Refurbished phones are always significantly cheaper than new phones of the same model. It would seem that it could be easier – if you can get a refurbished phone that works with your carrier and fits the specifications, why not do it. Unfortunately, the popularity of such devices is hindered by a number of factors on the market: not everyone knows where to buy them, what different stickers mean, how to check their authenticity. Let's try to understand the issue a little.
Who is restoring these phones?
Not all refurbished vehicles are 'equally useful'. There are a number of things to consider when purchasing a refurbished device. And one of them is the one who restored it. The answer to this question is not always easy.
Usually who refurbishes a phone depends on who sells that refurbished phone. Factory-refurbished units are sent back to the manufacturer for testing and return to the state we expect to see when we open the box with a brand new unit. Sometimes these phones come from unsatisfied customers returning completely problem-free phones, and sometimes from insurance companies after a customer has exchanged a damaged device. Manufacturers often refer to these phones as 'certified refurbished' and offer a limited warranty.
Another type of refurbished devices are those that are not refurbished by the original manufacturer. These machines are usually cheaper, but have their drawbacks in the form of a lack of warranty and therefore the confidence that the manufacturer's warranty provides. These devices may well work as well as their factory-remanufactured counterparts, but buying refurbished 'outsourced' phones requires more thorough testing.
Finally, there are used phones as well. Second-hand that has not been modified after being in the hands of a user. Such a device can be in any condition, therefore it requires particularly careful checking. Not to mention the fact that used phones can be stolen or damaged, so the seller's reliability plays a special role in this case.
Where can I buy a refurbished device?
If you are interested in a particular device, it is most reliable to inquire about it from the manufacturer. A number of manufacturers have their own recovery programs, and in almost any case, you get the device as new and with a guarantee. An example is Samsung, which recently launched a refurbished device sales program.
You can also find devices remanufactured by the manufacturer from operators and at retail. Of course, the online search range is wider, although you can search for a phone not only there. Aside from eBay's 'classics', there are other sources such as Swappa and Gazelle, and again, it remains to be remembered to buy devices from trusted locations, so Craigslist is hardly the best choice.
For example, here are a few places where you can buy refurbished devices in the United States and have a wide variety of them:
- Amazon
- NewEgg
- Best Buy
- Overstock
Finally
In the end, buying a refurbished device will allow you to save a lot in most cases. And if you buy it in a trusted place, it will be no different from the new one. However, refurbished and used devices are an area where all sorts of shenanigans flourish, remember this after seeing an offer that simply cannot be refused. The more meaningful the purchase, the better. And you, dear readers, express yourself in the comments: what is your attitude to the restored vehicles? Are you considering the possibility of such a purchase?