Refurbished tech: what to check before you buy

Buying refurbished tech is one of the smartest purchases you can make — you get a great device at a fraction of the new price, and you keep perfectly good hardware out of landfill. But not all refurbished listings are equal. Here's what to check before you buy.

1. Battery health (phones and laptops)

This is the #1 thing to check. On iPhones, go to Settings → Battery → Battery Health. On Android, dial ##4636## or use a battery health app. On MacBooks, check System Information → Power → Cycle Count.

• Above 85% — excellent, like-new performance
• 80–85% — good, will last a full day with moderate use
• Below 80% — expect to charge more frequently; budget for a battery replacement

Ask the seller for the exact percentage if it's not listed. A reputable seller will happily share it.

2. Cosmetic condition

Driply uses four condition grades. Know what to expect from each:

• New — sealed, unused
• Like New — no visible marks, fully functional
• Used — visible wear (scratches, scuffs) but fully working
• Refurbished — professionally repaired/restored

Ask for close-up photos of any scratches or dents. A seller who's upfront about cosmetic flaws is a seller you can trust.

3. Warranty and returns

Check if the device has any remaining manufacturer warranty. Apple and Samsung devices show warranty status on their official websites using the serial number. Also check the seller's Driply rating and reviews — a 5-star seller with 50+ sales is a safer bet than a new seller.

Every tech purchase on Driply is covered by DripProtect™, which includes a 3-day return window if the item isn't as described.

4. Software and activation

Make sure the device:

• Is not iCloud/Google-locked (the seller must sign out before shipping)
• Has no MDM (mobile device management) profile
• Runs a supported OS version
• Has not been reported lost or stolen

Ask the seller to confirm the device is factory reset and activation-locked-free.

5. Price comparison

Before buying, check the same model on a refurbished retailer's site (Back Market, MusicMagpie, etc.) to make sure you're getting a good deal. Driply prices are often 15–30% lower because you're buying directly from the owner — but it's always worth comparing.

6. Accessories

Does the listing include the original charger, box, or earphones? These aren't essential, but they add value. A phone with its original box and charger typically resells for £10–£20 more than one without.

The bottom line

Refurbished tech is a great buy if you do your homework. Check battery health, ask for photos, verify the seller, and compare prices. A few minutes of research can save you £100s and give you a device that performs like new for years.