intents and purposes, it looks as good as new.
<span data-mce-type=bookmark style=display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0; class=mce_SELRES_start></span>
Check Out Gazelles Latest Deals Here
Ive been using this phone for a few weeks now and it hasnt missed a beat. The battery life is brilliant and the performance, thanks to Apples amazing A12 Bionic SoC, is phenomenal.
I ditched my Pixel 3a XL for the iPhone XS Max and it is not a decision I regret. With an iPhone, I know Im going to get iOS updates well into the mid-to-late 2020s.
With Android, Ill be lucky if I get two years of support. And that goes for ALL Android phones, even ones that cost over $1000.
Are Refurbished iPhones Fake?
This is a common concern with first-time refurbished buyers. But it is completely unfounded: refurbished phones are not FAKE.
When you buy a
The only difference is that it has, for whatever reason, had to be returned to Apple for fixes.
Refurbished iPhones are not fake. And refurbished doesnt even always mean there was something wrong with the phone either.
If a user cannot keep up with payments for their iPhone, for instance, the phone will be collected by the carrier or retailer that sold it and then sent back to Apple to be tweaked for resale in the refurbished market.
If youre concerned about the quality of refurbished phones, you really shouldnt be all refurbished phones, unlike second-hand and used phones, go through extensive testing before theyre resold to the consumer.
In this respect, theyre more like an approved used vehicle than a standard used vehicle if youre familiar with how the car market works.
When you buy a
If it does not pass the refurbished retailers tests, it is sent back to the manufacturer and not sold. This means that every refurbished phone you see on sites like Gazelle are 100% legit and function just as good as new phones.
The same, however, cannot be said for used phones bought via Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Craigs List.
Certified Refurbished iPhones Why It Matters
When you buy a
Why?
Because a certified
This is the #1 reason why we recommend Gazelle; all of its refurbished iPhones and other tech products are all certified refurbished, come with warranties, and, in our experience, look and function as good as new.
It also has some of the best prices on the market for iPhones, MacBooks, and iPads.
If you buy a used iPhone, you do not get any of these things. The phone will not have been tested, will likely have issues, and might not have been wiped correctly.
And you do not want that. With a certified
What is The Best Refurbished iPhone To Buy In 2022?
Apples software support is excellent, so even if you go with an older model like the iPhone 8 Plus, youll still get iOS updates for a good many years.
However, Id always advise that you go with an iPhone that is no older than three years.
This means, in 2021, the best iPhone to buy refurbished is probably the iPhone XS or the iPhone XS Max.
If you want something cheaper, go with the iPhone XR that model is one of the most popular iPhones Apple has ever released and it is still a great option in 2021.
If you dont mind spending a little more cash, you can pick up Apples iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro refurbished now, so if you want a modern iPhone at a lower price, and you dont mind not having 5G, go with the iPhone 11 or iPhone 11 Pro you can get them for about $200 less than a new model.
What About Amazons Renewed Program?
If you have Amazon Prime, another option would be to gowith Amazon Renewed. Youll get a great price for a
If you dont have Prime, Gazelle is still a solid option. Ive had a bunch of phones via Gazelle over the years and theyve always been great.
PinBut the really cool thing about Gazelle is that youll get your iPhone (or Samsung Galaxy phone) for around 40% less than normal. Yes, it is a used handset, but no one will know they look good as new.
>>> Click Here To View ALL Gazelles Latest Offers
Which brings me to my next question: why isnt everybody doing this? I honestly dont know. Ive been a technology journalist for over 10-years, and I ALWAYS buy my iPhones when I use them refurbished. Ditto MacBooks and iMacs.
Why? Simple: I dont like spending a TON of money on something that will be about 50% cheaper 12 months after its release.
It makes ZERO sense. Plus, Id rather avoid phone contracts, own my phone outright, and pick out my own plans to get the best deals on data and calls.
Owning a phone outright affords you this option.
What Happens When You Buy An Old iPhone?
With Android phones, you get a MAX of two years of software support. Even if your phone costs $1000.
This is obviously a terrible deal.
It gets worse though if you buy an older Android phone because, depending on its age, it could already be out of its update cycle, leaving you stuck on an old version of Android and exposed to all kinds of security issues.
You dont want this, obviously. This is why an old iPhone is infinitely preferable to an old Android phone.
Apples software support for the iPhone is incredible.
