When you shop for a refurbished phone you quickly run into labels like "Fair", "Good" or "Excellent". Every shop uses its own names, but the idea is the same: they tell you how the device looks on the outside. Understanding them can save you a fair bit of money.
The key point: the grade is cosmetic
The grade describes scratches, marks and small dents on the body and screen. It doesn't describe how the phone works. A refurbished phone in the cheapest grade should work exactly like one in the top grade: same camera, same speakers, same processor and the same warranty.
The most common grades
Names vary from shop to shop, but they usually follow this scale:
Fair
- Visible signs of use: scratches on the body, perhaps a small dent on the corners.
- The screen may have micro-scratches you can't see when it's switched on.
- The cheapest. Ideal if you'll use a case or don't mind how it looks.
Good
- Light marks, only visible up close or against the light.
- The best-selling grade because it balances price and looks.
Excellent
- Practically no marks to the naked eye.
- The most expensive. Makes sense if it's a gift or you won't use a case.
Some shops add a "premium" grade with extra guarantees, such as a new battery or original parts. Always read exactly what it includes.
Which one is right for you?
| Your situation | Recommended grade |
|---|---|
| You'll use a case and screen protector | Fair |
| You want it to look good without overpaying | Good |
| It's a gift or you don't use a case | Excellent |
| It's for a child or for working outdoors | Fair |
The price difference between the lowest and highest grade can be tens of pounds. If you're putting a case on it on day one, that difference is money you could spend on a good case or more storage.
What to look at besides the grade
- Storage. A lower grade with 128 GB beats a higher grade with 64 GB if you take lots of photos.
- Battery. Check the guaranteed minimum.
- Accessories. Many refurbished phones come with just a cable, or nothing.
- Seller. On marketplaces each listing comes from a different refurbisher: check their rating.
When it arrives: your own inspection
During the first few days, check calmly:
- The screen on a white background and on a black one (patches, dead pixels).
- The front and rear cameras, and the flash.
- Speakers and microphone, with a call and a voice note.
- Wired charging and, if it has it, wireless charging.
- Face ID or Touch ID, buttons and vibration.
If something doesn't match the listing, use the returns period. We explain how in warranty and returns.
In short
The cosmetic grade is a tool to save money sensibly: choose based on how you'll use the phone, not out of fear. Functionality and warranty are the same, and the battery is checked separately.