If you are looking to save money on your next smartphone, buying pre-owned is a smart move. There are two major categories to consider: Used and Refurbished.
Simply put, both types of phones are considered “used”. A refurbished device is a used device that has been professionally cleaned, repaired, and restored to look and work like-new. A non-refurbished used device is in fully-functional condition and has been cleaned by the seller.
The “Used” Phone
Who is selling it? Used phones can be sold by individuals or businesses on Swappa.
What is the condition? Used phones are sold in three conditions on Swappa: Mint, Good, and Fair condition. It might be pristine (Mint), or it might have a few small scuffs, scratches depending on the listing. The battery may also have some minor wear that comes with daily charging, but still works great. Devices are cleaned by the seller, data wiped, and are fully functional.
Are there repairs or warranties? A used device could have been repaired during its life, but is fully functional.. If the phone comes from a business seller, many offer their own 1-year limited warranty on used devices. Look for the 1-year limited warranty symbol on the listing. This is included at no additional cost.
Why buy used? The Price. “Used” is almost always the lowest price option.
The “Refurbished” Phone
A “refurbished” phone is similar to buying a “Certified Pre-Owned” vehicle from a dealership. It has gone through a professional process to restore it back to a higher grade or standard.
Who is selling it? These devices are sold by professional refurbishing companies, manufacturers, or established businesses who purchase used phones, test them for issues, and repair or replace anything that needs fixing.
What is the condition? A refurbished phone has been repaired with OEM or similar parts and “restored.” Before it is sold to you, professionals have tested the phone for functionality, sanitized it, thoroughly cleaned it, and securely wiped all previous data. They are often graded by cosmetic quality (e.g., “Mint” or “Good”).
Are there repairs or warranties? Typically, yes. Because the seller is confident in the phone’s condition, refurbished phones almost always come with a seller warranty, ranging anywhere from 30 days to a 1-year limited seller warranty.
Why buy refurbished? Peace of Mind. A refurbished phone typically costs a little bit more than a standard used phone (though still far less than a new one). You are paying slightly extra for professional testing, necessary repairs, and sometimes even device polishing so the phone looks brand new again.
Which Should You Choose?
The choice comes down to your budget versus your need for assurance.
- Choose “Used” if: Your main priority is saving the most money possible, and you are willing to accept very minor cosmetic flaws or a slightly older battery.
- Choose “Refurbished” if: You want a repaired device with a “like-new” experience without the new price tag and are willing to accept that the device has replacement parts.
The Swappa Difference Swappa’s marketplace is designed to make buying both options safer. Swappa’s support team reviews listings and sellers to keep “junk” devices off the platform, whether they are listed as used by an individual or refurbished by a business.
