Feeling apprehensive about buying second-hand or refurbished devices is understandable. You may have heard rumors and myths that cause you to hesitate. In this article, we'll debunk seven common misconceptions to help you make an informed decision.
The truth is, these devices can be a great way to get top-notch quality at a fraction of the price. With some research and knowledge of the product, you can be sure to get a great deal. So, let's get started and debunk the myths!
Myth 1: Second hand and refurbished devices are the same
Refurbished and second-hand devices are not the same. Refurbished devices are those that have undergone some form of tampering, this could mean that parts may have been replaced or more. When buying refurbished devices, it is important that the replacement parts are authentic and function properly.
Second-hand devices, on the other hand, are previously owned. When purchased from a trustworthy retailer, they are examined, cleaned, and any data left over from the previous owner is wiped. At CompAsia, we perform a 32-step quality check on all devices before putting them up for sale. This is to ensure that the device is 100% functional and has at least 80% battery health.
Myth 2: Refurbished devices are superior to second-hand devices
People often assume that refurbished devices are a better option than second-hand ones, but pre-owned devices can perform just as well depending on where you buy it from. For one, there can be some cases where refurbished products have been tampered with and replaced with low-quality replacement components. Therefore, when considering refurbished products, it is important to keep this in mind and weigh the risks and benefits.
As with second hand devices, some concerns stem from the fact that private sellers often do not provide an accurate grading for the product. However, buying from trusted retailers like us usually doesn't come with this risk, since we meticulously check the devices we sell and provide after sales care such as warranties and more.
Myth 3: Second-hand devices are not safe
You've probably heard that second-hand devices aren't safe to use, but that's not true! It's easy to "wipe" off any data and reset it to factory standards, so you don't have to worry about viruses or malware. Most devices also get software and security updates and directly from the manufacturers to keep devices free from malware.
As for data wiping, CompAsia goes the extra mile to perform a thorough security wipe with a program called Blancco. Blancco is a reputable data security tech company that sets the international standards for data safety so you never have to worry about security issues when buying from us.
Myth 4: Second hand devices are slow and run poorly compared to new gadgets
Let's be honest―it's misguided to think that a second-hand device won't last. With new models released every few months, it's easy to think that older devices are no longer useful. But in reality, they can still work well for years.
When you buy a second-hand device from CompAsia, you can be sure the battery will retain at least 80% of its original capacity. Most of these devices are also tested to ensure that they are still in good condition. In fact, a recent survey found that only 2 out of every 10 people can properly differentiate a brand new phone from an excellent grade second-hand phone from CompAsia. This applies to both cosmetic factors as well as operating the phone.
Myth 5: Second-hand devices do not have warranties
This is a bit of a gamble, as this myth has been circulated by resellers. It is possible that you won't get a warranty when you buy a used device from a private seller or dealer. This leaves buyers feeling uncertain about the condition of the device, and whether or not they will be covered in the case of any faults or defects. However, if you purchase a second-hand device from CompAsia, you will get a 1-month warranty that can be extended to 12 months. You also have access to our customer care team who will gladly assist you on any concerns that may arise regarding your purchase.
Myth 6: Second hand devices are not original and may have been stolen
It is often believed that second-hand devices are not genuine, or could have been stolen. This is not the case. For instance, second-hand devices from CompAsia are genuine Apple or Android models that have been legally purchased from the previous owner, a company, or a retailer.
Before being sold, these units are checked against the blacklist database to verify that they have not been reported as lost or stolen. If a device requires any repairs, only genuine parts are used to guarantee compatibility and functionality.
As a leading e-commerce platform that sells second hand gadgets, CompAsia works with telcos, manufacturers, and retailers to obtain high quality second hand devices. CompAsia has strict policies on how it handles second hand devices that were bought from their sources. These devices are then thoroughly tested by a team of experts who ensure that they work perfectly before they are shipped to our customers.
Myth 7: You never know what quality second hand device you will receive
Second-hand devices are graded based on their cosmetic condition to indicate the device’s physical appearance. When buying a used device, it's important to pay attention to the condition it's listed under to understand what to expect.
CompAsia grades from Excellent (near new) to Fair (with visible wear and tear) to manage buyer expectations. Prices will vary depending on the condition, allowing you to save more by opting for a lower grade. To avoid fake devices, make sure to purchase from a reliable seller such as CompAsia.
Conclusion
When shopping for second-hand devices, just remember to check out the reputation of the reseller and the possibility of after-sales customer care, such as warranties or more. With just a bit of guidance and the right info, you can be sure to have a positive and rewarding experience when buying second-hand gadgets.
CompAsia is the leading retailer for second-hand devices. With an extensive selection of popular brands, a 32-step quality check, and a generous warranty policy, you can trust that the device you purchase from us will be in great condition and offer great value. So why wait? Shop at CompAsia today and find the perfect device for your needs and budget!
