It’s true that some people were once reluctant to purchase pre-owned phones. But those were the early days. The industry has matured, and now consumers are seeking out refurbished phones. Whether it is because your child broke their 3rd phone this month or you want a new phone without the hefty price tag, certified pre-owned phone purchases are on the rise.
According to research firm Gartner, the global market for refurbished smartphones is expected to reach 120 million units by 2017. The following are five reasons that a refurbished phone might be right for you:
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Affordability
Refurbished phones sell at price points that are considerably less than similar new phones. You can get a great smartphone with all the bells and whistles, for a fraction of the price.
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Care for the Planet
By 2019, according to Compass Intelligence, there will be an estimated 475 million idle devices that are laying around our homes, essentially gathering dust. Smartphones are made from materials that can be harmful to the environment and to humans. These include carcinogens, such as cadmium, lead and beryllium, not to mention arsenic. By purchasing a refurbished phone, you can help reduce the growing problem of e-waste.
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Replace your broken or lost phone
Phone replacements are often triggered by a phone that was smashed, stolen, or lost. If this is your scenario, then a refurbished device is the smart and cost-effective way to go. You can get the same model with a new-phone feel to it, but at a fraction of the price.
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Avoid Change
Some people are creatures of habit. When Apple unveils a new iPhone, the early adopters get in line. But that’s not everyone. Some people like to stay in their comfort zones. If it works, why fix it? Getting a certified pre-owned phone allows a change-averse customer to stay with his or her favorite model.
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Get a high-performing phone
Before they are re-sold, certified pre-owned devices are cleaned, tested, and – if necessary – fixed. In this sense they are different from used phones, which are sold “as is.” Refurbished phones are fast, high-performing and high-functioning phones that should work just like a new phone. At Gazelle, all cell phones must pass a 30 point inspection and are backed by a 30 day return policy.
For more information, visit Gazelle’s Certified pre-owned store.