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  • 12-Month Warranty (extendable to lifetime)
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  • 90+ quality checks · forensic data-wiping
  • SIM-free & unlocked · UK spec only
  • All in-house — no third parties
  • WEEE-certified recycler · sustainable packaging
  • Specialist since 1999 — 25 years, UK-based
  • 4.8 on Trustpilot · 5,000+ reviews
  • 80k+ reviews across all platforms
  • Free Delivery over £30
  • Free Fast Delivery over £150
  • 12-Month Warranty (extendable to lifetime)
  • 85%+ Battery (100% on Like New)
  • 45-Day Returns
  • 90+ quality checks · forensic data-wiping
  • SIM-free & unlocked · UK spec only
  • All in-house — no third parties
  • WEEE-certified recycler · sustainable packaging

Money saving

Informational

The Hidden Costs of Buying a Brand New Phone (and Why Refurbished Wins)

The sticker price is just the start. Here are the hidden costs new-phone buyers don't see coming.

By Eleanor Wright Senior Editor, Mobile6 min read

The sticker price isn't the only cost when buying new. Here are the hidden expenses of new phones — and how refurbished avoids most of them.

1. Premium VAT and import costs

New flagship phones are heavily marked up. You pay more for branding, packaging and retail margins.

2. Rapid depreciation

New phones lose 30% of their value in the first 12 months. Read about the environmental cost of a new iPhone.

3. Ecosystem lock-in

New phones often come with sales pressure to buy accessories, AppleCare or storage upgrades.

4. Extended warranties

Refurbished phones include a warranty as standard — no extra cost.

5. Insurance premiums

Higher value new phones cost more to insure. Refurbished phones reduce insurance premiums.

Why refurbished wins

Lower upfront cost, less depreciation risk and included warranty. Compare savings on our main phone collection.

Frequently asked questions

Is the new phone resale value better?

Refurbished phones lose value more slowly proportionally — making them better long-term value.

Do new phones come with longer warranties?

Standard new phone warranties are usually 12 months — the same as good refurbished warranties.

Eleanor Wright

Senior Editor, Mobile

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