Should I buy a used mobile phone or a new one?

The excitement of unwrapping a brand-new mobile device with the newest technology and features and looking unbelievably irresistible with its scratch-free and gleaming body smartly encased in a stylish box, according to many smartphone-savvy consumers, is nothing compared to the joy of buying a used phone. However, purchasing a new phone might not always be an option, especially if you consider yourself a self-described gadget fanatic who is constantly searching for the latest models making waves in the mobile phone industry.
Indeed, there are occasions when purchasing a used mobile phone or a pre-owned phone is much more cost-effective than going with a new one, especially if you don't plan to spend a lot of money on high-end mobile devices. This may be because you are strapped for funds or because you know it's just a matter of time before you get your hands on yet another cutting-edge product that creates a buzz in the market.
According to the research, smartphones presently account for the most significant volume driver in the second-hand market (almost 90%), with laptops, smartwatches, gaming consoles, and cameras following closely behind. According to the survey, 78% of users who buy used smartphones make less than Rs 30,000 per month, and 18% earn between Rs 30,000 and Rs 50,000 per month. The market for used mobile phones is, therefore, driven mainly by the inexpensive price range.
Millions of customers in India continue to purchase used phones because they would instead use a pre-owned device with the features they require than accept a new device with inferior specifications. The shorter update cycles of modern smartphones, in addition to cost, are boosting the market for second-hand phones. Even when the phone has just been lightly used by the original customer, the price difference is typically substantial. Those who want to upgrade as soon as a new phone that captures their attention is introduced fuel the supply side. To do this, they must sell their current phone for whatever it is worth and get a new one.
Over the past year or two, mid-range and premium device quality has dramatically increased. However, because these products are expensive, many low and middle-class consumers cannot afford them. Given their high quality, these handsets continue to function flawlessly even after a year of use, which has led to an increase in demand for them among low- and mid-range customers in the used phone market. These people want to experience video, data and content. Instead of buying an expensive smartphone, they end up buying a used smartphone that fits perfectly within their budget.
The time between replacements for phones has decreased to under two years on average. In less than two years, more than 65% of users have sold their smartphones. Approximately 35% after a year. As a result, they choose to purchase items that are in like-new condition.
Retail stores make up the first segment of the used device industry, while the second segment is the "refurbished" sector, where phones are examined and fixed before being resold. Refurbished phones often have a minimum warranty of six months but are more expensive than those purchased on the black market.

Types of Used Mobile Phones

There are numerous varieties of used phones. Pre-owned or used phones are sometimes sold off when they are no longer desired.
Manufacturer refurbished is when an item that has been entirely restored to be "as new" and often has a new battery and frequently has a new outer shell. These used phones are the priciest kind and typically include brand-new accessories and a complete warranty. It is the choice to make if all you want is a new phone with less environmental impact than a brand-new one.
Devices reconditioned by retailers are a step back. They are used mobile phones that have been examined to ensure that they function and can be fixed if necessary, although their conditions vary. There are a lot more retailer-refurbished models available, and they are often less expensive than phones that have been upgraded by the manufacturer. 

What to look for in second-hand phones?

A few things to watch out for when purchasing a used mobile phone include:
Batteries- Before buying a used mobile, you need to check if its battery is working right or does it drain out quickly. It is the main thing that a person should check before buying an old phone.
Check for the charging port of the phone as it is one of the first components to wear down or fail, so look for any signs of damage.
Verify that all the buttons function, even when you don't push them firmly. A defective button could make using the phone very challenging and may be costly to repair.
Verify that the phone is compatible with the cellular service provider of your choice, as some smartphones are sold locked to specific carriers and must be unlocked to be used with another.