A used smartphone can be a good option for getting a new device on a budget. That said, you don’t want to get scammed, so you’ll need to do your research. Our used smartphone handbook is the perfect place to start.

All of the essential buying tips are below, so make sure you read!

1. Do Your Research

Before you buy any phone, you need to conduct ample research into the model and the seller. Start by looking up the device’s specifications. You want to know its RAM, battery life, and storage capabilities. You’ll know if the used phone is a good fit for you.

Next, read user reviews and feedback online for the phone you want. You’ll learn about common problems with the phone from other users’ firsthand accounts.

You’ll also need to check the market price of the phone to know you’re getting a good deal. It wouldn’t make sense to pay current market prices since you’re getting a used one. You should spend less for it to be a fair deal.

Lastly, check if the device still gets regular software updates. Many older phones still get support from their manufacturers, allowing them to run better than unsupported models.

2. Only Shop With Reliable Sellers

Photo by Luis Villasmil on Unsplash

You should buy used smartphones from trusted sellers. It’s easy to get scammed online, look up the sellers online first.

Try to shop with authorized vendors. These sellers offer the best-used smartphones and can guarantee they work because they partner with manufacturers and have to follow their standards.

If you choose a refurbished phone, ask the seller about its history. Avoid ones that had damage previously. Or, try to negotiate the price.

You can also look at the manufacturer’s store. Many smartphone companies will sell refurbished devices. Since these come from the manufacturer directly, you can trust them.

That said, you don’t always have to shop with an official source. You’ll usually save money if you don’t. Consider shopping on established reseller platforms like Amazon and eBay.

These platforms also have buyer protections in place, so you can return the device if it isn’t up to your standards.

Overall, don’t buy a used phone from any seller. You run the risk of paying above market price or getting a phone that doesn’t last long.

3. Check Up on the Return Policies

You should look into the seller’s return and refund policies before buying from them. Used phones don’t last as long as new ones due to wear and tear. That makes having a strong warranty essential.

Here’s what you should look into regarding used phone return policies:

• The return period: Most used phone return periods fall between a week and a month. Longer return times give you more time to test the used phone. It also shows the seller believes it will last. So, you’re probably getting a better deal.
• Quality assurance details: Some sellers won’t refund the phone if you open it. You want to know the warranty conditions before the final purchase. 
• Research the customer support crew: Check that the used phone’s customer support team has positive reviews online, so you know they can help you. 

Used phones without long-lasting warranties aren’t worth getting. They might die shortly after the warranty runs out.

4. Look Up the IMEI Number

You’ll want to conduct an IMEI check before buying the smartphone. IMEI, which stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity, is unique to every device. It allows authorities to recognize devices that were lost or stolen. You wouldn’t want to buy a stolen device, making it essential to check.

Devices that people report stolen get blacklisted. When that happens, they won’t work properly anymore. You wouldn’t want to pay for a phone you can’t use.

The IMEI can give you details on the device’s history. It’ll also let you know what carriers you can pick from. Most importantly, it lets you know if the phone is real or a similar-looking knockoff model. It can also give you some more information on the warranty status.

Lastly, you’ll usually pay more for a phone with a cleaner IMEI number and history. These phones have a higher resale value and are usually more reliable than phones with a longer history.

5. Test the Phone

Photo by Rodion Kutsaiev on Unsplash

Always test the phone first if you’re shopping in person. You’ll want the seller to show you pictures and videos of the phone running if you’re buying it online.

Make sure you see the phone plugged in and charging. Check that it charges at multiple angles and with other chargers, too. Many older phones have issues with the charging port, so you’ll need to know it works.

Next, test every feature. You’ll want to ensure the used phone can take pictures, has a responsive touch screen, and can connect to Wi-Fi, carrier network data, and Bluetooth. It’s also good to check the microphone, speakers, and all the buttons on it.

You’ll also want to know if there’s any damage to the phone. For example, cracks on the screen or scratches. 

6. Negotiate the Price

Finally, consider negotiating the phone’s price. You can haggle if you find other sellers with cheaper options. Plus, you don’t need to pay full price for damaged models.

Many sellers are willing to work with you to make the sale. So, don’t hesitate to ask the phone seller about more of their used models. Choose to shop with another used phone vendor for a better deal if you have to. You don’t need to stick with a single seller.

It helps to establish a budget before you start shopping. You should base it on market prices for the used phone. That way, you know you won’t get too out of range when negotiating. Letting the seller know you have a firm budget will also help you avoid models that are too expensive.

Make a Smart Purchase

Using this used smartphone handbook will help you make a smarter purchase. You’ll know if the phone and the seller are reliable. Plus, you want to know you’re not paying full price.

The most important step you can take is to look up the IMEI number. You can use it to learn more about the device, so you know it’s legit.