Case in point: I have an iPhone SE, the original one from 2016, and it is still getting iOS updates as soon as theyre released.
I cannot say the same thing for any of my older Android phones. Most of them are just now collecting dust in my office cupboard.
PinThis is the #1 reason why Id always recommend a
Youll just get way more mileage from an iPhone than you would an Android handset. Android purists will argue that you can get around all of these issues by rooting the phone and installing your own ROM but, as I often like to counter, not everybody is going to want to do that.
Bottom line: if you want a hassle-free phone experience, and youre buying refurbished, you are infinitely better off going with an old iPhone, say the iPhone 8 Plus or iPhone X, even the iPhone XR, you can get excellent deals on all of them, over a similar specced-and-priced Android phone.
This is the reason why people that use iPhones tend to keep on using them for years to come. They just work. And you get updates as soon as theyre ready.
What About Amazon Renewed For Refurbished iPhones?
Amazons Renewed program is a great place to buy refurbished iPhones. As with Gazelle, youre going to save a fortune going this route.
And best of all? The refurbished iPhones look and function as good as new.
On top of this, you can also leverage Amazon Prime to get your
Amazon has a renewed program in the USA and Europe too; access the USA version here and the UK/Europe version here.
Amazons Renewed program covers all makes and models of iPhone, but if you want to make BIG savings, youre best off going with a slightly older model think the iPhone X or iPhone 8 Plus.
This is where the biggest savings are because these phones are older and have lost most of their appeal to customers that want and demand everything to be new, new, new!
Running an iPhone 8 Plus (or iPhone X) in 2019 is not going to cause you any issues.
Apple builds its iPhones to last and while it would rather you buy NEW iPhones every year, the companys rise and command over consumers is built on the simple fact that iPhones, unlike Android phones, will last and get support for years at a time.
An iPhone X, for instance, will be perfectly adequate and totally functional until well into the mid-2020s.
Can you say that about Samsungs Galaxy S10? Probably not. That phone will stop getting Android updates inside 2020.
Why?
Simple: Samsung wants you to buy a new phone.
Why?
Because thats how it makes money.
Conversely, Apple makes money when you use ANY iPhone, so it doesnt care if youre holding on to your phone for years at a time, just so long as youre buying and doing stuff inside the Apple ecosystem.
Be sure to check out our iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro comparison!
Reconditioned iPhone: The Best Time To Buy A Refurbished iPhone?
The best time of year to buy a used iPhone is in the months of September to October.
Thats because a glut of used devices flood the market as people rush to sell last years model so they can make some cash to buy the new iPhone.
Apples iPhones are VERY expensive, especially new ones.
This is why plenty of people buy second-hand or reconditioned units, as theyre often a hell of a lot cheaper.
Plus, once a new iPhone lands the price of older models goes down considerably cheaper.
Chuck in Apples excellent track-record with software-support and investing in a year-old iPhone X makes a lot of sense.
Also, if youre not 100% sold on Apples iPhone XS but need an upgrade if youre running an older handset, say, the iPhone 7, a reconditioned iPhone X makes a ton of sense as it will be a huge upgrade on your older iPhone.
Why Refurbished iPhones Are A SOLID Buy
Plus the used phone market is a very popular choice with consumers.
The worldwide market for refurbished phones that are sold to end users will grow to 120 million units by 2017, notes Gartner, with an equivalent wholesale revenue of around $14 billion. This is up from 56 million units in 2014, with an equivalent wholesale revenue of $7 billion.
With consumers in mature markets upgrading their smartphones every 18 to 20 months the inevitable question is what happens to the old device? said Meike Escherich, principal research analyst at Gartner. While only seven percent of smartphones end up in official recycling programs, 64 percent get a second lease of life with 23 percent being handed down to other users and 41 percent being traded in or sold privately.
This rise in smartphone reuse will impact not only the sales of new units but also the revenue streams of all those involved in the smartphone supply chain, continued Ms. Escherich. Stakeholders that are already participating in take-back or trade-in programs need to have a strategy for turning used devices into a positive asset. Others particularly high-end phone original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) need to take a closer look at this market in order to evaluate the impact these secondhand devices will have on their market positions and revenue streams.
You Can Get Refurbished iPhone X, iPhone XR & iPhone XS Phones
PinWhen you think about refurbished iPhones, you tend to think of old, knackered models that have been used and abused by someone.
