<blockquote><em><a href="#412832">In reply to Jhambi:</a></em></blockquote><p>Swappa is my number one recommendation for purchasing used phones. Great marketplace.</p>
<p>An eBay seller with many thousands of positive ratings is probably trustworthy. Not saying they never sell a phone that doesn't work out; rather, they'll probably go to great lengths to ensure customer satisfaction and avoid negative feedback.</p><p><br></p><p>In our computer shop, we've bought lots of phones from eBay for customers asking, "Phone model so-and-so was The Platonic Ideal device for me, and now it's discontinued. Can you find one on eBay for me?" I'd look for what they wanted, and for a listing that shows the IMEI number. I'd call up the cellular carrier and confirm that the device could be activated on their system. Then place order and hope for the best.</p>
<p>Have you thought about refurbished? You won't save as much money, but it will have been tested, and come with a warranty.</p><p>Check manufacturers sites, or places like Overstock.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>
<p>I've lived off ebay phones for years and wouldn't do it any other way. Never had a problem. I don't bother with auctions, just do buy it now. </p><p>I'd recommend the professional refurbished sellers – if they have 99% ratings there's really no risk. Also the phone models are tried and true (or not) after such a time period.</p><p>Just pretend its like 2 years ago and you can have a great condition flagship for <= $200. I've got a Pixel 1 and iPhone 6s both for about that price 6 months ago. </p>
<p>I've purchased all sorts of things on eBay and never had a problem with well-rated sellers with a large track record, but I've never purchased a used phone. Another thing you can sometimes do is just ask around and you might find a friend who wants to get rid of his/her old phone and is either happy to just give it to you or would sell it to you for a low price. I've been given many old phones, though none that were worth much.</p>
<p>I've bought used phones on eBay and had a good experience every time. As others have said, pay attention to seller ratings. I don't know that you need to stick to people with hundreds or thousands of feedback, but definitely make sure you're looking at people with feedback. Also, read the listing very carefully. It's not uncommon for people to put comments like "not working" or "for parts" in places that don't feel very conspicuous at times. </p>
<p>So thank you all for your comments. I found it interesting no one really told a horror story.</p><p>I took the plunge and bought one off of ebay. </p>