Forum Discussion

Nathan's avatar
Nathan
SMARTY Moderator
08-12-2022

[Open Discussion] Do you buy refurbished tech?

I haven't bought a new laptop or phone in years. Mainly because when I upgrade, I buy a refurbished device. 

With bills spiralling for everyone, I can’t figure out why more people don’t do this. Based on my number I’ve saved £400 on my last two upgrades! 

I usually opt for the best conditions refurbished devices (Most retailers offer devices in varying conditions). Each time I’ve received a new device. My last one even came in the original retail box. 

I compiled a list of tech and potential savings buying refurbished below. Hope it’s helpful: 

 

Device 

New Price 

Best Refurb Price (Great Condition) 

Saving % 

iPhone 13 

£749 

£630 

£119 

MacBook Pro 2020  

£1,149 

£900 

£249 

Samsung S22 

£769 

£619 

£150 

iPad 2020 

£369 

£190 

£179 

 

Does anyone else know of some decent places to locate refurbished tech or do you always buy new? 

I’ve also attached a picture of the refurbished MacBook Pro 2020 I bought recently. It’s new and saved me £300 

Device
Refurbished
Savings

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  • Michael_T's avatar
    Michael_T
    SMARTY Teamster
    08-12-2022

    Refurbished is a great way to buy, however you should give careful consideration to battery life in refurbished items, because the standards do differ from the resellers.  Look at the cost of the battery replacement, and compare that to the new price of the item.  I know Apple guarantee batteries for 2 years, despite the 1 year warranty when you by new, and often that battery is around 90% capacity after 2 years, depending how you use your device, which can mean the saving you make is negated by then cost of that battery replacement much sooner than if you bought it new.  I’ve bought private, little use or unused from private sellers in the past, to make the saving and still benefit from decent battery life.