Buying a used iPhone is an excellent way of owning an Apple top-of-the-line phone at minimal cost. However, if not inspected very carefully, you will be buying a defective or even a stolen phone. Whether you’re buying from someone, an online shop, or a gas station, this following shopping guide for a used iPhone will allow you to avoid scams and get the most.
In this guide, we’ll cover all the essential things to check before buying a used iPhone, including physical inspection, software validation, battery health, and network compatibility.
1. Check the iPhone’s IMEI or Serial Number
Keyword: Check IMEI on second-hand iPhone
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) or serial number is your first step to confirming the iPhone’s authenticity and legitimacy.
How to find it:
Go to Settings > General > About.
Scroll to find IMEI and Serial Number.
Usage:
Type in the IMEI on Apple’s Check Coverage page to find out if it is genuine and warranty status.
Use third-party software like IMEI.info to verify if the phone is blacklisted or stolen.
2. Activation Lock (iCloud Lock)
Keyword: Check iCloud lock status on used iPhone
Activation Lock ties the iPhone to the owner’s original Apple ID iCloud account. You won’t be able to use it if it is turned on without their Apple ID information.
How to check:
Ask the seller to erase everything: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
When you’re setting it up, if it asks for the Apple ID of the former owner, Activation Lock is turned on.
Pro tip: Never buy an iPhone with iCloud lock enabled. It’s basically useless unless opened by its original user.
3. Verify Carrier Lock and Network Compatibility
Keyword: Check carrier lock on iPhone
A few iPhones are locked with carriers, and they’ll accept no other SIM cards. Purchase a phone which is unlocked or will work in your carrier.
How to find out:
Put in your own SIM card.
If you are able to work and place a call or see mobile data, chances are good that it’s unlocked.
Or, go to:
Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock – if No SIM restrictions shows, it’s unlocked.
4. Look Physical Condition
Keyword: Inspect used iPhone prior to purchase
What to inspect:
Screen: Inspect for scratches, crack, dead pixels.
Body: Inspect for dents, signs of water damage (e.g., rust in charging port), warped frames.
Buttons: Inspect the power, volume, mute, and home buttons (where they are).
Cameras: Launch camera app and check all lenses, front and portrait.
Ports and Speakers: Check charging, headphone jack (where it is), and speaker/mic quality.
5. Test Battery Health
Keyword: iPhone battery health check used phone
iPhone batteries lose capacity over time. To check the health of the battery:
Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging.
Look at Maximum Capacity. Above 85% is good. Below 80% will need to be replaced soon.
6. Check Functionality
Keyword: Test all functions of second-hand iPhone
Check that all features are functioning as they should:
Touchscreen sensitivity.
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS functioning.
Face ID or Touch ID.
Vibration and ring.
Call quality (make a test call).
Sensors like accelerometer and proximity sensor (try rotating screen and call to see if screen turns off when held near your face).
You might be able to use third-party software like Phone Diagnostics to test all of this.
7. Check Storage Capacity and iOS Version
Keyword: Verify iPhone storage before buying used
Tap Settings > General > About to check the storage (e.g., 64GB, 128GB).
Ensure that the iOS is updated and includes an option for upgrading (previous devices lack the latest iOS).
8. Verify Original Parts (Optional but Highly Recommended)
Keyword: How to verify original iPhone parts
You may have used iPhones with the screen or battery replaced. To check:
Visit Settings > General > About > Tap on Parts and Service History (on iPhone XR and newer).
If you encounter “Unknown Part” notices, you may be having non-authentic parts installed on your iPhone.
9. Request Proof of Purchase
Keyword: Second-hand iPhone proof of purchase
Just to ensure you’re not buying a stolen item, always require the original invoice or receipt. It could turn out useful for ownership claims and warranty purposes.
10. Provide a Fair Price
Keyword: Used iPhone price check
Use sites like Swappa, Gazelle, or eBay to compare by model, storage, and condition and price. If you’re buying in person, check the going rate so you don’t pay too much.
Final Thoughts
Buying a second-hand iPhone is a great method of saving some money, but always adhere to this checklist in order not to be swindled. Always meet in public when buying from a local and never hesitate to walk away when something seems wrong.
Following these steps, you can safely purchase a second-hand iPhone that is authentic, working perfectly, and worth your cash.
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