It’s a discussion that goes back even further than smartphones: refurbished vs new phones. With new models coming out every year, it’s becoming more expensive to stay up to date with the latest technology at launch prices. No matter what team you’re on when it comes to refurbished vs new phones, both sides can agree: phone technology is getting costly. There are many benefits to both sides, but a massive advantage of buying refurbished is the cost savings.
Refurbished phones are a great way to save money, depending on the model and condition. The latest phone models can also be found refurbished even as quickly as a few months after launch.
Beyond the money-saving benefits, data reveals that refurbished phones are also better for the environment. So, if you want to practice sustainable shopping habits, supporting refurbished phone businesses helps cut down electronic waste and greenhouse gases.
If you’re on the fence about refurbished vs new phones, this article is for you. It’ll be delving into how refurbished phones compare to new phones, the refurbishment process, and why buying refurbished is a ‘safe bet.’
How Do Refurbished Phones Compare To New Devices?
If you’re wondering about refurbished vs new phones and how they compare, the answer is: they should be virtually indistinguishable from each other. A phone that has undergone the proper refurbishing process by a qualified professional is restored to like-new condition.
The only major difference between a refurbished phone and a new device is potential cosmetic wear. Depending on the grade (which refers to the cosmetic condition) of a refurbished phone, users can expect minor wear, like scratches on the body or frame. However, the phone itself should function and perform like a brand-new one from the factory. This is because the refurbished phone is still the exact same model as its brand-new counterpart and would receive the same features and updates.
There’s also a common misunderstanding that all refurbished phones are second-hand. Some of them are ex-demo stock or had a manufacturing defect that was repaired. This means they’ve never had a previous owner.
When it comes to buying refurbished, there are a few benefits it has when compared to buying new. These include:
-
Refurbished phones are usually cheaper than new ones. Even the latest smartphone models can be found at a discounted price in refurbished condition.
-
If you’re an eco-conscious shopper, buying refurbished contributes to the reuse, reduce, and recycle and is better for the environment.
-
The money saved by buying a refurbished device can then be put towards buying accessories like cases or software.
If you buy a refurbished phone, there are typically more accessories and support available than if you were to buy the same model brand new on launch day.
This is because refurbished versions are usually available weeks or months after release, allowing third-party businesses more time to learn about the model and develop accessories for it.
The Refurbishing Process
When it comes to discussing the refurbishing process for smartphones, it’s important to understand that there is no universal standard. The exact process will differ from business to business.
With that being said, in Australia, refurbished products do need to meet certain mandatory standards as outlined by the Australian Consumer Law. So, most reputable retailers would have the same core steps to follow to restore the phone to like-new condition, which we’ve outlined below.
Initial Inspection
After a business receives a second-hand mobile phone to refurbish, the first step is the initial inspection. This consists of a qualified technician examining the phone, checking the condition of the body/frame, and ensuring that it is fully functional at a software level.
During the inspection, the phone is also assessed. Any cosmetic wear on the body or frame is noted for later repairs. Any irregularities at a software level are also identified to be fixed later on in the process.
Potential software issues could be the phone experiencing abnormal lag, the screen glitching, or a bug with the firmware. These could require hardware replacements (e.g., the display) or be as simple as updating the operating system.
Disassembly
After initial inspection and evaluation, the next step is disassembly. The phone is then carefully taken apart using industry-grade tools to check the internals. During this process, every component should be inspected, like the battery, motherboard, and camera.
Repairs & Replacement
While the phone is still disassembled, any worn or damaged parts should be identified and removed. They will then be replaced (or repaired) using genuine parts. During this step, it’s also normal for the technician to clean the internals, removing any dirt, dust, and residue.
Clearing Data & Updates
After any damaged parts are repaired or replaced, all previous user data should be cleared. This ensures that the phone is safe and secure for the new user (as well as the previous owner).
This process wipes any pre-existing data and apps off the device and restores the phone to factory settings. This ensures the next owner will have a new user experience as if it came fresh from the factory.
Finally, the phone should also be updated to the latest security patches and operating system. This ensures the phone is running optimally and there are no security vulnerabilities.
Testing
After the technician has conducted the necessary repairs, data clearing, and software updates, the phone is then tested to ensure everything is fully functional. Any reputable refurbisher will use professional-grade software to ensure everything is working with no abnormalities.
For example, they should be using tools to test every component, down to the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chips, to make sure there are no connectivity problems. If the phone doesn’t pass testing, the disassembly and repair process is repeated.
Cosmetic Restoration
When the phone passes the testing phase, the device is then put through the cosmetic restoration process. This is when any minor damages, like scratches or dents, are fixed (or the body/frame is replaced).
During this process, the phone is also typically ‘graded.’ They are given a ‘grade,’ which could be a phrase, letter or number, which describes the phone’s cosmetic condition. Every refurbished phone should be functioning like new. The grade only refers to any cosmetic wear, like scratches.
Packaging and Resale
After the phone’s grade is determined, it is then ready to be repackaged and sold. The phone is usually sold in its original box and accessories (like the charging cable), but this isn’t always possible, e.g., if the phone was obtained without the box.
If the phone isn’t available with the original box and/or accessories, this can lead to heavier discounts. Any reputable and trustworthy retailer will also be transparent about their refurbishment process.
Most refurbished phone retailers will describe the store’s refurbishment process on their website. Typically, their products will also come with warranties and/or guarantees of some kind, like a risk-free return policy.
Why Is Buying Refurbished A Safe Bet
As long as you’re buying from a reputable retailer, a refurbished device is a safe bet. A legitimately refurbished device would get more attention and care to detail than a non-refurbished phone because it is personally overseen by a qualified technician.
This also means that manufacturing defects can potentially be identified and repaired, which doesn’t happen if you’re buying brand-new straight from the factory. In Australia, it’s also standard for retailers to offer a warranty on refurbished electronics.
So, even if there are any issues with the refurbished product, you’d be able to seek assistance with a return/replacement. However, it’s critical to know how to spot a reputable retailer. Below, we’ve compiled a list of what you should look out for.
-
Stick to websites when possible and avoid companies that sell products through Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace. These platforms don’t offer buyer protection if something goes wrong or if a product is not as described.
-
Always check the business’s ratings and reviews. Only buy from a store where customers have posted reviews (with photos) and have positive ratings on Google (4+ stars).
-
Avoid any refurbished phone companies that only take cash and/or debit. When it comes to online shopping, PayPal support is a must as they offer buyer protection in case things go wrong.
-
Always look for quality assurances, like a warranty or a return policy. A trustworthy shop is always willing to stand behind its products and support customers.
We also recommend considering the customer support services the business offers. When shopping for a refurbished device, you want to make sure the retailer is easy to contact if you have any questions or if there’s an issue. Responsive customer support is a green flag.
Buy The Latest Refurbished Smartphones at OzMobiles
See for yourself how good a refurbished mobile phone can be with OzMobiles. Our selection includes the latest Android and iPhone refurbished models, all tested and restored to like-new condition by a qualified technician using industry-standard professional tools.
We also pride ourselves on having the best prices and customer support. So, if you find a better deal elsewhere, we’ll beat it by $10* (terms and conditions apply). Our devices also come with a free 12-month warranty and a 30-day risk-free return policy so that you can shop with confidence.
OzMobiles is also a one-stop shop for all your phone needs. Along with the phone itself, we also offer phone accessories, like cases, screen protectors, and smartwatches—saving you time and money by getting it all from the same place.
If you have any questions about our phone range or our refurbishment process, reach out and contact us today. The OzMobiles team would love to hear from you and answer any queries.
