7 golden tips for the best deal

Those looking for a second-hand iPhone can browse auction sites such as Marktplaats, or purchase a refurbished copy from a store. Whatever choice you make: pay attention to these 7 things.

Buying a used iPhone: 7 tips

Unlike Android phones, iPhones are fairly stable in value. This is especially useful when you are going to sell your device, but not when you are in the market for a new phone. However, it is possible to save on a second-hand iPhone, as long as you know the tricks.

1. Choose the right moment

Timing is important, even when it comes to buying a second-hand iPhone. Apple introduces new phones every year, usually in September. Also this year: on September 14, Apple unveiled the new iPhone 13 series.

When you’re looking for a second-hand iPhone, you should be alert during the weeks before and just after the unveiling. Second-hand sellers want to sell their old iPhone so that they can buy the new model. Because the supply is higher than the demand, prices are depressed. We see this phenomenon every year, so take advantage of it.

2. Compare used iPhone prices

Never grab the first best second-hand iPhone, but always look around first. There are plenty of Apple phone sellers out there, so take a look at multiple lots. For example, check the first 20 results on popular sites such as Marktplaats, eBay and Tweede.nl. Also, don’t forget the local Facebook groups, where people near you sell their used iPhones.

Don’t forget refurbished iPhones

There are also plenty of stores that sell refurbished iPhones. These devices have been in use before, but have been completely checked for proper technical functioning. Any defective parts have also been repaired and/or replaced. Refurbished iPhones always work like new, but may have some signs of wear. These are subdivided into certain conditions.

Of course you pay more than for a second-hand iPhone from a private individual, but you do get more security there. You get a warranty with a refurbished device. We recommend that you only buy from webshops with the Refurbished Quality Mark. These shops meet the quality requirements, give a guarantee and give home in case of complaints. The video below explains briefly and concisely what refurbished is exactly.

You can compare all refurbished iPhones yourself via the button below. You filter by model, storage capacity, condition and color options, among other things. It also indicates which shops carry the Refurbished Quality Mark.

→ Compare refurbished iPhones

3. Check the seller

Once you’ve found a second-hand iPhone for a good price, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Make sure you know who you’re dealing with and don’t just send the device. Preferably visit a family member or friend (with knowledge) so that you can check the iPhone and avoid getting scammed.

Marktplaats has by far the most second-hand iPhones, although this also includes new devices. Although the choice is widest here, they do not work with a seller rating system. That is annoying, because you always have to be extra careful that you do not buy a pig in a poke.

The offer on competing sales sites is often smaller, but sometimes more reliable. For example, on platforms such as Tweakers you can read experiences of other buyers with a particular seller.

Do you decide to have the second-hand iPhone shipped without having seen the device first? Always pay via a buyer protection service, such as PayPal. If your Apple phone is not delivered, you will at least get your money back that way. Marktplaats has a similar function.

4. Check the condition of the iPhone

The tricky thing about second-hand sales websites is that you often cannot check the condition of an object, although the description (with photos) usually indicates what to expect. If you have the option to pick up the second-hand iPhone, that is of course no problem.

Our advice: take the time to check the device on a number of critical points and only complete the deal when you’re sure it’s all right. If you find out afterwards that things are not right, it is probably difficult to get your money back.

Make it easy on yourself and go through the checklist below:

• Do all buttons work? Does anything happen when you press them? If they don’t work properly, don’t buy the iPhone.
• Are the camera and flash functioning properly? Try them both. Are you buying a device with Face ID such as the iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro? Check whether the selfie camera recognizes your face well.
• Are there no cracks on the front or back? Also look for smaller scratches and damage by shining your flashlight over the housing.
• Does the touchscreen respond well to touch? Swipe through the interface for a while and play a game to make sure.
• Are there no dead pixels in the screen? Tip: go to the website dodepixels.nl and check if you see a deviation in the screen.
• Doesn’t the iPhone rattle when you shake it lightly?
• Are all accessories (USB cable and charger) present? You probably don’t need used earplugs, but it is important that the original charger is included.
• Does the seller still have the original packaging and purchase receipt?
• Does the sound work well? Check this by playing a video.
• Is the device unlocked? Check this by inserting your own SIM card into the iPhone.
• Does the iPhone have water damage? This is the case when the liquid damage indicator is colored red. You can find this at the holder for your SIM card.

4. Make sure the iPhone isn’t stolen

If you have found an apparently reliable seller, it is still wise to check the serial or IMEI number. You can find this number via ‘Settings > General > About’ and can use it to check whether a device has been stolen or not. Go to StopHeling.nl, an official website of the Police, and enter the iPhone code. This method is not foolproof, but it can prevent a lot of trouble.

5. Request proof of purchase

Proof of purchase is important, even when you buy a second-hand iPhone. It offers a lot of certainty when the seller can show you where he/she bought the device. Proof of purchase is usually not necessary to make use of the (remaining) warranty, but its presence gives you as a buyer a lot of confidence.

6. Check the warranty

According to Apple, you are entitled to a one-year warranty, but that is in violation of European regulations. It states that you are entitled to a warranty period of two years. Apple itself does not report this, but when you contact customer service you ‘just’ get a two-year warranty.

This is useful to know, especially when you buy a second-hand iPhone that is less than two years old. Please do familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions before contacting Apple.

In general, manufacturing errors or other defects that are demonstrably not caused by your use will be reimbursed. This does not include fall or water damage. You can of course insure your iPhone for this.

7. Consider whether the savings are worth it

Second-hand iPhones are usually quite pricey. Therefore, consider for yourself whether the savings are worth it compared to a new model. If it only saves a few bucks, you might be wise to go for a new model or purchase a refurbished iPhone.

Do you have a relatively old iPhone in mind? Then a second-hand copy is particularly interesting. Apple does not often lower its suggested retail prices, while the device is getting older in the meantime.

On the other hand, it is often not so convenient to buy a relatively new iPhone second-hand. The difference between the new and second-hand price is not that big.

iPhone used or buy new?

You should now have a good idea of ​​all the things you should consider when purchasing a second-hand iPhone. Is the saving compared to a new model less than you had hoped?

Then use our iPhone price comparison tool to find a model that suits your needs and budget. We also have a refurbished iPhone price comparison. These devices are priced slightly more competitively, but are technically equivalent to new iPhones. Below we have highlighted some interesting and good, but affordable iPhones for you.