A significant survey has shed some gentle on the very best locations to purchase second-hand tech.
Which? – who we’ve teamed up with to inform you some do’s and don’ts later on this put up – requested 2,495 individuals to share their experiences of shopping for preloved smartphones, laptops, tablets and smartwatches from 18 retailers.
Listed here are the scores based mostly on customer support, product vary and availability, product high quality, accuracy of descriptions, speaking, supply, quantity of authentic packaging, ease of web site and worth for cash…
“We were pleasantly surprised by the results – 10 retailers received a customer score of 80% or more,” mentioned Which.
For an concept of how a lot you may save, Which? supplied these examples…
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (2023): £679.99 (Amazon Renewed, “Excellent” grade), in comparison with £1,129 new – a £449 saving.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7: £139 (eBay Licensed Refurbished, “Excellent” grade), £239 new – a £100 saving.
iPhone 16 (128GB): £649.99 or £609.99 (iOutlet, Grade A+ or A), £699 new – a £49-£89 saving.
Which? tech professional Andrew Laughlin advised the Cash weblog: “Not solely is shopping for second-hand tech higher for the planet, it will also be considerably higher on your pockets with lots of of kilos to be saved in comparison with shopping for new.
“It’s important to go into it with eyes wide open. Buying from a reputable source, checking how long software updates will last and choosing a refurbished device with at least 80% battery health will ensure you’re not left disappointed.”
Extra on Cash Weblog Guides
Picture:Andrew Laughlin
We’ve teamed up with Which? to carry you these important do’s and don’ts…
Do – Verify software program replace help intervals
One of the vital essential issues to think about when shopping for a second-hand or refurbished telephone is how lengthy the system will likely be supported with safety updates. Apple iPhones are likely to obtain safety updates from the producer for at the very least 5 – 6 years from the telephone’s launch. For Android telephones, this will range from two to eight years.
As soon as a telephone stops receiving essential safety updates, it’ll be extra susceptible to assaults from data-grabbing hackers.
Do – Wait till after new product launches
There’s often an inflow of last-generation merchandise to second-hand retailers shortly after a brand new launch, as individuals promote previous units to boost cash for the brand new mannequin.
Do – Purchase from Respected Sellers
Follow trusted sources and keep away from random sellers or unverified marketplaces.
Picture:Pic: iStock
Do – Verify the returns coverage
You have got 14 days to inform the shop that you simply need to return an merchandise, and an additional 14 days to truly return it. However for peace of thoughts, it’s price checking if there’s an prolonged returns interval, and what the store’s defective items coverage is.
Don’t – Purchase a tool with lower than 80% battery well being
Batteries degrade over time; ideally, refurbished units ought to have a brand new or licensed battery with at the very least 80-90% well being.
Don’t – Ignore the grading system
Each second-hand system has had a special first life, which suggests you’re not assured a selected stage of efficiency. Refurbished gadgets are sometimes labelled Grade A, B or C (or related):
Grade A: Seems new, minimal or no beauty flaws.
Grade B: Some seen put on, however absolutely useful.
Grade C: Noticeable beauty injury, however works.
Don’t – Confuse “refurbished” with second-hand
Refurbished telephones, often bought by producers or retailers, usually include warranties and have been professionally repaired or inspected, whereas second-hand telephones are sometimes bought by earlier house owners and should not embody warranties.
Refurbished telephones ought to look ‘as new’ or be graded by high quality, so what situation the telephone will likely be in before you purchase.
The value of a refurbished telephone is commonly increased than a second-hand one, as a result of the telephone will (in idea) have been checked over by professionals to make sure it’s in prime working order and in good bodily situation. You must also get a assure or guarantee of some kind, as refurbished telephones are often bought by an expert retailer.
Don’t – Assume equipment are included
Refurbished merchandise could not embody authentic equipment or packaging. Confirm whether or not a charger, cable, or stylus is included.
Don’t – Overlook to carry out thorough checks
Perform these checks within the store, or as quickly as you get your arms in your second-hand system, to ensure it’s working because it ought to and matches what you anticipated based mostly on the grading and outline.
Second-hand units often include a guaranty of 12-24 months, which ought to cowl technical faults. If something in your tech isn’t working because it ought to, contact the retailer for a alternative, restore or refund.
Do all of the cameras work?
Do the safety and unlock options work?
Are the ports working?
Are the buttons defective?
Verify your battery.
Don’t – Assume you’ll be insured
For those who’ve taken out devoted insurance coverage cowl for devices, examine the T&Cs fastidiously, some gadget insurance policies received’t cowl refurbished telephones.
