How to Buy a Used or Refurbished Cell Phone

A used phone may cost less, but have other associated risks.

Though you can always buy a new cell phone from a reputable dealer, if you want to save some money, buy a phone that's either used or refurbished. These phones are available at some retailers, but are most commonly offered for sale on the Internet. Because you can't test the phone when you buy online, make sure to scrutinize the ad -- and the seller -- carefully.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Savviness
• an internet connection
• a credit card

1. Buy the used or refurbished cell phone at a phone retailer, if possible, so that you can return it if there are issues. While you'll likely get the best deal online, you may not be able to get a refund for your purchase if the phone doesn't work as described.

2. Seek out a vendor with the high level of customer satisfaction if you're buying a phone on a site such as eBay. View the vendor's feedback and feedback comments to get an accurate idea of how his other transactions have gone. Avoid dealing with him if people have posted complaints or poor feedback.

3. Ensure that the phone being offered by the vendor is suitable for your needs. For example, if you have a SIM card from another phone that you'd like to use on the phone you purchase, make sure that it's compatible with it.

4. Browse the photos of the phone carefully, if buying online, and be skeptical of the reason why the seller is selling the phone. For example, if she says she's upgraded to a new phone and is therefore selling her old one, but says the same thing in multiple other listings, she's being dishonest right off the bat.

5. Contact the seller to ask questions and see additional photos of the cell phone. Ask to see copies of any official documentation such, as a sales receipt, to show that the phone is not stolen and is authentic. If the seller is honest, he should have no issue with providing this information for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a used or refurbished cell phone from a friend or family member who has recently upgraded to a new phone. She'll appreciate getting some money for her old phone, and you'll know it's authentic. Additionally, she may charge you very little because of your friendship or relation.

• Be cautious of buying "new" cell phones online, especially on eBay. There have been more and more sellers that are selling refurbished cell phones as new. A number of the top sellers on ebay are selling the same refurbished cell phone as new, but for more money! The refurbished cell phones also include lens tape, come in the manufacturers box and look identical. Most people can not tell the difference.

References

• Technomaniac: How to Buy a Used Cell Phone/Mobile Phone?