Before Buying Refurbished Electronics, Keep These Ten Things in Mind

You may save money by purchasing reconditioned gadgets, but you should do your research beforehand. You may save money and not be ripped off by following these guidelines when shopping for reconditioned gadgets such as computers, tablets, phones, etc.

The most obvious advantage of purchasing reconditioned technology over brand new is cost. Keeping a device out of a landfill is a good bonus. There’s an extra perk to this year’s Christmas season: The distribution of goods to retailers is becoming more complicated, and as a result, there is a severe shortage of newly released items. Additionally, the global scarcity of processors persists. If you choose a refurbished item, you won’t have to wait for it to be sent to you since it will already be in stock.

The issue is that refurbished items probably had a previous life before they were repurposed and sold to customers like you. Perhaps it was a brief life that offered the initial owner just a few challenges, but it’s also possible that this wasn’t the case. It was enough of a life that the product was returned back and given an overhaul to make it operational again, or at least a once-over to make sure that it still delivered on its promises. When you give a product a second chance, there is a possibility that you may not get the warranty that was included with the first purchase of the device, The majority of stores, including us, provide warranties on refurbished electronic goods they sell.

Is It an Open-Box Return or a Refurbished Item?

An item that has been bought, opened, but then returned without having been put to any kind of use is an example of a common open-box product. Perhaps the purchaser or the receiver did not want it, or perhaps the packaging was broken, and the item was returned out of an abundance of caution despite the fact that the contents performed as expected.

In the strictest sense of the word, I’d say that in order for a product to be considered refurbished, it has to have been serviced, cleaned, and polished in some way. In the eyes of the law, the term “refurbished” does not have a concrete meaning. Its meaning is entirely up to the individual vendor or seller who is using it. You could also come across the words “pre-owned” and “reconditioned,” which are interchangeable until such time as they aren’t. No of the state they were in when they were returned, almost always the things that were resold were grouped together.

To our great relief, there exist rules that prohibit businesses from passing off used or opened items as brand new when they receive returned items. You stand to gain by doing that. Because there is a clear indication that the item has been refurbished, the price should be significantly reduced.

Ask the seller about the history of the product and keep your fingers crossed for an open box; you may not be the first person to buy it, but you might be the first person to use it.
Does It Come With All the Accessories?
It’s a disappointing feeling to open up an iPhone box and discover that it doesn’t come with a charger or headphones (this is particularly true if the iPhone is brand new, but that’s a separate issue). In an effort to limit the amount of trash generated by its packaging, Apple decided, beginning with the iPhone 12, to stop including power adapters in every box (and make some cash on accessories). Support for Apple’s magnetic MagSafe charging is also included in the company’s most recent devices. The following is information that you need to know about charging your iPhone 12 or iPhone 13, as well as what you may need to buy.

When you buy a refurbished product, there is a good chance that it won’t come with any accessories. After all, since earphones are gross, people who return or sell their iPhones almost never give them back to Apple with the device.

This is another reason why you should look primarily at refurbished products sold by the direct seller. It is more probable that all of the accessories will be included in the package. That applies for things like software that could come preinstalled on a PC as well, despite the fact that such software is more likely to arrive in the form of a code for a download these days. Should you place a high priority on receiving the item in a container that is almost identical to the one it came in, it is feasible for you to do so.
Is There Still a Warranty Available for the Product?
Do not acquire any product that is marketed “as-is,” regardless of whether it is refurbished or brand new, since doing so nullifies any implicit guarantee that the product would have otherwise had. The purchaser runs the risk of receiving a product that might not even function correctly. Even if a gadget boot up, there is no guarantee that it can connect to the internet, receive a signal, or perform any other function.

The reason why you may notice the “as-is” provision is that several jurisdictions have laws that require used items to come with an implied guarantee. Even if it is in worn condition, a product must be able to perform the functions for which it was created. If it’s a phone, it should be able to make calls (I’ve been assured that phones can still do this function). If it’s a laptop, it has to start up and connect to the internet as soon as possible. If it’s a webcam, the Zoom conference you’re about to have better make you seem nice on it.

Your best chance is to inquire directly of the vendor as to whether or not a new warranty or guarantee has been put into effect. It is possible that the likelihood of this occurring is increased if the gadget was refurbished by the company that first manufactured it. The cost reductions may not always be worth it if there is no warranty included. Also, make sure you check the duration of the warranty. It is not in your advantage that the gadget only has six months left on it when it initially had a year.

Because we stand behind all of our refurbished products for a full year, shopping at Zextons lets you make purchases with complete peace of mind. Check out our refurbished devices
Who is going to refurbish the device?
.Restorations might vary greatly from one another. It’s conceivable that the work was done by the original manufacturer, but there’s also a chance that it was done by a third party who is now reselling the product.

