Buying a Used Phone in Pakistan? Check These Before Paying
| Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... |
Buying a used or second-hand phone can save you money, but it comes with risks if you don’t inspect it carefully. In Pakistan’s growing market for refurbished and used devices, a smart buyer can avoid scams and faulty devices by knowing exactly what to check. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make a safe purchase.
1. Inspect the Physical Condition
Start by examining the phone’s body carefully:
- Look for scratches, dents, or cracks on the screen and body.
- Check the frame for any signs of bending, which could indicate water damage or heavy impact.
- Inspect the charging port, headphone jack, and SIM slot for wear and tear.
- Test buttons (power, volume, fingerprint sensor) to ensure they work smoothly.
2. Verify the Phone’s IMEI
Every phone has a unique IMEI number, which helps track its legitimacy:
- Dial
*#06#to find the IMEI number. - Cross-check it with the number on the phone box and the receipt, if available.
- In Pakistan, you can verify a device’s legality through PTA’s IMEI database to ensure it’s not blacklisted or stolen.
3. Test the Battery Health
A worn-out battery reduces performance and may require early replacement:
- On iPhones, go to Settings → Battery → Battery Health. A capacity above 80% is preferable.
- On Android, use apps like AccuBattery or check device settings for battery info.
- Check if the phone heats up excessively during basic tasks.
4. Check the Screen and Touch Functionality
- Look for dead pixels or discoloration by displaying a solid-color image.
- Test the touch screen for responsiveness in all areas.
- Check brightness, color consistency, and auto-brightness functionality.
5. Verify Cameras and Audio
- Open the camera app to test front and back cameras, video recording, and flash.
- Test the speaker, microphone, and headphone output for clarity.
- Check for any water damage indicators near the camera or ports.
6. Test Connectivity and Sensors
- Test Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and mobile network connectivity.
- Check sensors like accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity, and fingerprint sensor using diagnostic apps.
7. Check Storage and Factory Reset
- Ensure the device has enough storage and is not filled with unnecessary apps or files.
- Ask the seller to perform a factory reset to remove their accounts, ensuring you can set up the device with your credentials.
8. Confirm Warranty and Accessories
- Check if the phone is still under warranty; some brands offer transferable warranty.
- Verify the authenticity of accessories such as charger, earphones, and box. Fake chargers may damage the phone.
9. Negotiate and Compare Prices
- Compare prices of similar used phones online in Pakistan before finalizing.
- Avoid deals that seem too cheap; extremely low prices may indicate problems.
Buying a used phone in Pakistan can be a smart choice if you carefully inspect the device. By checking its physical condition, IMEI, battery health, screen, cameras, connectivity, and warranty, you can avoid scams and enjoy a reliable smartphone at a lower cost. Always buy from trusted sellers or platforms that offer some buyer protection.
About the Author
