With these 6 things to consider before buying a used phone, you will be assured that you are purchasing a good smartphone. It is possible to buy a phone that is around your budget and still reliable. A smartphone has become a need nowadays, it affects every area of our life. Although we strive to get the best phones, prices can be expensive. This is when the sale of used phones has come to be.
A used phone sounds like a stress case because it is not used but that is wrong. Used phones with the right knowledge can be even better than some new phones at that price. There is a lot to consider before buying a used phone.
6 Things To Consider Before Buying a Used Phone
Do not be fooled by the outside appearance of a phone, remember the saying “Beauty is on the inside”. There are a few features you would need to check before buying the phone.
1. The Physical Condition of the Used Phone
At times a phone may look neat when you first see it but if you closely examine the body, you can find a lot of dents, cracks or scratches all over the phone. Scratches on the back may not need alarm but screen scratches can be a deal breaker. The physical condition shows how well the body of the phone looks. Make sure to check this before buying a used phone.
2. The “Strength of the Battery” is a Key Feature to Check before Buying Any Used Phone.
A battery is one of the most important parts of the phone, especially with the fact that it determines how long a phone can last. It is best to charge it to see how fast it charges and use it for a while to check the lasting hours. Make sure to check this before buying a used phone.
3. The Speed of the Phone
Sometimes, a phone may lag or be slow when surfing the internet or opening an app. Check the phone by opening different apps and browsing on it, look out for any signs of slowing. Make sure to check this before buying a used phone.
4. The Version of the iOS or Android System
Ensure that the Android or IOS version is not low and can be updated to the latest version. You can navigate to software update in settings, under about and check for any updates if the version is low. Make sure to check this before buying a used phone.
5. Quality of the Camera
Though this depends on if you are a camera person. Depending on what you need the phone for, check the camera if it satisfies you. Make sure to check this before buying a used phone.
6. Phones Accessories
Most used phones come with accessories but not all. You make enquiries on whether the phones come with a charger or earpiece. It is best to buy a used phone that at least comes with a charger. Make sure to check this before buying a used phone.
Once you go through the phone with this factor in mind, you won’t fall victim when buying a used phone
How to Test a Used Phone Before Buying
We all have different reasons for purchasing a phone, we shouldn’t jump on a phone because of a sweet deal or time. There are some tests that you must carry out to ensure that the phone meets your expectations. This is how to test the used phone
Reboot the Used Phone
Turn on the phone and observe it as it turns on to see if it has any issues coming on. If the phone was already on, reboot or restart the phone and see if it goes smoothly. If you notice any hanging or lagging then avoid purchasing the phone.
Check Out for the “Network Connectivity” of the Used Phone Before Buying it
Some phones cannot read the sim due to either forced unlock or a faulty panel. Put your SIM into it and check the quality of the mobile network. Try calling, texting and browsing on the internet.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity
Believe it or not some phone cannot connect to WI-FI and lack access to Bluetooth. Some honest vendors may tell you this upfront while others would hide it. Try using the phone to connect to WI-FI and also try using the phone to connect to Bluetooth.
Test the Camera
Test the quality of the camera by taking pictures using both the front and back cameras. Review the picture and video quality and check if it is satisfactory. Also, go through the settings and tools in the camera and check if it is all working.
Responsiveness of Screen
Tap and swipe on every part of the screen to get a response from every area on the screen. If you notice that a side refuses to touch then the phone screen has issues. Avoid it.
Check for any Software Issue
Try opening multiple apps and closing them to see if it opens and closes smoothly. Also, look out for any anomalies or errors in the phone
Factory Reset
Once you conclude the deal with the seller, even if the phone is already wiped, perform a factory reset on the phone to see if it has any issues coming back on. This also clears any hidden signed-in accounts on the phone.
These are the basic ways of testing a phone. It is best to be careful when buying a used phone. It is also best to acquire some basic knowledge about a phone to bargain price and check quality.
How to Check If the Used Phone You Are Buying is Not Stolen
A stolen phone can be a real headache because it can put you in serious trouble or be deactivated at any time. If a phone is locked, it is best to avoid buying it just to be on the safe side but if it is not, then do this:
1. Check the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) Number: The IMEI number is in every phone and the best part is that each phone has a specific IMEI number. Make sure to use a site or an app to verify the authenticity of the phone. Always ask the seller for the IMEI number before buying the used phone. Make sure to check this before buying a used phone.
2. Check for Receipts: Request a receipt for the phone or proof of ownership of the phone from the seller. The details should match the seller’s information like the name of the seller. If the seller cannot present one, then the phone is most likely stolen. Make sure to check this before buying a used phone.
3. Records of the Seller’s Previous Sales: The reputation the seller has built in the past sales will tell you a lot. Check reviews on the sellers by past customers to make your purchase decision. If the seller has no reviews, then it is best to avoid business with him or her. Make sure to take note of this before buying a used phone.
Stolen phones are not a joke, there are serious consequences for buying a stolen phone. Make sure to take note so as not to become a victim of circumstance.
Risks of Buying a Used Phone
Though buying a used phone can be very budget-friendly, some risks come with it. Make sure to go through this risk to prepare your mind.
1. Covered Damages: The phone could contain minor but effective damages that can lead to unnecessary costs in the future. At times screen guides or cheap paintwork or loose screws could be used to cover damages on the used phone.
2. Stolen: Buying a used phone leaves you at the mercy of the seller. Hoping that the phone is not stolen because there is a possibility that it could be stolen
3. Degraded Performance: The performance of a phone may be good in some cases but it will never be up to the level of a new phone. The phone may even have issues working with some apps and sites.
4. Decreased Battery Life: A new phone will have 100% of its battery life intact while a used phone would be struggling with less. It may not last like those with full battery life. A new phone could last 8 hours while a used one could last 6 hours or less but it will never be up to the new one.
The are 5 basic things that you should keep at the back of your head when buying a used phone to avoid wasting time and money.
