Owning a smartphone is a necessity but, for many of us, buying a brand-new device isn't always feasible. Good thing is that second hand phones are always an option.
The Philippines is not new to the second hand market when it comes to gadgets. However, buying one still requires careful consideration so you can be sure that you're getting a good deal. If you're in the market for a new-to-you phone, here are seven when buying a second hand phone. Read on because we saved the best tip for last.
Choose the model wisely
It’s always important to choose the right model when buying a phone, especially if you're on a budget. Although it’s tempting to just go with the newest mid-range option, a flagship phone from just a year ago can often offer better value for your money.
Why is that? Despite being slightly older, flagship phones come with top-of-the-line features and specifics that can outshine many of today's mid-range models. These include superior cameras, powerful processors, and cutting-edge displays.
Plus, going for a year-old flagship can often save you some cash compared to buying a brand new mid-range device. Technology moves fast, and sometimes the performance difference between last year's flagship and this year's mid-range is minimal for everyday use.
Read next: 7 Comparisons: A New Mid Range Phone vs A Second Hand Flagship
Make sure the seller is trustworthy
It’s a common choice to buy a second hand phone from a buy-and-sell group or platform like Carousell or Facebook Marketplace. However, you still need to ensure that the listings you’re checking for second hand phones are authentic. Verify the photos to know whether they are genuine sellers or potentially posting misleading ads.
One thing to consider when assessing a seller is the account’s age. If it’s older, it often means they are reliable. Whereas, newly created accounts should raise some concerns. You should also be cautious of sellers that offer super low prices. And if they’re asking for upfront payments, these are common signs of potential scams.
Also, it's best to avoid sellers who seem hurried or reluctant to let you inspect the phone. It's better to buy from trustworthy sellers or people you know. If purchasing from someone you don't know, check for reviews or feedback. And remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Read next: 3 Best Places to Buy a Secondhand iPhone in 2024
Check for defects
Inspect the second hand phone for any defects or damages. Check the screen for scratches, cracks, or dead pixels. A badly dented phone not only suggests poor care but also provides leverage for negotiation later on.
Test all buttons, ports, and features to ensure they are functioning properly. Pay close attention to the battery life and performance. Ask the seller for the phone's history, including any repairs or replacements.
For iPhones, ensure there's no active Apple ID linked to the device. Test features like True Tone and Face ID to verify that they're functioning properly. These indicators can hint at whether the phone is using its original screen or has undergone repairs.
Read next: 9 things to check when buying a second-hand iPhone
Check network lock
One thing you don’t want to miss is whether the second hand phone is network locked. Smart locked devices only work with Smart Communications' network and require a Smart sim card. Globe locked devices only work with Globe Telecom's network and need a Globe sim card.
Be sure that the second hand phone is not locked to a specific network carrier, especially if you plan to use it with a different SIM card. A locked phone will limit your options and surely incur additional expenses if you need to unlock it.
Read next: 5 Differences Between a Locked vs. Unlocked Phone
Ask for meet-up
Once you’ve finalized the deal on your second hand phone, ask for a meet-up. It’s often the best approach since meeting in person lets you inspect the device firsthand and ensure it meets your expectations.
But where should you meet? Opting for a public location is a smart move. Not only does it provide a neutral ground for both parties, but it also adds an extra layer of safety. It’s also best if ever you need assistance or want someone nearby for peace of mind.
Choose a bustling coffee shop or a well-lit shopping mall. It's important to prioritize safety and peace of mind throughout the entire transaction process.
Read next: 7 Key Questions to Ask when buying Second Hand Smartphones
Choose a reliable payment option
Cash still remains a reliable option when it comes to payment methods. However, e-wallets have been increasingly convenient too. E-wallets offer a hassle-free way to make transactions, and with the option for cash forwarding or "padala" , they provide added flexibility. Still, it's important to be cautious especially when you need to make an advance or down payments.
If you need to make a down payment, verify the recipient's identity first. You can do this by contacting them directly or cross-checking their account for any suspicious activities. Scams using fraudulent accounts are not uncommon, so always take precautions to protect your funds. You can ask for a copy of their ID or even request a video call for validation before making any payments.
Experience peace of mind at CompAsia
When it comes to buying a second hand phone, choosing the right retailer is just as important as selecting the model itself. CompAsia is the leading second-hand device retailer offering a seamless and secure shopping experience. Buying from CompAsia vs. elsewhere essentially removes the risks linked with buying from individual sellers because it is a reputable retailer.
One of the biggest advantages of buying at CompAsia is the wide range of models available. Whether you're looking for the latest flagship or a budget-friendly option, CompAsia has something for everyone. You can browse through our extensive selection without worrying about potential scams or fraudulent sellers.
Unlike buying from individual sellers, there's no need for meet-ups when you shop at CompAsia. We offer fast and reliable delivery straight to your doorstep, saving you time and hassle. Plus, all phones purchased from CompAsia come with a free 1-month warranty, providing you with peace of mind and assurance.
When it comes to payment options, CompAsia offers a variety of reliable payment methods to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer to pay with cash on delivery, credit card, or e-wallet, we make it easy for you to complete your purchase securely.
What sets CompAsia apart is our rigorous quality checks. Every phone undergoes a 32-step inspection process to ensure that it meets our high standards of quality and reliability. You can rest assured that you're getting a top-notch device that's free from defects.
All product descriptions are posted on our website, complete with cosmetic grading and information about whether the phone is network-locked. This transparency lets you make an informed decision and choose the perfect phone for your needs.
When you buy at CompAsia, you can shop with confidence knowing that you're getting a quality second hand phone backed by a reputable retailer.
Read next: 5 Things to Expect When Buying from CompAsia
Get Your Second Hand Phone at CompAsia
CompAsia offers a wide range of certified second hand phones, backed by quality assurance and reliable customer support. With CompAsia, you can shop with confidence and enjoy the benefits of owning a high-quality phone at an affordable price.
Visit CompAsia now to explore our collection of certified second hand phones and enjoy great deals and discounts. Experience the convenience and affordability of buying second hand phones at CompAsia today!
