Key takeaways
- Inspect the phone in person, in a safe public place, before paying.
- Make sure the phone is unlocked from the seller’s accounts and not reported stolen.
- Test every function, and keep proof of purchase.
The short answer
A used phone can save a lot of money, but it can also hide problems: a locked account, a worn battery, a damaged screen or even a stolen device. A careful ten-minute inspection protects you. This checklist works for most phones. If you are still deciding which model to choose, read how to choose a good smartphone without overspending.
Before you meet
- Ask for clear photos, the exact model, storage size and age of the phone.
- Ask if you can inspect it in a safe public place, such as a mall or a phone shop.
- Ask whether it comes with the original box, charger and proof of purchase.
- Compare the price with similar listings. A price that is much lower than normal is a warning sign.
- Bring a friend and your own SIM card.
The checks
| Check | What to do |
|---|---|
| Account locks | The seller must sign out of the Apple or Google account and erase the phone. If the phone asks for the previous owner’s login, do not buy it. |
| IMEI number | Dial *#06# to show the IMEI. Compare it with the box and Settings, and ask the seller for proof of purchase. Where available, use a trusted IMEI-check service or ask your network provider. |
| Screen | Look for cracks, dead pixels, yellow patches and screen burn. Try different colours and brightness. |
| Touch | Swipe in all directions, type with the keyboard and test the corners. |
| Battery | On iPhones, check Battery Health in Settings. On other phones, watch how fast the percentage drops. See smartphone battery care. |
| Cameras | Test front and back cameras, flash and video. Zoom in on the photo to check for blur. |
| Sound | Make a call to check the earpiece, speaker and microphone. |
| Ports and buttons | Test charging, headphone port if any, volume, power and fingerprint or face unlock. |
| Connectivity | Test Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile data and GPS. See Bluetooth works. |
| Water or repair damage | Look for gaps, mismatched colours or loose parts that suggest repairs. |
Check the software
- Look at the system version and whether it still receives security updates.
- Open the app store to make sure it works.
- Check storage under Settings and compare it with what the seller said.
- Look for unfamiliar apps or device management profiles. See fake apps and malware.
Pay safely
- Never pay before you have inspected the phone.
- Avoid sending money to a stranger in advance.
- Use a method that leaves a record, and confirm the payment in your own account. See fake payment alerts.
- Ask for a written receipt that includes the IMEI and the seller’s name and phone number.
- Reset the phone yourself, or ask the seller to do it in front of you, and set up your own accounts.
After you buy
- Install updates and change any default passwords.
- Set up a screen lock and two-step login. See two-step verification compared.
- Back up your data from day one. See how to back up your phone and laptop.
- Keep the receipt for a few months in case of problems.
When to walk away
- The seller refuses to let you test the phone.
- The phone is locked or asks for a previous owner’s account.
- The IMEI is scratched, missing or does not match.
- The price is far too good to be true.
- You feel pressured to decide quickly.
Quick checklist
- Meet in a safe public place
- Check account locks and the IMEI
- Test the screen, battery, cameras and sound
- Check software updates
- Pay only after inspection and keep a receipt
- Reset and secure the phone after buying
Key points to remember
A good used phone is possible, but only if you inspect it. Take your time and be ready to say no. After you buy, use free up phone storage to keep it running well.
This guide is general information to help you decide and act with confidence. Features, prices and settings change, so confirm current details with your device maker or service provider before you act. Last reviewed October 2026. Read our editorial standards.
