Why You Should Buy Refurbished Phones

Mobile phones have become an essential gadget in everyday life. Considering how much of an intensive use these devices get, it’s not surprising that they must be replaced often. A recent study found that more than 55% of US consumers replace their phones every couple of years, and 11% do so annually. With such frequent phone replacements, it’s natural to consider cost-effective options like refurbished phones. Now, you might wonder, “Are refurbished phones good?” Well, the answer depends on various factors.

If it’s time to purchase a new phone, you may want to consider buying a refurbished phone. In this article, we explore the benefits of buying refurb mobiles and we look into how to make sure your refurbished electronics meet your expectations.

About Refurbished Phones

There are some misconceptions around refurbished electronics. Some consumers steer clear of them, assuming that they’re used devices that come with some kind of defect that justifies the lower price tag.

Although there may be some unscrupulous sellers out there, the truth is that refurbished phones aren’t synonymous with defective phones.

Let’s look at some facts about these devices:

• They are pre-owned
• These phones may also be listed as “reconditioned”, “pre-owned”, “open box”, or “like new”, “recertified”
• They’ve been returned to the network carrier or manufacturer, usually shortly after buying
• Not all refurbished mobiles are returned due to defects. In many cases, they’re simply taken back because the owner has changed their mind
• When phones are returned due to manufacturing faults, they’re repaired before the device is re-listed for sale
• Reputable sellers of refurbished electronics offer a guarantee
• There are different types of repairs. Devices listed as “manufacturer refurbished” have been reconditioned using original parts, whereas there’s no such guarantee for phones refurbished in small or local repair shops

Refurbished Mobiles: More than Just Second-hand Phones

A refurbished mobile is not a faulty item, and it’s not your average second-hand phone. These devices have been repaired, inspected, and tested to ensure they meet the manufacturer’s or the seller / carrier’s standards, as well as secure data destruction regulations.

By contrast, second-hand phones are typically sold by private sellers who don’t vouch for the state of the product, and who haven’t done any upgrades or repairs.

Next, we’ll look at some reasons why choosing a refurbished phone is a good idea.

The Benefits of Refurbished Phones

1. Affordability

Mobile phones aren’t exactly cheap these days, as they’ve become very sophisticated mini-computers that can accomplish many tasks – and their price tag reflects that.

Buying a refurb phone can save you hundreds of pounds. A 2022 survey found that the average refurb mobile costs £200 less than the brand-new option, and in some models the savings can be as high as £500.

2. An Environmentally Friendly Choice

E-waste is a growing global problem. It’s estimated that in 2022, more than 5 billion phones ended up as waste in landfills, which is why may consumers are looking into more sustainable choices.

Refurbished mobiles aren’t immediately discarded, so their useful life is extended instead of ending in a landfill. Moreover, buying a refurb mobile instead of a new one preserves raw materials that would otherwise need to be mined.

All in all, a refurb phone is 11 times more sustainable than a new one.

3. A Genuine and Convenient Product

Buying refurbished electronics is a way to get your hands on a genuine phone at a lower price without risking unsavoury surprises.

These items aren’t only convenient because they’re cheaper; they offer great freedom and flexibility, as you get access to a genuine phone without signing lengthy contracts with a carrier.

How to choose refurb mobiles

If a refurb mobile sounds right for you, follow these tips to ensure you’re happy with the purchase:

• Buy from a trustworthy company: This can be the manufacturer, the carrier, or a specialised IT company with a good track record and knowledgeable staff.
• Ask about secure data destruction practices. Pre-owned phones must comply with data protection rules to avoid privacy breaches. A reputable ITAD company will be happy to explain what secure data destruction procedures they’ve followed when refurbishing.
• Check the guarantee, as the length and the exclusions vary from seller to seller.
• Check for scratches or scuff marks. These are only cosmetic issues, so decide if they’re a big deal for you or not.
• Ask if the phone comes with original accessories.