Buying a used phone can be a great way to save money and reduce your environmental impact, but it can also be risky if you don’t know what to look for. You want to avoid ending up with a stolen, damaged, or outdated device that doesn’t meet your needs. That’s why you must research and inspect before handing over your cash.
Here are some essential checks you should perform when buying a used phone, whether online or in person.
Check the Serial and IMEI Number
Regardless of whether you’re buying the phone online or in person, this should be your top priority for checking. The serial and IMEI number are unique identifiers that tell you if the phone is genuine, unlocked, and not blacklisted by any carrier or authority. You can find these numbers on the phone’s box, the back of the device, or the settings menu.
To verify the serial and IMEI number, you can use various online tools to provide information about the phone’s model, warranty status, network compatibility, and activation history. You can also check if the phone has been reported as lost or stolen by following these steps:
- Dial *#06# on the phone and compare the IMEI displayed on the screen with the one on the box or the back of the device.
- Use online tools such as IMEI.info to provide information about the phone’s model, warranty status, network compatibility, and activation history.
- Check if the phone has been reported as lost or stolen using databases such as CheckMEND or CTIA Stolen Phone Checker.
If the seller cannot provide you with these numbers, or if they don’t match the phone’s details, it’s a red flag that the phone may be stolen or fake.
Check the Physical Condition
The next thing you should check is the physical condition of the phone. This will show you how well the device has been taken care of and if there are any signs of damage or wear and tear. You should look for scratches, dents, cracks, or chips on the phone’s screen, body, and edges. You should also check if the buttons, ports, speakers, microphones, and cameras are working correctly and not loose or broken.
If you’re buying online, ask for clear and detailed photos of the phone from different angles and zoom in on any areas of concern. If buying in person, inspect the phone thoroughly and test all its functions before paying. You can also get it checked by a cell phone repair shop nearby.
Check the Battery Health
One of the most common issues with used phones is battery degradation. Over time, batteries lose their capacity and performance due to repeated charging cycles and usage patterns. This can affect how long your phone lasts on a single charge and how fast it charges.
To check the battery health of a used phone, you can use various apps such as AccuBattery or Battery Life that can measure the battery’s current capacity, temperature, voltage, and charge rate. You can also check the battery settings on some phones that show you the battery health percentage and any recommendations to improve it.
If the battery health is below 80%, consider replacing it or negotiating a lower price with the seller. You should also avoid buying phones with swollen or leaking batteries, as they can pose a safety hazard.
Check the Software Updates
Another important factor to consider when buying a used phone is how up-to-date it is with software updates. Software updates are essential for keeping your phone secure, stable, and compatible with new features and apps. However, not all phones receive regular updates from manufacturers or carriers, especially older models.
To check the software update status of a used phone, you can go to the settings menu and look for the software update option. You can also check your phone’s model online for the latest version of Android or iOS and compare it with what’s installed on the device.
Suppose the phone is running an outdated software version no longer supported by its maker or carrier. In that case, you should avoid buying it as it may be vulnerable to security risks and performance issues. You should also check if the phone is rooted or jailbroken, which may void its warranty and affect its functionality.
Check the Price and Warranty
The last thing you should check when buying a used phone is how much it costs and what kind of warranty it comes with. You want to ensure that you’re getting a fair deal and have some protection in case something goes wrong with your purchase.
To check the price of a used phone, you can use online tools such as [Gazelle] or [SellCell] that can estimate how much your phone is worth based on its model, condition, storage capacity, and carrier. You can also compare prices from different sellers on platforms like eBay or Swappa to see what others ask for similar devices.
To check the warranty of a used phone, you can use online tools such as Apple’s Check Coverage or Samsung’s Warranty Checker, which can tell you if your phone is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty or any extended warranty plans. You can also ask the seller for proof of purchase or any receipts that show when and where they bought the phone.
If the phone is out of warranty or has no proof of purchase, look for other options that offer a warranty or guarantee, such as certified pre-owned or refurbished phones from reputable sellers or retailers.
Buying a used phone can be smart and eco-friendly, but it requires caution and research. By following these essential checks, you can ensure you’re buying a quality device that meets your expectations and needs.
