Buying a refurbished Apple Watch can be a smart way to get a high-quality device at a lower cost. A refurbished Apple Watch is a much more budget friendly option compared to a new Apple Watch, which can be somewhat pricey. It’s essential to approach the purchase with caution and awareness of potential risks.
When searching for a higher-quality, cheaper option—devices you can buy without breaking the bank, a refurbished device should definitely be your go-to option. Where can you find budget-friendly refurbished Apple Watches, and are they worth purchasing? These questions might be running through your mind. Stick through to the end as we uncover the world of refurbished Apple Watches and where to find them.
What is a refurbished device?
A refurbished device (in this case, an Apple Watch) is a previously owned gadget that has been returned to its original condition and functioning, these devices have undergone thorough inspection, repairs (if necessary), cleaning, and testing to ensure they meet the manufacturer’s standards for resale. Refurbished Apple Watches are available from a variety of shops, including Amazon, Best Buy, and Reebelo, at a lesser price than new devices.
Refurbished Apple Watches are a great option for those who want to save money on a high-quality device. They are also a more environmentally friendly option, as they reduce electronic waste.
When buying a refurbished Apple Watch, ensure it’s either manufacturer-certified or comes with a refund policy allowing buyers to return it if they’re dissatisfied with its functionality.
Keep in mind that not all refurbished products (in this case, Apple watches) were ever faulty; some may have been returned for several reasons; the old user might have wanted an upgrade (i.e., newer watches might have been released); the device’s functionality might not have met that specific user’s expectations; and so on.
The 5 best refurbished Apple watches
1. Apple Watch SE 2nd Generation GPS 40mm
Firstly, we have the Apple Watch SE 2nd generation refurbished. It is budget-friendly, as you can save over $80 when purchasing it instead of getting a new one. It comes with a wristband, a case, and a 1 metre magnetic charging cable. The Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen refurbished comes with free shipping (depending on your location). It was released in 2022; it’s capable of lasting up to 16 hours, has a capacity of 32 GB, an optical heart sensor, and water resistance (up to 50m).
The watch costs about $249; you can save more when you buy refurbished products. It is eligible for a refund or replacement within 90 days.
A new watch costs $249
Buy from Apple for $209 (saves $40).
Buy from Amazon for $162.84 (saves $86.16)
2. Apple Watch Series 6 GPS 44mm
The Apple Watch Series 6 GPS 44mm refurbished comes with an Apple magnetic charger. It is eligible for a refund or replacement within 90 days of receipt.
The Apple Watch Series 6was released on September 15, 2020. It comes with 1 GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, 50 m of water resistance, a battery life of 11 hours, and weighs 47.1g. Its launch price was about $429. Though the Apple Watch Series 6 GPS 44mm has been discontinued, you can get a refurbished version for a much lesser price.
The refurbished watch comes with an Apple Watch charger.
new watch cost: $213
Buy from Amazon for $189.01 (excellent condition)
$179.99 (good condition)
$170.97 (acceptable condition)
3. Apple Watch Series 7 GPS 41mm
Apple Series 7 (GPS, 41mm) refurbished is another Apple watch worth buying. You can save up to $100 when you buy the refurbished Apple Watch Series 7 (GPS, 41mm).
The watch comes with a case, a band, and a 1 metre magnetic charging cable. The watch was released on October 15, 2021. Its launch price was $399. It weighs 32 grammes, has 1GB of RAM, and a 32GB capacity.
A new watch costs $399.
Buy from Amazon: $234.95 (excellent condition)
$199.99 (good condition)
$190.97(acceptable condition)
4. Apple Watch Series 7 (GPS + Cellular, 41mm)
The Apple Watch Series 7 (GPS + Cellular, 41mm) refurbished is another model of the Apple Watch Series 7 mentioned above. It comes with a 1 metre magnetic charging cable, band, and case.
On September 14, 2021, it was released with 1 GB of RAM, 32 GB of capacity, 50 m of water resistance, a battery life of 11 hours, and a weight of 42.3g.
Its launch price was about $400.
The refurbished watch comes with an Apple Watch charger.
new watch cost $213
Buy from Amazon for $189.01 (excellent condition)
$199.96 (good condition)
$191.95 (acceptable condition)
5. Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS, 45mm]
![Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS, 45mm]](https://toptechinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/5-251x300.webp "Refurbished Apple Watches: best buy option in 2024 6")
On September 16, 2022, the Apple Watch Series 8 was released with a starting price of $399. With the Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS 45mm) refurbished, you can save over $150.
The refurbished watch comes with a 1 metre magnetic charging cable, band, and case. The watch has a battery life of about 18 hours and weighs about 38.8g.
