Everyone desires a new smartphone, but buying one every time can weigh heavily on the wallet. Therefore, the trend of second-hand and refurbished smartphones is rapidly growing.
Whether it's online platforms or local mobile markets, enticing deals on flagship phones for low prices are everywhere. However, if a cheap phone turns into a headache later, the whole deal can be a loss. It's crucial to understand some key points before buying a second-hand or refurbished smartphone.
Phone Identification
First, be cautious about the phone’s legal identification. In India, every mobile phone has a unique IMEI number, which verifies whether the phone is stolen. If you end up buying a stolen phone, the police could eventually trace it back to you.
According to government and telecom regulator guidelines, phones with stolen or blacklisted IMEI numbers can be network blocked anytime. Therefore, always verify the IMEI number through the CEIR portal or network operators before purchasing. If there's any discrepancy related to the IMEI, it’s best to avoid such phones.
Physical Condition
Next is the phone's physical condition. Minor scratches on the screen can be common, but issues like display shadows, lines, touch lag, or color bleed are significant red flags.
Dents on the body, a bent frame, or loose buttons might indicate that the phone has been dropped or used roughly. Pay close attention to the camera lens, speaker grille, and charging port, as moisture and dust can enter through these areas.
Battery Health
Today, battery health is one of the most crucial factors in smartphones. In second-hand phones, the battery often deteriorates first. Rapid battery drain, overheating, or slow charging indicate future costs for battery replacement. Some brands display battery health data in settings; otherwise, service centers or third-party apps can be used to check battery status.
Hardware isn't the only concern; software and security are equally vital. Ensure the phone doesn't have someone else's Google or Apple account logged in previously.
If a factory reset still asks for an old account, it means the phone hasn't been properly unlinked and could be locked in the future. Also, check if the phone currently receives security updates, as older unsupported phones pose higher risks for cyber fraud and data theft.
Understanding Refurbished
When purchasing a refurbished phone, understanding the term 'refurbished' is essential as its meaning varies. Some platforms thoroughly test phones, replace faulty parts, and sell them after quality checks, while others might only clean them and label them as refurbished.
Hence, scrutinize warranties and return policies carefully. A warranty of at least six months significantly reduces risk.
Another key aspect is testing the phone's network and hardware. Features such as calling, microphone, speaker, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and fingerprint or face unlock should be tested on the spot. Sometimes, a phone appears fine but might have underlying driver or network module issues that surface later.
Considerations for Price
Avoid rushing into a decision on price. If a phone is much cheaper than the market rate, there's usually a reason for it. According to experts, the price of a second-hand phone should reflect its condition, age, and brand support. While phones without bills, boxes, or accessories may be cheaper, they also carry more risk.
Ultimately, the most critical aspect is purchasing from a reliable source. Whether from online platforms or offline stores, always check ratings, reviews, and after-sales support. It's better to avoid cash deals made in haste and opt for purchases with a written bill and transaction proof.
In conclusion, buying a second-hand or refurbished smartphone can be a wise decision, but only if you conduct a thorough inspection before purchasing. A little caution can save money and prevent major future losses.