In most cases, it is in your best interest to remain with the firm you originally started with. They will have the necessary components and packaging to restore the item to a condition that is almost identical to that of brand new. Keep an eye out for the phrase “factory-certified” or anything like that.

That being said, investing in a refurbishment performed by a third party may result in significant cost savings. despite the fact that it’s a market that’s been likened to the Wild West by some, at best, and that there’s no real way to tell whether the goods are of good quality until after you’ve already spent your money on it. Buyer beware.
What Condition you may expect?
The only rule that applies to grading a refurbished device is that the seller cannot represent it as being brand new. Aside from that, there are no further requirements. However, they are able to state that it is “like new.”

That might indicate that it was never put to use. It’s also possible to interpret this as meaning that the product had a difficult existence before being reconditioned to its current form. It’s possible that items like broken or damaged displays were replaced, for instance. It is important to have a thorough understanding of what “like new” entails.

After “like new,” all of the subsequent alternatives are considered “used” in some capacity, beginning with “gently” and progressing below. You’ll discover that the listings differ somewhat from one website to the next and from one merchant to the next.
What’s the Return Policy?
You have the legal right to return any goods purchased in the UK within the first 30 days; however, it is advisable to confirm with the seller first.Zextons offers customers a free return period of 30 days.
What Should You Not Buy Refurbished?
That is entirely up to you, however here are some things you should try to stay away from:
Keyboards
Headphone & Ear Buds
Hard Drives & SSD
TVs
If you have faith in the business that is developing the new version of the product, then maybe some of them are acceptable. On the other hand, you should only purchase refurbished versions of certain items from certain businesses since the brand-new versions cost too much.
Does My Credit Card Provide Any Type of Protection?
Probably. The protection offered by many credit cards extends to product warranties—that is, providing there was previously a warranty of some kind attached to the item. This includes refurbished items… in the majority of instances. In 2017, research conducted by Wallethub revealed that 66 percent of all credit cards would pay repairs or replacements that were already covered by an existing warranty, whereas just 47.2 percent of cards would extend the coverage of a warranty that was bought separately.

Extended warranty protection is a bonus that comes with many cards, but not all of them. Obviously, you can’t complete the transaction without using that card to pay for it. It is featured on cards issued by Citi, Chase, Capital One, American Express, and quite a few more financial institutions. (In 2018, Discover put an end to it.) Even a few cards with no annual cost provide the advantage.

Call the customer service number on the back of your credit card before you buy a refurbished device, particularly if it’s a high-end item like a smartphone or laptop. You want to be sure the company will stand behind your purchase. After that, whenever you make a purchase, you should be sure to save the receipt as well as a copy of the original or refurbished guarantee. You could need repair estimates not just in order to register a claim but also in order to fix a gadget.
Are Refurbished Devices Always Cheaper?
Absolutely no. You would best do some shopping around and look at other prices. When you do locate a cheap refurbished item, you should next go to a different refurbished site and check to see whether the same or a comparable model is available elsewhere for an even better price. Having said that, you shouldn’t let the cost determine everything. Sometimes you may simply feel comfortable enough with a website or seller that you are willing to shell out a teeny-tiny bit extra cash in exchange for peace of mind.
What Companies Do Refurbish?
The following is a list of some of the most reputable technology companies that provide excellent reconditioned product programs. If the name of your preferred merchant is Googled together with the word “refurbished,” you should be able to locate the used items even if they are not on our list.
    Apple
    Samsung
    Google
    Microsoft
    Nintendo
It is not always a good idea to purchase from a large company such as the one described above since the prices offered by large companies are often higher than those offered by smaller companies such as Zextons.
Our Grades
Like New (Grade A)
All parts are original and perfectly functional. Little or minor signs of wear & tear on the housing and screens, will give you an experience of new phones.
Good (Grade B)
Good condition used devices, that will show moderate signs of wear across the device. Items have been fully tested and in full working order.
Which refurbished iPhone is the best one for me?
The history of the iPhone by Apple spans many years and a wide variety of devices, all of which may be difficult to keep straight. Since there are a number of models available, with such a wide range of costs and features (including some that are only available as used models), there should be something for everyone. The question is, which one should you pick? Apple provides the most up-to-date innovative smartphone technology, whether you are a complete smartphone newbie or a dedicated fan.

So as to help you out, we have compiled this shopping guide for the best Refurbished iPhones currently available.
Refurbished iPhone 12
Even though it has been superseded by the iPhone 13, the iPhone 12 is still a powerful device in terms of features and usefulness. The phone is equipped with Apple’s proprietary MagSafe function for more reliable wireless charging, a high-resolution screen covered by tough Ceramic Shield Glass, and the ability to connect a variety of accessories. Like the newest iPhones, it sports a smooth metal frame and rounded corners.

