Question Best place to buy New Factory Unlocked Older Model Phones.

[Taslim Dude 786]

What is the best place to purchase a So Called New Factory Unlocked Smart Phone of an older not latest model if, one want's a new phone but not the latest and newest model. Like maybe a Galaxy S22 Ultra, which is not the latest model but still a great phone at a reduced price since it's a few generations old but not a used phone.
Is it wise to buy from E-Bay a phone listed as "New Sealed Factory Unlocked". Is it a good idea to not buy a new phone but instead a Amazon Renewed Phone or E-Bay Refurbished?


Thanks

 

[rvbfan]

I would go with a Google/ Amazon/ Samsung renewed personally. Maybe even a carrier's renewed. eBay for me has turned into a sketchier place.

 

[winmod21]

We've had very good experiences with all of the "New factory unlocked" phones we've purchased via Amazon.
For example, my factory unlocked Samsung Galaxy S7 Active – purchased in 2017 – still works great, and like new. Same with the other 'new factory unlocked' Samsungs we've purchased via Amazon **.
** But if purchasing on Amazon, just be sure to only purchase phones or electronics or really anything, I'd say over $30~$50 ....ONLY FROM "SOLD BY: AMAZON"!
And never from any of their 3rd party sellers! As there's way too many nightmare reviews/stories from many of Amazon's 3rd party sellers!

 

[mustang7757]

I've used swappa before and no problems.

 

[rvbfan]

We've had very good experiences with all of the "New factory unlocked" phones we've purchased via Amazon.
For example, my factory unlocked Samsung Galaxy S7 Active – purchased in 2017 – still works great, and like new. Same with the other 'new factory unlocked' Samsungs we've purchased via Amazon **.
** But if purchasing on Amazon, just be sure to only purchase phones or electronics or really anything, I'd say over $30~$50 ....ONLY FROM "SOLD BY: AMAZON"!
And never from any of their 3rd party sellers! As there's way too many nightmare reviews/stories from many of Amazon's 3rd party sellers!

Op was talking about used or renewed.

 

[methodman89]

Woot has alot, and they're owned by Amazon for 5% off and free shipping /returns.

 

[winmod21]

Op was talking about used or renewed.

OP's thread title says: "Best place to buy New Factory Unlocked Older Model Phones" . . . and the opening sentence of the OP said: "What is the best place to purchase a So Called New Factory Unlocked Smart Phone of an older not latest model" . . . hence why I posted re 'new factory unlocked older model phones'.

 

[VidJunky]

E-bay in a lot of ways is the still the wild west of online shopping venues, in my opinion. They have their seller ratings but as you mentioned in your closed thread, they wanted you to change your reason for return so that it reflected on them better. This is something many of the sellers do on that site and its something many buyers do because they get ratings too. The best advice would be, as many have suggested above, go to a more regulated and reputable online shopping venue or read reviews. While they try to pressure buyers to generalize their reviews or make them faultless not all do. How many, they wanted me to change my review/reason for return or ignored me, reviews would it take for you to reconsider shopping at a place? Your number isn't the same as mine, and ours is not the same as Joe Schmoe. I can only assume that this was the best price you could find, but there's sometimes a reason for that. I'm not saying you get what you pay for but sometimes you do.

Best wishes and good luck in the future.

Google says,

To find reputable eBay sellers, focus on their feedback score, transaction history, and any badges like "Top Rated". Look for high feedback percentages (ideally over 98%) with a large number of feedback entries, indicating a long-standing and reliable seller. Also, pay attention to the details of the feedback, noting any negative or neutral comments and why they were left.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Check the Seller's Feedback Score and Reviews:

• High Feedback Percentage: Strive for sellers with a feedback score of 95% or higher.
• Number of Feedbacks: A high number of feedback entries (hundreds or even thousands) suggests a large volume of transactions, indicating a reliable and experienced seller.
• Read Reviews Carefully: Analyze the content of the reviews, looking for patterns in positive comments (e.g., prompt shipping, accurate descriptions) and any negative or neutral comments that might raise concerns.

2. Assess the Seller's Transaction History:

• Long-Standing Seller: A seller with a long-standing presence on eBay (many years) is likely more experienced and reliable.
• Large Number of Sales: Sellers with a substantial history of sales are more likely to be seasoned and dependable.
• Check for Consistency: Look for patterns in their sales, such as consistent item availability and steady feedback over time.

3. Look for eBay Badges:

• "Top Rated" Badge: eBay's Top Rated Sellers badge indicates that they have met specific performance standards, including shipping speed, return policy, and feedback ratings.
• "Shooting Star" Badge: This badge on an eBay seller's name indicates that they have a high feedback rating and a good reputation.

4. Be Aware of Red Flags:

• Low Feedback Percentage: A feedback score below 90% or a very small number of feedbacks can be a warning sign.
• Negative or Neutral Reviews: Pay close attention to the details of negative or neutral comments, as they can reveal recurring issues with the seller.
• Suspiciously Low Prices: Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they may be a sign of a scam or a fake seller.
• Unrealistic Descriptions: If the product description seems too good to be true or lacks details, be cautious.

5. Take Additional Precautions:

• Use Secure Payment Methods: Make sure to use trusted payment methods like PayPal, which offers buyer protection.
• Communicate with the Seller: If you have questions about the item or the seller, contact them through eBay's messaging system.
• Research the Product: Learn about the product before making a purchase to ensure the seller's description is accurate.
• Consider the Return Policy: Review the seller's return policy to understand what your options are if you are not satisfied with the item.
• Start Small: If you are unsure about a seller's reliability, start with a smaller purchase to test their service.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly increase your chances of finding a reputable seller and making a positive buying experience on eBay.

 

[ras47]

I've used swappa before and no problems.

Swappa is the only place I trust now. I've sold a few phones there, bought a few, and never a problem.

 

[mustang7757]

Swappa is the only place I trust now. I've sold a few phones there, bought a few, and never a problem.

Yeah bought a few in the past , they legit.

 

[Laura Knotek]

Yeah bought a few in the past , they legit.

Me too. I bought three phones from Swappa in the past and never had issues.