Saving: Is a refurbished phone worth it?

Is a refurbished phone worth it?

For many people, yes. A refurbished phone has been used before, then checked, repaired if needed, cleaned and resold, usually with a warranty. Because phones lose value quickly, a model that's a year or two old can cost far less than new while doing everything most people need. Buying refurbished also keeps a working device in use, which is better for the environment.

The key is buying from a reputable seller and knowing what you're getting. Many people who try refurbished once never go back to buying new.

How much can you save?

Here's a worked example of the same phone model, in round numbers that work in any currency:

In this example, a refurbished phone in excellent condition costs 450 against 750 new, a saving of 300. A phone in good condition, with a few light marks, costs 380. Your own savings depend on the model, its age and where you buy. Phones a generation or two old usually offer the best balance of price and features.

What do refurbished grades mean?

Sellers grade refurbished phones by their cosmetic condition. Grade names vary, but they usually mean something like:

• Excellent or like new: few or no visible marks
• Very good: light signs of use, like small scratches
• Good or fair: more visible wear, but working fully

The grade usually describes appearance, not how well the phone works. All grades from a good seller should work properly. If you use a case and screen protector, a lower grade can be great value, since marks won't show.

What should you check before buying?

A few things matter more than looks:

• Battery health: ask about battery capacity, or whether the battery has been replaced
• Warranty: look for at least a year if possible
• Returns period: a few weeks to check the phone works for you
• Network lock: make sure the phone works with your network
• Software updates: check that the model still receives security updates

A phone that no longer gets updates may become less secure over time, so avoid models that are too old. Checking the manufacturer's update policy before buying shows how long the phone will stay supported.

Where to buy

Buy from manufacturers' refurbished stores, established retailers or specialist refurbishers with good reviews. These usually test phones thoroughly and offer warranties. Private sales can be cheaper but carry more risk, since there's usually no warranty and less recourse if something goes wrong. How to buy second-hand has tips if you buy privately.

Accessories

Refurbished phones may come without a charger or headphones, so check what's included. Using a charger you already own saves money, but make sure it's compatible and safe. A good case and screen protector from day one protect the saving you've made.

How does refurbished compare with a contract?

Buying a refurbished phone outright and pairing it with a cheap SIM-only plan often costs much less than a contract with a new phone included. Buy a phone outright or on contract explains how to compare the two, and how to save money on your phone bill covers choosing a plan.

How do you make a phone last?

Use a case and screen protector, avoid overheating, and keep the software updated. Replacing a worn battery can give a phone another year or two of life for a fraction of the cost of a new one. The longer you keep a phone, the lower its cost per year. Cost per use explains this way of thinking.

Sell or trade in your old phone

Selling your old phone, or trading it in, can lower the cost of the refurbished one further. Wipe your data first and remove any accounts. How to save money on electronics covers trading in and buying at the right time.

When is new better?

New may suit you if you want the very latest features, plan to keep the phone for many years from launch, or want the full manufacturer warranty. Even then, last year's model, new, is often much cheaper than the latest. The differences between generations are often small for everyday use.

How do you track phone costs in Wealtie?

Log phone purchases and your monthly plan in your expense categories, so you can see the true yearly cost of your phone. Comparing a refurbished phone plus SIM-only plan with a contract shows which is cheaper over two or three years. A limit in the budget tracker keeps tech spending in line with your plan.