Amazon Refurbished Phones: Are They Worth Buying in the UK?

Looking for a premium smartphone but don’t want to spend a fortune? Amazon refurbished phones offer an affordable way to own top brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google without breaking the bank. Especially in the UK, the Amazon Renewed program is helping more people access high-quality smartphones at reduced prices with warranties included.

But are these devices reliable? How do they compare to the new ones? Let’s explore everything you need to know.

What Are Refurbished Phones?

Refurbished phones are pre-owned devices that have been returned to the seller for various reasons—ranging from minor defects to buyer’s remorse. These phones are:

• Professionally inspected

• Repaired (if needed)

• Tested to function like new

Unlike second-hand or “used” phones sold by individuals, refurbished phones usually go through quality checks, come with a warranty, and are sold by certified sellers.

Amazon Refurbished Programme Explained (Amazon Renewed UK)

In the UK, Amazon offers a program called Amazon Renewed, which sells refurbished phones with:

• Professional testing and cleaning

• Minimum 80% battery health

• 1-year Amazon Renewed Guarantee

• Certified sellers and vendors only

Look for products marked as “Amazon Renewed” when browsing. These listings clearly state the device condition (e.g., “Like New”, “Very Good”) and come backed by Amazon’s trusted return policy.

Benefits of Buying Amazon Refurbished Phones

Here are key reasons people in the UK are choosing Amazon refurbished phones:

• Cost-effective: Save up to 40–60% off retail prices.

• Eco-friendly: Reduce e-waste by reusing high-quality electronics.

• Guaranteed performance: Backed by a 12-month warranty.

• Tested for quality: Inspected for functionality and cosmetic standards.

• Amazon Support: Easy Returns and Customer Service.

New vs Refurbished Phones on Amazon UK (Comparison Table)

Here’s a quick side-by-side Markdown table comparing new and refurbished phones on Amazon:

Feature	New Phone (Amazon UK)	Refurbished Phone (Amazon Renewed UK)
Price	Full retail price (£700–£1200)	30–60% cheaper (£300–£700)
Condition	Brand new, sealed box	Like new, inspected & tested
Warranty	Manufacturer (12–24 months)	Amazon Renewed (12 months)
Battery Life	100%	Minimum 80% capacity
Packaging	Original	Generic or original
Accessories	All included	May include compatible accessories
Return Policy	30 days (Amazon UK)	30 days + Amazon Renewed Guarantee
Eco-Friendliness	Less sustainable	Eco-conscious choice

Best-Selling Amazon Refurbished Phones in the UK (2025)

Some of the most trusted and high-demand models in the Amazon Renewed UK marketplace include:

• Apple iPhone 13 (Renewed)

  • Price: ~£460

  • Condition: Like New

  • Battery: Min. 85%

  • Warranty: 12 months

• Samsung Galaxy S22 (Renewed)

  • Price: ~£410

  • AMOLED screen, triple camera

  • Excellent cosmetic condition

• Google Pixel 6 Pro (Renewed)

  • Price: ~£380

  • Clean Android interface

  • Fast charging supported

• OnePlus 9 Pro (Renewed)

  • Price: ~£350

  • Flagship specs at mid-range price

Tips for Buying Refurbished Phones Safely on Amazon UK

To get the best out of your refurbished phone purchase:

1. Buy only from “Amazon Renewed” listings

2. Check seller ratings and reviews

3. Read the condition note (e.g., “Like New” vs “Acceptable”)

4. Confirm accessories included

5. Ensure return policy and warranty are mentioned

6. Look for “Certified Refurbished” badges where available

Warranty and Return Policy

When buying Amazon refurbished phones in the UK, you’re protected by the:

• Amazon Renewed Guarantee (12 Months)

• 30-Day Return Window

• Amazon’s A-to-Z Guarantee (for marketplace sellers)

If the phone doesn’t match the description or fails to work, you can return it or get a replacement—hassle-free.

Pros and Cons of Amazon Refurbished Phones

Pros:

• Cheaper than new phones

• Eco-conscious choice

• Warranty protection

• High performance

Cons:

• Cosmetic flaws possible

• The battery may not be brand new

• Accessories might not be original

Who Should Buy Amazon Refurbished Phones?

These are ideal for:

• Students looking for affordable smartphones

• Budget-conscious professionals

• Parents buying a first phone for teens

• Eco-conscious consumers

• Those who want premium features without the high cost

Read Also: O2 Refurbished Phones – Smart Savings on Premium Devices

Final Thoughts

Amazon refurbished phones offer incredible value, especially for UK shoppers looking to save money without compromising on quality. Backed by Amazon Renewed’s 12-month warranty, they’re a smart, sustainable, and secure way to upgrade your tech.

If you’re open to a non-brand-new experience with full performance and support, then refurbished phones from Amazon are worth considering.

FAQs 

1. Are Amazon refurbished phones reliable in the UK?
Yes, especially if bought under the Amazon Renewed program, which includes inspection, cleaning, and a 12-month warranty.

2. What’s the difference between “Used” and “Renewed” on Amazon?
“Used” phones are sold by individuals or sellers with no warranty, while “Renewed” phones are refurbished, tested, and backed by Amazon’s guarantee.

3. Do refurbished phones come with a charger and cable?
Yes, but they may be generic accessories, not necessarily the original ones.

4. Can I return a refurbished phone if I don’t like it?
Yes, Amazon offers a 30-day return policy even for Renewed items.

5. Do refurbished phones get software updates like new ones?
Absolutely. As long as the device is supported by the manufacturer, it will receive regular updates.