Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsBefore you pay, confirm you can activate the iPhone, inspect its condition and basic functions, review its battery and repair information, verify carrier compatibility, and understand the seller’s return terms. The most important deal-breaker: do not accept a phone still linked to its previous owner’s Apple Account.
Start with activation and ownership
Ask the seller to erase the iPhone and remove it from their Apple Account. Begin setup before completing the purchase. Apple says the phone is ready for a new owner when setup reaches the Hello screen. If setup asks for the previous owner’s Apple Account, Activation Lock is still in the way: stop and ask the seller to resolve it. Do not rely on a promise that you can fix it later. Apple’s Activation Lock instructions explain what to check before buying from anyone other than Apple or an Apple Authorized Reseller.
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Check the seller’s terms before paying
“Certified” and “refurbished” do not, by themselves, tell you what was inspected or repaired. Ask the seller what its label means, what checks were performed, and what condition the device is expected to be in. For an online purchase, verify the return window, which issues qualify for a return, and how to start one. Apple’s pre-owned iPhone buying guide recommends checking the seller’s return policy.
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Inspect the actual phone and test basic functions
Look over the hardware
Remove the case and accessories. Inspect the display, frame, back, and charging connector for cracks, scratches, dents, scuffs, damage, or debris. Compare what you see with the listing description; listing photos are not a substitute for examining the device you will receive.
#1 Best Overall
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Please check with your carrier to verify compatibility.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charging cable.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
Power it on and try the essentials
Confirm that the phone powers on and charges. Apple advises against buying an iPhone that will not charge. With the seller’s help, unlock or erase the device and proceed through setup so you can test it. Try Wi-Fi, available buttons, and controls. Apple specifically calls out the volume buttons, Ring/Silent switch, and side button; controls vary by model, so check the ones your iPhone actually has. If the phone is still protected by the seller’s passcode, ask the seller to erase it and help you test rather than accepting an untested device.
Review repair information, but do not treat it as a complete history
On supported models running iOS 15.2 or later, open Settings > General > About and look for Parts and Service History. Whether this section appears, which components it lists, and what information is available depend on the model, iOS version, and repair. Only the most recent service for a part may appear, so an absent history does not prove the phone was never repaired.
Rank #2
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.
- This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
- Product may come in generic Box.
| Label | What it can indicate |
|---|---|
| Genuine | The part was repaired using genuine Apple parts and processes. |
| Unknown | A non-genuine part, incomplete installation, previously used part, or part not functioning as expected. |
| Unverified | May indicate a replaced logic board; some features, such as Apple Pay, may be affected. |
| Used | A part previously used or installed in another iPhone on supported configurations. |
These labels are useful disclosures, not an independent inspection of the phone. Apple says used Apple parts and repairs performed with them are not covered by Apple’s product warranty or an AppleCare plan. Warranty and service terms can depend on location and current policy, so check the terms that apply to this specific device and region. See Apple’s Parts and Service History guidance and Parts Support for iPhone.
Check battery health and any warnings
Find Battery Health in Settings; the exact menu wording can vary by iOS version. Read the displayed information alongside any battery warning. Apple warns that if an iPhone cannot verify its battery, the battery-health information may not be accurate. Treat a displayed percentage as one clue, not a guarantee of remaining life, and account for uncertainty or possible replacement cost when deciding what to offer. Apple explains this limitation in About genuine iPhone batteries. Apple does not set a universal battery percentage that makes a used iPhone a good or bad buy.
Rank #3
- Fully unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US-Cellular, Cricket, Metro, etc.).
- Inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage, which is not noticeable when the device is held at arm's length.
- Successfully passed a full diagnostic test which ensures like-new functionality and removal of any prior-user personal information.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a charging cable that may be generic.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
Verify carrier compatibility and lock status
Open Settings > General > About and find the carrier-lock information. Apple’s pre-owned buying guide says No SIM restrictions means the iPhone is unlocked; a listed network provider indicates a restriction. Then confirm that the exact model will work with your intended carrier and in your country. An unlocked status alone does not establish compatibility with every carrier or network.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Compare listings on the same criteria
For a fair comparison, assess the actual device and seller terms rather than relying on a marketplace grade or a single battery number. Apple does not set a universal used-phone price or identify a universally best seller.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
- Successfully passed a full diagnostic test which ensures like-new functionality and removal of any prior-user personal information.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charging cable.
- Inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage, which is not noticeable when the device is held at arm's length.
Rank #4
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
- Successfully passed a full diagnostic test which ensures like-new functionality and removal of any prior-user personal information.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charging cable.
- Inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage, which is not noticeable when the device is held at arm's length.
- Model and storage: Confirm the exact configuration being sold.
- Condition: Check whether the device’s visible state matches the description.
- Battery: Consider displayed health, warnings, and whether replacement may be needed.
- Repair transparency: Note any Parts and Service History labels and ask the seller about service details not shown there.
- Activation and carrier use: Ensure there is no previous-owner lock and that the phone works with your intended carrier.
- Seller recourse: Understand the certification process, return window, and return conditions.
Use a different sequence online and in person
When buying online
- Choose a seller with a clear, usable return process.
- Ask for the model and storage, physical condition, battery status, parts and service information, and carrier-lock status.
- Ask what the seller’s refurbishment or certification checks cover; do not assume different sellers use the same standard.
- Inspect the actual phone promptly after delivery and use the return policy if it does not match the representation.
When inspecting in person
- Remove the case and accessories, then inspect the display, frame, back, and connector.
- Power on the phone and check that it charges.
- Have the seller erase it and help you start setup; stop if Activation Lock asks for the previous owner’s account.
- Review battery information and any Parts and Service History labels.
- Try Wi-Fi and the buttons and controls present on that model.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
