Best refurbished phones in July
The amount of people choosing refurbished phones over new phones continues to climb and for good reason – there are so many benefits in it for you!
Learn what refurbished phones are, how to get the best price on a refurbished phone and all of the benefits you can reap from by making your next phone a refurbished one.
Apple iPhone SE Refurbished - $221
Apple iPhone X Refurbished - $289
Apple iPhone XS Refurbished - $289
Apple iPhone 11 Refurbished - $447
Apple iPhone 8 Refurbished - $160
Apple iPhone XR Refurbished - $276
Best refurbished iPhones
Apple iPhone SE Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone SE (Refurbished) | 64GB | $360 |
| Apple iPhone SE (Unlocked) | 64GB | $149 |
| Apple iPhone SE (AT&T) | 64GB | $149 |
| Apple iPhone SE (Verizon) | 64GB | $399 |
| Apple iPhone SE (T-Mobile) | 64GB | $359 |
Screen Size | 4.7" |
Screen Resolution | 1334 x 750 pixels |
HDR Screen | Yes pixels |
Processor | A13 Bionic pixels |
Internal Memory | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
Operating System | iOS 13 |
Back Camera | 12MP |
Front Camera | 7MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | 4K, FHD, HD |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 14 hours |
Dimensions | 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3mm |
Weight | 148g |
Splash Proof | IP67 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | Yes |
Pros
Compact and lightweight
Water-resistant
Amazing A13 chip performance
Affordable price
Touch ID
Cons
Battery capacity
Night mode is missed
Only a 5W charger
Apple iPhone X Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone X (Refurbished) | 64GB | $290 |
Screen Size | 5.8" |
Screen Resolution | 2436 x 1125 pixels |
HDR Screen | Yes pixels |
Processor | Apple A11 Bionic pixels |
Internal Memory | 64GB, 256GB |
Operating System | iOS 11 |
Back Camera | 12MP |
Front Camera | 7MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | HD, 4K |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 21 hours |
Dimensions | 143.6 x 70.9 x 7.7mm |
Weight | 174g |
Splash Proof | IP67 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | No |
Model Number | A1865 |
User Manual |
Pros
Fast processor
Facial recognition
Excellent screen
Impressive battery life
Cons
No fast charging plug included
Expensive price tag
No home button
Apple iPhone XS Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone XS (Refurbished) | 64GB | $378 |
| Apple iPhone XS (Unlocked) | 64GB | $619 |
Screen Size | 5.8" |
Screen Resolution | 2436 x 1125 pixels |
HDR Screen | Yes pixels |
Processor | Apple A12 Bionic pixels |
Internal Memory | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB |
Operating System | iOS 12 |
Back Camera | 12MP |
Front Camera | 7MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | HD, 4K |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 20 hours |
Dimensions | 143.6 x 70.9 x 7.7mm |
Weight | 177g |
Splash Proof | IP68 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | Yes |
Model Number | A1920 |
User Manual |
Pros
Great build and durability
Good speakers
Improved duel camera
Faster Face ID
Cons
Expensive
Average battery life
Glass front and back prone to damage
Apple iPhone 11 Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone 11 (Refurbished) | 64GB | $468 |
| Apple iPhone 11 (Unlocked) | 64GB | $349 |
| Apple iPhone 11 (AT&T) | 64GB | $349 |
| Apple iPhone 11 (Verizon) | 64GB | $599 |
| Apple iPhone 11 (T-Mobile) | 64GB | $599 |
Screen Size | 6.1" |
Screen Resolution | 1792 x 828 pixels |
HDR Screen | No pixels |
Processor | A13 Bionic pixels |
Internal Memory | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
Operating System | iOS 13 |
Back Camera | 12MP (Dual) |
Front Camera | 12MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | 4K, FHD, HD |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 17 hours (video playback) |
