Buying a refurbished device like a smartphone or laptop is a challenging task. Although you are paying a lesser amount, there is a high chance of wear-out marks and malfunctioning. Refurbished gadgets go through a set of customers, so you need to make sure you don’t get a defected product. You should ask the following questions before buying a refurbished device to get a profitable deal.
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Question 1: What is the exact state of the refurbished device?
When you sell your used device like a smartphone to the company, it goes through a testing process. If the device seems like new and works properly, different methods of refurbishment are followed. Some brands put a tag “like new” on their refurbished gadgets. It relates to appearance and performance with respect to a new device. Thus, before buying a refurbished device, you must know the exact state and features. For instance, Amazon clearly reveals the battery capacity and if the smartphone has prior scratches.
Question 2: Does the refurbished device come with a return policy?
The chances of malfunctioning in a refurbished deice are quite high. It may happen that it doesn’t work the way you expected. Companies like Amazon refrain from replacing the device’s skin. As a result, finding wear out marks on the refurbished gadget is quite common. Sometimes, the reference photograph hides the exact condition of the smartphone or laptop. When you finally get the refurbished item delivered, it may look much older than what is depicted on the website. Thus, ensure that the device comes with a return policy to save yourself from a loss-making deal.
Question 3: What kind of warranty comes with the refurbished device?
Contrary to a myth, some refurbished items do offer a warranty. Some companies offer a warranty beyond the return period. For example, Apple provides a one-year warranty on its refurbished products. Similarly, you get 90 days money-back satisfaction guarantee. The longer the warranty period you have, the safer the deal of buying the refurbished item is. Since the warranty period varies across sellers, you should search for the same product on multiple websites. Carefully read the vendor’s warranty terms before checking out.
Question 4: Will the refurbished smartphone be compatible with your network carrier?
This is the most critical yet most ignored detail while looking for a refurbished smartphone. Before buying one, you must not ignore the carrier limitations. Most of the websites mention the network carriers the device is locked in. However, if it’s unlocked, it will surely work will all the carriers including yours. After buying a locked phone, you can always choose to unlock it for your network carrier. Since the entire process of getting your smartphone unlocked can cost you time and money, it’s important that you verify this feature prior to buying. Luckily this does not imply in India, unless you are buying it from outside India.
Question 5: Does the refurbished device come with accessories?
Accessories play a significant role in deciding the deal price. Usually, smartphones or laptops with accessories are perceived as being relatively new as compared to the one’s void of accessories. On websites like Amazon, there are high chances of getting accessories along with the smartphone or laptop. These include earphones and a charger. However, you may not get the official charger that comes packed with a new device. These auxiliary items will help you save money by selling them. Thus, it important to look for websites that offer a complete package of the refurbished device.
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