With a new iPhone series launching every year, you’re probably tempted to upgrade to the latest model. However, the cost of a brand new smartphone may not fit in your budget.
This is where refurbished iPhones come into play; they’re functional and affordable. Not sure where to start looking for trustworthy sources? We’ve researched the best places to buy a refurbished iPhone and put them together in this list.
- Things to consider when buying a refurbished iPhone
- Best places to buy a refurbished or second-hand iPhone
- Difference between used and refurbished iPhones
Things to consider when buying a refurbished iPhone
Refurbished iPhones are not faulty devices. They have been checked and certified by technicians to ensure they’re working properly. The previous owner might have returned the iPhone due to minor defects, cosmetic issues like dents and scratches, or simply because they wanted an upgrade.
However, consider the following to ensure a safe purchase.
- Source: Purchase from reputable sellers such as Apple’s official refurbished store or well-known retailers. Read reviews from other buyers who have purchased refurbished devices from the same source.
- Warranty: Ensure the device comes with a warranty. This way you can get proper assistance in case any issues arise.
- Certification: Look for a certification of quality to ensure proper working conditions.
- Return policy: Check the seller’s return policy if the device doesn’t meet your expectations.
- Authenticity: Verify it’s not a stolen or counterfeit product.
- Cosmetic condition: Check the cosmetic imperfections and ensure they don’t affect the performance.
- Battery life: It’s wise to get a refurbished iPhone that can recharge at least 80% to 90% of its maximum battery life.
- Compatibility: Check the device’s compatibility with your carrier.
- Future considerations: Consider the long-term needs like future software support and compatibility with upcoming technologies.
While refurbished iPhones can be a great value, there’s always some inherent risk. Conduct thorough research and purchase from reliable sources to minimize that risk. Read our detailed guide to know the prerequisites to buying a second-hand iPhone.
Best places to buy a refurbished or second-hand iPhone
Instead of buying a new iPhone, consider purchasing a refurbished one. The following are some of the best places to do so!
1. Apple Refurbished Store
It’s tough to think of a better place to buy a used iPhone than Apple’s official Refurbished Store. Apple experts thoroughly inspect and repair second-hand iPhones to meet quality standards. The best part is you will receive your refurbished iPhone in new Apple-branded packaging, with a new battery, and a clean exterior shell.
Apple also offers a one-year limited warranty and the option to add another year of AppleCare coverage. Additionally, you will get free next-day shipping and a 14-day return period.
However, premium quality comes with a hefty price tag. This store’s pricing is more significant than all other refurbished iPhone sites. You’re still getting an iPhone at a sizable price cut, but you do have more affordable options elsewhere.
Check out on: Apple Refurbished Store
2. Gazelle
Gazelle is the most reputable third-party platform for buying refurbished iPhones at a meager price. They buy smartphones from individuals, repair them through a 30-point inspection program, and sell them after quality assurance.
Many refurbished iPhones are available in various colors, carriers, and sizes. You will also get free shipping and monthly payment modes. But remember, it only offers a return policy of 30 days. You can also sell your used iPhones and other Apple devices at a reasonable price.
Check out on: Gazelle
3. Amazon Renewed
Amazon Renewed is a flourishing site for buying refurbished phones at exclusive prices. They also include accessories with every refurbished iPhone box. You’ll bag a 90-day Amazon Renewed Guarantee and return policy with your purchase as well.
Moreover, most iPhones qualify for Prime delivery. Fast, affordable, high-quality refurbished iPhones—what’s not to love?
Check out on: Amazon Renewed
4. Back Market
Back Market lets you buy refurbished iPhones at various conditions (Excellent, Good, and Fair) to fit your budget. It also provides an expert checking certification, a 1-year warranty, a free 30-day return policy, and monthly installment plans.
Refurbished iPhone sellers on the Back Market must pass a stringent screening procedure and satisfy its quality standards. If the iPhone battery has under 500 cycles and less than 80% of its original capacity, it must be replaced.
Check out on: Back Market
5. Best Buy
Best Buy is a renowned and trusted seller of open-box, unlocked, and pre-owned iPhones. It offers used iPhones in solid conditions with freebies and a whopping discount. You will get 3 months of Apple TV+, 4 months of Apple Music, and 4 months of Apple News+ subscriptions for free with your purchase.