Dimensions | 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3mm |
Weight | 194g |
Splash Proof | IP68 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | Yes |
Model Number | A2111 |
User Manual |
Pros
Tougher and water resistant design
Great quality speakers
Good photos from main camera
Excellent selfie photo and video quality
Powerful A13 processor
Cons
No screen update
Storage starts at 64GB
Only a 5W charger included
Cheapest refurbished iPhones
Apple iPhone 7 Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone 7 (Refurbished) | 32GB | $98 |
Screen Size | 4.7" |
Screen Resolution | 1334 x 750 pixels |
HDR Screen | No pixels |
Processor | Apple A10 Fusion pixels |
Internal Memory | 32GB, 128GB, 256GB |
Operating System | iOS 10 |
Back Camera | 12MP |
Front Camera | 7MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | HD, 4K |
Wireless Charging | No |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 14 hours |
Standby Time | Up to 240 Hours |
Dimensions | 138.3 x 67.1 x 7.1mm |
Weight | 138g |
Splash Proof | IP67 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | No |
Model Number | A1660 |
User Manual |
Pros
Water resistance
Improved screen and battery life
Powerful dual speakers
Excellent camera
Incredible performance
Cons
No headphone jack
Poor battery life
No design change
Expensive
Apple iPhone 8 Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone 8 (Refurbished) | 64GB | $164 |
Screen Size | 4.7" |
Screen Resolution | 1334 x 750 pixels |
HDR Screen | No pixels |
Processor | Apple A11 Bionic pixels |
Internal Memory | 64GB, 256GB |
Operating System | iOS 11 |
Back Camera | 12MP |
Front Camera | 7MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | HD, 4K |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 14 hours |
Dimensions | 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3mm |
Weight | 148g |
Splash Proof | IP67 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | No |
Model Number | A1863 |
User Manual |
Pros
Super fast processor
Wireless charging
Good camera
Storage starts at 64GB
Cons
Old design
Disappointing battery life
No headphone jack
Apple iPhone XR Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone XR (Refurbished) | 64GB | $305 |
| Apple iPhone XR (Unlocked) | 64GB | $499 |
Screen Size | 6.1" |
Screen Resolution | 1792 x 828 pixels |
HDR Screen | No pixels |
Processor | Apple A12 Bionic pixels |
Internal Memory | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB |
Operating System | iOS 12 |
Back Camera | 12MP |
Front Camera | 7MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | HD, 4K |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 25 hours |
Dimensions | 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3mm |
Weight | 194g |
Splash Proof | IP67 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | Yes |
Model Number | A1984 |
User Manual |
Pros
Great photos and videos
Face ID
Wireless charging
Best iPhone battery life
Excellent performance with A12 Chip
Cons
Display is not great
Lower res screen
No 3D touch
No dual lens
Compare refurbished iPhone deals
Model | Condition | Memory | Compatibility | Price | Refurbished | 64GB | T-Mobile | $447 | Refurbished | 64GB | Verizon | $617 | Refurbished | 64GB | Unlocked | $695 | Refurbished | 16GB | AT&T | $62 | Refurbished | 16GB | AT&T | $87 | Refurbished | 32GB | AT&T | $71 | Refurbished | 16GB | AT&T | $111 | Refurbished | 32GB | AT&T | $69 | Refurbished | 32GB | Verizon | $166 | Refurbished | 64GB | AT&T | $160 | Refurbished | 64GB | Unlocked | $234 | Refurbished | 64GB | Verizon | $221 | Refurbished | 64GB | Verizon | $289 | Refurbished | 64GB | AT&T | $276 | Refurbished | 64GB | Verizon | $289 | Refurbished | 64GB | AT&T | $427 |
|---|
Best refurbished Samsung phones
Samsung Galaxy S20 5G Refurbished
Screen Size | 6.2" |
Screen Resolution | 3200 x 1440 pixels |
HDR Screen | Yes pixels |
