Second-hand products are not Refurbished. We explain the differences on this page. In principle, there are three types of product condition when it comes to electricals.

As good as new

You could say that Refurbished and Second-hand are the same; they have both been used and not bought new. Refurbished, however, differs from second-hand because Refurbished goods are checked and overhauled. Refurbished goods are thoroughly tested for quality and function and, if necessary, parts are replaced or repaired. Then the device is cleaned and the data is deleted. The software is updated to the latest version.

Refurbished vs used electronics

Here are some of the main differences between refurbished and used products:

Seller: used products come straight from the previous consumer. Refurbished products are sold by retailers or manufacturers.

Cost: in most cases, a used item will be cheaper than a refurbished one. Both refurbished and used products are cheaper than new devices.

Warranties: many refurbished devices come with a warranty. The length of the warranty could be between 90 days and one year, depending on who did the refurbishing and the seller you are buying the product from. It also may depend on the age of the device, and refurbish category. Used products usually come with no or a limited warranty as they have not been checked and are being sold by the previous user.

Like-new condition: refurbished device sellers repair every damaged component of an electronic device in the refurbishing process and make sure the refurbished device works properly. They also clean the product and replace worn exterior parts like faceplates and buttons in many cases. But used devices are available just the way they are; they may be kept good and have only scratches and battery degradation, and may come with damages that affect usability.

Accessories: Depending on the seller, many refurbished items come with all their accessories, a brand-new box, and cable. Used electronic devices may come with or without their box, cable, and accessories. Clearly, accessories that come with a used product might be used by the previous user.

To conclude this refurbished vs used post, here are the most important differences between new, refurbished, and used electronics in a table: