When you’re shopping around for a replacement phone, laptop, or tablet, you’re probably keen on getting good quality at low prices. Perhaps you’re skeptical about quality: how can you trust the seller and that the condition of the used device is as described?
This is where the refurbished vs second-hand difference matters. Used electronics are a little like buying used cars; you don’t want to take the seller’s word for it, and you certainly want some assurance that you’re getting what you’re paying for. Before making your purchase, consider the differences between refurbished and second-hand, and know how to identify a reputable seller.
What’s the Difference Between Refurbished and Second-Hand?
Second hand vs refurbished - both terms are used almost interchangeably, but there is a key difference. All refurbished electronics are second-hand, i.e., they’ve been previously owned, but not all second-hand electronics are refurbished! Whether you’re considering a second-hand used vs refurbished iPhone or another type of phone, this difference matters quite a lot.
Refurbished phones have been reconditioned to as much of a “as new” standard as possible, which may mean replacing faulty components, testing the device, and providing warranty protection. All of these are rare or nonexistent when buying second-hand from private sellers, and in some cases, you could be getting duped when buying used.
Pros and Cons of Each Option
When considering refurbished vs used electronics, there are quite a few pros and cons to weigh out. Generally, one of the only compelling reasons to buy a second-hand device that hasn’t been refurbished is that they can sometimes be very cheap, but sometimes that price is too good to be true for a reason!
For nearly all other reasons, however, refurbished devices tend to win out in every category. Here’s a table illustrating some of the pros and cons of second-hand and refurbished electronics:
|
Feature |
Second-Hand |
Refurbished |
|
Restored to an “as new” condition |
|
✔ |
|
Sold by reputable, certified resellers |
|
✔ |
|
Low prices & great discounts |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Thoroughly tested |
|
✔ |
|
Warranty coverage |
|
✔ |
|
Potential for hidden faults/defects |
✔ |
|
|
Sustainable & eco-friendly |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Return policy |
|
✔ |
Which One Should You Choose?
By now, it should be fairly evident that in most cases, you’re much better off buying refurbished over second-hand. If the seller is a trusted friend or family member, or if it’s so cheap that you don’t particularly care if the device has flaws, second-hand can potentially be a good decision.
In nearly all other cases, however, you’re safer and better off buying refurbished vs second-hand. Certified refurbishers and retailers such as Wisetek Store offer high-quality, “as new” refurbished electronics such as Refurbished Laptops, Refurbished iPhones, a comprehensive Apple Tech Collection, and many other devices at great prices.
Final Thoughts
Try not to get the terms refurbished and second-hand mixed up. Second-hand devices can be good, but there’s no guarantee that you’re getting what you’re paying for, and often no recourse if anything goes wrong. Refurbished, on the other hand, often comes with warranty protection, returns policies, and many other benefits that make it much safer than buying second-hand.
Check out Wisetek Store’s extensive stock of refurbished electronics and save big on great quality tech today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are refurbished devices reliable?
Yes, refurbished electronic devices are reliable, provided that they’ve been reconditioned and tested by a certified refurbisher. Wisetek Store provides full professional testing, cleaning, and refurbishment of all products as well as a free 12-month product warranty.
What’s the biggest risk with buying second-hand electronics?
The biggest risk associated with buying second-hand electronics that have not been refurbished by a trustworthy, certified refurbisher like Wisetek Store is the quality. Second-hand electronics often lack warranty protection, may have a potentially risky device history, and may contain hidden faults not disclosed to the buyer (you).