In today’s world, it’s hard to imagine life without a smartphone. We use them for everything from keeping in touch with our friends and family to navigating strange new cities. However, smartphones are also one of the most expensive pieces of technology that the average person owns, with even the most basic models costing several hundred dollars. For many people, especially those on a tight budget, buying a used smartphone is a more attractive option.
What mobile phone to buy is already a daunting thought and buying a used phone in Pakistan is no easy job. In fact, it is more difficult than buying a pin-packed phone because there are a lot of scammers out there who could hand you phones that might look genuine but are a copy of a smartphone or are defective. When you are buying a used handset from the local market, there are plenty of unfound glitches that can cause you a lot of problems, after the purchase.
What are the Pros and Cons of New and Used Phones?
It’s a dilemma we’ve all faced at one time or another – whether to buy a new phone or go for a used model. The allure of a brand-new device is hard to resist, but opting for a second-hand handset could save you a lot of money. So, what’s the right choice?
There are pros and cons to both new and used phones. A new phone will obviously be in pristine condition and will come with the latest features and technology. It will also be covered by a warranty in case anything goes wrong.
A used phone, on the other hand, will be cheaper and may still be in good condition. But it may not have the same features as a new phone and won’t be covered by a warranty.
So, which is the right choice for you? It depends on your needs and budget. If you want the latest and greatest phone and can afford to pay for it, then go for a new one. Now you won’t even have to do the hassle of going out and buying. Instead, you can get all the latest phones at your doorstep with Priceoye.pk
But if you’re on a tight budget, a used phone may be a better option.
Why Buying a Second-Hand Phone is a Smart Choice?
Buying a used phone in Pakistan in this day and age is a smart choice, as you can see the prices of a good smartphone touching the skies. I mean, come on, no phone is worth your kidney, right? You can get a nice phone that has a whopping price tag attached to it, in nominal prices can always be taken as a fair deal.
In fact, the recent regulations of the PTA where your phone needs to be registered on the automated system is another factor, you need to look at. One can find numerous phones in the market that are not PTA registered, and after you purchase them you would be required to pay taxes on them.
Factors to Consider While Buying a Used Phone in Pakistan
We have made a quick guide through which you can check the essential factors before buying a used phone in Pakistan. It will save you time, as well as you will be saved from any fraud or default.
There is no denying that all of us want a good handset at the lowest price, so the first thing that you can do is check the price of the new handset. Sometimes the shopkeepers misguide you by telling you higher prices. You should always compare the market price of the handset from the various shops and when you find the perfect handset then check the following things:
Proof of Purchase
When purchasing a used phone, it is important to ask for the original box and invoice. The box can provide valuable information about the phone, such as the model number and date of purchase. The invoice can also be used to verify that the phone is not stolen. In Pakistan, there’s a high chance that people could be selling stolen or lost phones, so always ask for proof of purchase.
Check for Physical Damage
One of the first things you should do when inspecting a used phone is to check for any physical damage. Make sure there are no cracks in the screen or body and that all of the buttons are intact and functioning properly. If there is any damage, make sure you factor that into the price you’re willing to pay for the phone.
Water Damaged Phones
One of the most common reasons people sell their used smartphones is because they accidentally dropped them in water and damaged them beyond repair. Water damage isn’t always immediately visible, but there are a few ways to check for it. For example, if the phone powers on but doesn’t hold a charge, that’s a sign that water has damaged the battery. Or, if the screen is discolored or blotchy, that could be another sign of water damage.
Don’t Forget About Accessories
If you’re planning on buying a used smartphone, chances are you’ll also need to purchase some accessories. This could include things like a new charger, case, or screen protector. Be sure to factor these costs into your budget when negotiating the price of the phone itself.
Phone Screen needs to be Screened Well
One of the most important things which should always be considered while buying a used phone is the screen. It is a very crucial part of a smartphone. You can check the screen of the phone, by opening a white background without any other colors. If you find a hue of yellow on the screen or a bit of warmth in the display then know that it is an original screen. However, if you find the screen to be more towards a blue tone or bright white then either that phone is refurbished or the screen isn’t original.
Maximum Battery Capacity is a Must
If you are purchasing a phone that doesn’t have a removable battery then open the camera from your phone and select ‘burst’ mode. Take lots of pictures from the ‘burst mode’ and if you experience the battery draining then the battery is faulty. For iPhone users, you can easily check the battery from settings, where there is a ‘battery life’ option available. Don’t buy an iPhone that has less capacity than 85%.
Headphone Jack, Mic, and Speaker
Check the headphone jack, mic, and speaker to know if the phone that you are purchasing hasn’t been opened. If there is a fault in any of the three then the phone has already been opened.
Check the SIM and Memory Slot
Insert your SIM card and memory card. The easy way to check a memory card is to insert it and then go into files. If you don’t find a memory card in the files, then either your memory card is not working or the SD port doesn’t work.
Always take a SIM card that is compatible with the phone you are going to purchase. You can insert your SIM into the phone and check it completely. Make two or three calls, as well as texts to check the functionality of the handset. It will help you to analyze the indoor and outdoor signal capability of the phone too.
Good Picture Quality is Important
The camera is another factor that needs to be evaluated. If you find any scratch or dust on the lens of the camera then don’t buy that phone, as it will never give you good picture quality.
Evaluate the Phone’s Outer Casing
If the shopkeeper tells you that the phone has already been opened then always ask for the work done on the phone. If there is something done on the Motherboard then you should never buy that handset. For self-evaluation, check the corners of the phone, if you feel like there is any abnormality or gap in the corners then it is already been opened.
Take your Time
Always take your time to check the entire phone and never do it in a hurry. If there is any problem with the phone then your money will be completely wasted, as the phone will start to malfunction very soon.
Nothing’s Wrong with a Second Opinion
You should always take another person with you when going to purchase a phone.
Take at least two Days’ Guarantee
Take two days guarantee from the storekeeper so you can make sure that everything works fine on the handset. Also, check the IMEI number on the phone and verify it with the PTA before giving your money to the retailer as it could cost you a lot more if the phone that you have purchased isn’t PTA registered.
Conclusion
These are some of the tips and tricks that can save time and money while buying a used phone from the local market. You should always do proper research before you head out to the market and even check out the various reviews of the handset on the internet. This will help you in getting to know a lot about the features of the phone, and you will be able to better evaluate the handset while purchasing from a retailer.
