Hello! I’m Stephen from Nigeria’s leading phone engineering company, and today, I want to share some valuable insights on how to buy a used smartphone. Here are five essential things you should know before spending your hard-earned money on a new device.
You might have seen offers like a UK used iPhone 6s for 100,000 Naira, while a brand new one costs around 180,000 Naira. It’s clear that UK used smartphones are still a great option here in Nigeria. Many people are turning to these devices to get flagship quality at a more affordable price, especially since flagship phones are becoming increasingly expensive.
I recently conducted a mini poll on Twitter with over 600 participants, and nearly half of them found value in purchasing used smartphones. In my experience, I’ve used over 50 smartphones, but I’ve only bought two as used devices.
Let’s dive into the first tip: Where to Buy. The best place to purchase a refurbished smartphone is directly from the manufacturer. For example, Apple has a certified refurbished program that offers a one-year warranty, and you can save up to $350 on some models. Websites like Amazon also provide certified refurbished or renewed smartphones, complete with a rating system that helps you gauge the seller’s reliability.
In Nigeria, local platforms like Jiji (formerly OLX) allow users to post ads for buying or selling smartphones. When using these sites, always check the seller’s ratings and look for any warranty offered. It’s also crucial to ensure there’s a return policy in place. Make sure to read the product description carefully and, if possible, contact the seller directly for more information.
The second tip is Questions to Ask the Seller. When I purchased my smartphone online, I made sure to ask about the device’s condition. I requested images and even a video from the seller. It’s important to know the age of the device and how long it has been in use. Most used flagship smartphones are typically between one to two years old.
Now, let’s move on to the third tip: Check the Device’s History. When buying offline or if the seller brings the device to you, find out if the smartphone was stolen or repaired. For instance, if you’re considering an iPhone, you can check its IMEI number by dialing *#06#. Then, visit IMEI.info to verify the device’s details. This helps ensure you’re getting what you paid for.
The fourth tip is Examine the Physical Condition. Inspect the smartphone for any dents or damages. Make sure to check if it charges properly and test the speakers. Carry a power bank to ensure you can test the battery life. For iPhones, you can check the battery health in the settings, while Android users can download apps like Geekbench 4 to get detailed battery information.
Finally, consider Swapping Devices. Many people are now exchanging their old smartphones for newer models. In places like Computer Village in Lagos, you can swap an iPhone X for an XS Max and only pay half the price. Companies like TECNO are also offering discounts for trading in old smartphones for new ones.
In conclusion, always read the fine print to understand what you’re getting. These tips should help you make an informed decision when purchasing a used smartphone. If you have any questions or if I missed anything, feel free to reach out in the comments section. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to sharing more insights with you soon!
