The average price of smartphones has been increasing over the past five years, with manufacturers raising their prices. It is becoming more expensive if you want to stay up to date with the latest technology on the market, especially with new models released annually.
As a result, alternatives, like the refurbished phone market, have been growing. Buying refurbished, also known as reconditioned, has been trending worldwide as a way to save on costs and reduce the impact the smartphone industry has on the environment.
Statistics show that shoppers are becoming more cost-conscious, and concerns about sustainability have been driving the growth of the refurbished phone market. Buying refurbished also helps reduce electronic waste, which poses significant environmental and health risks.
Despite popular belief, refurbished phones aren’t the same as buying secondhand or used phones. While they might be secondhand, refurbished phones undergo quality checks and repairs to restore the device to like-new condition before being resold.
If you’re looking for more information about buying a refurbished phone, this guide will cover everything you need to know. It includes the costs and benefits compared to buying new, how much you can save, and whether they’re reliable.
How Much Can A Refurbished Phone Save You?
The main benefit of buying refurbished is the amount of money you can save compared to buying brand-new. The discount on buying refurbished will depend on a few factors, which include:
- How old the phone is
- The condition of the device
- The model of the phone
- Manufacturer
Depending on these factors, you can expect to save anywhere from 10% to 50% off the original price. This can lead to massive savings, especially on flagship models with high price points, where even 10% can be hundreds of dollars.
Aside from the price reduction, refurbished phones often come with warranties, similar to buying brand new. This offers peace of mind and protects against potential defects. It also saves you money and eliminates the need for third-party warranties.
To get the most out of your money when buying a refurbished phone, we recommend considering factors like price matching, seller reputation, and if any seasonal deals are coming up.
Are Refurbished Phones Reliable?
As long as you buy from a reputable seller, refurbished phones are just as reliable as buying brand new. Any reputable store should be putting their device through strict refurbishment processes to ensure they meet quality standards.
This refurbishment process should consist of comprehensive inspections, replacing faulty parts, and updating software. Any reputable store would also be transparent about its refurbishment process. If they aren’t, it is a red flag.
That is why it’s crucial to buy from trusted sellers if you’re looking at buying a refurbished phone. Along with checking the details of the store’s refurbishment process, we also recommend reading reviews from sources like Google and their warranty/return policies.
How Long Will A Refurbished Phone Last?
With proper care and maintenance, a refurbished phone should last as long as a new one. Below, we’ve broken down the different factors that can influence how long a refurbished phone will last.
Age and model
The age and model of the refurbished device will play a role in how long it’ll last. Generally, newer phone models have longer lifespans due to better technology and longer manufacturer support.
We recommend only sticking with models that are still receiving promised software updates and security patches. How long a phone receives this will depend on the manufacturer. For example, Google typically supports its phones for 7 years.
Battery health
Phone batteries are designed to degrade over time. So, when you’re shopping for a refurbished phone, make sure to go to a reputable seller that offers a battery life guarantee. You want a device with a battery health of at least 80%.
How to maximise your phone’s lifespan
A well-maintained phone always lasts longer than the alternative. If you want to ensure your refurbished phone lasts, there are a few steps you can take. These include:
- Buy from a reputable seller with a thorough refurbishment process and warranty.
- Always protect your phone using a case and screen protector to prevent any potential damage.
- Update your phone regularly with operating software upgrades and security patches for optimal performance and protection.
- Avoid overcharging and fully discharging the battery; this can result in the battery degrading faster than normal.
Why Refurbished Phones Can Be A Great Option
Refurbished phones are a fantastic alternative to buying brand new, providing a range of benefits to eco-conscious and budget-friendly shoppers. Below, we’ve outlined why they’re a great option.
Savings
The most significant advantage of buying a refurbished phone is the lower price. Depending on the model, you can save anywhere from 10% to 50% compared to brand-new phones.
Reliability
Refurbished phones also provide a sense of reliability and quality that even brand-new devices can’t offer. This is because they have a qualified technician personally look over the device and check for any potential defects, including manufacturer defects that have gone unnoticed.
Environmental benefits
Buying a refurbished phone promotes sustainability, cuts down electronic waste, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. You’re also extending the life cycle of existing devices, contributing to a circular economy.
Third-party accessories
Most mobile phones receive the most third-party support after launch (e.g., cases and screen protectors). Most refurbished devices are available after a few months when their brand-new counterparts release, meaning you’ll have better third-party support and a greater selection.
Older phone models
With the smartphone market pushing for new models yearly, it can be hard to find some older models that are brand-new as they get replaced quickly. Buying refurbished can be a great way to purchase an older model that is no longer in production or not widely available.
Reduced risk
Refurbished phones are less risky than secondhand or used phones. They undergo a reconditioning process and typically come with warranties and return policies that secondhand markets don’t offer.
Buy Refurbished Phones Now At OzMobiles
If you’re looking to save, buying a refurbished phone is the best way to keep costs low. Here at OzMobiles, we stock a large range of refurbished phones, and if you find a better deal elsewhere, we’ll beat it by $10 (terms and conditions apply).
Whether you’re interested in the Apple ecosystem or the Android market, we stock all the latest models. This includes refurbished iPhones and Samsung’s Galaxy range of phones.
All the phones we sell go through an extensive 72-point refurbishment process in our Melbourne headquarters. A qualified technician evaluates the device, testing every component to ensure it is fully functional and running optimally.
If the technician finds any issues, they are repaired using genuine parts. Our phones also come with a free 12-month warranty and a 30-day risk-free return policy. So, if you have a change of heart or have any concerns, just reach out to the OzMobiles support team.
Save money on your next mobile phone by shopping refurbished with OzMobiles. If you have any questions or need assistance finding the right device for you, just contact us.
