What should users consider when buying a used phone?

When purchasing a used phone, it is important for users to select reputable and established distributors that guarantee the origin of the products. Additionally, users should be equipped with the necessary skills to inspect the device before making a purchase.

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The market for used phones is currently very abundant and diverse. We can easily buy a used phone, an old model from many brands, such as Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo… at a reasonable price. However, there is also an argument that buying a new phone will be much more reassuring.

What should users pay attention to when buying used phones?

Mr. Truong Ngoc Duong, a technology reviewer, said: “Phones change models every year, and every year they update specifications such as configuration, camera, battery, charging speed… When buying new model phones, users will experience the latest technologies now. As for used phones, the clear advantage is that they are much cheaper. The second advantage is that when users want to sell them and buy another phone, the resale value will be less than that of a new phone. However, the risk is that users may buy counterfeit, low-quality phones, and used phones have also been worn out over time, so their performance will not be as good as that of new phones.”

What should users pay attention to when buying used phones?

In the context of the need to save expenses, many people will refer to used or old model phones. However, many people wonder when to buy to get a good price and a good enough phone to use?

Mr. Truong Ngoc Duong added: “The best time to buy a phone is right after the new model is released. Buying the previous year’s model at that time would be reasonable because after a year, the phone will depreciate the most, about 30% of its value. In the following years, the phone’s price will continue to decrease over time, but the rate of decrease will not be as fast as in the first year. Another point is that if we buy phones that are too old, about 4-5 years old, the quality will have decreased a lot, and the likelihood of buying low-quality products will be higher.”

According to VTV Digital (VTV News)

Frequently asked questions

There are several factors to consider when purchasing a second-hand phone to ensure you get a good deal and a functional device. Firstly, check the phone’s physical condition for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Ensure the screen is intact and free of scratches or cracks, as repairing or replacing screens can be costly. Test the buttons, ports, speakers, and microphone to ensure they are functional. Battery health is crucial, as batteries degrade over time; ensure the phone can hold a charge and last through the day. Check the phone’s performance by opening apps and browsing the web to ensure it’s responsive and fast. Review the phone’s specifications to ensure they meet your needs, such as sufficient storage, a capable processor, and a decent camera.

In addition to inspecting the phone’s physical condition and testing its functionality, there are a few other steps you can take. Check the phone’s IMEI or serial number online to ensure it hasn’t been reported as lost or stolen. Reset the phone to its factory settings and set it up as a new device to ensure no existing accounts or data are tied to it. This process will also give you a sense of its performance and responsiveness. Finally, ask for the original purchase receipt and box, as this can indicate the seller’s authenticity and provide you with warranty information if available.

One of the primary risks is ending up with a stolen device, which may be blocked by carriers or the authorities. Always check the phone’s IMEI or serial number to mitigate this risk. Another risk is an inaccurate representation of the phone’s condition or history; the seller may not disclose water damage, for example. Always meet in person, inspect the device thoroughly, and ask questions about its history. Finally, there is a risk of purchasing a phone with an outstanding financial balance, which could result in the phone being blocked. Request proof of payment completion or a clear financial status from the seller.

Taking a few precautionary measures can help safeguard your data and privacy. As mentioned earlier, always factory reset the phone and set it up as a new device to remove any existing data and accounts. Ensure all previous data has been erased, and the phone is running the latest software version. Change all passwords on the device, including those for email, social media, and banking apps. Additionally, enable two-factor authentication on your accounts for added security. Finally, be cautious of any pre-installed apps or software, and only grant permissions to trusted apps.

One of the main advantages is cost savings; you can often find great deals on second-hand phones, especially if you’re comfortable with an older model. Buying used also contributes to sustainability and reduces electronic waste. Additionally, you may find that some phones hold their value well, so if you decide to sell it later, you could recoup a good portion of your investment. Furthermore, the previous owner may have already discovered and addressed any common issues with the model, so you benefit from a ‘tested’ device.