For many people, the term ‘refurbished phone’ would conjure images of a device that has been through a lot and no longer appears new and shiny. However, this is very often not the case. Some phones are returned to retailers after a customer has changed their mind about the model before the phone’s warranty is up – meaning they are essentially brand new. This could mean that you are bagging a device for a fraction of the usual price, along with reaping benefits like the manufacturer updating the software to the latest version.
The experts at Likewize Repair have laid out the pros and cons of purchasing a refurbished phone, to make your decision as easy as possible.
Pros
- Refurbished phones are cheaper
One of the most appealing aspects of buying a refurbished phone is that it will be significantly cheaper than a buying brand-new one. As it may have had a fault that has now been repaired, you are guaranteed to save money on not only buying the model outright but also on your contract in the long run.
- Data has been wiped
Unlike buying a typical secondhand phone, a refurbished model will have any personal data from the previous owner removed to comply with the Data Protection Act. When it comes to purchasing secondhand phones that have not been refurbished, it is likely that they will need to be factory reset, to ensure everything from the first owner has been cleared.
- They have been extensively tested
Refurbished phones are also checked over by experts before they are sold, to ensure that every possible feature is working to the best of its ability. The retailer does not want the phone to be returned again, so you can be safe in the knowledge that it is in perfect working order. This will include aspects such as the screen, the audio, the battery life, and more.
- You are more likely to receive accessories
Controversially, manufacturers like Apple have decided to exclude charging plugs from their overall phone packages, opting instead to only provide a USB-C-to-Lightning cable. This means, when buying a brand-new phone, you will likely face extra expenses when it comes to purchasing necessary items that allow it to work.
Refurbished phones, on the other hand, have previously been switched on and used, so they are a lot more likely to come with all the necessary equipment.
Cons
- The phone could have wear and tear
Unlike a brand-new phone, refurbished devices could come with a few scratches or cracks. While these are unlikely to be anything serious or immediately visible, they could put a dampener on the excitement of the ‘new phone’ feeling we all know and love.
- You may have to wait a while for the latest model
If your main goal is to save money, you may have to lower your expectations of wowing your friends with the latest iPhone model. This is because a refurbished version of a very new device is likely to be a similar price to its brand-new counterpart. However, older devices can work just as well and, as we mentioned previously, will have all of the latest updates installed.
Overall, while it may seem like a minefield when it comes to buying any kind of phone, opting for a refurbished model, while slightly less glamorous than a new one, will always be more expensive. Always make sure you speak to the retailer to be certain that you are getting the best possible deal, as well as the longest warranty period possible.
