Guide for Buying Refurbished Smartphones Like a Pro

The Expert’s Checklist for Shopping Refurbished Smartphones

Buying a refurbished smartphone can be a budget-friendly choice for upgrading your device while being kind to the environment. Doing a little research helps to ensure you’re getting a device that’s reliable and worth the investment. Shing Pang, CEO of Mobile Federation has provided a comprehensive guide on what to consider when purchasing a refurbished device.

Understand the difference between “refurbished” and “used”

Before purchasing a previously owned phone, it is important to differentiate between phones advertised as “used” and “refurbished.” A used phone is sold as-is, often with no repairs or guarantees. On the other hand, refurbished phones have typically been tested, repaired, and restored to full functionality. Certified refurbished devices may also come with warranties, offering added peace of mind.

Check the seller’s reputation

Not all refurbished phones are created equal, and the seller’s reputation can make or break your experience. We recommend purchasing from reputable sources such as the manufacturer’s official refurbishment program, authorised retailers, or trusted third-party refurbishers. Manufacturers often provide official refurbishment programmes, like Apple’s Certified Refurbished, where gadgets are refurbished by the company’s own team and sold at a lower price compared to brand-new items. Authorised retailers, such as mobile data companies like Vodafone, partner with smartphone companies to offer refurbished phones along with discounted phone plans.

Trusted third-party refurbishers are typically independent businesses with a verifiable identity, known for selling high-quality refurbished phones. It is important to avoid deals that seem too good to be true from unknown vendors, as they may not provide the same level of quality or reliability.

Look for a warranty

One of the most critical aspects of buying a refurbished smartphone is ensuring it comes with a warranty. Reputable refurbishers will offer warranties ranging from 30 days to 24 months. This coverage protects you against defects or issues that might arise after purchase.

Verify the phone’s condition

Refurbished phones are often graded based on their cosmetic and functional condition. Refurbishers will often provide an option for a “grade” which outlines the phone’s condition. These grades are usually available for selection on the menu with options for colour and storage capacity. Each refurbisher will have their own grading system. Grades can look like the following:

• Premium: The device looks and works like new. It has a minimum battery health of 90%.
• Good: The device shows very minimal signs of use, with only some micro scratches on the screen and/or rear.
• Fair: The device shows moderate wear and visible scratches on the screen and/or rear.

Understand the grading system of your chosen retailer and choose a grade that aligns with your expectations and budget.

Confirm compatibility

Ensure the refurbished phone is compatible with your carrier and region. Some devices may be locked to specific networks, while others are unlocked for use with any carrier. Verify the phone’s compatibility by checking the model number and specifications against your carrier’s requirements. You can do this by requesting the phone’s IMEI from the refurbisher, and look it up on the phone carrier’s network to be sure that they are compatible.

Inspect battery health

Battery performance can degrade over time, and this is a common issue in pre-owned devices. Many refurbishers replace the battery before resale, but it’s crucial to confirm this. For optimal performance, we recommend purchasing devices with at least 80% battery health.

Review the return policy

Even with a warranty, a flexible return policy is essential. A solid return policy allows you to test the phone thoroughly and return it if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Look for sellers offering at least a 14-day return window.

Check for software updates

Outdated software can pose security risks and limit the phone’s functionality. Ensure the refurbished device supports the latest operating system updates. The latest OS that each version of a phone supports can usually be found on their websites, you should then check the phone to be sure it is able to be updated to that OS. For iPhones, you can do this by going to ‘Settings’ > ‘General,’ then tap ‘About.’ On Androids, you open the device’s settings app, tap ‘About phone,’ and then ‘Android version.’ These steps will show you what OS the phone runs on and if there is an update available. This is particularly important for older models that may no longer receive updates from the manufacturer.

Ask about accessories

Refurbished phones may not come with original accessories such as chargers, cables, or headphones. Confirm what is included in the package and budget for any additional accessories you might need.

Request proof of authenticity

Counterfeit devices are a growing concern, even in the refurbished device market. We recommend requesting proof of authenticity, such as the original IMEI number or documentation verifying the phone’s origin and refurbishment process.

Shing Pang, CEO of Mobile Federation commented on the study,

“E-waste is the fastest growing waste stream damaging our planet. Buying refurbished isn’t just a wise financial decision; it’s also an eco-friendly one. By choosing a refurbished device, you are contributing to reducing electronic waste and promoting a more sustainable tech ecosystem.

“While purchasing a refurbished smartphone can be an excellent way to save money and reduce your environmental footprint, it is crucial to approach the process with due diligence. By following these expert tips, you can confidently navigate the refurbished market and find a device that meets your needs without compromising quality or reliability.”