Why we need to change our view on second-hand tech

It's no secret that technology is expensive. Constantly buying new gadgets outright can be difficult to keep up with, especially if you're on a tight budget. If you don't have thousands to spend on the latest and greatest laptop, smartphone, or tablet, second-hand tech is a viable option.

But many scoff at the thought of buying preloved stuff, no matter if it's tech, clothes, or household goods. While the term "second-hand" can have some negative connotations, the reality is quite different.

This article will explore some of the myths told about second-hand tech, the benefits of buying preloved stuff and why you should consider it when making your next tech purchase!


In this blog:


Second-hand doesn't mean bad quality

As consumers, we are often drawn to new products and services available on the market. However, most of the time, this is not because they are necessarily better than their competition. In fact, sometimes it is because they are newer, and sometimes it is just because they're more popular. 

It's important to realise that older isn't always worse! Second-hand is an umbrella term for lots of different types of preloved stuff. Items purchased but never used or opened will still be classed as second-hand, even though the item is just as new as one off the shelf.

Refurbished tech also falls into the category of second-hand. Refurbished items can be just as good as new items. This is because refurbished tech is repaired back to great working condition to be resold!

Here at musicMagpie, our refurbished devices are given three grades, Pristine, Very Good and Good.


You can find unique items

Buying second-hand is a great way to find one-of-a-kind or rare items. In the world of second-hand tech, you can get your hands on many special edition games, DVDs, and even consoles and devices.

You'll find a wider variety of choices and styles when you shop second-hand. This is because you can find second-hand items that were produced in limited quantities or some items that have been discontinued.


Pre-loved buys give you the same features for a better price

It can be tempting to buy new, especially when you see ads all over the internet. But for those on a tight budget or just wanting to manage their money better, buying new isn't the only option.

Second-hand devices are a great way to get high-quality products for less money. Many people buy tech products and only use them for a short period, like when people trade in their old phones for a new one when their contract ends. These items that are given back are then refurbished and sold at a much lower price.

Refurbished devices are checked over and repaired if necessary, so the product will always be in perfect working order. Whether you want the latest tech for less or an older model at a low price, buying refurbished will save you money!


Second-hand tech helps the environment

It's time we stop seeing second-hand and reused products as 'bad'. In fact, it's quite the opposite!

Buying second-hand or refurbished products promotes a circular economy, where items are reused and given a second life. This reduces the amount of e-waste being thrown into landfills, as you're using a device that otherwise would have been thrown away. It also reduces the demand for new products, reducing manufacturing and the emissions produced from this.

Buying second-hand tech is ethical and sustainable, so we should ditch the idea that second-hand isn't good – it's actually great!


Discarded goods can help others

As the saying goes, "one man's trash is another's treasure"! While you may think that your items are no longer of use, someone else may really benefit from them. 

If you've ever stepped foot in a second-hand shop, you'd know that many second-hand items can help those who cannot afford brand-new things. This goes for both tech and other second-hand stuff! 

As inflation rises and the cost of living increases, many are cutting back on their spending. Buying refurbished tech can cut costs, so more and more are turning to used items rather than paying premium prices for new devices. Due to this, there are many people who could really benefit from your unwanted items – so trade in!

If you're thinking of trading in your unwanted tech, just know that it's going to go to someone else that needs it, so you're going something good!


Got unwanted items you no longer use? Sell your tech with musicMagpie and get fast cash! Plus, you can save money on the latest devices when you buy refurbished tech and shop refurbished phones. We have plenty of cheap used iPhone models to choose from, including cheap iPhone 11,  refurbished iPhone 12 Pro Max and refurbished iPhone 13 models. And it's not just cheap iPhone models we offer – you can also buy other tech with us too like refurbished iPad and MacBook models! 

Wondering where to sell mobile phone models for quick cash? Look no further than musicMagpie! You can sell iPhone, Samsung and Google Pixel phones with us, plus a whole range of other tech items, and get paid instantly for them.