Product information

Used, Refurbished, or Pre-owned: Which one is better?

Get a great device without paying new prices

Used

Private seller, sold as-is

Typical discount Highest
Risk level Highest
  • Sold as-is, no quality standard enforced
  • Condition varies from near-new to worn out
  • Largest discounts, but buyer takes all the risk

Refurbished

Work done before resale by vendor or manufacturer

Typical discount Moderate
Risk level Lower
  • Inspected, cleaned, and repaired before resale
  • Manufacturer or licensed refurbisher programs available
  • Costs more than used due to testing and repair work

Pre-owned

Lightly used, well kept, no repair work done

Typical discount Moderate
Risk level None
  • Lightly used with no repair work performed
  • May still be within the original manufacturer's warranty
  • No universal grading standard; definitions vary by seller

At-a-glance comparison

Used Refurbished Mint Certified Pre-Owned
Who you buy from Private seller Vendor or manufacturer Mint Telecom
Condition consistency Unpredictable Tested to standard 4-tier grading scale
Work done before resale None Repairs and testing 6-point testing, genuine parts
Warranty None Varies ✓ 1 year
Recourse if it fails Little to none Depends on warranty ✓ Full support
Price Lowest Moderate Fair and transparent

Where Mint fits

Mint removes the guesswork. Every device is graded on a fixed four-tier scale: Premium, Excellent, Good, Fair. Each device is tested across 6 areas, repaired with genuine parts, and unlocked. Backed by a 1-year warranty and a 30-day return window.