Shopping for a new phone this Black Friday? Consider a like-new device instead

With Canadian wireless providers pulling back on Black Friday deals, there's a lot of buzz around smartphone deals right now. However, for many people, buying a refurbished or used device can be a much better option, as well as a way to save money.

Refurbished phones gaining popularity among consumers because they offer the same quality as new phones but are more affordable, and Canadians I'm starting to take them.

It's worth noting that there are several categories of smartphones that fall under the “like new” or “refurbished” category. Refurbished devices have been used, returned, repaired and restored to good working condition, differing slightly from open package phones, which are lightly used or unused phones returned after opening the original packaging. These well-functioning phones are returned for various reasons, such as the buyer changing their mind or wanting a different color. Retailers can't call them new, so they often sell these devices as open box models at a discount.

Some Canadian suppliers also offer certified pre-owned devices, which are described as “like new” or “lightly used” devices that have been inspected by carrier technicians.

Why buy refurbished?

The price gap is certainly a factor. Buying a flagship smartphone will be a luxury in 2025, with most costing more than $1,000. Refurbished and like-new phones are a more economical option, offering similar features for much less money. You can buy a perfectly functional Galaxy S23 or iPhone 14 pro Not only does it feel brand new, but it offers similar performance without breaking the bank. For Canadians, this price difference means upgrading to high-end devices without increasing your budget.

Before reaching consumersRefurbished phones undergo extensive processing to meet quality standards. From multi-step testing and replacement of faulty parts to detailed inspection and even refurbishment, a refurbished phone becomes virtually indistinguishable from a new one. You get a good battery and a great display, just like the new device. Refurbished phones are not obsolete as some people believe. They are usually a year or twoand continue to receive the latest software updates for years to come. For example, the Samsung Galaxy S23 and Apple iPhone 14 still receive the latest OS updates and security patches. Not only do you get them at affordable prices, but you also get the benefit of the latest apps, features, and accessories.

Buyers won't have to worry about the device's performance as refurbished phones come with guaranteed protection. Canadians skeptical of refurbished phones can feel confident with their warranty and customer service. In most cases, customers who encounter problems with their devices are given troubleshooting assistance and maintenance, or even allowed to choose a return. You get the same treatment as owning brand new phones. This type of warranty can ease the anxiety of using a new device.

As consumer demand grows, sustainability in consumer electronics becomes increasingly important. Manufacturers are prioritizing environmentally friendly products and taking steps to reduce e-waste. But these are not just companies; consumers are also considering eco-friendly products for a cleaner planet. Repairing phones extends their lifespan, reducing demand for new materials and reducing electronic waste. Some Canadians may prefer this eco-friendly option that meets their needs without sacrificing quality.

With all that said, it might be worth considering purchasing a new device this year. Whether you choose a refurbished, opened, or certified pre-owned smartphone, there are many options when it comes to purchasing a new-to-you smartphone. Not only will this save you money on the phone, but it will also allow you to take advantage of bring-your-own-device (BYOD) plans from carriers, which are often much cheaper than the plans you'd need when you buy the phone, allowing you to save more over time.