Five top tips to avoid pitfalls when buying a second-hand mobile phone
TECH some time before you pick your next phone.
As the new Samsung S23 has just launched, it’s a great time to bag a cheaper refurbished phone as users flog theirs to get the new upgrade.
Follow my guide to avoid the pitfalls when buying a second-hand mobile . . .
A GRADE DEAL: Decide what matters to you when it comes to your handset’s look and feel.
Mobile phone refurbishers tend to grade them according to condition, and that’s reflected in the price.
Grade A tends to be the best and “like new”, while a B or C grade can indicate a bit of wear and tear, such as scratches or chips — but a C grade will also be cheapest.
COMPARE TO SAVE: It usually ends up more expensive to buy a refurbished phone directly from the manufacturer.
Instead, try a retailer such as musicmagpie.co.uk, mobiles.co.uk or fonehouse.co.uk, who carry all brands.
READ THE SMALL PRINT: Nearly all refurbished phone dealers will offer some sort of warranty, in case something does go wrong.
Look for the longest-possible warranty, but a year as minimum should be standard.
This is where it pays to buy from a proper retailer rather than from an auction site.
The warranty means if there are problems, you are protected.
RATE OF RETURN: Check the returns policy when buying the phone.
Not all companies offer this as standard, but Giffgaff, for example, has a 21-day returns policy, which can be handy if you are unsure if the condition grade you picked is the one for you.
HIDDEN FEES: When you’re trying to save cash, beware of little extras such as delivery fees, which can really hike up the price.
Most major retailers offer free two or three-day signed-for delivery, however a few, such as thebigphonestore.com, will charge you £4.99 for delivery of handsets costing under £30, although it is free for items over £30.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability
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