There are plenty of reasons why shopping for a used smartphone has become the latest technology trend, saving customers hundreds of pounds while also contributing towards a more sustainable technology industry. And with more suppliers and companies supporting the refurbishment and resale of high-quality smartphones than ever before, it couldn’t be easier to browse online and secure your ideal phone for a fraction of the price, in just a few clicks.

But as is so often the case with online shopping and the separation between buyer and seller, there are things you need to be wary of and things you need to consider before jumping in and securing the latest Google phone or a used iPhone 13 Mini with all the added features and accessories.

In this blog, we highlight three of the most important things to consider before buying a used phone – so that you can enter the transaction feeling confident in your purchase.

What condition is it in?

First and foremost, what condition is the smartphone or used device in – and is it still in good working order? Generally, if you buy a used device through a reputable seller or company then you can be sure that the condition that they list is accurate – however, if you opt to buy from a private seller then be wary of the information they provide and ask for photographs of the device you are buying.

If the deal seems too good to be true, and you’re unsure why a premium device would be listed so cheaply, then take the right steps to ensure that you are not being scammed – or walk away and find a device on a more reliable site.

Is it unlocked or compatible with your network?

This is one which is so often overlooked by buyers – resulting in them owning a smartphone that is not compatible with their network. Again, reputable sites will either unlock the device so that it can be used by anyone with a SIM card for any network, or they will clearly list the network that the user must subscribe to in order to use the phone. If this information is not readily available, then make sure to ask about the network compatibility.

Is it the right model for you?

Finally, is the smartphone the right one for you – not just in terms of the name of the model but in colour and storage as well? A smartphone or iPhone with a higher amount of storage available will sell for more money on both the retail and second-hand market, with some colours being more popular and higher value than others.

Pictures should help you to identify the look of the model and decide if it’s right for you. However, research is recommended to ensure that details like the size, storage, and portability of the device are right for you, as well as the overall user experience.

While online reseller sites may not grant you the ability to pick up and handle used phones and devices, you can always get in touch if you have more questions.