Planning to Buy Second-Hand Phones in Australia? Here’s A Checklist You Need to Follow

Companies will always make you believe that a brand new phone is better because it gives you the latest features and functions you ever want to have. But buying used phones can also give you the same benefits while saving your money.

So, if you’re planning to buy second-hand or used mobile phones in Australia, you must be skeptical of your decision as it brings so much risk. Either the phone is going to stay long with you, the battery timings will be long-lasting or the other functions would be great as seems?

Let's say you want the iPhone XS Max but don't have a budget for a new one, buying second hand can solve that problem for you.

But if you follow this checklist, you’re going to save yourself from drowning in the pitfalls.

1. Is it looking fine from the outside?

First time when the phone comes in your hand, inspect it physically. See if the screen is free from any dents or scratches, suspect the condition by touching the screen. If it seems rough to touch or seems cracked then it’s a sign that the touch can get mad in the future. Also, check the camera lens and see if it’s free from any type of scratches. Light wear and tear can be expected which can be covered up by phone covers or case.

2. Check the Inside

You can figure out many things if you look at the phone with a bird’s eye view. A thorough check on the ports, battery condition, push-pin slots for SIM and micro SD cards can alert you if there’s something wrong.

3. Charge it on the Spot

Sellers can bluff you by giving the fully charged device and not allowing you to charge on the spot. So, whenever you opt for second-hand phones in Australia, remember to keep the charger with you. Charge it on the location and test if it’s getting charged smoothly. If you have one, take an external battery pack with you.

4. Pop in your SIM card

Enter your SIM card and check if the device isn’t locked to any network. Also try making a call, browsing, and texting. If your device is locked you can immediately ask the seller to unlock it. It will save you from the misfortunes later.

5. Check the Sounds

Take any other device and call on your smartphone, check if the speakers are working fine. Also, during the call, adjust the volume buttons to test their working. Next, place the call from your device and test the outgoing.

 6. Check the Phone Storage

If you love to have apps on your smartphone then storage should be the main concern. Go to the settings and check the phone storage capacity to ensure that you’re getting the best phone deal possible.

7. WiFi

Try connecting it to a nearby WiFi network to see if the device has no issues in connecting to other networks.

 8. Check the Buttons

Don’t forget to test the responsiveness of the buttons. Click each button and see if they’re well-functioned.

9. Camera (Front & Back)

Take photos with a front view and back view to see if the camera results aren’t fading. Some smartphones have a great front and back camera like Apple iPhones and Samsung phones. Running this small test will hook you up about the camera results.

10. Check if the phone isn’t stolen

Always make sure you aren’t buying the stolen device by running an IMEI test. There are various online resources and tools to check if the phone is legit. Be Careful!

Used Smartphones can be a great deal and you can end up with an iPhone SE 2 or a high quality refurbished Samsung S23 Ultra or any other phone you wish if you follow the above checklist before purchasing. A short test right on the spot can tell you many things about the phone’s condition. So, instead of regretting your decision in the end, run a short test to inquire about the device.

Want to know more about second-hand phones in Australia? Let us know in the comments below and check this out if you are interested in the Google Pixel phones.