Buying Refurbished Electronics: What to Check Before You Pay
Refurbished phones, laptops and tablets can cost less than new. Here's how to tell a good deal from a risky one.
In this guide
Key takeaways
- Refurbished means a device was tested and repaired, but standards vary by seller.
- Manufacturer-refurbished devices usually come with the strongest warranties.
- Check the warranty, return window and battery condition before you buy.
- Pay with a method that offers buyer protection, such as a credit card.
New, refurbished, used and open-box
- New: unopened, in the original packaging, with a full manufacturer warranty.
- Open-box: returned or displayed items, often barely used, sold at a discount.
- Refurbished: returned or used devices that have been tested, repaired where needed and cleaned before being resold.
- Used: sold as-is, usually without testing or a warranty.
The word refurbished isn't a fixed standard. What it means depends on who did the work and what they checked.
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Who refurbished it matters
Manufacturer-refurbished devices are restored by the company that made them. They often get genuine replacement parts, a new battery or outer shell where needed, and a warranty similar to a new product.
Retailer or seller-refurbished devices are restored by a store or third-party company. Quality can be very good, but it varies. Look for a clear description of what was tested and replaced.
Grades and condition
Many sellers grade refurbished devices, using labels such as Excellent, Good and Fair, or A, B and C. These grades usually describe how the device looks, not how it works. A lower grade may have visible scratches or dents but should still work properly.
Grading scales differ between sellers, so read each seller's own definitions rather than assuming an A means the same thing everywhere.
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Not now, show me another guide →Warranty and returns
A warranty is one of the main things that separates a refurbished device from a used one. Before you buy, check:
- how long the warranty lasts and who provides it
- what it covers, such as the battery, screen and accessories
- how long you have to return the device if you're not happy
- who pays for return shipping
Battery health
Batteries wear out with use, so the battery is often the weakest part of a refurbished phone, laptop or tablet. Some sellers state a minimum battery capacity, such as at least 80% of the original. Others replace the battery entirely.
If the listing doesn't mention the battery, ask before buying. Once it arrives, most phones and many laptops let you check battery health in the settings.
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What to check when it arrives
- Check that the model, storage and color match your order.
- Look for damage not mentioned in the listing.
- Test the screen for dead pixels, the cameras, speakers, microphone and buttons.
- Check Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and charging with the cable provided.
- For phones, make sure the device isn't locked to a carrier you don't use, and that it isn't linked to someone else's account.
- Check the battery health and install any software updates.
Do this as soon as it arrives, so you're well inside the return window if anything is wrong.
When refurbished makes the most sense
Refurbished can be a sensible choice for devices that are only a year or two old and still receive software updates. It's also worth considering for a second device, such as a tablet for the kitchen or a laptop for a student.
Check how long the manufacturer will keep providing security updates for that model. A low price is less appealing if the device will stop getting updates soon.
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Paying safely
Buy from sellers with a clear return policy, a business address and a way to contact them. Paying by credit card can give you extra protection if an item doesn't arrive or isn't as described.
Avoid sellers who ask for payment by wire transfer, gift card or payment apps meant for friends and family. The Federal Trade Commission warns that these methods are hard to reverse if something goes wrong.
Common questions
Is refurbished the same as used?
No. A refurbished device has been tested and repaired as needed, and usually comes with a warranty. A used device is usually sold as-is.
Do refurbished devices come in the original box?
Sometimes, but often not. Many come in plain packaging with a charger and cable. Check the listing for what's included.
Can I add extra warranty coverage?
Many sellers offer extended protection plans. Compare the cost with the price of the device and what the standard warranty already covers.
Sources and further reading
This guide is general information. Prices, warranties and policies change, so check the seller's current terms before you buy.