Since it is no longer Apple’s flagship smartphone, the iPhone 12 is cheaper, particularly if you choose a reconditioned version. Furthermore, the smartphone is just two years old, so you can be certain that your refurbished iPhone 12 will be in great shape.
Check out our best refurbished iPhone 12 offers
Refurbished iPhone 11
The iPhone 11 will still be a good buy in 2022, even if it lacks several capabilities seen on the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13. While it lacks 5G and a 120Hz refresh rate, the device is otherwise similar to its siblings. It’s IP68-rated waterproof, built to last with reinforced glass, and equipped with Dolby Atmos and spatial audio for an immersive listening experience. Apple’s cameras continue to dazzle, and with the iPhone 11, the company introduced a new dual-lens camera with an ultra-wide-angle lens capable of capturing a 120-degree field of view, in addition to the standard wide-angle lens seen on previous models.

It’s unlikely that the smartphone’s performance will disappoint you, despite the fact that it’s two years old. The gadget has both Apple’s A13 Bionic 7-nanometer processor and a third-generation Neural Engine. At the time of its release, Apple praised the A13 as the world’s most powerful mobile processor, with a CPU and GPU that were 20% faster than those of the A12. imaging device
Look at our best offer for a Refurbished iPhone 11
Refurbished iPhone SE
In 2020, Apple still offers the iPhone SE 2 as its budget-friendly option. The iPhone SE 2 is designed for those who want a tiny, uncomplicated phone and has a boxy design similar to the iPhone 4. It lacks the cutting-edge features of its siblings. The phone’s outside may be dated, but it’s been upgraded inside quite a bit since the first iPhone SE, so it runs well.

The iPhone SE 2022 is the first Apple smartphone to have 5G connectivity and is powered by the same A15 chip as the flagship iPhone 13. Even with these changes, the phone still maintains the features that customers love, like the Touch ID sensor and the compact Retina display (although in a smaller form factor of 4.7 inches). Check out our best deals on the Apple iPhone SE 2 in refurbished condition.
Refurbished iPhone XR
Despite lacking the “XR” in Apple’s numerical naming scheme, the iPhone XR is otherwise identical to other iPhones in terms of features and capabilities. Its 6.1-inch Retina display, front-facing Face ID technology, and custom-designed A13 Bionic CPU let it keep up with the cutting-edge competition. Apple has guaranteed software upgrades for all phones for five to six years, so the iPhone XR will continue to get new iOS features and security fixes.

Apple discontinued the product in September 2018, and since then, the iPhone 11, iPhone 12, and iPhone 13 have filled its void. The iPhone XR, however, may be had once again in its reconditioned form. Since it is already four years old, some price reductions are being made accessible.
Check out our best refurbished iPhone XR offers
Refurbished iPhone 8
Even though many newer smartphones have come out after the release of the iPhone 8, it is still a solid handset to purchase in 2022. It was one of the last iPhones to use Apple’s iPhone 6 design, which it shared with the iPhone X when it was released in September 2017. At the same time as the iPhone X was introduced, the iPhone 8 Plus was also made available to the public. Although it wasn’t as exciting as its iPhone X sister, the iPhone 8 proved to be a solid option for those who weren’t quite ready to get on Apple’s bezel-less and button-less future train.

If you’re on a low budget but still want an iPhone, this is still your best bet. The smartphone is missing more recent innovations like Face ID and 5G, but it does include a sleek glass and aluminium shell, a Retina HD display, an A11 Bionic CPU, wireless charging, and compatibility with augmented reality. Because it continues to get software updates, it can use many of the most modern iOS capabilities.
View our favorite refurbished iPhone 8 bargains.
FAQs
Do refurbished iPhones come with a warranty?
Yes, all of our refurbished iPhones come with a 12-month warranty, so you can shop with confidence.
Are refurbished iPhones less expensive?
Yes! Compared to a brand-new model, refurbished iPhones can be up to 90% less expensive. That’s just because a phone doesn’t fulfill the standards for being considered “brand new,” not because it has been extensively used or damaged.
Are refurbished iPhones safe to purchase?
As long as you exercise caution, buying a refurbished iPhone is safe. Make sure you get it from a reputable seller, confirm that it is covered by a warranty, and will be free of any personal information from its prior owner. Since every refurbished iPhone has a factory reset, turning it on will be like turning it on for the first time.
Are refurbished iPhones locked to a network?
Yes, every iPhone we sell is unlocked and SIM-free.
Do you need to buy a SIM card for a refurbished iPhone?
No, it is not required; you can use your current sim card with your refurbished iPhone. If you do, however, require a new sim card, that’s no problem either because we will send you a free pay-as-you-go sim card along with the order if you let us know in the checkout notes.
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