Buying used tech is a smart way to save money and keep quality devices in circulation. But to avoid getting burned, you need to know what to look for before you buy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make safe and informed purchases.

Key Takeaways

Always verify the seller and the device’s history to avoid scams.
Check the device’s condition, both physically and in terms of software functionality.
Make sure all necessary accessories are included and the payment method offers buyer protection.
For phones, verify the IMEI, check for activation locks, and assess battery health.
For laptops, test the screen, battery, and all ports, and confirm ongoing security updates.
Consider refurbished devices from reputable sources for a balance of cost and reliability.

General Checks for Any Used Device

Before you buy any used tech, follow these essential steps to protect yourself:

Verify the seller. Whether you’re dealing with an individual or a platform, make sure they’re trustworthy. A seller who can’t provide a serial number or proof of purchase is a red flag. Reputable platforms often offer buyer protection, which can be a lifesaver if something goes wrong.
Confirm the device is clean. Make sure the device isn’t stolen or locked to someone else’s account. For phones, this means checking the IMEI; for laptops, it means ensuring the OS isn’t locked.
Check the condition and functionality. Inspect the device for physical damage and test all functions. For example, on a phone, check the screen, cameras, speakers, and charging port. On a laptop, test the screen, keyboard, trackpad, and ports.
Confirm what’s included. Make sure all necessary accessories, like chargers and cables, are part of the deal. If the original box is important to you, ask about it.
Pay safely. Use a payment method that offers chargeback rights, such as a credit card or a reputable online platform. Avoid wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or friends-and-family payments, as these offer no buyer protection.

Buying Used Phones

When buying a used phone, pay special attention to these key areas:

IMEI check. Dial *#06# to get the IMEI number, then verify it isn’t blacklisted or reported stolen. You can use your carrier’s website or a trusted IMEI checker. A blacklisted phone is essentially useless, as it can’t be activated.
Activation lock. Make sure the phone is signed out of the previous owner’s account. For iPhones, this means turning off iCloud; for Android, it means removing the Google account. A phone still locked to the seller’s account is little more than a paperweight.
Battery health. On an iPhone, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health and aim for at least 85% capacity. For Android, check battery health if the option is available. A worn battery can be a costly replacement down the line.
Security support. Use a support tracker to check how long the phone will receive security updates. A cheap phone with only six months of updates left might not be a good deal in the long run.
Function test. Test the screen for dead pixels and touch sensitivity, the cameras for clarity, the speakers and mic for sound quality, the charging port for functionality, and the phone’s connectivity for Wi-Fi and mobile signal strength.

Buying Used Laptops

For laptops, consider the following:

Powers on and boots. The laptop should start up quickly and boot to a clean, genuine operating system. Be wary of accounts that are locked or installations that seem suspicious.
Screen quality. Look for dead pixels, flickering, discoloration, or lines. These can be signs of a damaged screen.
Body and hinge condition. Cracks or a loose hinge suggest heavy use. Some wear is normal, but extensive damage could indicate a shorter lifespan.
Battery life. Ask the seller how long the battery lasts on a full charge. A worn battery is a relatively cheap fix, but it’s something to factor into your decision.
Ports, keyboard, trackpad, and fans. Test all ports for functionality, check the keyboard and trackpad for responsiveness, and listen for any grinding noises from the fans.
Security support. Confirm that the operating system still receives updates. An outdated OS can pose security risks.

Scams to Watch Out For

Be wary of these common scams when buying used tech:

Off-platform payment. Avoid payment methods like wire transfers, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or friends-and-family payments. These offer no buyer protection. Stick to methods that allow chargebacks.
Too-good-to-be-true deals on unknown sites. Check reviews and the domain’s age. A site registered recently is a warning sign.
Fake listings. Be cautious of listings using stock photos and asking for payment before you’ve seen the device.
“Can’t meet, I’ll ship it.” If a private seller insists on shipping and wants payment upfront, insist on a tracked, protected transaction.

When Refurbished Shines

Manufacturer-refurbished and reputable-marketplace refurbished devices often provide the best balance of cost and reliability. They come with warranties and are thoroughly tested, making them a solid choice for keeping good hardware in use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is refurbished as good as new?

Manufacturer-refurbished devices usually are, often with a warranty and a new battery. “Seller refurbished” can vary, so check what was actually replaced or repaired.

How do I check an IMEI?

Dial *#06# on the phone and run the number through your carrier’s checker or a trusted marketplace’s tool to confirm it’s not blacklisted.

What’s a fair price?

Compare completed sales for the exact model and condition on a reputable marketplace. If a deal seems too good to be true, ask why.

How long should security updates last?

Ideally, at least two years of updates is a good benchmark. Use a support tracker to verify the device’s update timeline.

What if the device has hidden issues?

Always use a payment method that offers buyer protection. If issues arise, you can dispute the charge and potentially get your money back.

Buying used tech without getting burned