Should You Buy a Used iPhone or a Refurbished One?

What Are Used iPhones?

A used iPhone is a device that has been owned before and resold. This naturally leads to a common question: “Are used iPhones good?”. That often depends on how well the previous owner cared for it, which means the phone may show signs of wear or damage. It might also come without the original box or full set of accessories.

Let’s take a closer look at their benefits and limitations:

• Pros of Buying a Used iPhone

  • These are often more affordable than refurbished or new iPhones.
  • Easily available through online marketplaces or local sellers.
  • There are no extra costs for repairs or certifications.

• Cons of Buying a Used iPhone

  • There are generally no warranties for used devices.
  • They may have hidden defects or limited functionality.
  • Higher chances of buying stolen or counterfeit devices if not purchased from authorised dealers.

What Are Refurbished iPhones?

Refurbished iPhones are mostly previously owned models that have been returned because of defects or other problems. They undergo thorough repair, testing and refurbishment to restore full functionality. Moreover, they’re available with certified retailers, manufacturers or trusted third-party refurbishers.

Now, let’s explore their benefits and drawbacks:

• Pros of Buying a Refurbished iPhone

  • They are certified and tested to meet functional standards.
  • You’ll get complete warranty coverage.
  • It reduces e-waste, extending the lifecycle of devices.
  • Often comes with accessories like chargers, cables and packaging.

• Cons of Buying a Refurbished iPhone

  • They may not always be in stock, especially the latest models.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Used or Refurbished iPhone

As discussed above, refurbished and used iPhones have one thing in common, i.e., both have been previously owned. Hence, you can’t expect to receive the device in a brand-new, unopened Apple package. Even so, when comparing refurbished vs used iPhone options, there are important differences to consider, such as:

• Used iPhone

  They offer an affordable way to own Apple’s technology, but their condition and reliability may vary widely. To help you make an informed choice, here are some key points to remember:
  • Inspect the iPhone’s condition and ensure that there are no screen cracks or scratches. Verify that all ports and buttons are fully functional.
  • Ask about the warranty offered by the seller, including coverage and duration.
  • Enquire about return policies, so you know if you can return or exchange the device if the purchase is not satisfactory.
  • Confirm the storage capacity before buying, especially for older models, as they often have less storage than new ones.

• Refurbished iPhone

  When buying a refurbished iPhone, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some details to keep in mind before making a purchase:
  • Examine the refurbished phone’s condition and ensure that it’s in good condition with no visible marks of damage.
  • Enquire about the phone’s history and find out if it has been owned and how it was used.
  • Ensure that it comes with a warranty.
  • Research about the seller, whether it’s a reputable source or not, like a major retailer or a genuine online store.
  • Compare prices from different sellers to get a good deal.

Used vs Refurbished iPhone: Which One Is a Better Option?

By now, you'll have an answer to the question: Should I buy a refurbished iPhone or a used one? To clarify further, the table below summarises the key differences between the two options:

Tips for Buying a Used or Refurbished iPhone

Now that the main distinction between a refurbished iPhone and a used device is clear, selecting the model that best suits your needs becomes crucial. To assist with the choice, here are some practical tips for buying used or refurbished iPhones:

• Verify Authenticity: Check that the iPhone you’re getting is genuine. You can do this by looking up the phone’s serial number or IMEI on Apple’s official website.
• Check Activation Lock: Ensure that the seller has logged out of their Apple ID on the phone. If they haven’t, the phone will stay linked to their account, and you won’t be able to use it.
• Understand the Warranty: It’s important to check the retailer’s warranty, including coverage and duration. After all, this protects you against defects or issues after purchase.
• Verify Seller’s Reputation: Only buy from reliable sellers or stores with positive reviews. This reduces the risk of problems later on and ensures better post-sales support.

Following the above tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and make a confident purchase. They will help you get a device that meets your expectations.

Mobile Guru: Your Trusted Partner for Refurbished iPhones

When it comes to choosing between a used and a refurbished iPhone, we recommend the latter. Used phones may have a lower price but can carry hidden faults or lack warranties. On the other hand, refurbished devices are inspected, repaired and usually come with some form of warranty, offering greater reliability for a slightly higher cost.

If you are someone looking for quality and reliability, our refurbished iPhones are a smart choice. Mobile Guru is a reputable seller of refurbished phones in Australia. Every device we have for sale undergoes a thorough 72-point check to ensure it meets our standards. Plus, our 24-month warranty gives you peace of mind, making our products a reliable choice every single time.

Visit our online store today and find the iPhone that best suits your needs. If you are still wondering, “Is a refurbished iPhone good to buy?”, feel free to reach out to us. We’ll alleviate any doubts or worries you may have and set you up for a rewarding experience. You can call us on 1300 362 017 or email us at hello@mobileguru.com.au.