How to Buy Used Phones to Save Money (Without Getting Scammed)

The secondhand smartphone market (like secondhand goods in general) has gotten a bad rap. Horror stories about failing batteries and shady sellers might make you hesitant to buy used phones. But here’s the reality: it is a legit way to save money. 

Our guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from understanding why smartphones have gotten so expensive to knowing where to shop, how to avoid scams and how to spot a great deal. Ready to stop overpaying for your phone and start shopping smarter? Let’s get into it.

Is Buying Used Phones Worth It?

The short answer is yes, absolutely. Buying a used phone can be a smart, strategic decision, especially if you’re trying to cut down on unnecessary expenses or simply refuse to pay flagship prices for marginal feature upgrades. Not to mention, it’s a sound business idea, at least in theory, because people will always need cheap phones. But why? 

When you buy a used phone, you’re often getting 80% to 90% of the performance of the latest model at a fraction of the price. Want an example? A used iPhone 13 Pro Max with 128GB might cost you around $500–$600, while the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max starts at $1,199. That’s a potential savings of over $600 for a device that, practically speaking, will serve 99% of your needs just as well.

Used phones are also a win from an environmental standpoint. Refurbished models reduce the carbon footprint of the purchase by as much as 11x. Extending the life of a phone reduces the need for new manufacturing, which in turn cuts down on electronic waste and the resources required to mine rare earth metals. If you’re eco-conscious, this is a powerful reason to buy used phones.

Of course, there are risks: worn-out batteries, outdated software support and the general uncertainty of a phone’s history. But with proper vetting and trusted sellers (we’ll get into those shortly), you can buy used phones with confidence.

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Why Are Smartphones So Expensive Nowadays?

Smartphones weren’t always this pricey, despite keeping up with inflation. A decade ago, the most expensive models hovered around $600–$700. Today, many premium smartphones are inching toward the $1,500 mark. That’s before you even consider add-ons like cases, screen protectors or extended warranties.

Several factors contribute to this price creep:

1. Component costs: Phones today pack powerful processors, multiple cameras, large OLED displays and increasingly advanced internals that rival some laptops. Not to mention, the rare earth metals of which most parts are composed are getting increasingly expensive and more scarce. 
2. Research & Development (R&D): Smartphone companies spend billions developing new features. Those costs are passed on to the consumer.
3. Tariffs and trade policies: Tariffs on imported electronics can raise prices by an exorbitant amount depending on trade dynamics between countries. So far, 2025’s geopolitical drama might result in iPhones costing hundreds of dollars more than before. An excellent chance to get some used models early and curb the market, if you ask me. 
4. Inflation and supply chain issues: The pandemic disrupted global supply chains, making components scarcer and more expensive. Those challenges still linger, contributing to higher prices.

All of these factors make a compelling case for looking outside the “brand new” section. Used phones can deliver the same performance at a much more palatable cost.

Where to Buy Used Phones: Trusted Platforms and Retailers

Where you buy your used phone matters just as much as what you buy. Reputable platforms and retailers offer peace of mind with warranties, return policies and quality guarantees. Here are your best bets:

Peer-to-peer marketplaces:

• Swappa: This platform stands out for its verification process. Every listing is reviewed by moderators, and sellers must provide the phone’s IMEI number. That helps eliminate blacklisted or stolen phones. Prices are often lower than retailer sites, and you can negotiate directly with sellers.

Certified pre-owned retailers:

• Gazelle: Offers phones that have undergone a 30-point inspection. Comes with a 30-day return policy, which is great if you want time to test the device.
• Decluttr: Focuses on value, especially for older models. Includes a 12-month limited warranty and free shipping, making it low-risk for buyers.
• Back Market: Think of it as the Amazon for refurbished electronics. Every phone comes with a grade (from “Excellent” to “Fair”), and there’s a one-year warranty standard across the site.
• Amazon Renewed: Offers phones refurbished by approved vendors. You get the backing of Amazon’s customer service and return policies, which is a strong safety net.
• Apple Certified Refurbished: Arguably the best option for buying used iPhones. These devices are like-new, come with new batteries and are backed by a one-year Apple warranty.

Retailers and carriers:

• Best Buy often has deals on open-box or refurbished phones. These may include carrier-locked or unlocked models, and you get an in-store return policy.