But thats simply not the case. You can now pick up modern iPhones via places like Gazelle that look and function as good as new.
You can get the iPhone X, the iPhone XR, even Apples 2018 flagships, the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max refurbished for around 40% less than itd cost from Apple.
And when you consider that the iPhone XS looks identical, more or less, to the iPhone 11, the idea of buying a
This is the #1 reason why I have bought multiple refurbished iPhones over the years the cost savings.
Sure, the phone isnt brand new. But when its $300-$400 cheaper, who cares!?
As long as it looks new and works like new thats all that matters. And with these types of refurbished phones from Gazelle, thats exactly what youre getting.
DO NOT Buy 32-Bit iPhones (Avoid Anything Older Than iPhone 7)
iOS 11 will not be available on 32-bit iPhones, or any iOS updates following it. This means ALL iPhones below the iPhone 5s will not get the update.
Why?
Simple: Apples pretty good at supporting old hardware, but there comes a time when people have to move on.
Apple developed iOS to be a 64-bit platform.
All of its iPhones since 2013 have been 64-bit.
Its not 2017, and this is easily a long enough grace period for old hardware users to update and move forward.
If youre looking for a solid 64-bit iPhone that will be supported for another few years, thebest option is an iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus if youre on a budget, but want something that really cooks.
So how do you find a good deal on an iPhone?
It then comes down to the simple law of supply and demand: the more people selling used iPhones mean the prices for these used devices drop in order to entice buyers to buy theirs and not someone elses.
However, horror stories abound about people getting ripped off when buying a used device.
While theres no guarantee you wont be ripped off, weve put together this simple guide to help you minimize your risk when buying a used iPhone from a stranger.
Tips For Buying Used iPhones From Amazon & eBay
Amazon and eBay are also great options, though here youre going to be buying directly from a consumer, in most cases.
If theres a legitimate dispute between a buyer and seller on Amazon, for example, the site will almost always side with the buyer.
This goes doubly for eBay.
They also mandate that sellers must offer a 30 day return periodso if your used iPhone stopped working a week after you buy it, itll be easy to get a refund.
eBay also offers powerful buyer protection thanks to its seller rating system and its integration with Paypal. If you get ripped off, Paypal makes it very easy to get your money back.
Keep The Following In Mind When Buying Second-Hand Phones Via Amazon & eBay
- Meet The Seller In A Public And Secure Place I like to believe that most sellers are honest people, but there have been instances where someone agrees to meet a seller from Craigslist or Gumtree, only to turn up and be mugged by them. for this reason, I always suggest meeting a seller in a public and secure place. A packed coffee shop, and Apple Store, or even the parking lot of a police station. A place with CCTV cameras is good too, just in case something goes down.
- Ask To See The Original Receipt While some sellers may not always have this, its a good thing to ask for. If they can provide a receipt for the iPhone, you know theres a good chance its not a stolen device. However, not being able to provide a receipt doesnt necessarily mean it is stolen.
- Get Two Forms Of Contact Info From The Seller I always recommend getting two or more forms of contact for the seller. Email is good and a phone number is better. As for their name and see if you can identify them on social media. Getting as much contact info from the seller as possible means you have a better chance of contacting them if the used iPhone you bought dies a week later.
- Ask What The Sellers Return Policy Is Most sellers will probably have a no returns accepted policy. When I sell on sites like Gumtree I usually have this policy. However, if you are buying a high-value device like the iPhone, I usually offer them a week to return itbut only if something is seriously wrong. I also show the buyer that the phone works well and keep detailed pictures of the device in case the buyer damages it and wants to return it.
- Test The Used Phone Needless to say, you should thoroughly test the used iPhone you plan to buy. If youre about to hand a stranger 400, he should have no qualms about you using the phone in front of him for about 10 minutes to test out all its features.
- Make Sure No iCloud Account Is Signed In To The Device While testing the device, make sure that no user is signed into the iCloud account on the iPhone. If they are, this could prevent you from restoring it, may suggest that its been stolen, or even means the seller can screw you over later and lock you out of the device youve bought.
- Check Out The Devices IMEI Number An IMEI number is a unique 15-digit number assigned to cellular devices. The IMEI can be used to block a mobile phone from being used by others if it has been lost or stolen. To find the iPhones IMEI go to Settings > General > About. Once you have the IMEI you can copy and past it and then go to iPhoneox.com to enter it and check its warranty and activation info, if its locked to a carrier, or if its been reported lost or stolen. Also, be aware if you accidentally buy a stolen iPhone, the original owner can remotely brick it by using the Find My app.
