Top Brands Offering Refurbished Phones and What to Expect

As someone who values quality but likes to save money, I have always found refurbished phones to be a fantastic option. When I think about getting a high-performance device without paying the full retail price, refurbished phones are one of the best ways to do that. However, buying a refurbished phone requires a bit of research because you want to ensure you are getting a good deal on a product that will last. That is why I decided to put together this guide on the top brands offering refurbished phones and what you can expect from them.

Here I shall discuss some of the best brands for refurbished phones, what each offers, and how these devices are typically inspected and restored. I shall also share tips on what to look for in a refurbished phone and the key things to expect when buying one. So, let’s start exploring some of the trusted brands you can count on for high-quality refurbished phones.

Apple Certified Refurbished

Apple is one of the most trusted brands in the smartphone market, and their refurbished devices are known for high quality. Apple has a dedicated Certified Refurbished program, and their process includes a thorough inspection and restoration process. Apple Certified Refurbished devices come with a one-year warranty, which is the same as new products. This warranty covers repairs and support directly from Apple, giving buyers extra confidence in their purchase.

• Inspection and Testing: Every Apple refurbished phone undergoes a rigorous testing process to ensure that all features work as expected. This includes hardware testing, battery tests, and replacing parts that may not be up to standard.

• New Accessories and Packaging: Each refurbished Apple device comes with brand-new accessories like a charger and headphones. The device is repackaged in a new box, making it almost indistinguishable from a brand-new model.

• Pricing: Apple refurbished phones are usually 15-25% cheaper than new models. While this is a decent discount, Apple’s quality assurance and support make it worth the price.

With Apple Certified Refurbished, you get high standards of quality, a reliable warranty, and the peace of mind of buying directly from the manufacturer.

Samsung Certified Pre-Owned

Samsung’s Certified Pre-Owned program is similar to Apple’s in terms of quality control and warranty. Samsung offers refurbished models of their latest Galaxy series, and each phone is restored to meet Samsung’s original specifications. Samsung’s devices come with a one-year warranty, and the company also offers financing options for these phones, making them more affordable for buyers.

• Inspection Process: Each device undergoes a comprehensive inspection, including testing for functions like the screen, battery, and camera. Any faulty parts are replaced with genuine Samsung parts.

• New Battery and Accessories: Samsung replaces the battery in all their Certified Pre-Owned devices, ensuring that each phone has maximum battery capacity. New accessories, including a charger, are also included.

• Eco-Friendly Packaging: Samsung uses eco-friendly packaging for their pre-owned devices, which aligns with their commitment to sustainability.

If you are a Samsung fan looking for a high-quality device at a more affordable price, their Certified Pre-Owned program is a good choice.

Amazon Renewed

Amazon has its own Renewed program, where they offer a wide variety of refurbished smartphones from different brands, including Apple, Samsung, and Google. Amazon Renewed devices are not refurbished by the manufacturer but by third-party technicians approved by Amazon. However, each device is tested and inspected thoroughly, and Amazon provides a 90-day warranty with each phone.

• Wide Selection: Amazon Renewed offers a broader range of phones than many other brands, as they have devices from various manufacturers and models. This includes older models, which can be hard to find elsewhere.

• Quality Standards: Amazon requires all their Renewed devices to be inspected and tested to ensure they function properly, although the standards may vary depending on the third-party refurbisher.

• Affordable Pricing: Amazon Renewed phones are generally more affordable than those sold directly by manufacturers. Discounts range from 30-50% off the original price.

While Amazon Renewed offers good deals, you should read customer reviews and make sure the third-party refurbished is reputable for the best experience.

Best Buy Certified Refurbished

 

Best Buy, a popular electronics retailer, offers Certified Refurbished phones that meet their standards for quality. These phones are not refurbished by the manufacturer but by Best Buy’s approved refurbishers. Best Buy offers a 90-day warranty on their refurbished phones, and you have the option to purchase additional protection plans for extra peace of mind.

• Quality Testing: Best Buy’s Certified Refurbished phones are inspected to ensure they meet functional and aesthetic standards. The inspection includes testing the battery, display, camera, and more.