Processor | Snapdragon 865 pixels |
Internal Memory | 128GB |
Operating System | Android 10.0 |
Back Camera | 12MP, 12MP, 64MP (Triple) |
Front Camera | 10MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | 4K, FHD, HD |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 28 hours |
Standby Time | Up to 10 days |
Dimensions | 151.7 x 69.1 x 7.9mm |
Weight | 163g |
Splash Proof | IP68 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | Yes |
User Manual |
Pros
Excellent camera
Brilliant screen
5G Connectivity
Cons
Expensive
Supports slower 5G
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy Note20 (Unlocked) | 128GB | $749 |
| Samsung Galaxy Note20 (AT&T) | 128GB | $749 |
| Samsung Galaxy Note20 (T-Mobile) | 128GB | $949 |
Screen Size | 6.7" |
Screen Resolution | 2400 x 1080 pixels |
HDR Screen | Yes pixels |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 Plus pixels |
Internal Memory | 128GB |
Operating System | Android 10 |
Back Camera | 12MP Ultra Wide, 12MP Wide-angle, 64MP Telephoto |
Front Camera | 10MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | HD, FHD, 4K UHD, 8K |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 34 hours |
Standby Time | Up to 11.8 days |
Dimensions | 161.6 x 75.2 x 8.3mm |
Weight | 194g |
Splash Proof | IP68 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | nano |
eSIM | Yes |
Pros
Cons
Cheapest refurbished Samsung phones
Samsung Galaxy S8 Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S8 (Refurbished) | 64GB | $118 |
Screen Size | 5.8" |
Screen Resolution | 2960 x 1440 pixels |
HDR Screen | No pixels |
Processor | Snapdragon 835 pixels |
Internal Memory | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
Operating System | Android 7.0 (Nougat) |
Back Camera | 12MP |
Front Camera | 8MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | HD, 4K |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 20 hours |
Dimensions | 148.9 x 68.1 x 8mm |
Weight | 155g |
Splash Proof | IP68 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | No |
Model Number | SM-G950U |
User Manual |
Pros
Excellent camera
Large and amazing display
Headphone jack
MicroSD Support
Cons
Poor Battery life
Badly placed fingerprint sensor
Fragile
Samsung Galaxy S9 Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S9 (Refurbished) | 64GB | $123 |
| Samsung Galaxy S9 (Unlocked) | 64GB | $329 |
Screen Size | 5.8" |
Screen Resolution | 2960 x 1440 pixels |
HDR Screen | Yes pixels |
Processor | Snapdragon 845 pixels |
Internal Memory | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
Operating System | Android 8.0 (Oreo) |
Back Camera | 12MP |
Front Camera | 8MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | HD, 4K |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Dimensions | 147.7 x 68.7 x 8.5mm |
Weight | 163g |
Splash Proof | IP68 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | No |
Model Number | SM-G960U |
User Manual |
Pros
Good quality speakers
Quality still and video quality
Fast processor
Amazing AMOLED screen
Cons
No change with design
Expensive
Only 720p resolution
Samsung Galaxy S10 Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S10 (Refurbished) | 128GB | $192 |
| Samsung Galaxy S10 (Unlocked) | 128GB | $529 |
Screen Size | 6.1" |
Screen Resolution | 3040 x 1440 pixels |
HDR Screen | Yes pixels |
Processor | Snapdragon 855 pixels |
Internal Memory | 128GB, 512GB |
Operating System | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
Back Camera | 12MP, 12MP, 16MP (Triple) |
Front Camera | 10MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | 4K, FHD, HD |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 34 hours |
Standby Time | Up to 3.67 days |
Dimensions | 149.9 x 70.4 x 7.8mm |
Weight | 157 g |
Splash Proof | IP68 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | No |
Model Number | SM-G973U |
User Manual |
Pros
Compact size
Amazing photo and video quality
