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Refurbished Phone Deals
Robert Cerff / 15-06-2023 / Tech
Refurbished Phone Deals: Everything You Need to Know
Refurbished phones from trusted sellers are soaring in popularity as more and more savvy shoppers are starting to recognise the tremendous value they offer. These devices boast impeccable functionality and a significantly reduced price tag, making them the smart choice for the budget-conscious looking for the latest phones without emptying their wallets.
If this sounds like the ideal option for you, here’s everything you need to know about refurbished phone deals.
Almost Brand New
Refurbished or pre-owned handsets have been meticulously restored to excellent working condition to ensure they are viable for resale. To make this happen, a qualified technician follows a comprehensive checklist, assessing crucial aspects such as battery functionality, button responsiveness, camera capabilities, screen sensitivity, audio quality and possible software upgrades. After a thorough evaluation, only devices in good working order make their way to the market.
A common misconception is that most refurbished phones were once faulty. In reality, many are simply returned to the original seller within the 30-day cooling-off period, making them as close to brand new as can be.
But what about the previous owner’s data? Rest assured this is entirely wiped for privacy and security reasons, leaving no trace of their personal information and ensuring a fresh start for the new owner.
Decoding Refurbished Phone Grading
When shopping around for refurbished phones, you may have come across a grading system that reflects their condition. While there isn't a universal standard, the most common grading system includes categories like A, B and C. A-grade devices are in the best condition and were likely returned within the 30-day cooling-off period. B-grade phones may have minor scratches but nothing significant, while C-grade devices have noticeable surface-level imperfections and the most affordable price tag.
Apple, which has a well-stocked online store for its refurbished devices in South Africa, implements the following grading system:
Good:
Most affordable. These devices have small visible scratches on the body and screen.
Better
: Higher grade with light scratches on the body and barely noticeable screen scratches.
Best:
Highest quality. There aren’t any noticeable scratches on the body and the screen is in perfect condition.
The Good & Bad of Refurbished Phones:
In a previous article, we covered the pros and cons of refurbished phones. We’ve put together a summary of these points to help you easily compare both sides.
Pros
- Refurbished phones undergo rigorous testing and repairs by qualified technicians, resulting in devices that are almost new.
- These handsets offer significant discounts, at least 15% off the regular price, based on the model and potential exterior defects.
- Trusted sellers provide a 12-month warranty, covering internal component repairs and offering peace of mind. The warranty also includes the option to return the phone for a money-back guarantee or replacement.
- Refurbished phones contribute to environmental sustainability by extending product life, offering a solution for companies and consumers to reduce the impact of tech on the environment.
Cons
- Refurbished phones offer savings but may have minor cosmetic imperfections not covered by the warranty. Reputable sellers disclose these details, allowing buyers to make informed decisions.
- Older devices may lack long-term security updates, making them vulnerable to hacking. Fortunately, manufacturers like Samsung and Apple now offer extended support for at least 5 years on many devices. Always research security update schedules before purchasing a refurbished phone.
- These handsets usually don’t include original bundled accessories like earphones but typically come with a charging cable or charger.
Going the refurbed route has a few plus sides but, if you’re going the preowned way make sure to inspect the phone carefully and check for any minor imperfections before making a purchase. And don't forget to research the security update schedule to ensure that you're getting a reliable device!
