Are you ready to replace your phone? There are lots of options available. Whether you want an iPhone or an Android, there are plenty of ways to maximize performance, get the latest features, and stay on budget. And should you shop for new vs. used devices? Read on to learn when to buy a new phone—and when to hit the secondary market.
You Want the Latest and Greatest
If you want a pre-owned or refurbished phone, such as those available from Plug Tech, your options may be limited to handsets that have been returned or traded. In many cases, it’s impossible to find used versions of new, in-demand phones. If you’ve got your heart set on having the latest model the day it comes out, you will have to buy new. This is the biggest downside of the new vs. used devices debate.
You’re On a Tight Budget
This one’s the most obvious among the reasons people buy used phones. Pre-owned devices offer significant savings, especially for higher-end models. The savings may allow you to buy the handset you want instead of settling for your second choice.
Refurbished pre-owned phones may be an option if you choose a model but its new price will blow your budget. By buying used, you can get the features you want at a price you can afford.
You Need a Warranty
Smartphones aren’t cheap, and when you buy one, you want reassurance that it will last. New phones typically come with one-year warranties against manufacturing defects, as well as options for extended coverage. By comparison, refurbished devices typically have shorter warranties. If you want the peace of mind that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, a new phone is the best choice.
You’re Concerned About the Environment
Significant resources—including minerals, metals, water, and electricity—go into the manufacturing of new phones. By buying used, you’ll minimize the environmental impact of the purchase and keep a useful device out of the landfill. If you’re not worried about your carbon footprint, buy new; if you are, buy used. The environmental impacts of new vs. used devices is significantly different, so shop accordingly.
Battery Life is Essential
Today’s phones have built-in batteries, which are nearly impossible to remove. Therefore, refurbished devices may or may not come with new batteries. Our pre-owned phones are tested for battery function, but a new device will provide the best battery life.
Replacing a Broken, Stolen, or Lost Phone
If the unthinkable happens and your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged—and you lack insurance—a new phone might not be in the budget. In such cases, refurbished and used devices are a great, cost-effective choice.
You Don’t Switch Phones Often
Hanging on to your old phone may help the environment, but it’s not always the best idea. The oldest devices may not support new software updates, leaving them incompatible with new apps and vulnerable to exploits. Depending on the manufacturer and model, your phone may receive updates for up to five years. If you tend to hold onto phones longer, buying new ones ensures a longer support period.
You Want a Discontinued Model
In some cases, the only way to access older models is to buy a used phone. Most people have preferences as far as size, storage capacity, and color are concerned, and finding a pre-owned device that checks all the boxes may be difficult. Stores usually have more options for new handsets than for used devices.
Find What You’re Looking For
Any phone purchase, from new to refurbished, is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. List your must-haves, then shop with us. We’ll help you find the phone you want without breaking the bank.
