Cheap refurbished phones offer a smart alternative for UK consumers looking to save money without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re replacing a lost device, upgrading on a budget, or trying to be more eco-conscious, buying refurbished is a reliable and increasingly popular choice. This guide breaks down everything you need to know costs, risks, where to shop, what to avoid, and the best models under £300.
Why Buy a Cheap Refurbished Phone?
Huge Savings
Cheap refurbished phones can cost 30% to 70% less than their brand-new counterparts. For example, a phone that retails at £700 brand new might be available refurbished for just £400 or less. It’s a smart way to own a premium device without the premium price tag.
Eco-Friendly Choice
Refurbishing and reusing phones significantly reduces electronic waste and carbon emissions. By buying refurbished, you’re supporting a more sustainable tech industry and reducing the demand for new raw materials.
Warranty and Protection
Reputable UK sellers typically offer warranties ranging from 6 to 12 months. This provides peace of mind and protects your purchase just like a new device would. You’re also covered under UK consumer rights for returns and faulty goods.
What to Look for When Buying a Refurbished Phone
1. Grading System
Refurbished phones are usually sold with a condition grade:
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Pristine – Like new, no noticeable wear
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Very Good – Minor cosmetic marks, but excellent functionality
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Good – Visible wear but fully operational
Most buyers find “Very Good” to be the best value for money, clean appearance and lower price than Pristine.
2. Battery Health
Battery performance is crucial. Make sure the battery is either replaced or has at least 80% of its original capacity. Many platforms provide a battery guarantee as part of their refurbishing standards.
3. Unlocked Devices
Ensure the phone is unlocked and compatible with your carrier. Some devices may be tied to specific networks or regions, so check this before purchase.
4. IMEI Check and Authenticity
Ask for the IMEI number to confirm the phone isn’t blacklisted or reported stolen. Reputable refurbishers will always perform this check before selling a device.
5. Software Support
Check whether the phone still receives software and security updates. iPhones tend to receive updates for around six years. Android update cycles vary by manufacturer. Avoid models older than three years if you want ongoing support.
6. Warranty & Return Policy
Stick to sellers offering at least 6 months’ warranty and a return window of 14 to 30 days. Avoid marketplaces that don’t guarantee product condition or refund options.
Where to Buy Refurbished Phones in the UK
Apple Certified Refurbished
Apple’s official refurb store is ideal for iPhone buyers. Though prices are slightly higher, you get a full one-year warranty, a new battery, and a new outer shell. It’s like buying new at a discount.
Back Market
This online marketplace offers refurbished phones from certified sellers. All phones come with a 12-month warranty and a 30-day return policy. It’s one of the largest platforms dedicated solely to refurbished tech.
musicMagpie
musicMagpie is a well-established UK refurbisher. They offer competitive prices, free delivery, and a 12-month warranty. Their grading system is easy to understand, and they back their phones with thorough quality checks.
CEX (Complete Entertainment Exchange)
If you prefer to buy in-store, CEX has both a physical and online presence. Devices are graded, tested, and come with a warranty. It’s also a good place to trade in old phones.
giffgaff Refurbished
Giffgaff sells refurbished phones with a 12-month warranty and an 80% battery health guarantee. Ideal if you want next-day delivery and reliable customer service.
Other Options
Amazon Renewed, Envirofone, Reboxed, and major mobile carriers (like O2 and Vodafone) also offer refurbished devices through their platforms. Always review grading and warranty details.
Cheap Refurbished Phones Under £300
Here are some top picks under £300 that offer excellent value:
iPhone SE (2022 or 2020)
Perfect for those who want a compact iPhone with modern performance. The SE 2022 features the same chip as the iPhone 13, while the 2020 version is still a great performer for less.
iPhone 11
A popular all-rounder with Face ID, dual cameras, and solid battery life. It’s still supported by Apple and available in refurbished condition, well below £300.
Google Pixel 6
Offers flagship-level performance, regular Android updates, and an excellent camera. Frequently available refurbished under the £300 mark.
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G
One of the best Android phones in its price range. It has a bright AMOLED screen, decent performance, and 5G connectivity.
Samsung Galaxy S21
Once a flagship, now a great deal. With powerful performance, a great camera, and modern design, the S21 often drops under £300 in refurbished condition.
Cheap Refurbished vs Used: Know the Difference
A refurbished phone is not the same as a used phone sold by a private seller. Here’s why:
| Feature | Refurbished | Used (Private Seller) |
|---|---|---|
| Tested & Inspected | Yes | No |
| Warranty Included | Yes (6–12 months typical) | Rarely |
| Return Option | Yes (14–30 days) | Usually not |
| Battery Guarantee | Often ≥80% capacity | Unknown |
| Reset & Cleaned | Yes | Maybe |
Buying refurbished gives you protection, quality assurance, and peace of mind.
Pro Tips Before You Buy
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Compare Grades: A “Very Good” phone may be £50–£100 cheaper than a Pristine one for the same functionality.
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Always Ask for Warranty: Don’t buy without a clear return and warranty policy.
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Use Protected Payments: Use credit cards or PayPal to add buyer protection.
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Avoid Overpriced Deals: Just because a phone is labelled refurbished doesn’t mean it’s a bargain. Compare prices across platforms.
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Check for Update Support: Especially on Android, ensure the model hasn’t been dropped from security updates.
Summary Table
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Best Value Grade | Very Good |
| Warranty Duration | Minimum 6 months (preferably 12 months) |
| Battery Requirement | ≥80% capacity or newly replaced |
| Update Support | Within 3 years of launch |
| Price Range | Under £300 for mid- to high-tier phones |
Read Also: Buy Refurbished Phones: Smart Ways to Save Big Without Sacrificing Quality
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the UK and looking for a cost-effective way to buy a smartphone, cheap refurbished phones are an excellent solution. You get a high-quality device, full warranty, and peace of mind all at a fraction of the cost of buying new.
Whether you’re buying from Apple, Back Market, or musicMagpie, always double-check the battery, grade, warranty, and return policy. You’ll not only save money but also reduce e-waste and make a more sustainable tech choice.
In a world where new smartphones can cost over £1,000, buying refurbished just makes sense.