The refurbished mobile market is growing every year. In fact, it is estimated that by 2023, 332.9 million units of refurbished phones will be shipped globally, up from 206.7 million units in 2019.
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Source: IDC, Worldwide Used Smartphone Forecast, 2019-2023, Dec 2019.[/caption]
Refurbished phones offer significant savings in comparison to the new models, which is the primary reason for the growth in demand. But the question is, are refurbished phones worth buying?
This article will discuss everything related to refurbished devices, including what they are, why you should buy them, why (and if) you should avoid them, and how to pick the right refurbished phone.
What are Refurbished Cell Phones?
Smartphones that were previously owned by someone and were restored to complete working condition by the manufacturer or the seller are known as refurbished phones.
Refurbished phones usually go through more than 50 stringent testing techniques to ensure they meet the standards related to safety, quality, and performance.
These testing techniques involve inspection of software and hardware components of the device. If any issue emerges during the testing phase, the manufacturer will make the necessary repairs (or replace the parts).
Remember, refurbished phones are different from second-hand telephones, though they both are pre-owned devices.
The primary difference between refurbished and second-hand phones is that refurbished devices are tested for quality and performance, whereas second-hand phones are untested.
Difference between Refurbished and New Device
The only difference between a refurbished and a new device is that refurbished mobile phones are pre-owned. Refurbished devices go through the same testing processes as the new ones. The only reason they are cheaper than new phones is that someone previously owned them.
However, there are different grades in refurbished devices, which you must know before buying them. The refurbished grades only define the quality (exterior) of the smartphone. The functionalities and performance remain pretty much the same.
Here are different grades in Refurbished Services
- Grade A: Like-new certified phones, grade A represents the highest refurbished phone standards. It looks very similar to a brand new model and shows no signs of previous use. The manufacturer or seller replaces any (or all) external parts that show even slight signs of damage to make the phone look new.
- Grade B: It is the second-best refurbished device with some light to moderate scratches on the exterior (i.e., on the phone's body). But that's just the exterior. You can expect the same performance as of Grade A refurbished phones.
- Grade C: It will have a few blemishes and scratches on the exterior. These grade phones are cheaper than Grade A and B phones, making them ideal for people who have a limited budget but want a flagship model.
- Grade D: The last on the list and the cheapest refurbished phone. It will show significant signs of wear and tear. However, the performance will still be like Grade A phones.
These grades help the buyer know what they are getting upfront and ensure there is something for everyone's budget and preferences.
Why should you care for Refurbished Services?
Refurbished services help you improve your second-hand phone's condition and make them new. For instance, Injured Gadgets offer screens for refurbished phones. You can use them to make your device brand new.
You can even find sellers who take second-hand devices from you and do all the necessary tests (and replacements) to improve your phone's overall condition.
This will help reduce your phone's cost by as much as 50%. Besides, if you choose a trusted seller (or manufacturer), you won't have to worry about the refurbished device's quality.
Is it Safe to Buy Refurbished Devices?
Yes, refurbished devices are safe to buy and use. However, just like any other gadget, they have their advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look at them.
Reasons to Buy Refurbished Cell Phones
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Value for money
As mentioned above, refurbished phones are very cheap as compared to the brand new phone. Besides, you get a similar performing mobile, so it offers incredible value for money.
For example, the 64GB version of the iPhone X could cost you about $999 if bought new. However, if you pick the same model's refurbished version, it will cost you somewhere around $280.
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Flagship Models in Budget
Flagship models or top phones of every company are costly, and not everyone can buy them. Refurbished devices can be an excellent option for people who want flagship models but don't want to spend a fortune.
Besides, buyers can choose refurbished phones of different grades so that they can afford the model and quality of their choice.
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Eco-Friendly
As you might already know, smartphones contain several harmful toxins, including lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, chlorine, and bromine. While these are not harmful to humans, they can damage the environment when gadgets are disposed of irresponsibly.
Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing environmental concerns in the US, as Americans dispose of 151 million phones each year. Refurbishing the phones minimizes the extent of the damage being done to the environment. And, when you buy a refurbished phone, you contribute to saving the planet for good.
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Quality Certified
As we have mentioned before, all the refurbished phones go through several stringent testing procedures. Therefore, you can expect them to perform as well as brand new phones. When you buy a refurbished phone from a reputable dealer, you won't have to worry about the phone's quality.
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Warranty
Most reputable dealers offer a 90-180 days warranty when you buy a refurbished phone from them. Some dealers even provide a 12-month contract to not worry about buying a used phone.
Furthermore, you can also return the device if you are not happy with the product within a specific time period (usually 14 to 30 days) and claim for refund.
Reasons to not buy Refurbished Cell Phones
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Things can go wrong with Refurbished Devices
While some issues tend to start within few days, others might take months to surface. If the phone doesn't cover the warranty, you will have to spend money to repair them.
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They might not have all the Latest Features
Most refurbished devices are at least two years old. And, if you are someone who prefers having the latest gadgets and the latest features, buying a refurbished phone might not work for you. They won't have the latest features that you might be looking for.
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It could be Challenging to Replace a Malfunctioning Phone
As mentioned above, with refurbished phones, there is a chance that something might go wrong. And if anything happens, replacing a malfunctioning telephone might be a little complicated.
For example, a person named Rafi Letzer bought a refurbished phone from Verizon. When the phone starts malfunctioning, he tries to get replaced, but the company focuses on finding his fault for the malfunctioning of the phone.
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You can't get Insurance
Most people buy insurance for their phones to cover the repair costs and get their money back in case of theft. However, finding an insurer for your refurbished phone might be difficult. And even if you find an insurer for your refurbished device, the costs would usually be high, not to mention the additional terms and conditions.
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Shorter Warranty
Depending on your dealer, you can get a warranty of up to 180 days (i.e., six months), which is way less than that of a brand new phone. This means that you will have to take additional care of your phone to ensure it does not incur hefty costs (due to wear and tear).
Wrap up
Refurbished phones are an excellent choice for people who are looking for flagship devices at a nominal cost. However, make sure to find the right dealer and choose the right Grade of the phone to get the most out of your money.
Also, don't forget to check Injured Gadgets for some fantastic deals!