Khaberni - With the rising prices of modern smartphones, many consumers turn to buying used or refurbished phones to acquire powerful devices at a lower price.
Although these deals can save a lot of money, they carry risks if you do not know what to look for before buying. Therefore, we will highlight the most important tips to avoid problems and ensure a successful purchase experience.
The seller and the warranty
The first step before purchasing is to verify the reputation and credibility of the seller. Therefore, look for customer reviews and user opinions about the store or seller, and prefer trusted sources such as major sales websites or stores that offer certified refurbished phones. It is also essential to ask the seller about the return policy and the remaining warranty on the phone.
The presence of a warranty and a return right indicates that the seller trusts the quality of the product, while avoiding any seller who evades these questions.
Checking the IMEI number
One of the most critical checks for any used phone is the IMEI number, using specialized IMEI checking services, to find out if the device is on the blacklist, meaning it is stolen or lost. If you do not verify this step, you may end up buying a device that does not work on certain networks, or its use may expose you to legal issues later.
Battery condition
The battery deteriorates over time, and if the used phone has a very weak battery, you will face problems in daily use such as quickly draining the battery or the device shutting down unexpectedly. Therefore, ask the seller to show the battery condition if possible, or practically test it before purchasing.
Software support
You should also ensure that the phone is still receiving system and security updates. Some older phones may stop getting new updates, which affects performance and security. This matter is important as it ensures continued support for the phone for a longer period after the purchase.
Basic tests
Before you pay for the device, it is essential to conduct practical tests to make sure that all functions are working as they should. In this context, make sure that calling and messaging work, test internet connection via Wi-Fi and mobile data. Also, check the front and rear cameras and image quality. It is also important to run the sound and test the speakers, and verify fingerprint and face sensors if they exist.
Hidden defects
It is important to know that some defects may not appear at first glance, as the phone might look fine from the outside but suffer from internal damage due to water or a previous fall, or issues in hardware such as ports or cameras. Therefore, make sure to check every part of the phone thoroughly, and do not hesitate to ask for a phone inspection report if the seller provides one.
The importance of original accessories
Sometimes, used phones come without an original cable or charger. The presence of original accessories ensures safe charging and better preserves the battery, while non-original accessories may negatively affect the device's performance over time.
