How long should refurbished phones last?

Simply put: refurbished phones are used phones that have been cleaned, repaired, and tested to work like new. They can be a great way to save money on a smartphone, but how long should you expect them to last?

Believe it or not, refurbished phones can and should last just as long as new phones, if not longer. In fact, many people believe that refurbished phones are better value than new phones, because they are often more affordable and come with a warranty.

At giffgaff, we’re huge fans of refurbished phones. And, as a B Corp, we’ve made it our mission to convert as many phone lovers as possible to buy refurbished and help us build a more sustainable planet.

What affects the lifespan of a refurbished phone?

The lifespan of a refurbished phone can depend on its age, condition and how you use it.

The age of the phone

In general, older phones will not last as long as newer phones. This is because older phones are more likely to have outdated hardware and software, which can make them slower and less reliable.

Whether your phone is new or refurbished, be sure to research how old the model is, and whether software updates are still being released to keep the phone running smoothly.

At giffgaff, all our refurbished phones come with an 80% battery life promise, plus up to 24 months warranty, so you can be sure you’re getting a phone that will last.

The condition of the phone

Refurbished phones that are in good condition are more likely to last longer than phones that are in poor condition. This is because phones that are in good condition are less likely to have been damaged or have underlying problems with their hardware or software.

Most retailers selling refurbished phones will give them a grade to indicate the physical condition of the handset. Opting for a phone that has been slightly better cared for will give you peace of mind that all internal hardware is also well maintained.

At giffgaff, we offer four different levels of refurbished phones based on their physical condition:

• Like new: So good, you’ll think it’s brand new. In fact, most of these are new; they have been bought new and returned unused. We still check for faults and data cleanse them, so you’re good to go.
• Excellent: These phones might have some light marks on the body. But we make sure the screens look pristine and that they run like new. Result.
• Very good: Phones that have enjoyed a bit of time in pockets and bags, and therefore might have a few marks on the body. But the screens are pristine, they’ll be data cleansed and better value for your cash. Nice one
• Good: Loved by their previous owners, so you might see more wear and tear. But trust us, these cheeky devices are beautiful on the inside and eagerly await a new home.

See our guide to refurbished phones for a full breakdown.

The way you use the phone

The way you use your phone can also affect its lifespan, and that goes for whether it’s new or refurbished. For example, if you drop your phone often or use it in extreme conditions, it is more likely to break down sooner. And don’t get us started on water damage.

The hands down best way to make your phone last longer, is to treat it with care.

How to extend the life of your refurbished phone

While there’s little you can do about the age of your phone, there are ways you can help your handset live a long, happy life. Here’s how.

Take care of your phone

As we’ve already mentioned, it’s important to take care of your handset. This means taking steps to protect it from damage, such as dropping it or getting it wet. Keep your phone in a protective case and use a screen protector to the front from being damaged.

You should also keep your phone clean and free of dirt and dust by gently cleaning out the ports regularly.

Update the software

Software updates often include security patches and bug fixes that can help to keep your phone running smoothly and prevent problems.

Set your phone to accept updates automatically to help keep it in top-notch conditions and protected from bugs and viruses.

Keep your phone backed up

Let’s face it. Sometimes life just happens. Keeping copies of your data, such as your photos, contacts, and messages is always a good idea. That way, if your phone breaks down, you can easily restore your data from your backup.

Do refurbished phones last as long as new?

Refurbished phones can last just as long as new phones, if not longer. In fact, many people believe that refurbished phones are better value than new phones because they are often more affordable and come with a warranty.

Here are some reasons why refurbished phones can be a good value:

Affordability

Refurbished phones are often more affordable than new phones. This is because they have already been used and have been repaired or updated, so are sold at a discounted price.

Warranty

Many refurbished phones come with a warranty. At giffgaff, we always give you up to 24 months warranty on a refurbished phone. This means that if the phone breaks down, you can get it repaired or replaced for free.

Quality

Refurbished phones are often just as good as new phones. They are inspected and repaired by certified technicians, and they come with all the same features and functionality as new phones.

Sold on refurbished phones? Explore our full range of refurbished handsets and fall in love with your next phone. All phones are available to buy upfront, or in smaller instalments.