You can also choose between free shipping or quick pickup for added convenience. It provides a warranty (limited 90 days) on recently-purchased products as well, which makes Best Buy one of the best places to buy a refurbished iPhone.
Check out on: Best Buy
6. OzMobiles
OzMobiles store has a wide range of inexpensive refurbished iPhones and other gadgets. They buy used iPhones locally and restore them to their full working potential through a Blancco-certified 72-point quality testing process.
OzMobiles offers a Battery Life Guarantee and ensures every refurbished iPhone has at least 80% battery capacity, too. So, you don’t have to be concerned about the battery condition of your refurbished iPhones.
Additionally, you will get a free 12-month warranty and a 30-day risk-free return policy.
Check out on: OzMobiles
7. decluttr
Decluttr sells refurbished iPhones with the same performance and functionality as a brand new one. It follows a thorough internal refurbishing process, including 70 quality inspections.
You will get up to a $100 discount on all items. Again, Decluttr offers free shipping with a live tracking facility and a 12-month limited warranty.
Check out on: decluttr
8. eBay
eBay offers a massive catalog of refurbished iPhones to buy at impressive discounts. It basically acts as a marketplace for second-hand iPhone dealers.
However, eBay doesn’t provide any product quality assurance or warranty. It’s important to check product ratings and seller reviews before finalizing a purchase. In short: make sure you know what you’re buying.
You can always message the seller directly with any questions or concerns you may have. Take note of whether the listing offers a refund policy, as this is determined by the seller.
Check out on: eBay
9. Swappa
Swappa offers an extensive collection of used and refurbished iPhones with various discounts. But you must shop carefully to grab the best deal.
It also provides PayPal purchase protection for buyers to avoid fraud. The best part: you’ll get detailed product guides and built-in comparisons to help you choose the right one.
Check out on: Swappa
10. RefurbMe
RefurbMe is a marketplace where you can see all the trusted and certified refurbished iPhone sellers in one place. So, you can compare prices and get up to 75% savings.
RefurbMe ensures all the vendors offer a warranty and hassle-free return policy. Therefore, you don’t need to do extensive research. RefurbMe’s ease of use and helpful price compiling lands it a spot in the best places to buy a refurbished iPhone.
Check out on: RefurbMe
Bonus: Buy from respective carriers
Many well-known carrier providers like Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T sell certified pre-owned iPhones with hefty discounts. Give them a look and you might find quite the deal!
But note that you will only get carrier-locked iPhones. Therefore, take a close look at the “conditions” before purchasing.
Difference between used and refurbished iPhones
While buying second-hand iPhones, you may see different labels, like “refurbished” or “pre-owned.” So, it’s crucial to differentiate between used and refurbished iPhones to make an informed decision. The table below outlines the key distinctions:
| Used iPhones | Refurbished iPhones | |
|---|---|---|
| Condition | Varies, may show signs of wear and tear | Thoroughly tested, repaired, and replaced faulty parts |
| Quality assurance | Not guaranteed | Certified by manufacturer or trusted third-party |
| Warranty | Usually no warranty | Often comes with a warranty for added confidence |
| Performance | Uncertain, may have hidden issues | Tested and restored to optimal performance |
| Cosmetic | May have scratches or cosmetic flaws | Generally improved, minor cosmetic imperfections |
| Price | Cheaper due to unknown condition | Slightly more expensive for assured quality |
Refurbished iPhones have undergone a thorough inspection, repair, and testing process. Thus, they meet the same performance standards as new devices. So, buying a second-hand or certified refurbished iPhone is totally safe as long as you trust the seller and do your research first.
This ultimately comes down to the features you want from your iPhone. The most important thing to keep in mind is future-proofing for iOS updates. We recommend going for the iPhone 11 or later models to ensure you don’t run into any issues in the near future.
Buy iPhones without breaking the bank!
Refurbished iPhones are a smart and budget-conscious alternative to get the performance of the latest premium ones.
By understanding the nuances of refurbished devices, considering essential factors, and exploring reputable platforms, you can confidently make a choice that aligns with your needs and preferences. Let us know if you still have any doubts!
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