Flagship smartphones are getting pricier every year. Instead of splurging upwards of Rs 1,00,000 on a premium device, you’re bound to get more value by spending almost half that amount on an older flagship. The trend of minimal upgrades on flagship devices across OEMs ensures that your refurbished device’s performance won’t be that far from its current-year counterpart. However, there are certain things that must be kept in mind when buying a refurbished smartphone. Let’s take a look.
Read Also: OnePlus Nord 4 5G and Nord CE 4 Lite 5G price in India leaked
In This Article
Verify the seller
The internet is rife with fraudulent e-sellers that routinely push stolen and fake products as ‘refurbished’ smartphones. As a general rule, stick to established sellers that conduct business transparently. Before buying the device, perform a quick Google Search for the seller’s name and check if any buyer has had a bad experience dealing with them in the past. If you’re thinking of buying a refurbished iPhone, we would recommend checking out Apple’s certified refurbished store.
Check the warranty
Renowned sellers of refurbished goods typically offer a warranty on their products. A small premium for the warranty is a good investment to make when buying a refurbished smartphone. Apple offers a 1-year warranty on its refurbished products. If you’re purchasing the device from an independent seller, it is a good idea to check the manufacturer’s warranty coverage.
Ask for the invoice and verify the IMEI number
As we mentioned earlier, malicious entities on the internet are constantly peddling stolen smartphones as ‘refurbished devices’. To confirm that you’re buying a legitimate device, always demand the invoice or bill from the seller. Additionally, use the IMEI number to check the phone’s authentication status on the CEIR website. To find out the IMEI number of the device, launch the phone app and dial *#06#.
Check the battery life
The battery life of a smartphone is crucial to its performance. Credible sellers equip their refurbished devices with new batteries to enhance their performance and add more years to their lives. If the refurbished smartphone you’ve selected does not have a new battery pack, go to its settings and check its battery health. If the device has been put through multiple years of use, you should ask the seller to replace its battery or go for a relatively newer unit.
Software updates and security patches
The software and security coverage promised by the OEM often go under the radar while shopping for refurbished devices, but it is a very important parameter that should not be overlooked. A device that routinely receives security updates is more impervious to malware and other malicious threats. Software updates are equally important as they usher in new features and make the device future-proof.
Check the accessories
Smartphone manufacturers like OnePlus, Oppo, Xiaomi, and Vivo supplement their devices with essential accessories like the power adapter, charging cable, and phone cover. If the phone you’re buying comes with accessories, make sure that they’re present in the retail box. If you’re buying a device that does not come with accessories in the box, make sure the compatible add-ons are available online.
Assess the hardware
If you’re buying a refurbished smartphone, you will have to make some compromises on the hardware front. This includes minor scuffs and scratches. Apart from hardware damage on the surface, you should also check the device’s headphone jack, SIM slot, microSD slot, and physical buttons for any damage. If there are any functional issues with the device, notify the seller and ask for a better unit.
Pricing
Using the parameters mentioned above, try to get the right price for the product. If the smartphone is expected to receive OS upgrades and security patches in future, a small premium on its price is justified. A healthy battery pack warrants a higher price, too. Cross-check the prices with online retailers before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where can I buy a refurbished iPhone in India?
Apple’s refurbished store is the best place to buy refurbished iPhones in India. Sahi Value, Electronics Bazaar, ShopClues, and Amazon also deal in refurbished goods.
Do refurbished smartphones come with a warranty?
Warranty coverage for refurbished smartphones is decided by the seller. While most reputable dealers offer a warranty on their refurbished devices, it may not be the case when buying smartphones from independent sellers.
How do I find the IMEI number of a used smartphone?
To find the IMEI number of any smartphone, go to the phone app and dial *#06#.
What should I check in a refurbished smartphone before buying it?
Before buying a used or refurbished smartphone, check its warranty coverage, promised OS upgrades, physical condition, and battery health. Additionally, run its IMEI number on the CEIR website to make sure it’s not a stolen product.
Are refurbished phones worth buying?
Refurbished phones from verified retailers are a good alternative to expensive smartphones. If the retailer has replaced the battery with a new unit, a refurbished phone can last a long time.
Read Also: How to change the details and address on your Aadhaar Card online?
Conclusion
These are the 8 things you must look out for when buying a refurbished smartphone. Online platforms like Blynk, Sahi Value, and Amazon offer a good variety of refurbished smartphones at competitive prices. You may also want to check out the prices at your local sellers before making a purchase. If you have any questions, let us know in the comments!
Super helpful—loving how you cover warranty, IMEI verification, software updates, and hardware checks all in one clear list.