Buying a refurbished phone can be one of the smartest tech decisions, if you know what to look for. You can save hundreds of dollars and still walk away with a device that works like new. But the refurbished phone market also has its share of traps and shady sellers.
With over a decade of experience writing about smartphones and the refurbished phone industry, I’ve seen it all, great deals, horror stories, and everything in between. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to buy a refurbished phone the right way, without getting scammed.
What Is a Refurbished Phone?
Before we dive in, let’s clear up a common confusion.
A refurbished phone isn’t just a used phone. It’s a pre-owned device that’s been inspected, repaired if needed, cleaned, tested, and resold, often with a warranty.
There are three main types of devices you’ll find:
- Manufacturer Refurbished: Restored by the original brand (like Apple or Samsung). Usually the safest bet.
- Retailer Refurbished: Restored by big-name sellers like Amazon Renewed.
- Third-Party Refurbished: Handled by smaller businesses or marketplace sellers.
Check the Seller’s Reputation First
Checking the seller’s reputation should always be your first line of defence when buying a refurbished phone. Stick to trusted retailers that offer a clear return policy and warranty—this shows they stand behind the products they sell.
Take the time to read customer reviews on platforms like Google, ProductReview.com.au, or Trustpilot to see what others are saying about their experience. Be cautious of red flags such as a missing company name, no reviews, vague product descriptions, or sellers asking you to “DM” for more details. And remember, just because a website looks professional doesn’t mean the business is legitimate. It’s worth digging deeper to make sure you’re buying from a reputable source.
Make Sure There’s a Warranty or Return Policy
Always make sure there’s a warranty or return policy before buying a refurbished phone. A legitimate refurbished phone seller typically offer at least a 3 to 6-month warranty, with some going up to 12 months. This matters because electronics, especially those that have been used before, can develop issues.
A warranty gives you the time and flexibility to test the device thoroughly and ensures you’re not stuck with a faulty product. More importantly, it’s a sign that the seller stands behind what they’re selling. If there’s no warranty or return window offered, it’s best to walk away.
Understand the Condition Grading System
Refurbished phones are often sold using a condition grading system, which gives you an idea of how much wear the device has. Grade A or A+ usually means the phone is in excellent condition with minimal signs of use. Grade B indicates a good condition with some visible but minor scratches, while Grade C suggests noticeable wear and tear, which may include dents or screen marks.
Grading can be subjective and may vary between sellers. That’s why it’s important to ask for actual photos of the device, especially if you’re buying from a marketplace seller. Read the product description carefully and look for clear, specific details rather than vague terms like “great condition.”
Ensure It’s Unlocked and Compatible With Your Carrier
One common mistake when buying a refurbished phone is purchasing a device that doesn’t work with your local network. Always confirm that the phone is unlocked and supports the network bands used in your region.
For iPhones, check that the device isn’t iCloud-locked, and for Android phones, be sure it’s not Google-locked or FRP-protected. These types of locks can prevent you from using the phone altogether. It’s also a good idea to ask for the IMEI number and run it through tools like IMEI.info or your carrier’s compatibility checker to make sure the phone isn’t blacklisted or reported stolen. Taking these steps helps ensure you’re buying a phone you can actually use.
Ask About Battery Health
Battery health is one of the first things to decline in a phone’s lifespan, and it’s something many buyers overlook so don’t make that mistake.
For iPhones, ask for the Battery Health percentage by going to Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging. A reading above 85% is generally considered good, while anything below 80% could result in noticeably shorter battery life. It’s also important to ask if the battery has been replaced, and if so, whether it was swapped with a genuine part.
Some refurbishers use low-quality third-party batteries, which can affect performance and even pose safety risks. Always check this because your phone’s usability depends on it.
Confirm What’s Included
Not all refurbished phones come with accessories, so it’s important to confirm what’s included in the purchase. Ask whether the phone comes with a charger, USB cable, SIM tool, or the original box. If a charger is included, check whether it’s an original or a third-party version.
Low-quality accessories, especially cheap chargers, can damage your phone or provide unreliable charging performance. Knowing exactly what you’re getting helps you avoid surprise costs and ensures a safer, more reliable setup from day one.
Don’t Fall for Deals That Are Too Good to Be True
If a deal seems significantly cheaper than similar offers, it’s likely a red flag. Scammers often use fake listings with eye-catching prices to lure unsuspecting buyers. They may ask for payment via bank transfer or cryptocurrency, methods that offer no buyer protection.
In many cases, these scams result in receiving a fake or damaged phone, or nothing at all. To protect yourself, always stick to reputable sellers and use secure payment methods like PayPal or a credit card, which offer some level of protection if things go wrong. It’s better to pay a little more for peace of mind than risk losing your money entirely.
Where to Buy Refurbished Phones Safely
Here are a few places that have a solid track record:
- Apple Certified Refurbished Store – You’ll pay a bit more but get a like-new device with warranty.
- Amazon Renewed – Covers many brands with Amazon’s backing.
- Mobile Federation – Sells pre-owned phones in Australia with up to 24 months warranty.
- JB Hi-Fi, Officeworks – Reputable and local.
If you’re buying from a private seller (e.g. Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree):
- Meet in person in a safe location
- Inspect the phone thoroughly
- Avoid sending money upfront
Final Safety Tips Before You Buy
Here’s our final tips for you before buying your next phone if you’re opting for a refurbished one:
- Always get the IMEI and check it’s not blacklisted
- Use secure payment options (avoid direct transfers)
- Test the phone immediately on arrival, camera, speakers, Wi-Fi, SIM, mic, etc.
- Ask for a written receipt if buying in person
Conclusion
Buying a refurbished phone doesn’t have to feel risky. With the right knowledge, you can save a significant amount of money and still end up with a high-quality device that performs well.
The key is to stick with trusted sellers, ask the right questions about the phone’s condition, warranty, and compatibility, and trust your instincts and if something feels off, it’s better to walk away. At the end of the day, you’re not just buying a phone; you’re buying peace of mind. And when done right, choosing refurbished can be one of the smartest and best-value tech decisions you make.
