How to Shop for a Used Cell Phone

If you've decided that saving a little money while still getting the cell phone that you desire sounds like the right plan for you, you've likely decided that a used or refurbished cell phone is on the horizon.  So, the question arises - with so many used phones out there, what is the best way to find the right phone for you?  Essentially, you have 3 options - searching for a phone by manufacturer, searching for phones that will work on your network, or searching for unlocked phones.

Searching by Manufacturer - If you know what brand and model of phone you want, and have some flexibility in choosing what carrier you operate with (perhaps your contract has just expired), you're in good shape and shouldn't have a problem finding exactly what you're looking for.  If you want a used Blackberry Pearl, for example, a quick web search will point you in the direction of numerous vendors that carry different models, colors, and so on.

Shopping by Carrier - If you are not at the end of a contract but still need to replace your phone for whatever reason, you've likely already realized that those great deals on new phones advertised in the paper are for new customers only and you'll have to pay full retail for another phone.  Looking for a used phone that works on your carrier is a great way to save some cash, not sign a new contract, and still get a great phone.  More than likely, your carrier's local store will not offer any used phones and you'll have to find a third party vendor that sells phones that work on your network.  Most retailers will advertise or state if they sell used Verizon phones, for example, and it isn't hard to find a vendor online or in most cities.

Shopping for Unlocked Phones - This method is generally the most effective.  Finding an unlocked cell phone that you like will alleviate issues with getting the phone to work on your network as most unlocked phones will work on 3 or more networks without any modifications.  It also gives you the freedom to take the phone from one network to another, so if you decide to move to a different carrier when your current contract expires, you won't have to buy a new phone.