Buying a refurbished phone is one of the best ways to save money—if you know what to look for. While these devices can offer excellent value, not all sellers or listings are created equal. Whether you’re shopping for a backup phone or upgrading on a budget, here’s how to confidently shop for a refurbished device without risking a bad deal.

Know the Difference: Refurbished vs. Used

Refurbished phones are inspected, repaired, and resold by either the original manufacturer or a certified third party. They typically come with some form of warranty and quality assurance. Used phones, by contrast, are sold as-is—often directly by the previous owner—with no guarantee or vetting process.

Top Sites for Safe Refurbished Phone Shopping

Stick to well-known, trusted platforms that offer device testing, return policies, and warranties:

• Swappa: A peer-to-peer marketplace with seller vetting and device verification

• Back Market: Specializes in refurbished electronics with warranties included

• Amazon Renewed: Amazon’s certified refurbishment program

• Best Buy Certified Refurbished: Includes a limited warranty and in-store pickup options

What to Look for in a Refurbished Phone

• Battery health: Ask about or verify battery capacity—especially if buying iPhones

• Warranty: Look for sellers offering at least 90 days of protection

• Return policy: Make sure there’s a return window in case the phone arrives damaged or isn’t as described

• Unlocked vs. Carrier-locked: Check compatibility with your existing network before purchase

• Cosmetic condition: Most sellers rate devices (e.g., “Excellent,” “Good,” “Fair”)—be sure the condition meets your expectations

Red Flags to Avoid

• Deals that seem “too good to be true” with no warranty or buyer protection

• Sellers without a track record or reviews

• Phones marked “iCloud locked,” “Google locked,” or “for parts”

• Listings that lack detailed photos or verification information

Why It’s Worth It

Refurbished phones can be 30–60% cheaper than new models—yet still deliver great performance for everyday tasks like calling, texting, browsing, and streaming. Many refurbished devices also come from returns with little to no wear, making them nearly identical to brand-new units.

Final Thoughts

Buying refurbished isn’t risky if you know what to check. Use trusted sources, ask the right questions, and stick to models with support for updates. With the right approach, you’ll get a phone that lasts—and save big in the process.