Refurbished phones are previously owned devices that have been inspected, repaired if needed, cleaned, and resold, offering a way to get a high-quality phone for less than the price of a new model. If you buy from a manufacturer program, you get a device that has been restored to near-new condition with a warranty, making it a safe and reliable alternative to buying new.
What are refurbished phones?
Refurbished phones are pre-owned devices that have been returned or traded in, then put through a process of inspection, repair, cleaning, and testing before being resold. The key distinction is between manufacturer refurbished programs and third-party refurbished listings. Manufacturer programs, such as Apple Certified Refurbished, Google Certified Refurbished, and Samsung Certified Re-Newed, follow standardized processes and document the parts they replace and the warranty they include. Third-party "refurbished" listings may vary by seller and are not standardized, so the quality and guarantees can differ significantly.
Brand new vs. refurbished phones
The main difference between brand new and refurbished phones is ownership history. Brand new phones are sold first-hand by the manufacturer or carrier and have never had a previous owner. Refurbished phones are pre-owned and resold after inspection and repairs. Packaging and accessories also differ; refurbished phones often come in plain packaging and may not include items like a charger or earphones. Warranty terms vary, with manufacturer refurbished programs offering a one-year warranty, while third-party warranties depend on the seller. The biggest advantage of refurbished is the price, offering significant cost savings compared to a new model.
Manufacturer refurbished programs: what you actually get
Each major manufacturer has a specific refurbished program with clear guarantees. Apple says its certified refurbished iOS devices come with a new battery and outer shell, and every Apple Certified Refurbished product includes a standard one-year limited warranty. Google says Certified Refurbished Pixel phones come with a new one-year limited warranty and full customer support, with warranty coverage identical to a new Pixel. Samsung says Certified Re-Newed phones use 100% genuine Samsung parts, a certified new battery and IMEI number, and a 1-year warranty.
How long do refurbished phones last?
The lifespan of a refurbished phone depends on the model age and battery condition, not on the fact that it is refurbished. Apple says owners of iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac, Apple TV, Apple Watch, AirPods, Apple Vision Pro, and Beats products may obtain service and parts from Apple service providers for a minimum of 5 years from when Apple last distributed the product for sale. Apple also states that devices can remain serviceable longer in some cases, but the exact repair window varies by product and region; the source reviewed gives only the minimum 5-year service period. Battery condition is a major factor; Apple says iPhone 14 models and earlier are designed to retain 80% of original capacity at 500 complete charge cycles under ideal conditions, while iPhone 15 models are designed to retain 80% at 1000 complete charge cycles under ideal conditions. Manufacturer refurbished programs typically replace the battery, so you get a fresh start.
Warranty and software updates
Manufacturer refurbished phones include a one-year warranty. Apple Certified Refurbished products include Apple's standard one-year limited warranty. Google Certified Refurbished Pixel phones include a one-year limited warranty identical to a new Pixel. Samsung Certified Re-Newed phones come with a 1-year warranty, and Samsung's warranty pages note that batteries are generally consumable parts and may have separate coverage rules by region; for one Samsung refurbished warranty document, batteries are covered only if capacity falls below 80% or the battery leaks. Samsung India’s Certified Re-Newed page contrasts Certified Re-Newed with “Refurbished,” stating “Latest software updates” are supported for Certified Re-Newed and not supported for refurbished on that page. The reviewed Apple and Google refurbished pages did not specify a special update limit for refurbished devices, but software update eligibility depends on the model age and the maker's support policy, so always check before buying.
Grading and cosmetic quality
Third-party refurbishers often use a cosmetic grading scale to describe the appearance of a phone. While not a universal standard, common grades include Grade A, which should appear new with only minor wear and handling traces; Grade B, which should be good but may have light damage such as scuffs, scratches, or chips; and Grade C, which has the most signs of wear and tear and may visibly appear used. Manufacturer refurbished phones, on the other hand, are typically restored to near-new cosmetic condition, with Apple replacing the outer shell and Samsung using genuine parts.
Checklist before you buy a refurbished phone
- Confirm whether the phone is sold by the manufacturer, a carrier, or a third-party seller, because warranty and parts replacement differ by program.
- Check whether the battery is new or certified as replaced, because battery condition is one of the main variables in refurbished quality.
- Verify the warranty terms, including what is covered and for how long.
- Ensure the phone is unlocked and supports your carrier's network bands.
- Confirm the phone is still eligible for software updates and service coverage, as those depend on model age and the maker's support policy.
Where to buy refurbished phones
The best place to buy a refurbished phone is directly from the manufacturer. Apple and Samsung both sell refurbished models through their own programs, and Google sells Certified Refurbished Pixel phones. Third-party retailers such as Best Buy, Amazon, Swappa, Gazelle, and Decluttr also offer refurbished phones, but the quality and warranty may vary. Mobile carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint also sell refurbished devices. If you are on T-Mobile, you should review T-Mobile purchases and billing policies to understand how the device will work with your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trade in my old phone when buying a refurbished phone?
Many manufacturers and retailers accept trade-ins when you buy a refurbished phone, though the trade-in value may be lower than what you would get for a new phone purchase. Check the specific seller's trade-in policy before buying.
Do refurbished phones come with a charger?
Refurbished phones often do not include accessories like a charger or earphones, especially when sold by third-party sellers. Manufacturer refurbished programs may include a new charger, but it is best to check the product listing for what is included.
Are refurbished phones waterproof?
Water resistance is not guaranteed on refurbished phones because the seals that protect against water can degrade over time or during repairs. Manufacturer refurbished programs may restore water resistance, but you should not assume the phone is fully waterproof.
Can I get a refund if I am not satisfied with a refurbished phone?
Refund policies vary by seller. Manufacturer refurbished programs and major retailers typically offer a return window, but third-party sellers may have stricter policies. Always check the return policy before purchasing.
Do refurbished phones have the same performance as new phones?
Yes, a properly refurbished phone from a manufacturer program will perform the same as a new model because worn parts are replaced and the device is fully tested. The only difference is that the phone has been previously owned and may have minor cosmetic wear.
