10 Things to Check Before Buying a Refurbished/Pre owned/used Phone

A refurbished phone can offer a useful alternative to buying a brand-new device, especially if you want a particular model without paying its current new-product price.

But before placing an order, take a few minutes to inspect the listing carefully.

1. Check the exact model

Make sure the listing specifies:

1. Model
2. Storage
3. RAM where applicable
4. Colour
5. Variant
6. Network compatibility

Two phones with the same model name can have different storage or regional variants.

2. Check the condition

Look carefully at the seller's description of:

1. Screen
2. Body
3. Camera lenses
4. Frame
5. Buttons
6. Charging port

Don't assume “refurbished” means cosmetically identical to a new phone.

3. Check battery information

Battery condition is especially important for older smartphones.

If battery health is provided, check the stated percentage. If it isn't provided, check whether the seller provides another battery-related assurance.

4. Check IMEI information

The IMEI is an important identifier for a mobile device.

After receiving a phone, verify the device information and make sure it corresponds with the product documentation where applicable.

The Sanchar Saathi/CEIR system can also be useful to consumers checking IMEI-related information in India. Recent consumer guidance has highlighted IMEI checking as an important step when buying refurbished phones.

5. Check the warranty

Look for:

1. Warranty period
2. Warranty provider
3. Covered components
4. Exclusions
5. Claim process

6. Check what's in the box

Don't assume that a refurbished phone includes the same accessories as a new retail package.

Check whether the listing includes:

1. Charger
2. Cable
3. Adapter
4. Case
5. Documentation
6. Original box

7. Check the seller

Review available seller information and feedback.

A marketplace purchase should give you enough information to understand who is offering the product.

8. Compare the price

Compare the refurbished phone with:

1. Current new price
2. Other refurbished listings
3. Product condition
4. Warranty
5. Included accessories

9. Record the unboxing

Record the package and product when it arrives.

This can be especially useful if you discover a mismatch between the listing and the product received.

10. Read the return conditions

Before purchasing, understand exactly when a return or refund is available and what evidence may be required.

Final checklist

Before clicking Buy, ask:

Do I know exactly what model I'm getting?

Do I understand its condition?

Do I know the warranty?

Do I know the seller?

Do I understand the return terms?

If the answer to all five is yes, you're in a much better position to make an informed purchase.