Even as the most high-end smartphones continue to smash price records, refurbished mobile phones increasingly appear to be a credible and economical alternative for enjoying a good device at the best price. What do you need to know about this new second-hand market?
What is a Refurbished Phone?
A refurbished smartphone can first be defined as a second-hand smartphone, that is to say not new: before reaching you, it has been taken out of its original packaging at least once – and presumably switched on and used for a more or less long time. The difference with a classic occasion? Before being put back on sale, the phone undergoes a “reconditioning”, which means that it is taken over by the manufacturer or an operator, then repaired, cleaned and tested before returning to the showcase.
It is now possible to buy a refurbished phone on the website of most major operators – their physical stores often continuing to sell only new – or even on that of manufacturers, starting of course with Apple whose Refurbished iPhones are a great commercial success.
A refurbished mobile phone can have multiple origins: old display device in the window, brought back by an unsatisfied customer, exchanged for a more recent model, etc.
Why buy a refurbished smartphone?
The main advantage of buying a refurbished mobile is price-related, since you will save on average between 30 and 40% compared to the price of the same device in new condition for an iPhone for example. A similar or even more advantageous discount can also be found for Android devices.
A refurbished phone will most often belong to the generation that precedes the very latest versions put on sale: it is therefore not to be recommended for all those who want the ultimate in all circumstances. For everyone else, the savings to be made are very significant.
What guarantees?
What is a refurbished smartphone worth? Most resellers and manufacturers take the utmost seriousness in overhauling devices before they are put back on sale, but it can happen that hidden defects escape their vigilance. In this case, you can count on a refurbished phone warranty to obtain a repair at no cost or a refund for a defective device. These guarantees have a duration of between six and twelve months. Either a real security for all users who fear being scammed or falling, by bad luck, on a model a little less reliable than the others.