Stunning display
Reverse wireless charging
Cons
Fingerprint reader accuracy
Average battery life
No auto focus on Ultra wide camera
Slow charging
Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy Note9 (Refurbished) | 128GB | $220 |
Screen Size | 6.4" |
Screen Resolution | 2960 x 1440 pixels |
HDR Screen | Yes pixels |
Processor | Snapdragon 845 pixels |
Internal Memory | 128GB, 512GB |
Operating System | Android 8.1 (Oreo) |
Back Camera | 12MP |
Front Camera | 8MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | HD, 4K |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 22 hours |
Dimensions | 161.8 x 76.5 x 8.9mm |
Weight | 201g |
Splash Proof | IP68 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | No |
Model Number | SM-N960U |
User Manual |
Pros
Excellent battery life
High end build
Great camera performance
Beautiful 6.4 inch Infinity display
Good storage options
Cons
Expensive
Heavy
Lacks Android 9.0 Pie
Too many small upgrades
Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Refurbished
| Device | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy Note10 (Refurbished) | 256GB | $339 |
Screen Size | 6.3" |
Screen Resolution | 2280 x 1080 pixels |
HDR Screen | Yes pixels |
Processor | 7nm 64-bit Octa-Core Processor pixels |
Internal Memory | 256GB |
Operating System | Android 9.0 |
Back Camera | 16MP Ultra Wide, 12MP Wide-angle, 12MP Telephoto |
Front Camera | 10MP |
HDR for Photos | Yes |
Video Resolution | 4K, FHD, HD |
Wireless Charging | Yes |
Voice Commands | Yes |
Talk Time | Up to 35.38 hours |
Standby Time | Up to 12.6 days |
Dimensions | 151 x 71.8 x 7.9mm |
Weight | 168g |
Splash Proof | IP68 |
Water Resistant | Yes |
WiFi & 4G Calling | Yes |
GPS | Yes |
SIM Card | Nano |
eSIM | No |
Model Number | SM-N970U |
User Manual |
Pros
Bright OLED screen
Excellent battery life
Great sounding speakers
Great image quality from camera
Generous 256GB storage
Cons
No headphone jack
Night Mode needs work
Ultra-wide angle camera lacks autofocus
Compare refurbished Samsung phone deals
Model | Condition | Memory | Compatibility | Price | Refurbished | 32GB | AT&T | $69 | Refurbished | 32GB | T-Mobile | $82 | Refurbished | 32GB | Unlocked | $112 | Refurbished | 64GB | Verizon | $107 | Refurbished | 128GB | Verizon | $165 | Refurbished | 128GB | T-Mobile | $203 | Refurbished | 256GB | T-Mobile | $270 | Refurbished | 256GB | AT&T | $360 | Refurbished | 128GB | Verizon | $659 | Refurbished | 128GB | AT&T | $941 | Refurbished | 64GB | Verizon | $189 | Refurbished | 128GB | AT&T | $207 | Refurbished | 128GB | Unlocked | $192 | Refurbished | 128GB | Unlocked | $315 | Refurbished | 128GB | Verizon | $229 | Refurbished | 128GB | Unlocked | $155 | Refurbished | 128GB | Verizon | $378 | Refurbished | 128GB | T-Mobile | $573 | Refurbished | 128GB | Verizon | $520 | Refurbished | 128GB | T-Mobile | $519 | Refurbished | 128GB | Unlocked | $545 | Refurbished | 32GB | AT&T | $59 | Refurbished | 32GB | AT&T | $98 | Refurbished | 64GB | AT&T | $102 | Refurbished | 64GB | AT&T | $139 | Refurbished | 64GB | Unlocked | $123 | Refurbished | 64GB | Unlocked | $137 |
|---|
Refurbished phone benefits
Whether the big phone companies like it or not, new phones just aren't as appealing anymore. The "next big thing" has become lackluster with the reality that there are minimal changes or upgrades between each generation of phone.
If you take an honest look at the differences between the Samsung Galaxy S8 and the Samsung Galaxy S9, you will discover that Samsung ultimately tweaked and fine-tuned their well-working S8 model and slapped a new name on it.
Other reasons people are choosing used and refurbished:
Saves you money – Buying used/refurbished can give you an amazing quality phone without breaking the bank.
Gives you the best bang for your buck – Buying a refurbished or used smartphone allows you to spend significantly less than a new phone.
