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When someone mentions refurbished phones, you typically think of second-hand phones, but they are two different types. A used phone is sold directly from the previous owner, with no security guarantee. Refurbished phones are pre-owned phones that people return to the manufacturer because there is some flaw, and they’re repaired and then resold. Some of these phones are never even turned on. The buyer probably didn’t like how it fits in their hand and returned it.
Regardless of the circumstances, once the seal is broken, the manufacturer or seller must market it as a refurbished item. The camera, touchscreen, connectivity, microphone and speakers, and the CPUs and internal memory, are all put to the test. If the phone passes all of the tests, the manufacturer will give it a full factory reset, which will erase any existing accounts, media, data, and unlocking PINs. After that, the cosmetic procedure begins. It will receive a higher rating if the vendor can repair any existing scratches or blemishes. They leave it as is if there is no sense in correcting them, and they aren’t interfering with the phone’s functions.
Why Buy a Refurbished Phone?
As technology advances, we have a new phone emerging almost every day. Many manufacturers find ways to improve the old versions and add new interesting features and upgrades. And all of this is okay, but these phones are almost always overpriced. Even if the world weren’t in this economic crisis, many people wouldn’t break their budget to get the latest piece of technology. On the other hand, a refurbished phone is something people can afford.
Environmentally Friendly
Did you know that e-waste is still a problem in Australia? That’s why this is an important factor in buying a refurbished phone. As you may be aware, some materials used in phones are damaging to the environment. Toxic metals like lead, mercury, beryllium, and cadmium can be present inside the device. Lithium and carbon are also included in the battery, and the circuit boards leach arsenic into landfill soils. As a result, we must be ecologically conscious and use refurbished phones wherever possible.
More Affordable
Every month, a new phone is released, and as each new one is out on the market, the old ones get cheaper. This is a great opportunity to purchase a newer model reasonably. Their speed, performance, and durability have not decreased, that’s just how the market works, and models released a month ago are now regarded as outdated. You might want the newest model of the iPhone series, but a refurb iPhone works great without question.
Optimal Working
Refurbished phones are just as good as new phones that were never used. They aren’t second-hand electronics that will break down and malfunction. They get cleaned and repaired both inside and out before being released for sale to other clients. Sellers even assign a rating and grade to these phones based on the extent of the damage. This way, you can choose what grade phone you can afford.
No Need for a Contract
Whenever you buy a phone at a store, you sign a contract, and you’re required to pay a monthly cost for the phone and the operator’s services. Another option is to switch to a SIM-only plan and purchase a refurbished iPhone or any other model to avoid this payment and save money. A SIM-only deal for a year will cost between $25 and $30. However, if you acquire a new iPhone on a typical 2-year contract, the monthly cost will be roughly $100-105.
What Phones to Buy?
It’s a shame that Aussies are sitting on $6.4 billion worth of unused mobile devices. In the battle between a new and a refurbished phone, both sides are very satisfied with the phone’s performance, look and durability. 67% of refurbished phone owners have no complaints against 69% of new phone owners.
Apple
When it comes to refurb iPhone, the phrase “like new” holds a lot of weight. Every Apple device undergoes thorough repair work to produce a satisfactory end product. If you don’t like the phone or something goes wrong with it, ask the seller if they have a return policy. They often have a 30-day return period, which provides you enough time to see if the phone is running smoothly and you’re satisfied with its performance. If the seller is legitimate and experienced, they will provide you with 24/7 technical help if you have any questions.
Older refurbished iPhones, such as the iPhone 5 or iPhone XS, and newer models, such as the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, are available for sale. They normally come boxed with an instruction manual and a charging and syncing cord. Additional accessories may or may not be included; it depends on the vendor and the prior owner of the phone.
Samsung
Refurbished Samsung phones offer you the same as-new feel. These smartphones will provide you with excellent Galaxy technology, which you can carry about in your pocket for an incredible price. They feature a 12-month warranty, making them an excellent place to start your hunt for the perfect refurbished Samsung phone. While you’re searching, look for verified and authorised sellers who won’t steal your money. Ask about the testing procedures and what the seller did and altered on the phone.
Always talk about warranty and support, as well as payment options. The majority of refurbished phone dealers allow customers payment flexibility. You might do it fortnightly, interest-free, or weekly depending on your choices. Almost all refurbished Samsung phones are entirely functional and come with the original packaging, a compatible USB charging and sync cable and the manual. If the original box is not available, the store will wrap it in a box with their own design. Newer versions such as the Galaxy Z Flip3 and Galaxy Z Fold3 are available and earlier models such as the Galaxy S10, Galaxy S9+, and Galaxy S8.
In Summary
Be careful when you choose the seller of the refurbished phone. Be on the lookout for some suspicious behaviour they might have, or if they don’t offer you a warranty, support or a return policy. This might be a bad sign, and you should not trust them. Read reviews, ask questions, and we’re sure you’ll make the right choice and save some money.
