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Save cash on cost of new phone with pre-loved refurbished handset



POCKET big savings on the cost of a new phone — by buying a refurbished one.

These second-hand phones are professionally fixed up and tested to make sure they work for the next owners.


By a refurbished phone and nab discounts worth hundreds of pounds

Here’s how to nab discounts worth hundreds of pounds . . . 

PHONE GRADES: Not all refurbished phones are equal. A previous owner may have had a handset for just a short stint, or it could have been well used and broken.

Retailers grade models depending on how well they function and whether there are any scratches or marks.

For example, dealer Envirofone starts with category Refurbished Fair, which means the handset is functional with battery health of more than 70 per cent, but wear and tear will be visible on the phone.

The categories then move up through Refurbished Good, Refurbished Excellent, Refurbished Pristine, Refurbished As New, and New Boxed. New Boxed models are in perfect working order, with no marks or scratches, and in original packaging.

WHERE TO BUY: There are dozens of outlets for refurbished phones, including recycling sites such as Envirofone and Music Magpie. You can also go direct to manufacturers, including Apple, or some networks, such as O2 and Giffgaff.

SAVE BIG: You’ll pay most for a phone classed as Pristine or As New. And manufacturers tend to charge more than other sites. For example, an iPhone 12 64GB costs £579 with Apple, translating as a £100 discount off the £679 retail price.

Giffgaff offers the same model Like New for £499. Or if you opt for Refurbished Good it costs £429, saving £250 off the retail price. Moneysupermarket.com and moneysavingexpert.com have comparison tools to help you find a retailer offering the model you want at the best price.

GET YOUR GUARANTEE: Many retailers provide one-year warranties with refurbished phones but not all sites do, and the length of cover may vary, so check before you buy.

  • All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.

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Save cash on cost of new phone with pre-loved refurbished handset