What is a refurbished phone?
A refurbished phone is a used or returned phone that has been checked, repaired where needed, cleaned and reset before being sold again. It is different from a second-hand phone bought privately, which usually comes with no checks and no warranty from a business.
How much can you save?
Savings depend on the model, its age, its condition grade and the seller. Older flagship phones usually have the biggest price gap compared with buying new, while the newest models often cost only a little less refurbished. Compare the refurbished price with the current new price for the same model and storage before deciding.
Use our free refurbished vs new calculator to compare the two prices, including how long you expect to keep the phone. Nothing you type is stored or sent anywhere.
Understand condition grades
Sellers use their own grading words, such as “Excellent”, “Good” or “Fair”, or letters like A, B and C. These usually describe how the phone looks, not how it works. A lower grade can mean visible scratches but a cheaper price. Always read the seller's own definition of each grade.
Checklist before you buy
- Warranty: look for at least 12 months from the seller, and check who handles repairs.
- Battery health: ask for the minimum battery capacity, or whether the battery has been replaced.
- Unlocked: make sure the phone works on any UK network, so you can pair it with a SIM only deal.
- Not blocked or stolen: the seller should confirm the phone is not reported lost, stolen or still under finance.
- Account locks removed: the phone must be free of the previous owner's Apple ID or Google account.
- Returns period: check how many days you have to send it back if you change your mind.
- Software updates: check the manufacturer still supports the model with security updates.
- What's in the box: many refurbished phones come without a charger or headphones.
Where to buy refurbished phones
Common UK options include the manufacturer's own refurbished store (for example, Apple Certified Refurbished), refurbished marketplaces, specialist refurbishers and some mobile networks. Manufacturer refurbished stores tend to cost more but often include new batteries and outer shells. Marketplaces may be cheaper, but quality depends on the individual seller, so check their ratings and warranty.
Your rights when buying refurbished
When you buy from a business, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 says goods must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described, taking into account that they are refurbished. If something is wrong, you normally have 30 days to reject it for a refund. Buying online also usually gives you 14 days to cancel. Private sales have far fewer protections.
Pair it with a SIM only deal
Buying a refurbished phone outright and adding a cheap SIM only plan can cost less overall than a new phone contract. Compare the total over the time you expect to keep the phone, including any price rises on the SIM plan.
Compare SIM only deals · Phone contract cost calculator
Frequently asked questions
Are refurbished phones reliable?
A phone refurbished by a reputable seller with a 12-month warranty can be a reliable choice. Check the warranty, battery health and returns period before you buy.
Is refurbished the same as second-hand?
Not quite. Refurbished phones are checked and reset by a business before resale, and usually come with a warranty. A second-hand phone from a private seller usually has neither.
Will a refurbished phone get software updates?
Only while the manufacturer still supports that model. Check the manufacturer's support period before buying an older phone.
Can I use a refurbished phone with any network?
Yes, if it is unlocked. Ask the seller to confirm before buying.
Sources and further reading
- Which? guide to the Consumer Rights Act 2015
- Apple Certified Refurbished (UK)
- Citizens Advice consumer help
Before you buy
Our listings are dated snapshots of providers' own pages, not live prices. Always check the price, contract length and terms on the provider's website. Nothing here is financial or insurance advice.
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