Your cart is empty!
Shop For Products
Buying Guides27 Oct 2025Posted byLiam Harris

Before You Buy a Refurbished iPhone – Must-Check Tips

Before You Buy a Refurbished iPhone – Must-Check Tips

Shopping for a refurbished iPhone can save you money, but only if you know what to look for. One wrong move could leave you with hidden faults or a short-lived device. This quick guide explains what to check before buying a refurbished iPhone to help you make an informed decision.

What Is a Manufacturer Refurbished Phone?

First things first, let’s clear up what refurbished really means. A refurbished iPhone is a pre-owned device that’s been tested, repaired if needed, and restored to full working condition. But the thing is, not every refurbished device is created the same.


A manufacturer-refurbished phone comes straight from the original brand. For example, a manufacturer-refurbished iPhone has been repaired and tested by Apple’s own technicians. You’ll often get it packaged neatly, almost like a brand-new phone, and backed by Apple’s official warranty.


Then there are seller-refurbished phones. These aren’t repaired by the original maker. They might come from a trusted retailer, a certified repair shop, or a small team that restores and tests phones before resale.


Don’t get it wrong, though. Both can be good options. What really counts is how well the phone’s been refurbished and who’s standing behind it if something goes wrong.

If you’re curious about what happens behind the scenes, have a look at Phonebot’s refurbishment process. It explains each testing and repair stage in detail.

Why a Refurbished iPhone Makes Sense in 2025

Buying a brand-new iPhone these days can put a real dent in your wallet. With some models costing around A$1,500 or more, it is no surprise that many Australians are turning to refurbished phones instead. The value is hard to ignore. A refurbished iPhone usually costs between 40 and 60 percent less, yet it performs almost the same as a new one.


There is also the benefit of variety. Refurbished sellers often have older iPhone models that Apple no longer offers, which gives you more options to choose from. It is a smart way to join the iOS world without spending too much, especially if you are buying your first iPhone.


Besides, buying refurbished is not just about saving money. It is also about making a responsible choice. Each phone that gets reused means one less device ending up as electronic waste. That helps save materials, reduce carbon emissions, and protect the environment. Choosing refurbished is a simple way to do something good for the planet while still getting a quality phone. For budget-conscious and eco-minded Aussies, that’s a win-win.

Complete Checklist Before Buying

Before you click “buy,” take a few minutes to make sure the refurbished iPhone you’re eyeing is truly worth it. A little extra care now can save you from frustration later. Here’s what to look out for.

  • Condition: Review the product’s cosmetic grade (more on this below).
  • Battery health: Ensure it’s above 85% or has a new replacement battery.
  • IMEI number: Check that the IMEI is clean and not blacklisted.
  • Warranty: Confirm the length of the warranty and what it covers.
  • Accessories: Make sure you’re getting a working charger and cable, even if they’re third-party.


    Used iPhone’s Battery: What to Check

    Battery life is one of the most important factors in any iPhone purchase. A used or refurbished device should have a battery health of at least 85%. You can check this under Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging.


    Good refurbishers don’t cut corners. If a battery drops below that level, they’ll replace it, often with an Apple-certified part to make sure performance stays consistent. So, always confirm if the refurbisher follows replacement standards or uses tested aftermarket batteries.


    Not sure how to verify a battery’s quality? It helps to check the device’s repair history. You can read our quick guide on how to check if your iPhone has been repaired to see if any components have been swapped or replaced.

    Software Compatibility & iOS Updates

    Nobody wants a phone that stops getting updates after a year. Before buying, check if the iPhone model you want still gets Apple’s iOS updates.

    As of 2025, the iPhone 11 is still supported. But this is expected to end around late 2026. Newer models like the iPhone 12, 13, and 14 will keep receiving updates. That means you’ll get the latest features, security fixes, and app compatibility for years.


    Older phones, such as the iPhone 8, may work fine now but might miss future updates. If you want your phone to last, stick to models released in the last three or four years.

    Authentic Parts & Repair History

    Authenticity matters when shopping for a cheap iPhone. That’s because some phones use non-genuine parts, which can affect performance or water resistance.


    Ask the seller if the iPhone has genuine Apple components. You can verify this yourself by navigating to Settings → General → About. If a message appears saying “Unknown Part,” it means a component like the display or battery isn’t genuine.

    Network Lock Status Explained

    In Australia, some iPhones are locked to a single carrier, like Telstra or Optus. Others are unlocked, meaning you can use any SIM card you want. Unlocked phones give you more freedom. You can switch networks easily or use a local SIM when travelling. That flexibility often saves money in the long run.


    To check, try another SIM card or ask the seller. You can also check this under Settings → General → About → Network Provider Lock. If it says “No SIM restrictions”, the phone is unlocked and ready to use.

    Refurbished Phone Warranty: What’s Covered

    A good warranty is one of the best reasons to buy refurbished. Most Australian sellers give 6 to 12 months of coverage.


