Buying an Android Phone: What to Ask and Where to Shop

Ask these when buying new or on contract

• What is the return policy? It differs by carrier and dealer, and reps tend to skim past it. Some offered only 15 minutes of talk time, while others allowed up to 15 days. It is your job to know.
• What happens if the phone is defective? Ask how long a repair takes, whether a loaner is provided and whether you still pay data fees. The author knew of a customer whose loaner phone could not use data at all, with no credit for lost days. Cancelling data on a three-year contract carried a $100 penalty.
• Which accessories exist? Optional, but cases, docks, TV-out gear and external batteries add value for some buyers.

Before buying a used phone

Check the IMEI

The IMEI is a unique 15 or 17 digit code printed on the box and found under the battery. Call the carrier with it to learn whether the phone was reported stolen, how old it is and whether warranty remains. A box number matching the phone’s is a good sign. Be extra careful if a seller offers only a phone and a charger.

The author warned that a phone later reported stolen can be taken back with no refund, and that holding stolen property can bring charges, especially for items over $500. Proof of purchase helps.

Watch for fakes

A cheap copy can be passed off to inexperienced buyers. Look up what the real phone ships with. Older HTC models, for example, came with a microSD card.

Be careful with sealed-box deals

BNIB means brand new in box. Most are genuine, but boxes can be rewrapped with a heat gun. The author knew a buyer who found a scuffed phone inside a sealed BlackBerry Torch box. If you are serious, ask to open the box before paying. A seller who refuses is a warning sign.

Where to buy

For new phones, the author favoured Best Buy, which often undercut carrier prices after launch. At the time, Best Buy and Future Shop offered a 14-day return on undamaged full-price phones. Contract phones follow the carrier’s policy, so ask. Online shopping can bring deals and unlocked phones but makes returns harder.

For used phones the author used Craigslist, which has many scammers but also many viewers.

Rules for used deals

1. Deal locally, face to face.
2. Do not accept PayPal, because payment pages can be faked.
3. Take cash only.
4. Sellers should include the box to build trust.
5. Buyers should check the IMEI when something feels wrong.
6. Inspect sealed-box items before leaving.
7. Walk away if the deal feels off.