A Smart Way to Save: Buy Refurbished Phones
20/06/2025
4 Mins
A Smart Way to Save: Buy Refurbished Phones
Smartphones are a necessity, but they can be expensive. A great way to save money is by purchasing refurbished phones. This guide breaks down what refurbished phones are, where you can buy them, and what to keep in mind to make the best purchase. For a quick comparison, use our Cheap Mobile Finder tool to find the best refurbished phones deals!
What is a Refurbished Mobile Phone?
Refurbished phones are typically pre-owned models that were returned by customers due to minor defects or a change of mind. These phones are thoroughly checked, repaired (if necessary), and restored to full functionality. They may not come with the original packaging or accessories like chargers or headphones, but they usually include a one-year warranty (be sure to check the specifics).
Refurbished phones are often given a “grade” by the seller, though there is no official standard for grading. Here’s a general breakdown:
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Grade A (Pristine / Like New): These phones are usually customer returns or those returned due to minor issues that have been fixed. They look and feel like new devices.
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Grade B (Very Good): These phones show light signs of use, such as minor cosmetic imperfections. The phone will look almost new, but there may be slight scratches or marks.
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Grade C (Good): These phones show more significant signs of use, like scratches on the screen or body. However, they offer the biggest savings.
For example, if you buy a Grade A unlocked Samsung Galaxy S24 (released in 2024), you could pay around £496.18, compared to £699 for a new one.
The Importance of Warranty
When purchasing refurbished phones, it’s crucial to consider the warranty. A warranty ensures you’re protected if the device develops any faults. Most refurbished phones come with a one-year warranty, though it can vary depending on the seller or manufacturer.
Check who provides the warranty:
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Manufacturer Warranty: If the phone is refurbished by the manufacturer, you can deal directly with them if there’s a problem.
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Retailer Warranty: If the warranty is from the retailer, you’ll need to reach out to them for any issues.
Is it Cheaper to Buy a Used Phone?
Buying a used phone might seem cheaper, but there are some important differences. Used phones are typically sold “as-is” without any warranty or guarantee of functionality, whereas refurbished phones come with assurances of quality and often include a warranty. Additionally, refurbished phones are restored to a working state, which provides peace of mind that used phones might not.
Where to Buy Refurbished Phones
Finding and comparing deals on refurbished phones has never been easier. Our Cheap Mobile Finder can help you browse deals from over 10 trusted retailers. Refurbished phones may not be suitable for everyone, so here’s a simple rule of thumb:
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If you use under 10GB/month of data, buying a refurbished phone with a cheap SIM deal is often the most cost-effective option.
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If you use more data, a new phone on a cheap contract might be a better choice due to the huge data allowances available.
It’s important to buy from a registered seller to ensure you get proper protection. Look for sellers that are listed as business sellers.
Top Retailers for Refurbished Phones
Here’s a quick look at some trusted sites offering refurbished phones:
| Retailer | Warranty | Buyer Protection | Delivery Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| eBay (Traders) | One-year (depends on seller) | eBay Money Back Guarantee | Free mainland UK delivery |
| Amazon (Traders) | One-year (depends on seller) | Amazon Renewed Guarantee | Free delivery options |
| O2 Like New | One-year retailer warranty | Statutory only | Free next-day delivery |
| Music Magpie | One-year retailer warranty | Statutory only | Free tracked delivery |
| Fonehouse | 30-day with Fonehouse, 12-month with manufacturer | Statutory only | Free next-day delivery |
You can also check websites like Mobiles.co.uk, Giffgaff, Grade Mobile, and The Big Phone Store, all offering warranties and various delivery options for refurbished phones.
Buying Direct from the Manufacturer
While you might pay a little more buying refurbished phones directly from the manufacturer, it’s still a great option for peace of mind. Here’s what major manufacturers offer:
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Apple: Apple’s refurbished phones come with a new battery, new outer shell, a one-year warranty, and free delivery/returns. They’re tested and cleaned, and include all accessories.
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Samsung: Samsung offers ‘Certified Pre-Owned’ phones with a one-year warranty, though buying directly may be pricier than using a specialist refurbished phones retailer.
Pair Your Refurbished Phone with a Cheap SIM
Once you’ve purchased your refurbished phone, save even more by pairing it with a budget-friendly SIM-only deal. You can get 3GB of data for as low as £5/month! To make sure your phone works with your SIM, buy a factory-unlocked device or one locked to your network.
By using a SIM-only deal with a refurbished phone, you’re likely to save more compared to buying a new phone on contract.
Conclusion
Refurbished phones are an excellent way to get a great device at a much lower price than buying new. With a little research and attention to details like the warranty and the seller’s reputation, you can get a like-new phone for a fraction of the cost. Use our tools to find the best deals on refurbished phones and enjoy the savings!