While local listings like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace can yield deals, proceed with caution. Insist on meeting in public, ideally a well-lit public place with lots of cameras and checking the IMEI before money changes hands.

Refurbished vs Used Phones: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the difference between “used” and “refurbished” is crucial for setting expectations and making an informed choice.

Used phones are typically sold by private individuals and haven’t undergone any inspection or repair. They might work fine, or they might have hidden issues. In some cases, they might even be unlocked. Not to mention, there’s usually no warranty or return policy, and cosmetic flaws are common. The benefit? Lower prices. But you need to do your homework.

Refurbished phones, on the other hand, are sold by retailers or manufacturers after being professionally inspected and repaired. Batteries may be replaced, defective components fixed and software restored to factory settings. Refurbished phones often come with a warranty (usually 90 days to a year), which adds a significant layer of protection.

If you’re new to buying used tech or simply want more security, go refurbished. If you’re tech-savvy, know how to inspect a device thoroughly, and want to maximize savings, a used phone from a reputable seller might be your best bet.

What to Check Before You Buy a Used Phone

Buying a used phone requires a critical eye. Don’t just take someone’s word that it works great. Use this checklist to evaluate the phone before making a commitment:

• IMEI status: Always check the phone’s IMEI or ESN to ensure it isn’t blacklisted or reported stolen. You can do this on Swappa or directly through carrier websites like Verizon or T-Mobile.
• Carrier compatibility: Make sure the device works on your network. If it’s locked to another carrier, unlocking it may be difficult or expensive. Look for “unlocked” or “universal” listings.
• Battery health: On iPhones, you can find battery health under Settings > Battery > Battery Health. A good battery is 85% capacity or higher. For Android, apps like AccuBattery can provide similar information.
• Screen and body condition: Inspect for scratches, chips and cracks. Oftentimes, those looking to peddle their old tech to others count on you not paying attention to corners and edges—they often hide damage from drops.
• Camera functionality: Open the camera app and test all lenses. Look for dead pixels, blurry images or lens dust.
• Audio & ports: Play music or a video to test the speaker. Plug in a charger and headphones to make sure ports work correctly.
• Connectivity: Turn on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS to check they function properly.
• Reset status: Ensure the phone has been factory reset and that the previous owner’s data is completely wiped. For iPhones, make sure Activation Lock is off.

Taking these steps reduces the risk of surprises and ensures you get what you paid for.

Tips to Get the Best Deal on a Used Phone

Scoring a great deal isn’t just about finding the lowest price—it’s about knowing when and where to buy, and how to negotiate. Here are pro tips to help you maximize savings:

• Buy during launch cycles: New models usually drop in the fall (e.g., September for iPhones). That’s when prices on previous models drop the most.
• Negotiate politely: Sellers on platforms like Swappa or Facebook Marketplace are often open to offers. Be respectful, point out market prices and make a fair counteroffer.
• Look for bundle deals: Some sellers include cases, screen protectors, or even extra charging cables to sweeten the deal.
• Use cashback or rewards credit cards: Earn 1-5% back depending on your card, adding to your total savings.
• Check multiple platforms: Don’t buy from the first site you find. Compare listings across Back Market, Decluttr, Amazon Renewed and Swappa.
• Sign up for alerts and newsletters: Many sites run flash sales or give first dibs to email subscribers.
• Factor in shipping and taxes: A great deal can quickly turn mediocre if the seller charges high shipping fees or if taxes push the price over your budget.

Final Thoughts: Buying Used Without Regret

At its core, the decision to buy used phones is about shifting your mindset from impulsive consumerism to intentional, informed decision-making. It’s not just a way to save a few bucks — it’s a smarter, more sustainable way to live.

When you choose to buy used, you’re saying no to marketing hype and yes to practical value. You’re extending the lifecycle of perfectly capable tech, reducing waste and keeping more money in your wallet without sacrificing functionality.

So next time your current phone starts to lag or crack, don’t default to buying the latest flagship on a payment plan. Consider used, and take pride in being a modern-day penny hoarder who knows how to make every dollar count.

New York contributor Kiara Taylor specializes in financial literacy and financial technology subjects. She is a corporate financial analyst.