Used Phones Safely

Used phones sell on marketplaces, refurb stores and carrier trade-in shops. Checks protect you.

Updated Nov 1, 2026. Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Peer marketplaces list phones from private sellers. Refurb programs test and grade devices and add a warranty. Brand certified refurbished stores are the most controlled option.

Professional insight

Phone resellers check the IMEI, locks and battery before anything cosmetic. A clean screen means little on a blacklisted phone.

Match the IMEI on screen to the listing.
Confirm Activation Lock or FRP is fully off.
Ask if the phone is paid off with the carrier.
Check battery health in settings, not the seller's word.

Check the label

Exact model name and storage size in GB.
IMEI number listed and clean on a checker.
Lock status: unlocked or tied to one carrier.
Condition grade and what that grade means.
Battery health percentage, where shown.
Region or model code supports your carrier's bands.
Warranty length and who honors it.
Return window in days.

0 of 8 checked

Types

Type	Who tests it	Typical extras
Private used	Nobody but you	Usually none
Marketplace refurbished	Third-party refurbisher	Grade and seller warranty
Certified refurbished	The phone maker	New battery or shell, full warranty
Carrier pre-owned	The carrier	Often locked to that carrier

Questions for the seller

Can you send the IMEI before I pay?
Is the phone signed out of iCloud or Google?
Has the screen or battery ever been replaced?
Is there any balance owed on the device?
Does Face ID or the fingerprint sensor work?

Red flags

Seller wants payment outside the marketplace.
New account selling a flagship far below market.
Phone shows a passcode or lock screen on arrival.
Photos are stock images, not the actual unit.
IMEI in settings differs from the box or listing.

Buying steps

1Pick the model and storage you need.
2Confirm it supports your carrier's network.
3Get the IMEI and run it through a checker.
4Pay through the platform, never by wire or gift card.
5Test calls, camera, charging and buttons on arrival.
6Insert your SIM before the return window closes.

Common questions

Is used the same as refurbished?: No. Used is sold as is. Refurbished means it was tested and repaired where needed.
Where do I find the IMEI?: On an iPhone, go to Settings, General, About. On most Android phones, dial *#06#.
Should I buy unlocked or carrier locked?: Unlocked works with more carriers and is easier to resell later.