Buying Used Devices Safely: The Complete Must-Know Guide

Second-Hand Tech Buying Guide: Musts and Must Nots

Buying second-hand can save you serious money, but there are a few things you absolutely need to check first. Here's what actually matters.

The Golden Rule: Check Support Status First

You don't need the latest flagship model, but avoid phones that are no longer supported by the manufacturer or will lose support soon.

Why This Matters

If you buy a device that's no longer getting updates:

• No new features or performance improvements – the phone stays frozen in time
• No security updates – makes your device easier to hack and vulnerable to threats
• Apps may stop working – newer app versions won't run on outdated software

How to Check If a Device Is Still Supported

Before you buy, look up the specific model online to see if it's still receiving updates:

For iPhones

• Check Apple's Supported iPhone models list
• iPhones typically get 5-6 years of updates
• Avoid anything older than iPhone 11 in 2026

For Chromebooks

• Look up the Chrome OS Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date
• Each Chromebook model has a specific end-of-support date
• Don't buy one that's expiring within the next year

For Google Pixel/Nexus Devices

• Check Google's Pixel support timeline
• Newer Pixels get 7 years of updates, older ones get 3-5 years

For Other Android Devices (Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, etc.)

• Visit the manufacturer's official website
• Search for your specific model's support page
• Samsung flagship phones typically get 4-5 years, budget models get less

Quick Must-Do Checklist

• Verify the device is still receiving updates
• Check how many years of support are left
• Test all buttons, ports, and features before buying
• Ask for original purchase proof if possible
• Check battery health (especially important for phones and laptops)
• Make sure the device isn't locked or blacklisted

Must Nots: What to Avoid

• Don't buy devices that lost support more than a year ago
• Don't skip checking for physical damage (cracked screens, dents, water damage)
• Don't buy without testing it first if meeting in person
• Don't ignore red flags (too cheap, vague descriptions, no photos)
• Don't buy from sketchy online sellers without reviews or ratings

Buying Online? Stay Safe

If you're buying second-hand online:

• Use platforms that show who you're buying from (Snapsome, Facebook Marketplace) or that offer buyer protection (eBay, Swappa)
• Read the seller's reviews and ratings carefully
• Ask for detailed photos and videos of the device working
• Use secure payment methods (avoid direct bank transfers to strangers)
• Meet in safe, public places if doing in-person exchanges

For more detailed guidance on shopping online securely, check out the NCSC's guide to online shopping safety.

Bottom Line

Buying second-hand is smart if you do it right. Just make sure the device you're buying still has life left in it, both in terms of software support and physical condition.

A well-maintained, supported device will serve you well for years. An unsupported one is a security risk waiting to happen.