Repairs aren't costly – Growing third-party-repair stores are able to offer services, such as fixing your cracked screen or adjusting your charging port, at prices much less than replacing your phone altogether.
Considerations when buying a refurbished phone
The refurbished market became the fastest growing smartphone segment in 2017. Only 25% of all pre-owned phones are sold back into the market and of these, only some are refurbished. This results in various grades of refurbished devices that attract different price points.
Because of the diversity in the market, some things you should consider buying refurbished include:
Warranty – Some buyback sites that offer pre-owned phones will offer different warranties. For example, Gazelle only offers a 30-day warranty, while Decluttr generously offers a year warranty.
Returns – No need to make a fuss if the refurbished phone you bought doesn't meet your needs - if it comes with a return policy. Typically, buyback sites will offer a 30-day return policy.
Certification – If the refurbished smartphone you're looking into buying is "certified," this means it has undergone various testing for functionality and quality assurance before being sold.
Payment options – Some sites, like Gazelle, offer monthly payment options, which helps make purchasing that smartphone you've been eyeing even more affordable for you.
Buy time – Be sure to get the best deal when a new phone comes out. For example, the best time to buy a Samsung Galaxy S8 is when the Samsung Galaxy S9 has been released.
Where to buy refurbished phones
There's no need to spend hours on end trying to find the best deal on your next mobile device, MoneySavingPro has already done the hard work for you. By reviewing our comparison tool, you will be sure to find a phone that has the best price for you.
But we didn't stop there, we have also scoured the internet to find the best places to buy used cell phones.
Sell your old phone for cash
Another way to put extra money in your pocket is by selling your old cell phone online. While you could trade your phone in with your current carrier, you'll get a much better price selling it on your own.
If your phone is still functioning properly and doesn't have cosmetic damage, you can make major bank!
Switch to a cheaper cell phone plan
Your money-saving doesn't have to stop at buying a refurbished phone. Another surefire way to save money is switching to an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator).
Simply put, MVNO's are small carriers that lease service and tower storage for the big three – Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. MVNO companies buy in bulk, so they are able to turn around and sell it to consumers at a much more affordable price.
T-Mobile vs Mint Mobile Plan Comparison
Keep your T-Mobile phone, number & coverage: Save $540 per year
Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile 4G LTE | Unltd* | $60/mo | $720/yr | |
| T-Mobile 4G LTE | 4GB | $15/mo | $180/yr | |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $45/mo | $540/yr | |
Cheap carrier benefits
Prepaid phone plans with no contracts
Customizable plans so only pay for what you use.
High customer service ratings.
Keep your current number.
No loss in cell phone coverage.
Best bring your own phone plans
Carrier | Network | Minutes | Texts | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | 1GB | $7.50** 25% Off for 6 Months | |
AT&T | Unltd | Unltd | 2GB | $15** 25% Off for 3 Months | |
T-Mobile & Verizon | Unltd | Unltd | Unltd | $25** $20 Off for 3 Months | |
T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | 10GB | $20** $60 for 3 Months Service | |
AT&T | Unltd | Unltd | 6GB | $22.50** 25% Off for 3 Months |
Refurbished cell phones FAQs
What is the average cost of a refurbished phone?
The average cost depends on the phone model, but you can save around 15% off the retail cost of the original price.
What does a refurbished phone mean?
It's a used phone that's been put back to factory settings and has gone through testing. It's often checked and verified before being resold.
Are refurbished phones worth it?
They're a great option if you're looking to upgrade your handset at a discounted price. Most refurbished phones are quality checked before being sold and some come with a 6 or 12 month warranty.
Which is better used or refurbished cell phones?
Refurbished phones are repaired to be like new, whereas used phones are not repaired so will be available at a much cheaper cost and are sold as seen.
Recap
Upgrading your smartphone doesn't have to put a dent in your wallet.
You can save and potentially make money by:
Buying a used phone from a trusted site.
Switch to a cheaper cell phone plan from a low-cost carrier.
Sell your old phone for cash.
Deal of the Month: Pure Talk - $250 Off iPhone 12