A new watch costs $429
Buy from Amazon for $227.09 (good condition)
Additional mention
Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS + Cellular, 41MM)
Apple Watch series 8 (GPS + Cellular, 41MM) refurbished also comes with 1m magnetic charging cable, band and case. It comes with all the functionality that comes with a brand new watch. It measures blood oxygen, temperature, fall detection, cardio fitness, and so on. The Apple Watch Series 8 (GPS + cellular, 41mm) was released on September 16, 2022, at a starting price of $429.
A new watch costs $499
Buy from Amazon. $269 (excellent condition)
$259.99 (good condition)
$231.96 (acceptable condition)
Benefits of Buying Refurbished
- Cost Savings: Refurbished Apple Watches are often significantly cheaper than new ones, making them more affordable for budget-conscious buyers.
- Quality Assurance: Reputable refurbishers and manufacturers perform rigorous testing and repairs to ensure the device functions like new.
- Environmental Impact: Buying refurbished extends the lifecycle of electronics, reducing e-waste and promoting sustainability.
- Warranty and Support: Many refurbished Apple Watches come with a limited warranty, providing peace of mind in case of defects or issues.
Things to Consider Before Buying
1. Seller Reputation and Certification
When buying a refurbished Apple Watch, it’s crucial to choose a reputable seller or manufacturer-certified refurbisher. Look for certifications from Apple or authorized third-party refurbishers, as these indicate the device has been thoroughly inspected and refurbished to meet specific standards.
- Apple Certified Refurbished: Devices refurbished by Apple undergo stringent testing, repairs, and come with a one-year warranty. These are often more expensive but offer the highest assurance of quality.
- Authorised Third-Party Refurbishers: Some retailers and companies specialize in refurbishing Apple products and may offer competitive warranties and quality assurances.
2. Condition Grading
Refurbished devices are often categorised by condition grades that indicate their cosmetic appearance and functionality:
- Grade A: Like-new condition with minimal or no signs of wear.
- Grade B: Minor cosmetic imperfections such as light scratches or scuffs, but fully functional.
- Grade C: Noticeable wear and cosmetic defects, but still in working condition.
Always review the condition description carefully to understand what to expect in terms of appearance and functionality.
3. Warranty and Return Policy
Ensure the refurbished Apple Watch comes with a warranty. Apple Certified Refurbished devices typically include a one-year warranty, which can be extended with AppleCare+ for additional coverage. Third-party refurbishers may offer varying warranty lengths, so check the terms before purchasing.
- Return Policy: A reputable seller should offer a return policy that allows you to return the device within a specified period if you’re not satisfied or encounter issues.
4. Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for wearable devices like the Apple Watch. Ask about the battery condition and any replacements performed during refurbishment. Check if the battery health can be assessed through software tools or diagnostic apps.
- Battery Replacement: If the battery has been replaced, ensure it was done with genuine Apple parts to maintain performance and longevity.
5. Included Accessories
Refurbished Apple Watches may come with essential accessories such as charging cables. Verify what accessories are included with the purchase to avoid unexpected costs.
6. Compatibility and Model
Ensure the refurbished Apple Watch model you’re purchasing is compatible with your iPhone model and the latest version of watchOS. Older models may not support the latest features or updates, so check compatibility before buying.
Where to Buy Refurbished Apple Watches
Several reputable sources offer refurbished Apple Watches, each with different benefits and considerations:
- Apple Store: Offers Apple Certified Refurbished products with a one-year warranty and the option to purchase AppleCare+.
- Authorised Retailers: Many authorised retailers sell refurbished Apple Watches, often with warranties and return policies.
- Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Amazon Renewed and eBay offer refurbished products from various sellers. Check seller ratings and return policies before purchasing.
- Specialised Refurbishers: Some companies specialise in refurbishing Apple products and may offer competitive pricing and warranties.
Steps to Evaluate a Refurbished Apple Watch
When you’ve found a refurbished Apple Watch you’re interested in, take these steps to ensure you’re making a wise purchase:
- Research the Seller: Look up reviews and ratings of the seller or refurbisher to gauge their reputation and reliability.
- Check Warranty and Return Policy: Ensure the device comes with a warranty that meets your expectations and a return policy that allows you to return or exchange the device if needed.
- Inspect Condition Description: Review the condition grade and inspect photos (if available) to assess the cosmetic condition of the Apple Watch.
- Verify Compatibility: Ensure the Apple Watch model is compatible with your iPhone model and the latest watchOS version you intend to use.
- Ask About Battery Health: Inquire about the battery’s condition, any replacements done, and the current health percentage.
- Compare Prices: Compare prices across different sellers to ensure you’re getting a competitive deal without compromising on quality or warranty coverage.
Conclusive note
In conclusion, refurbished Apple Watches are definitely worth buying owing to the fact that the watches have been tested and assessed to ascertain the device’s condition and ensure that all the functionality is still intact. Refurbished items are also much cheaper compared to new ones, with the major notable difference being the battery health. The refurbished watches have an average battery life of 90%, which is still pretty impressive, and as such, they’re the perfect choice if you’re looking to get an Apple Watch without breaking the bank.
