Snapping up refurbished gadgets for Christmas gifts

As magical as Christmas is, the pressure to buy gifts can be overwhelming when money is tight.

But there’s a savvy way to get your hands on thoughtful gifts that don’t cost an arm and a leg: refurbished devices.

The best thing about these is that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. When they’re restored, old devices are given new parts and cleaned up. Often, they’re nearly as good as new and are only cheaper because the device itself isn’t brand new.

Why opt for refurbished devices?

Buying pre-loved gadgets is not just a budget-friendly choice, it’s also an environmentally-conscious one. Here why it’s worth considering them:

• Affordability: Second-hand gadgets usually come at reduced prices
• Quality: Many gadgets still have plenty of life left in them.
• Uniqueness: You might discover rare or discontinued items that could make someone’s Christmas.
• Eco-friendly: Buying second-hand reduces waste and encourages recycling.

Where to find pre-loved gadgets

Let’s look at where you can find quality gadgets for a fraction of the price:

• Refurbished stores: Look for shops that sell refurbished items, often with a warranty. Commonly trusted ones include Gazelle and Back Market.
• Electrical shops: Some retailers, like Currys, offer a selection of refurbished devices. 
• Online marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Amazon often offer certified refurbished gadgets.

What to look for

When snapping up second-hand devices, it’s important make sure you’re getting a good deal.

• Do your research: Check how trustworthy refurbished stores are by using a review website like Trustpilot.
• Certification: Make sure the device meets proper certification and has been professionally refurbished.
• Condition: You can often pick from a range of conditions with different price tags. Top tip: A device in ‘Good’ condition tends to be similar to ‘Excellent’, and if the seller’s trustworthy, ‘Fair’ might only mean a couple minor scratches.
• Guarantee: Opt for a device with at least a 1-year guarantee, so if anything goes wrong, you’ll get your money back.
• Price comparison: Compare prices to make sure you're getting the best deal.

Gift ideas for everyone

Now that you know how to find second-hand gadgets, here are some gift ideas that could make a loved one’s Christmas:

For the tech enthusiast

• Smartphones: Look for gently used models that still pack a punch.
• Tablets: Perfect for reading, browsing, or streaming.
• Smartwatches: Help them stay connected and track their fitness goals.

For the gamer

• Gaming consoles: Older models can still deliver hours of fun.
• Headsets: A good pair can improve the gaming experience.
• Video games: Look for pre-owned games that are still in excellent condition.

For the reader

• Kindles: Get a refurbished reading device for the reader in your life.

For the homebody

• Smart speakers: Great for music lovers or those who enjoy smart home technology.
• Streaming devices: Perfect for binge-watching  favourite shows.
• Kitchen gadgets: Consider second-hand mixers or coffee machines for the culinary enthusiast.

Happy budget-conscious and eco-friendly shopping!