10 July 2026 · 7 min read
Buying used electronics: the checklist to run before you pay
Used electronics are one of the smartest purchases around: a phone or laptop that is a year or two old costs 30–60% less than new while doing practically the same job. Beyond the savings, you extend the device's life and cut down on e-waste.
But used also means: no factory foil and a history you have to verify yourself. This checklist covers everything our team checks before we buy a device and offer it on.
Check the seller before the device
Buying from a private person is "as seen, as bought": if a fault shows up a week later, you mostly depend on their goodwill. Buying from a business gets you a receipt and statutory liability for defects (at least one year for used goods), which is why a used device from a shop or buyout centre is often worth a few euros more.
With private sellers, check their listing history and ratings, ask for the original purchase receipt, and always meet in person so you can test the device before paying.
Checklist for a used phone
- ·IMEI: dial *#06# and verify the number matches the box or receipt; run it through an online IMEI database to confirm the device is not reported stolen or blacklisted.
- ·Account locks: iCloud (Find My iPhone) or the Google account must be signed out and the device factory reset, otherwise it is useless to you.
- ·Battery health: on iPhone check Settings → Battery; 80% or more is acceptable, below that budget for a replacement (roughly €50–100).
- ·Screen: a solid white and a solid black background reveal dead pixels, stains and OLED burn-in.
- ·Test both cameras, the speaker, microphone, charging, Wi-Fi and Face/fingerprint unlock in person.
Checklist for a used laptop
- ·Battery: check cycle count and capacity (macOS: System Information → Power; Windows: powercfg /batteryreport). Below 80% of design capacity means a replacement is near.
- ·Drive: a SMART tool (CrystalDiskInfo or similar) reveals a worn or failing disk.
- ·Keyboard and hinges: press every key, open and close the lid a few times; loose hinges are an expensive fault.
- ·Load: a few minutes of demanding work exposes overheating and loud fans.
- ·Check every port (USB, HDMI, card reader), the camera, speakers and Wi-Fi.
Box, receipt and accessories raise the value for you too
The original box, receipt and complete accessories are not just cosmetics: they confirm the device's origin, make any warranty claim easier and raise the resale value. Choosing between two similar offers, the one with the box and receipt wins.
Red flags: when to walk away
- ·The price is far below market: "urgent, today, first come" is the classic pattern of a scam or a stolen device.
- ·The seller demands a prepayment or a "reservation" before viewing.
- ·They refuse an in-person handover or testing the device before payment.
- ·The photos come from the internet (stock or foreign listings); verify with a reverse image search.
- ·The device is not reset and the seller will "send the password later"; never buy a device with an account still signed in.
How we handle this at Dober ulov
Every device we buy is checked against the lists above, cleaned, reset and given a condition grade. The listing describes the actual condition with real photos, and you buy with a receipt, meaning statutory defect liability that a private seller cannot offer.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a used phone is stolen?+
Dial *#06# to get the IMEI and run it through an online IMEI database (blacklist status). The number must match the box and receipt. Ask for the original purchase receipt; a seller with no receipt and an "urgent sale" is a red flag.
What battery health is still acceptable on a used phone?+
Treat 80% of design capacity as the lower limit. Below that the phone still works, but budget for a battery replacement (roughly €50–100) and factor it into the price.
Do I get any warranty on used electronics?+
Buying from a business gives you statutory liability for defects (at least one year for used goods) plus a receipt as proof. Buying from a private person is "as seen, as bought" and you depend on whatever you agree with the seller.
How much can I save buying used electronics?+
Typically 30–60% off the new price: electronics lose most of their value in the first year or two while losing practically none of their capability. A one-to-two-year-old device is the sweet spot.
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Looking for verified second-hand tech?
Our shop carries cleaned, tested items with a clear condition grade.