How to Check a Used Phone Before Buying

Identity and ownership

• Read model, storage, serial and IMEI from Settings.
• Check lost/stolen status and network compatibility.
• Make the seller remove Apple or Google account protection.

Function test

• Calls, SMS and mobile data.
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS.
• Screen, touch, cameras, microphones, speakers and charging.
• Battery diagnostic and real-use behaviour.

Transaction protection

• Use protected payment.
• Keep the listing and messages.
• Record accepted faults on the receipt.
• Do not pay when the seller refuses a reset or basic test.

A practical 15-minute inspection

• First five minutes: verify identifiers, remove owner accounts and confirm the phone reaches a normal setup or Home screen.
• Next five minutes: insert your SIM, make a normal call, send an SMS and test mobile data, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth and location.
• Final five minutes: test screen, cameras, microphones, speakers, charging, buttons and battery behaviour under a short load.

When time is limited, prioritise faults that make the phone unusable or unsafe rather than small scratches.

Keep the inspection tied to this exact phone

Use one dated sheet that records identity, ownership, network, battery and hardware results for this handset. Mark every untested item clearly so limited meeting time is not remembered later as a full pass.