Is it worth buying a used or refurbished cell phone? Find out now!
According to a survey by the consultancy GfK, carried out in the first half of this year, Brazilians have been spending more and more time with the same cell phone. Previously, devices were replaced every 12 months, but now this has increased to 24 months. Among consumers, 44% reported that they replaced their device after more than two years of use. In 2019, the number was 32.3%
In addition, people who want a top-of-the-line cell phone but don't want to spend a lot are betting on used and refurbished cell phones, which are also used but undergo a technical review before returning to the market. These cell phones cost up to 40% less than new cell phones. In the first half of this year, there was a 13.3% increase in sales of this type of device compared to the same period last year.
But are these phones worth it, or is it better to keep your current phone? Find out more!
Selling cell phones in Brazil
A study by IDC Brazil showed a reduction of 11% in the number of cell phones sold in the country. The survey shows that the price range of the best-selling cell phones in the first six months of the year was R$$700 to R$$999.
Of the 30 million cell phones sold in retail in 2022, 22 million were replacements for similar models. This shows that consumers are more resistant to buying expensive devices, which has increased the search for cheaper devices.
Those who want a cell phone with more specifications, but don't want to spend a lot, have been opting for used or refurbished cell phones. This year, there was an increase of 13.3% in the number of sales of these devices compared to the same period last year. IDC estimates that, next year, the refurbished device market will reach 5.5 million units.
Refurbished Cell Phones
Refurbished cell phones are those that presented some manufacturing problem during the warranty period and were exchanged for an identical device at no cost to the consumer. These defective devices undergo an analysis carried out by specialists, who will determine whether to replace the parts, leaving the cell phone in better condition.
After the repair and replacement of parts, the cell phone returns to the market to be sold again. Some manufacturers offer this type of service, which is the case from Apple. In the US, the brand sells refurbished products on its own website, with discounts of up to 15%.
Refurbished or used cell phone
The main difference between a refurbished and a used cell phone is that, in the case of refurbished phones, they undergo an inspection before being returned to the market. This way, any problems in the device are fixed and it remains in excellent condition. used cell phones, are generally sold in their original condition, without undergoing repairs or inspection. As a result, they can be purchased with various problems, without the buyer being aware.
Guarantee
Before purchasing any product, you must check whether it has a warranty. However, according to the Consumer Protection Code, the buyer has a 90-day warranty, even if the store does not inform this at the time of purchase. With this legislation, the period starts to count from the delivery of the product.
Battery
Often times, refurbished or used cell phones may come with a worn out battery. In the case of refurbished cell phones, the replacement of components may often be related to only those that have suffered damage. In these cases, the other components remain unchanged, maintaining the original. Therefore, before making the purchase, the consumer needs to pay attention to all the information, to know which parts have been replaced and which remain original.
It is worth it?
Used and refurbished cell phones are a good option for those who want to save money when buying a new cell phone, because of their value. However, you need to be careful and check all the information and details to make sure that this purchase will be worth it and that the cell phone is in good condition.
In the case of used cell phones, check all the features of the device and check if it has any restrictions, such as theft or robbery, since buying a stolen cell phone, even unintentionally, is a crime.
If you can verify that everything is OK and the price fits your budget, it is worth buying the device.
