The smartphone industry is booming. Smartphones are now more or less essential to navigating modern life, with 55.5 million Brits in ownership of one. But buying a new smartphone is often a difficult endeavour, owing to the sheer volume of products on the market – and the sheer price of new ones. As such, the second-hand market is often the best option for upgrading on a budget. But what should you be looking out for?
Device Spec
Price is often the first factor that people consider when looking for a second-hand device – but looking at price first can result in the purchase of a sluggish or outdated device altogether. Even if budgets are tight, it is important to consider device specification alongside cost. Older phones may have fewer features, and their extended life may also mean shorter battery life from continuous use.
Besides, there are ways to subsidise the up-front cost of a ‘new’ device; if you were to trade in your iPhone 8, you could save more money on your next phone – allowing you to increase your search budget or target devices with a higher spec. This way, you can save doubly on buying a phone, and ensure its features are relevant and up to date.
Network Locks
Second-hand devices may also be locked to a specific mobile carrier network – rendering them functionally useless to you unless your SIM contract or pay-as-you-go SIM is registered with that same network. Unlocked phones are more expensive when bought brand-new, a fact that can sometimes affect second-hand prices depending on the vendor. But phones locked to a network come with an additional cost in order to unlock them. Either hunt for unlocked phones, or phones locked to your current service provider.
Refurbished Vs. Used
There are two types of second-hand phone, each of which are cheaper than buying new, but offer their own unique benefits. Used phones as bought from second-hand retail environments and private sellers are often much cheaper than their box-fresh counterparts, with the added risk of a shorter lifespan.
Refurbished phones are also cheaper than new but by a smaller amount. They are, however, more reliable a purchase than used phones, having been reconditioned by the manufacturer before re-sale. If you have the budget, a refurbished phone can give you more peace of mind.
Physical Condition
A phone’s physical condition can give a number of clues as to its prior use, and current functionality. It is important to check that vital parts of the phone are still operational; ports may be damaged, preventing you from charging or plugging in headphones. Screen cracks could limit touch functionality, and damage to the lens can render its on-board camera unusable.
Examination of the phone’s physical condition in person has the added advantage of reducing the risk of theft or fraud when purchasing from a private seller. Not only are you able to ascertain that the phone is a genuine product, but also that it matches the seller’s given specification and is as described.
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