The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Evaluate New, Used, and Refurbished Smartphones

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
Universal - iOS/Android
You will need
Budget requirements, desired device longevity, current carrier compatibility

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Define hardware and warranty expectations

    Identify if you require a manufacturer warranty or are comfortable with third-party coverage. New phones provide the full manufacturer warranty, while refurbished units vary between manufacturer-certified and third-party dealer warranties. Used devices typically offer no warranty coverage and represent the highest risk.

    Note: Always verify if the warranty covers accidental damage or only hardware defects.
  2. 2 min

    Inspect battery health metrics

    Battery degradation is the primary indicator of a used device's condition. For iPhones, navigate to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging to check the maximum capacity. For Android devices, download a third-party diagnostic tool or dial carrier-specific service codes to view cycle counts and capacity percentages.

    Note: A maximum capacity below 85% significantly impacts daily performance.
  3. 1 min

    Confirm device lock status

    Ensure the device is factory unlocked and not locked to a specific carrier. Verify the device is not Activation Locked or iCloud/Google locked by requesting the IMEI or Serial Number from the seller. Use a free online IMEI checker to confirm the status against global blacklists.

    Note: Never purchase a device that cannot provide a clean IMEI report.
  4. 1 min

    Review physical and cosmetic grade

    Used and refurbished listings use grading scales like Grade A (Excellent), Grade B (Good), or Grade C (Fair). Examine high-resolution photos for screen micro-scratches, dented corners, or port damage. Distinguish between 'Manufacturer Refurbished,' which replaces the housing and battery, and 'Seller Refurbished,' which may only swap functional components.

    Note: Deep scratches on the screen indicate a lower value, regardless of internal performance.
  5. 1 min

    Calculate total cost of ownership

    Factor in the cost of a replacement battery or protective accessories when comparing prices. Often, a used device plus a new battery is cheaper than a new unit, but lacks the fresh aesthetic of new hardware. Calculate the price gap against the remaining software support lifespan of the device model.

    Note: Check the manufacturer support page to see how many years of OS updates remain.