Top 3 Reasons to Buy Used Electronics
Written By Brianna Loper
April 21, 2016
The exciting time has come to say goodbye to your old, slow, or broken device and go shopping for something shiny and new. There are so many options to choose from in today’s world, with new models constantly being released. But before you decide to splurge, consider the benefits of purchasing used electronics.
Not only will you save money, as used electronics are naturally much cheaper than brand new devices, but when you buy refurbished devices there are also numerous environmental benefits. Reducing the amount of e-waste is more important than ever!
By the year 2018, there will be a projected 461 million idle devices in the United States alone, meaning the owners of these devices have upgraded their phones, and their old devices are no longer being used by anyone, according to a 2014 report by Bamboo Mobile - Compass Intelligence. Of those 461 million devices, only 174 million will be recycled. Moreover, 170 million of those devices will fall into the category of “gently used,” meaning they still have a lot of life to give!
Here are three big reasons why buying restored electronics is great for the environment — and your wallet!
1) Fewer new devices made each year
Did you know that cell phones, on average, are used for less than 18 months before they’re replaced? In 2013, more than a billion new smart phones were shipped out for use across the world. That’s an incredible number of cell phones made each year. Each of these phones requires plastics, precious metals and many other resources that could have been conserved had more individuals bought used phones.
Instead of contributing to the mining of metals and creation of plastics, first consider if there’s a used device out there that can do the job just as well!
2) More electronics kept out of landfills
Because more consumers are purchasing personal electronics today than ever before, the amount of electronic waste that enters landfills each year is rapidly increasing. According to the EPA. e-waste is the fastest growing municipal waste in the United States. When these electronics, which carry heavy metals, are melted down or put in landfills, they create toxins that potentially pollute the soil, air, and water. These toxins can cause birth defects or even brain, heart, liver or kidney damage, in addition to damages to the environment. Instead, buying a used device, be it a cell phone, iPad or even MacBook, means there are fewer devices in landfills, and less of a health risk to us.
3) Extra spending money in your wallet
One of the biggest factors in any large purchase is the price tag. No matter what you’re looking to buy, cost usually plays a major role in your decision. Not only are used electronics cheaper, but they’re also in great condition, as restoration companies have refurbished the battery, exterior and storage capacity to ensure the device is as good as new — many people can’t usually tell the difference between a restored device and a new one!
Buy from a certified electronic restoration company to ensure that your iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, iPad or MacBook is the highest quality possible. Also choose a company that has a 30-day guarantee to ensure that if the electronic isn’t just right for you, it’s easy to return for a different smartphone or electronic. Stay away from sites that advertise “all sales final” or items that come “as is.”
Why did you decide to purchase a refurbished electronic? Were there unexpected bonuses to buying a restored smartphone, tablet or computer? Let us know!
Photo courtesy of Flickr.
