Refurbished phones have become an increasingly popular choice for parents when thinking about giving their kids a mobile phone.
Kids will be kids. As soon as they get their phone there is a good chance that they will drop them or they will lose them. That’s why it’s a good idea for the first mobile phone (or second or third) to be a cheaper refurbished phone.
In an age where technology plays an integral role in our daily lives, the demand for affordable yet high-quality smartphones is ever-growing.
Refurbished phones, meticulously restored to a like-new condition, offer a compelling solution for those looking to make a prudent investment in their children’s first mobile device.
Just because refurbished mobile phones are second-hand, doesn’t mean they are dodgy or don’t work. In fact, many refurbished phone sellers have warranties and guarantee battery life. And just think – a refurbished phone is actually environmentally sustainable!
With the price of brand new iPhones being in the thousands of dollars now – it just makes sense to get a great deal on a second-hand phone that is still quality – just cheaper!
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What to Know Before Purchasing a Refurbished Mobile Phone
Because all refurbished phones are used, they are all going to have some form of wear and tear on the case. All refurbished phone sellers should be upfront about the condition of each phone, and should grade them accordingly. Although there isn’t a standard system as such for grading second-hand mobile phones, most fall into the following categories:
Open Box:
A mobile phone that is practically new. The phone hasn’t been used but has been removed from its original packaging. Most ‘Open Box’ phones come with original accessories.
‘Like New’ or ‘As New’
Hasn’t really been used as such, and has been wiped of all installed programs. Comes with a 12-month warranty.
A-Grade
A mobile phone that has seen some light use but is still in good condition. A-Grade refurbished phones typically come with a 12-month warranty.
B-Grade
A well-used mobile phone which a few scratches and scuffs. Will have a reduced warranty period of 3 – 6 months.
C-Grade
The lowest grade of refurbished mobile phone – these phones have been used extensively and have scratches, dents and scuffs. May have a warranty of three months or less.
Where to Buy a Refurbished Mobile Phone (No Plan)
Look at the following refurbished phone sellers for pricing:
 | All refurbished phones from Ozmobiles come with a 12-month warranty and free returns for the first 30 days. They also offer free shipping and guaranteed battery life. Get an authentic iPhone from just $59! | See Phones |
 | Boost Mobile has refurbished iPhones for $249 | See Phones |
 | Kogan Mobile has refurbished iPhones starting at $259. | See Phones |
 | Dick Smith has a good range of refurbished iPhones that start at just $299. – Refurbished phones from Dick Smith start at $252 – Free Shipping | See Phones |
 | Frank Mobile is a supplier of premium refurbished phones. Get the latest iPhones, Samsung, refurbished laptops, and more. – Free express shipping on all orders. – All refurbished phones come with a 12-month warranty | See Phones |
 | Phonebot has new, ex-demo, refurbished and gently used corporate mobile phones, tablets and computers. Phonebot has refurbished phones from just $129! | See Phones |
 | Offers refurbished phones with a sim plan on Optus. They have sold over 1,000,000 devices since 2012. All phones come with a 12-month warranty and 30 day money-back guarantee. | See Phones |
 | High-quality refurbished mobile phones with up to 24 months of warranty. | See Phones |
 | Value-for-money refurbished devices. Get 5% off when you sign up for their newsletter. Green Gadgets also let you trade in your old phone. | See Phones |
 | Amazon has cheap refurbished mobile phones starting from $209. | See Phones |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Refurbished Phones Unlocked?
When you purchase from any of the following retailers – all their refurbished phones are unlocked and ready to be used. All phones are thoroughly tested for functionality before they are sold – including the operating system.
How Much Money Can You Save Buying a Refurbished Phone?
Loads! Of course, the exact figure depends on the condition or rating of the new phone you buy – but you are looking at about 50% off the price of a brand new mobile phone.
What Site is Best for Refurbished Phones?
All of the options below are reputable refurbished mobile phone sellers. Only shop the ones on our list!
What are the Disadvantages of Buying a Refurbished Phone?
The biggest disadvantage of purchasing a refurbished mobile is the warranty period. Most brand-new phones come with a two-year warranty – as most refurbished phones have a one-year warranty – but that is still a warranty!
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