You can save money and help save the planet by purchasing or renovating electronics instead of new ones. Since most of the environmental impact of the equipment comes from the manufacturing stage, buying a used box can reduce your carbon footprint. Doing the right thing and buying a refurbished feels like buying a new one. This guide digs into what you need to know about renovation terminology, provides tips on finding the best deals, and lists some of the best places to buy refurbished gadgets and used electronics.
You may also have ideas on how to buy ethical and environmentally friendly electronics, the best technology to buy and sell technology, before buying a used smartphone, and how to deal with electronics responsibly.
Table of contents
What does renovation mean?
There is no legal definition for renovation. Some sellers prefer to use, pre-owned, used, re-written, and the listing continues. Renovation means that the seller has tested the device and can repair and clean the device, but the only way to be sure is to read the beautiful print and make sure you understand the meaning of any terminology used by the seller.
If you’re lucky, you might get an open device that the buyer has turned on but never really used. The seller is not allowed to resell the returned device as a new device and all returns ending up selling at the same location are common. On the other side of the scale, you may end up bringing devices that look like it survived in the Apocalypse but didn’t work.
Tips for purchasing a refurbished
I will recommend some great places to buy refurbished electronics below, but first, let’s explore what you’re looking for in the seller and what you need to do when purchasing to protect yourself.
In addition to determining what the seller means by refurbishing, you should also read the list of any potential purchases carefully and try to answer questions like this:
- It’s tested, is everything working?
- Does it have a new battery or does it guarantee the battery health? (This is crucial for old phones and laptops.)
- If a previous user set it up, is it wiped?
- Are there any damage to cosmetics such as scratches or cracks? (Look for a transparent hierarchical system.)
- What is included? (Charger, cable, manual, original packaging.)
- Is there a guarantee? (The longer the better.)
- If there is a problem, how does the return work? Do you have to pay? What is the window for reward?
If you are unsure about anything, it is worth mentioning to avoid disappointment before buying.
Photo: Simon Hill
There are protections for purchases, such as Section 170 of the U.S. Fair Credit Billing Act or Section 75 of the U.K. However, you should use a credit card to purchase for the best payment protection and avoid through third-party payment services. Some banks and credit card companies are better than others, so it is worth looking into the protection and reputation they offer.
If you can check and test the equipment before purchasing, do so. Otherwise, you should carefully check and thoroughly test any equipment you purchased immediately when you receive it. Remember that there are limited windows to report any faults or problems with conditions and return to the project. Always keep the box and at least pack it to arrive until it is satisfied that you don’t need to return it.
Best Buy Refurbished Electronics
Photo: Simon Hill
When buying refurbished electronics, you have a huge choice and let us break down your options.
We have some great experience buying refurbished equipment from the original manufacturer, which makes sense because they know exactly how to test and repair their own equipment. All of these manufacturers prove the refurbished equipment they sell, and most offer at least one year’s warranty, but savings vary; Apple, for example, can enjoy up to 15% off, while Dell offers up to 50% off.
Photo: Simon Hill
Many large retailers and operators offer refurbished electronics, usually in separate stores, and can be bargained. Here are some of your best options:
