REFURBISHED iPhone: Delve into the world of refurbished iPhones with our latest blog, where we unravel the mysteries behind these pre-loved devices.
Explore the benefits, potential concerns, and ultimately, answer the burning question: Is it truly worth it to invest in a refurbished iPhone? Uncover the facts that will guide you to a well-informed decision in the realm of tech-savvy choices.
The surging cost of living is evident across various aspects of our daily expenditures, from the escalating prices of food and fuel to the rising costs associated with mobile phones.
This preference for a more affordable option stems from her tendency to frequently damage phones, presenting a dilemma: is it more prudent to diligently save up for the latest iPhone, seeking seamless integration and technological superiority?
Alternatively, could exploring budget-friendly alternatives such as opting for a refurbished iPhone prove a more sensible choice?
Personal Experience:
Reflecting on personal experiences, I’ve embraced refurbished phones on two occasions – initially with a Samsung Galaxy S7 five or six years ago and currently with an iPhone XR released towards the end of 2018.
Despite initial reservations about the aging model, my encounter with the refurbished iPhone XR has yielded unexpectedly positive results.
Priced at approximately $350, this device has proven to be a wise investment.
Upon receipt, the phone’s impeccable condition defies expectations, showing no discernible signs of wear. Contrary to earlier reports indicating a malfunctioning face unlocking feature, the reality reveals smooth and seamless functionality.
Concerns about the phone’s history were assuaged after a thorough examination of the serial number on Apple’s official website, which uncovered no irregularities or indications of replaced components.
Further assessments, including a battery health check yielding a commendable 93%, strengthen the inference that this refurbished iPhone XR likely boasts a usage history of around a year or a year and a half.
Surprisingly, despite its vintage, the phone continues to perform admirably, outpacing many mid-range Android devices released in 2022 in benchmark tests.
The iPhone XR stands out with its superior camera capabilities, excelling in both photography and video recording compared to its newer counterparts.
Acknowledging its limitations, such as the absence of 5G connectivity and advanced camera features, this seasoned iPhone remains a viable and cost-effective option for those prioritizing practicality over the allure of the latest technologies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, for individuals grounded in realistic expectations and seeking financial prudence without sacrificing essential features, the choice of a refurbished iPhone emerges as a compelling alternative to the exorbitant costs associated with brand-new models exceeding a thousand dollars.
With Apple focusing on its 15-series iPhones from late 2023, you can find excellent deals on older phones such as the 14-, 13- and maybe even 12- series.
(Apple still sells the standard iPhone 13 and 14 models, but has discontinued many of the variants, which means refurbished is the way to go with those models.)
The older iPhone you’re prepared to buy, the bigger the savings you can enjoy.
In this article we cover everything there is to know about safely buying a refurbished iPhone, whether you’re looking to buy SIM-free or on contract.
Where to buy a refurbished iPhone SIM-free
Apple itself should be your first port of call, if only to establish a benchmark of what is reasonable to pay for your chosen handset: check to see if the Refurbished Store has the iPhone model you’re looking for.
Apple’s store tends to be the most expensive place to buy refurbished iPhones–although it’s still significantly cheaper than buying new. (The standard reduction on the Apple Refurbished Store is 15 percent.)
But there are advantages that come with this higher price. The refurb phones all come with the same one-year limited warranty that you’ll find on the brand-new versions, for example. And it’s worth noting that any parts used in the refurb will be official Apple ones, and all devices come with brand-new batteries.
It’s worth shopping around, however, to make sure you’re getting a good deal. There are plenty of other companies that make a living from refurbishing and selling iPhones. Here are some of the more prominent resellers of refurbished and used iPhones:
Refurbished iPhone sellers in the U.S.
- Decluttr: A popular destination for refurbished devices, often with sales that slash even more money off. You can also trade in any of your old tech, gadgets, and media (including books and CDs) to get steeper discounts.
- The iOutlet on eBay: Offers competitive pricing for refurbished devices and also accepts other gadgets such as iPads, Apple Watches, and gaming consoles.
- Amazon Renewed Store: This site’s greatest benefit is that purchases are all backed by Amazon’s standard returns policy and its “Renewed Guarantee” lets you get a refund or replacement within 1 year of receiving your product.
- Best Buy: Best Buy doesn’t offer a great deal of information on pre-owned iPhones’ condition, but you can return within 14 days if the item is “unopened or defective in any way.”
- Walmart: Walmart doesn’t sell refurbished iPhones directly; rather, they are sourced from other sellers. Return policies vary from seller to seller, but there are minimum requirements that apply universally.
Refurbished iPhone sellers in the U.K.
- Music Magpie: The UK version of Decluttr and a good place to start looking for refurbished iPhones. You may find that sales reduce the price still further.
- The iOutlet or The iOutlet on eBay: Offers competitive pricing for refurbished devices and also accepts other gadgets such as iPads, Apple Watches, and gaming consoles.
- Amazon Renewed Store: While you can’t really sell on Amazon Renewed unless you’re a business, those looking to buy a refurbished iPhone Amazon Renewed have plenty of options to choose from.
- Its greatest benefit is that purchases are all backed by Amazon’s standard returns policy and its “Renewed Guarantee” lets you get a refund or replacement within 1 year of receiving your product.
- Envirofone: Also allows you to trade in your old phone for credit towards purchasing a refurbished phone.
- 4Gadgets: Offers a 12-month warranty for all online orders.
- Reboxed: Pledges that devices “are fully tested and in perfect working order.” All come with a 12-month no quibble warranty.
- Smartfone Store: Look out for the additional 10 percent discount for students and young people.
- Refurb-Phone: Like most refurb sellers, this site offers a 12-month warranty. Less commonplace is its policy of allowing returns within 14 days if you simply change your mind.
- The Big Phone Store: Says it ensures refurb phones “are thoroughly tested, repaired, and cleaned before being sent out.” Backs this with a 12-month warranty.
- Laptops Direct: You get a 12-month warranty on parts and labor. Watch out for slightly confusing grading system: “A3,” for example, means “Average condition.”
- Back Market: You get 30 days to change your mind and a 12-month warranty… or occasionally more.
Best refurbished iPhone deals now
The large number of refurb sellers and variations of condition and warranty mean it’s impossible to provide exhaustive details of the best deal for every buyer.
The best option, if you have time, is to visit each of the sellers listed above and shop around for the best price that meets your requirements.
For the reader in a rush, however, we have assembled the standout deals for each model using the following criteria:
the lowest price currently available from a reputable seller with the minimum storage allocation, unlocked, and the highest condition grade where applicable. This should help you pinpoint the sellers offering the best value.
Refurbished iPhone Deals US
1.Apple iPhone 14 Pro (128GB, Renewed)
From: Amazon Renewed Store
Was: $999.99
Now: 745.90 ($254 off 2022 price)
2.Apple iPhone 13 Pro (128GB, Renewed)
From: Amazon Renewed Store
Was: $999
Now: $589.94 ($409.06 off 2021 price)
This is a good price on last year’s flagship iPhone.
3.Apple iPhone 12 mini (64GB, Refurbished, Excellent)
From: eBay
Was: $599
Now: 264.95 ($334 off 2021 price)
This handset is certified as “eBay Refurbished,” which means “All items are tested by qualified refurbishers and function as intended.”
4.Apple iPhone SE (2020, 64GB, Refurbished)
From: Walmart
Was: $399
Now: $128.98 ($270.02 off 2020 price)
Walmart doesn’t offer much information about condition, but there’s a reassuring warranty.