Written by Megan
Edited on
16 July 2025
·
10:32
What's refurbished?
Refurbished means that a used device gets a second chance. The iPhone has been checked and repaired if needed. It's not the same as a second-hand iPhone. You'll receive 2 years of warranty and the device has been checked by an expert. In this article, you can read what a refurbished iPhone is and what you can expect of it.
What is a refurbished iPhone?
A refurbished iPhone is a used device that's for sale again after a check. This means it's not a new device, so it can show (some) traces of use. Think about scratches on the screen or the casing. How many traces of use is indicated by the refurbished condition. In addition, the smartphone has been fully tested to make sure it's still working properly. If a part isn't working properly during the check, it'll be replaced.
What does a refurbished iPhone look like?
We have 3 different types of refurbished iPhone models at Coolblue: 'As good as new', 'Lightly used', and 'Visibly used'. The category of your iPhone is based on the number of visible traces of use and the replaced parts. A refurbished iPhone that's categorized as 'As good as new' only has a few damages. All you might find is a light scratch on the casing or the screen. Light and visibly-used devices have more traces of use, like scratches or dents on the housing. When a part doesn't work properly during the check, it'll be replaced with a new part. These parts have been approved and are safe.
Types of refurbished iPhone models in short
| Refurbished condition | Traces of use |
|---|---|
| As good as new | Possibly some light scratches |
| Slightly used | Clear scratches on the screen or the housing |
| Visibly used | Deeper scratches or a dent |
What's the difference between a new iPhone and a refurbished iPhone?
Refurbished iPhone models differ from new iPhone models in a couple of ways
- The price of a refurbished device is lower than of a new device.
- The battery condition isn't always 100%, this differs per device. You don't notice this difference with daily use.
- A refurbished iPhone is used and doesn't always look like new.
- A refurbished iPhone doesn't come in an original Apple packaging, but in a sustainable, cardboard packaging.
Until when does a refurbished iPhone receive iOS updates?
It depends on the model and the introduction date until when a refurbished iPhone receives iOS updates. The newer the iPhone model, the longer you benefit from the latest iOS updates. Generally speaking, an iPhone will receive iOS updates until 5 to 6 years after the release date. That's why a refurbished iPhone 11 won't receive as many software updates as a refurbished iPhone 13.
Article by Megan
Refurbished Expert.