It sounds like a lot of work, right? It kind of is. For this reason, Id go with a professional service instead and right now, our #1 pick for reconditioned iPhones, Samsung phones, MacBooks, and iPads is Gazelle.
Or, if youre in the UK, Music Magpie especially if youre after other things like consoles, iPads, Apple Watch or gaming peripherals, and console games.
Refurbished vs Used Phones Whats The Difference?
The main difference between a used phone and a refurbished phone is that a used phone is usually bought directly from a user. For instance, you might go to Facebook Marketplace and search for an iPhone 8.
Youll see listings from local people nearby. If you choose to buy one of these phones, youre getting a phone that has been used for a year or more and will likely have some physical defects.
You also have NO comeback if something goes wrong with the phone. If it has an issue, you cannot really do anything once youve paid for the phone.
Youre basically stuck with a dud or broken phone.
You can contact the site you bought it through but it is never guaranteed that youll get your money back.
With a refurbished phone, youre dealing with a registered company, a company that specialises in selling and acquiring phones, and all good refurb companies run a battery of tests and, where appropriate, fixes on all of the products it sells before reselling them onto customers.
You also have a 30-day returns policy with most places, and, with the best refurbished retailers, you get a warranty on your phone too. This way, youre covered for all eventualities, including issues with the phone and anything that could go wrong in the first few months of using it.
Another issue with used phones is how much they cost. Because the price is set by the seller and not dictated by the market, you can and in some cases will pay more for a used phone simply because the seller is asking for too much money.
With a refurb phone, this doesnt happen thanks to the magic of economics that ensure all refurbished phone retailers compete with one another to give the best prices possible in order to remain competitive.
The bottom line here is pretty simple: refurbished phones are better, safer, and an infinitely better way to buy a phone when compared to used phones. And right now, this is our #1 recommended place to buy them.
Conclusion: Should You Buy A Refurbished Cellphone?
PinIf youre looking to save some money in 2021 and beyond, picking up a refurbished unlocked cellphone could be just what the doctor ordered
Why? Refurbished cellphones are cheaper than new ones for a start; around 40% and thats pretty significant. If you buy one today, and it is an iPhone, youll also get excellent software support from Apple.
But are refurbished cellphones any good? Is there anything you need to know before you go out looking for one? As always, the answer is yes.
Best Place To Buy Refurbished Unlocked Cellphones
First and foremost, you want to use a specialist and respected refurbished cellphone retailer.
I like Gazelle; it does iPhones, Macs, and iPads.
Ive used them multiple times over the years and I have always had a great experience the phones always look and function as good as new.
You can pick up unlocked cellphones, locked cellphones, and cellphones in different types of condition. The better the condition, the more they cost as youd expect.
Youll still pay way less for the phone, regardless of its condition, than buying one new via a carrier and/or retailer.
You also have Amazon to consider too; its Amazon Renewed program is focussed 100% on refurbished technology everything from phones to tablets and headphones.
How Much Can You Save?
If youre used to buying your phones new or getting them on plans, the savings youll make going with a refurbished cellphone will be pretty impressive.
Most of the time you can take the initial hit on your credit card and pay off the balance over the following couple of months. This is what I usually do, anyways.
Or, if youre flush, just pay for the phone outright and stick your existing SIM card in it.
The iPhone X, for instance, can be had for less than $300 now. If you get that and pick up a SIM-only plan something like this you will be up and running for $15 a month (with unlimited data too).
Similarly, the iPhone XR is now also very cheap. Or, if you need something newer and more up-to-date, Apples iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max are now really good value via refurb stores online.
Whatever phone you end up going for, just make sure it isnt too old. And always make sure you use a respected seller someone like Gazelle (my pick for iPhones) or Amazon Renewed.
Michael GrothausMichael Grothaus is an American author and journalist with a flair for exploring the intersection of technology, creativity, and digital culture. With a background in film, journalism, and creative writing, he brings a unique perspective to the world of mobile technology. His work has been featured in renowned publications like Fast Company, The Guardian, and Engadget. At KnowYourMobile, Michael leverages his extensive knowledge to guide readers through the complexities of mobile devices, helping them make informed choices in the fast-paced tech landscape.
