Buying advice
A guide to refurbished phones.
Buying a phone that has been refurbished can be a great way to cut costs on expensive electronics, but many consumers are wary about buying something that has been previously owned. This guide answers the questions people ask most, from credibility to picking the phone you want, and debunks a few of the myths about what it means to buy a phone that is not new.
- 12-month warranty on every phone
- 70-point functional check
- 30-day returns
The honest trade-off.
Both columns, because a guide that only lists the upside is an advert.
The pros
- It is cheaper
- Contract free
- Any model device
- More flexibility
- Environmentally friendly
The cons
- It is not brand new
- Cosmetic wear and tear
- The horror stories
So why buy refurbished from us?
You should always do your research on who you buy from. Here are the three things that happen to every device before it reaches a listing, and they are the three you should be asking any other seller about too.
Testing
Test, test, and test again. At Envirofone we have a really strict test process, and if a phone does not function 100% we will not sell it.
Read moreGrading
After the functionality tests are done, we grade the phones. Our grading system is based on cosmetic appearance, and each grade is explained on the product page.
Read moreWarranty
We are confident in our testing procedures, so we offer a warranty on all phones for 12 months, covering both hardware and software.
Read moreBefore you order
How quickly it arrives, and what the grade on the listing actually describes.
All the buying FAQsOrders placed before 4pm Monday to Friday are dispatched the same day on a tracked forty eight hour courier service, so most customers receive their device within two working days. If you need your gadget sooner you can upgrade to a next day delivery service at the checkout, and we will prioritise the shipment as soon as your order clears our final quality checks.
We inspect every phone and tablet using a seventy point checklist before we list it for sale. Once it passes the functional tests we grade the cosmetic condition as Pristine, Excellent or Good so you know exactly what to expect when it arrives. Each grade is clearly explained on the product page and all grades come with the same twelve month warranty for complete peace of mind.
Independently checked, publicly rated
Two independent verdicts on the refurbishment above, neither of them ours.
Which? Recommended Provider
Officially recommended by Which?
Which? Recommended Provider for refurbished tech retailers, October 2025. Independently assessed, not paid for.
Seven tips for buying refurbished
For picking the best model for your needs, whether you buy from us or from anyone else. Nothing here is specific to Envirofone.
Compare storage sizes, battery life, camera quality and repair history for the models you are considering. Check that the handset will receive the software features you need and that accessories such as cases or chargers are easy to find. A little homework now makes it easier to choose a phone that fits the way you actually use it.
Decide whether you are happier in the Apple ecosystem or prefer the flexibility of Android. Consider how the phone will work with your other devices, the apps you rely on and the way you like to customise your home screen. Matching the operating system to your habits saves you from switching platforms later.
A solid warranty shows that the seller stands behind their refurbishment work. Choose retailers that provide at least twelve months of cover for hardware faults and offer simple returns if anything is not quite right. It protects your investment and saves you paying for repairs soon after you receive the device.
Give the handset a full charge, run the connectivity tests and open a few demanding apps to make sure everything feels responsive. Check the cameras, speakers, buttons and biometric security features in the first couple of days. Reporting any issues straight away means the support team can help without delay.
Browse independent review sites and social media to see how other buyers rate the specific model and the seller. Positive feedback about customer service, delivery and aftercare is a strong sign you are dealing with a trustworthy retailer. Look for detailed comments rather than just star ratings for the clearest picture.
Once you have chosen your handset, compare SIM Only deals from the main networks and value providers. Consider how much data you actually use, whether you need international roaming and if perks such as inclusive streaming are worth paying extra for. Pairing a refurbished phone with the right tariff keeps your monthly costs low.
Prices often drop when a new flagship model launches or during peak sale periods such as Black Friday and January. Set alerts for the devices you like and keep an eye on bundle offers that include accessories or extended warranties. Timing your purchase well can unlock even better value on a refurbished phone.
Done your research?
Order before 4pm and it ships today.
On a tracked 48-hour service, with a 12-month warranty on every device. Trade an old one in and the price comes down further.
© Copyright 2026. Envirofone Limited, All rights reserved. Company Reg Number: 10452936. VAT Reg: GB494285158.
Policies: Modern Slavery Statement