    A solid warranty usually covers hardware defects, touchscreen issues, and battery replacements within certain limits. Accidental damage, like drops or water, is generally not included. Always read the terms so you know how to claim if something goes wrong.

    Condition Grades Explained

    Refurbished iPhones are graded based on appearance and function. Each seller has their own system, but here’show Phonebot does it.

    • Open Box – Almost new. The phone was opened for display or testing, but shows no signs of use.
    • Like New – Looks and feels brand new. Fully tested and cleaned.
    • Grade A – Great value. The device might have a tiny mark or scuff, but you’ll barely notice it.
    • Grade B – Light wear and a few small scratches.

    All grades are tested for performance, so even a Grade B iPhone should work as intended. The main difference is mostly cosmetic, not functional.

    Tips for Getting the Best Deal

    Finding a good deal on a refurbished iPhone takes a little research. Follow these tips to get the most value for your money.

    • Compare models – Newer doesn’t always mean better. An iPhone 12 can deliver almost the same performance as a 13, but costs much less.
    • Choose storage wisely – A 128GB model usually costs only a little more than 64GB, yet gives you twice the space.
    • Shop verified retailers – Look for Australian businesses with ABNs, clear warranties, and local support.
    • Check bundle deals – Some sellers include accessories or phone plans that add extra value.

    For some of the best deals, be sure to check out our selection of cheap iPhones.

    Where to Buy Used iPhones Safely

    Buying from a trusted seller is just as important as the phone itself. Avoid private listings with no warranty or proof of purchase.


    Look for transparent grading, Australian-based support, and secure payments. Phonebot’s refurbished iPhone range is a reliable place to start, offering competitive prices and verified testing procedures.

    Post-Purchase Checklist

    Once your refurbished iPhone arrives, take a few minutes to run these quick checks:

    • Inspect the exterior for any damage.
    • Confirm the IMEI and serial number match your invoice.
    • Check activation lock (under iCloud settings) to ensure it’s not linked to another user.
    • Test Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, camera, and Face ID or Touch ID.

    If everything looks and works as expected, you’re good to go.

    Conclusion

    Buying a refurbished iPhone in 2025 is smart, budget-friendly, and better for the environment. Just take a little time to check the condition, battery, warranty, and authenticity. That way, you get a high-quality phone without paying full price.

    Don’t forget to explore our range of quality refurbished iPhones today and experience the value for yourself.

    Posted by Liam Harris

    Copy link
    Liam Harris

    Liam Harris

    I’m Liam Harris, a tech writer at Phonebot with a passion for technology. I provide trusted insights on refurbished phones, tablets, and accessories, focusing on quality, sustainability, and affordability. With a solid understanding of the refurbished market, I offer practical tips, product comparisons, and the latest tech updates to help you make informed decisions. My goal is to connect you with high-quality devices that fit your budget and lifestyle. Stay tuned for more on the best in refurbished tech here at Phonebot.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does refurbished mean?

     A refurbished iPhone is pre-owned but cleaned, tested, and repaired. It’s different from second-hand because it comes with a warranty.

    Is a refurbished iPhone reliable?

     Yes, as long as you buy from a trusted seller as this gives you the peace of mind that your device is reliable.

    How do I check battery health before buying?

     Go to Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging. Above 85% is ideal. Many sellers list this in the product description

    What’s the difference between refurbished and second-hand?

     Second-hand phones are sold as-is. Refurbished devices are restored, tested, and usually come with a warranty.


    Do refurbished iPhones get iOS updates?

     Yes. Models like iPhone 11 and newer still receive updates in 2025.


    How long does a refurbished iPhone last?

     With proper care, a refurbished iPhone can last  several years. Battery replacements or software updates can extend the life further.

    Can refurbished iPhones be returned in Australia?

    Most Australian sellers offer a 14–30 day return window. Always check the return policy.

    EXPLORE OUR RESOURCES:

    Refurbished or New: How to Decide on Your Next Smartphone
    Buying Guides06 Mar 2024

    Refurbished or New: How to Decide on Your Next Smartphone

    div.buttn{ position: relative; display: inline-block; left: 50%; transform: translateX(-50%); } As smartphones evolve with advanced features and rising prices, the decision between buying a ...

    Read more
    8 Best-Selling Refurbished Smartphones in Australia (2025)
    Phone Comparisons 30 Aug 2025

    8 Best-Selling Refurbished Smartphones in Australia (2025)

    Smartphones have come a long way in recent years, but with that progress has come a rise in prices. To get your hands on a top-of-the-line flagship today, you’ll usually be looking at spending upwards...

    Read more
    Fast-Charging Phones in 2025: Speed Tests & Specs
    Phone Comparisons 23 Aug 2025

    Fast-Charging Phones in 2025: Speed Tests & Specs

    While long battery life is crucial, it’s equally important that your phone can recharge quickly when you need it. Since many of us rely on our phones for daily tasks, waiting an hour or more for a ful...

    Read more