Refurbished smartphones are gaining popularity every year. Not only because they're friendly on your wallet, but also because they contribute to a circular economy. But what exactly are refurbished smartphones? In short, they are previously used devices that have been professionally inspected, cleaned, repaired, and tested for resale. This way, you get the performance of a new device—at a lower price and with a smaller ecological footprint.
Within the world of refurbished smartphones, two brands are undeniable leaders: Apple and Samsung. These brands have dominated the smartphone market for years, and they remain extremely popular in the refurbished segment as well. Not only because of their reliability and performance, but also because they last longer and are therefore highly suitable for refurbishment. That's why we’ll take a closer look at both brands below.
Refurbished iPhone
The iPhone is undoubtedly one of the most popular smartphones in the world. Apple is known for its solid hardware, long software support, and timeless design. This makes iPhones especially attractive on the refurbished market.
Refurbished iPhones come with many advantages. You get a device that has been thoroughly checked, often fitted with a new battery and up-to-date software. All of this comes with a warranty—something you often miss with a regular second-hand iPhone. Think of models like the iPhone 11, iPhone 12, or even iPhone 13: devices that are perfectly available refurbished at a much lower price than new.
Another advantage is that Apple provides updates for many years, meaning older models are still supported for a long time. That means a refurbished iPhone from a few years ago will still function safely and quickly. So you truly get the most out of your investment.
Refurbished Samsung
Samsung is the other major player in the world of refurbished smartphones. With popular series like the Galaxy S and Galaxy A lines, the brand appeals to a wide audience. Like Apple, these devices are professionally refurbished after their first life so that they work like new again.
A refurbished Samsung offers great value for money. Devices are professionally inspected and cleaned, and components that aren’t functioning properly are replaced—think of a new battery or a refreshed screen. That way, you get a reliable smartphone at a lower price.
Samsung devices are also popular for their versatility: from high-end models like the Galaxy S21 to budget-friendly options like the Galaxy A52. In the refurbished range, you’ll find a wide variety of devices for every type of user.
Do affordable smartphones still exist?
The prices of new smartphones increase every year. Where you could once buy a top model for a few hundred euros, you now easily pay over a thousand euros for the latest iPhone or Samsung. That makes it increasingly difficult to find a high-quality, affordable smartphone.
Luckily, there are still devices that offer top quality without paying the full price. Refurbished smartphones are the perfect example. You pay less than for a new device, but still enjoy similar performance and reliability. Plus, refurbished devices often come with a warranty and have been thoroughly tested. So you don’t have to worry about hidden defects.
Refurbished smartphones are the ideal alternative for anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable phone.
Where can you buy cheap iPhones?
Cheap iPhones are hard to find. Apple products retain their value for a long time—even years after their original release. That’s why you rarely see real bargains when it comes to new iPhones. Often, they’re offered “cheap” in combination with a mobile plan. At first glance, you pay less, but in the long term, you usually end up paying more due to monthly payments.
A much better option is a refurbished iPhone. You only pay for the device—no hidden costs or contracts. Plus, at reliable providers like Back in Use, your purchase comes with a warranty. This way, you know exactly what you’re getting and can count on quality.
With a refurbished iPhone, you’ll save money without sacrificing performance or user experience. Whether you choose a recent model or a slightly older one, quality is guaranteed.
Are second-hand phones reliable?
Second-hand smartphones are appealing because of their low price, but they also carry risks. You often buy from a private individual, without any warranty or certainty. There might be internal issues that aren’t immediately visible: a worn-out battery, water damage, or a screen that’s about to fail.
With refurbished devices, those risks are eliminated. They are professionally inspected, repaired, and tested. Everything happens transparently, and your purchase includes a warranty. So you can be sure your device is in good condition.
That’s why refurbished smartphones are more reliable than regular second-hand phones. You get the sharp price of a second-hand device with the peace of mind and transparency of a new purchase.
Is a second-hand iPhone worth it?
The answer depends on what’s important to you. If your main goal is to spend as little as possible, a second-hand iPhone might be an option. But be careful: without a warranty and professional inspection, you’re taking a risk. A device may have hidden defects that only show up later.
Refurbished iPhones are often the better choice. They’re cheaper than new models, but you know exactly what you’re getting. Your device has been inspected, repaired if necessary, and comes with a warranty. So you get the price of second-hand with the assurance of new.
If you're considering a second-hand iPhone, think carefully: do you want to take the risk—or go for the certainty of a refurbished device?
So what should I buy?
The choice between new, second-hand, and refurbished depends on your budget, your expectations, and your trust in the seller. Are you looking for a reliable smartphone with great quality, without paying the full price of a new one? Then a refurbished smartphone is the best choice.
At Back in Use, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of refurbished iPhones and Samsungs—each thoroughly tested and backed by warranty. That way, you make a smart choice that’s good for your wallet and the planet.
