5 Myths about Refurbished Office Phones- Debunked!

Setting up a business requires a lot of steps. You start by renting a workable (and in-budget) office space and move ahead with actual hiring and inventory collection. Buying office systems and phones comes next.

While the fresh buy is a great option, it’s a rather impractical choice for companies who’ve just set foot in the business world. Electronics, especially high-quality ones, are mostly expensive. That’s why most startups kickstart on leased/refurbished systems. This way they can save big bucks, and go ahead with their business plans without further ado.

Sadly, refurbished gadgets are not as popular as they could have been. The term ‘refurbished’ subjects to many myths and is often seen as an inferior older cousin to the new kid in the house.

We’re going to bust a few myths that are commonly associated with refurbished phones in this article. So, if you are looking to buy refurbished sets and make a saving then hold tight, you’re in for a bumpy ride ahead.

Don’t Let The Myths About Refurbished Phones Confuse Your Buying Decision

Myth 1: A refurbished phone is the same as a used phone

Reality: First thing first, a ‘refurbished’ is NOT anywhere like a ‘used’ item you see in the market.

There are two types of second-hand gadgets— used and refurbished. ‘Used’ device is sort of phone you buy from individuals or private dealers. They are generally repaired, polished and then sold in the market. It’s a cheaper option for those looking for a quick buy. The phone could have anything- from a few scratches to hidden hardware damages. Plus, the chances of it being a stolen piece is quite high.

On the other hand, a refurbished phone is the one returned to the retailer/trader after a short duration. The ones you buy on a 30-day-return policy. It’s relatively newer and in a good condition (mostly) as all refurbished phones are thoroughly tested before they’re put on sale. Technically, a refurbished phone is a used piece that works just like a new phone. Bonus: they are usually sold on a great deal, so you can save some crucial bucks.

As you can see, buying refurbished sets is a smart decision, actually.

Myth 2: It might come with hidden hardware/software damages

Reality: Every refurbished phone goes through a strict QA process— ranging from initial review to deep testing and cleaning process. They check all parts for internal damages and fixed if needed.

There are many retailers that give a warranty with the phone sets. This is as close to new you can get, on a budget.

Myth 3: Refurbished phone was at one-time defective

Reality: This is not true. There are times when people return their phones to the retailer in light of reasons that are completely unrelated to defects. Especially if it’s bought in bulk. In can be due to surplus inventory, end of promo offer, dissatisfaction with a certain feature or two or simply because they got a better deal somewhere else. This might make the user sell their surplus phones back to the retailer.

That said, it’s possible that a piece is back due to some defects. It can happen, of course. But when it does, the retailer sends it back to the manufacturing unit for extensive testing and repairing. Broken parts are replaced, the phone is cleaned, polished and then, returned to the dealer.

In any case, it’s best you consult with an authorized dealer and purchase items that are in the perfect condition.

Myth 4: Refurbished phones have a short lifespan

Reality: Again, a false perception. Refurbished phones are mostly new and in a perfectly fine working condition. The re-testing and quality control applied to them after initial return further conditions them for a longer lifespan than regular pieces.

Myth 5: Refurbished phones are not powerful enough to run a business

Reality: Many IT companies resell their new phones back to the dealer for reasons varied—

Overstock, company going out of business, or downsizing. There is a chance that product you are buying has already been used to run a business.

Essentially, no retailer or manufacturer wants their refurbished items coming back. So they usually sell them out in usually cheaper deals. That’s where you can benefit. With refurbished sets, you get optimum performance, maximum efficiency, high-output, all in a budget-friendly manner. Now, who can say no to that!

I am Chris Klow, Owner of Telecom Recycle, is a leading IT asset and disposition company specialized in buying and recycling of redundant business telephone systems and handsets.