Do refurbished iPhones have cosmetic damage?

Understanding refurbished grades

First, let's clarify what “refurbished” means in the context of iPhones. A refurbished iPhone is a pre-owned device that’s been professionally restored to pristine working condition by Apple or a certified refurbisher. This process typically involves testing, cleaning, and repairing the device to ensure it functions like new.

When it comes to refurbished iPhones, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. That means a light scratch or mark might appear on some devices, but it’s far from a sure thing. Back Market's grading system helps buyers understand the appearance of the device they buy: Premium, Excellent, Good, and Fair.

• Premium: You’d never know this device was pre-owned. Premium refurbished iPhones don’t have a single scratch or dent.

• Excellent: These devices look like new, with minimal to no signs of wear and no screen scratches. Cosmetic imperfections, if any, are very minor and almost unnoticeable. You won’t see them from more than 8 inches away.

• Good: These devices may have light scratches or small dents that are so minor that they can’t be seen from an arm’s length away, around 20 inches. 

• Fair: The scratches and dents on these products are more noticeable. 

Cosmetic damage: Functionality vs. aesthetics

Remember that cosmetic damage on refurbished iPhones is just that — cosmetic. It doesn’t impact the functionality of the device in any way. Whether you choose an Excellent, Good, or Fair iPhone, the phone will perform as you’d expect a new iPhone bought straight from the Apple Store to perform.

All refurbished iPhones sold by Back Market undergo rigorous functionality tests to guarantee they have 100% charge capacity and a minimum battery health of 80%. Professionals thoroughly examine each device with a minimum 25-point inspection, testing everything from the touchscreen and side buttons to connectivity. These tests ensure that every iPhone, regardless of its cosmetic grade, meets our — and your — high-performance standards

Making the best choice: Which grade is right for you?

Choosing your refurbished iPhone depends on your personal preferences and budget. Here are some considerations to help you decide:

• Grade A (Excellent): The best grade is ideal for those who want a phone that looks and feels new. If you’re buying a refurbished iPhone as a gift or just generally want a device that looks brand new, this grade is best for you.

• Grade B (Good): This is a great option if you’re looking for a balance between cost and appearance. Light scratches or small dents are barely noticeable in everyday use, and you still get a phone that functions perfectly for a smaller price tag.

• Grade C (Fair): Fair grading is best for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize functionality over aesthetics. If you don’t mind some visible wear and tear, this grade offers the most savings without compromising on performance.

To make the decision process easier, Back Market offers detailed descriptions, including technical descriptions, perks and benefits, and answers to frequently asked questions, on every refurbished iPhone in our marketplace.

Warranty and customer support for refurbished iPhones on Back Market

All devices sold by Back Market come with a one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind that you’re covered in case of any performance issues. You can also add a protection plan that covers your screen and water damage for up to 2 years. We also offer 30-day returns, so you have time to change your mind if the iPhone isn’t what you expected. Back Market offers robust customer support to assist with any concerns or questions post-purchase. Search our FAQ or email our customer service for a reply within 24 hours from Monday to Saturday. Whether you need help with setup and troubleshooting or have questions about your phone’s condition, our support team is ready to help.

Reliable quality and savings, no matter the cosmetic condition

You have a choice when it comes to how your new-to-you iPhone looks. If you don’t care about the physical appearance of your refurbished iPhone, you’ll save some money shopping for good or fair models. But if looking factory-new is important to you, shopping premium and excellent is worth the little extra (but still significantly more affordable than new). Whether premium or fair, any choice is a good one: the physical condition of a refurbished iPhone in no way reflects how it works.

Budget-friendly and climate-conscious, a refurbished iPhone saves you green while keeping our planet green. Each refurbished iPhone sold on Back Market is guaranteed to work flawlessly, backed by a one-year warranty that will replace your device if something goes awry. And with all the details listed about each iPhone on our marketplace, you can expect full transparency when you buy from us. Shop for your next iPhone confidently on Back Market.