How Long Do Refurbished Phones Last?

How Long Do Refurbished Phones Last?

How long a refurbished phone lasts depends on several factors, including the model, battery health, software support, how it is used and the availability of repairs. This guide explains the main factors that can affect how long a refurbished phone remains practical to use.

What affects how long a refurbished phone lasts?

Battery health

Battery capacity naturally reduces over time with use. The rate at which it declines depends on factors such as how the phone is used and charged.

At Backed Buy, Premium phones are guaranteed to have at least 95% battery health, while Excellent phones are guaranteed to have at least 90% battery health, giving you a clear minimum battery standard when you buy.

Software and security support

Software and security support can affect how long a phone remains practical to use. Support periods vary by manufacturer and model, and older phones may have less support remaining than newer models.

Before buying a refurbished phone, check whether the exact model is still receiving software and security updates and consider how long you plan to keep it.

Model age

The age of the phone can also affect how long it remains practical to use. An older model may have less software support remaining and may reach the end of its supported life sooner than a more recent model.

When comparing refurbished phones, consider the age of the exact model alongside its condition, battery health and remaining software support.

Repairs and replacement parts

The availability of repairs and replacement parts can affect how long a phone can remain in use. As a model gets older, some parts may become more difficult to source and repair options may become more limited.

Considering repairability and parts availability can therefore be useful when choosing an older refurbished phone that you plan to keep for several years.

Care and usage

How a phone is used and looked after can also affect how long it lasts. Exposure to drops, water, extreme temperatures and other physical damage can shorten the useful life of a device.

Using a protective case, looking after the phone and following appropriate charging practices can help reduce unnecessary wear over time.

Backed Buy quality standards

Every Backed Buy refurbished phone is fully functional and put through our comprehensive 90 point quality check before being sold.

Premium phones have no signs of previous use and are guaranteed to have at least 95% battery health. Excellent phones may have light signs of previous use and are guaranteed to have at least 90% battery health.

Every phone is also network unlocked and covered by a FREE 12 month warranty.

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