• Return Policy: Best Buy offers a 15-day return window for refurbished phones, allowing customers to try the device and return it if they are not satisfied.

• Discounts and Sales: Best Buy often runs sales on their refurbished phones, which can lead to even bigger savings.

Best Buy’s program is a great option if you prefer buying from a well-known retailer that provides reliable customer service and a fair return policy.

Gazelle

Gazelle is one of the most popular sites dedicated to buying and selling refurbished phones. Gazelle’s refurbished devices go through a 30-point inspection process to ensure quality, and the site offers a 30-day return window if you are not happy with the device. Gazelle has options for various brands, including iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel devices, and their phones typically come at competitive prices.

• Thorough Testing: Gazelle performs a 30-point inspection on each phone, checking features like the battery, camera, screen, and buttons. They replace any parts as needed to meet their standards.

• Grading System: Gazelle categorizes phones as “Good,” “Very Good,” or “Like New,” which allows buyers to choose based on their budget and quality preferences.

• No Contract Option: Gazelle sells phones without contracts, giving buyers flexibility in choosing their carrier or network.

Gazelle is an excellent choice if you want a trustworthy refurbished phone seller that focuses on offering quality phones at fair prices.

Decluttr

Decluttr is a site similar to Gazelle and is dedicated to selling refurbished devices. They offer a wide selection of refurbished phones, particularly iPhones, and each phone is inspected, certified, and comes with a 12-month warranty. Decluttr is popular for its affordable prices and straightforward buying process.

• Certified Quality: Decluttr’s refurbished phones are inspected and certified to meet high standards, ensuring that each device functions like new.

• 12-Month Warranty: Decluttr’s 12-month warranty provides coverage for issues that may arise after purchase, giving buyers peace of mind. 

• Simple Process: The process of buying from Decluttr is simple, with clear grading on each phone’s condition and no contracts required.

If you are looking for a reliable refurbished phone with a solid warranty, Decluttr is a good option to consider.

Walmart Certified Refurbished

Walmart offers a wide range of Certified Refurbished phones, from Apple to Samsung and even Google. Walmart’s refurbished devices are provided by third-party sellers, so the quality may vary depending on the seller. However, Walmart offers a 90-day warranty on most of their refurbished phones, and they also allow returns within 30 days.

• Variety of Options: Walmart has a large selection of refurbished phones, including some less common models that might be hard to find elsewhere.

• Warranty and Return Policy: Walmart provides a 90-day warranty, and you can return the device within 30 days if it does not meet your expectations.

• Competitive Prices: Walmart’s refurbished phones are often sold at competitive prices, and they offer special deals during major sales events.

Walmart can be a good place to find affordable refurbished phones, especially if you are looking for a broad selection of models and brands.

Things to Expect When Buying Refurbished Phones

 

When buying a refurbished phone, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure you get a device that meets your needs and expectations.

• Battery Life: Although refurbished phones are restored to like-new condition, the battery may not always have the same capacity as a brand-new phone. Look for brands or retailers that offer battery replacement as part of their refurbishment process.

• Cosmetic Condition: Refurbished phones are often graded by condition, such as “Like New,” “Very Good,” or “Good.” Understand the grading system to ensure you are satisfied with the cosmetic appearance of your phone.

• Warranty Coverage: Warranty length and coverage vary by seller. Some brands offer a one-year warranty, while others provide only 90 days. Choose a phone with a warranty that suits your comfort level.

• Accessories: Not all refurbished phones come with original accessories, so check if chargers, headphones, and other essentials are included, or if you may need to buy these separately.

Final Verdict

Buying a refurbished phone can be a smart way to get a high-quality device without spending a fortune. Brands like Apple, Samsung, and dedicated sites like Gazelle and Decluttr provide excellent refurbished phones with thorough inspections and good warranties. When purchasing a refurbished phone, it is essential to consider factors like battery life, warranty, and accessories to make an informed decision. 

With the right research and a clear idea of your needs, a refurbished phone can provide an affordable and reliable alternative to buying brand-new, allowing you to save money while still enjoying the latest technology.