Looking to snag an Apple Watch without breaking the bank? While Apple rarely offers discounts on new devices, there’s a great alternative – refurbished models. Buying a refurbished Apple Watch from trusted sources can save you between 15% and 30% off the retail price while offering a standard one-year warranty. But how do you find reliable options?
In this guide, I’ll explore the best websites to buy refurbished Apple Watch, where you can enjoy premium features without the premium price tag. Read on to learn how.
Table of Contents
What is a refurbished Apple Watch?
Refurbished Apple Watch refer to used or opened devices. Refurbishers source Apple Watches from multiple channels. The supply includes unused devices with physical damage, returned pieces, or even used conditions. The watch is then graded according to its condition.
After grading, the device is subjected to hardware and software tests. If necessary, the refurbisher will replace Apple Watch parts with new genuine Apple Parts. However, it may have certain defects, like minor scratches or discoloration. But how is it different from the used Apple Watch? Read to find out!
Difference between a refurbished and a used Apple Watch
A Used Apple Watch is sourced from the seller and sold directly. A refurbished Apple Watch passes multiple hardware and software checks. Consumables like batteries are changed if necessary. Best of all, a refurbished Apple Watch comes with a one-year warranty.
You don’t run into the risk of buying a stolen or misused product in case of refurbishment. In short, it is worth paying more for refurbished products than taking a risk with a used one.
We have curated the best (and most trustworthy) places to buy Apple Watch in the U.S. Furthermore, you can get heavier discounts on refurbished previous-generation Apple Watch.
Things to know before buying a refurbished Apple Watch
Firstly, there is nothing wrong with buying refurbished products. I am saying this because many of us presume “refurbished” is faulty. Even if the product is faulty, you can always return it or get it repaired under warranty.
- Double-check warranty policy and details.
- Apple-certified, Walmart, and Best Buy refurbished products are eligible for AppleCare+.
- Check the cost of the new Apple Watch compared to the refurbished one. If the difference is less than 10%, go for the new one.
- Check for discoloration, scratches, or any other defects. I am more comfortable buying refurbished products than used ones.
- Buy from certified sellers with good feedback.
Where to buy a refurbished Apple Watch?
I have listed the 6 best websites where you can buy the original Apple Watch. Let’s check them one by one.
1. Apple-certified refurbish
Certified refurbished is by far the best bet quality-wise. Apple has checked and certified the refurbished devices, so you don’t have to worry about anything. Most importantly, the one-year brand warranty is identical to the one for new devices.
Certified Refurbished Apple Watch will be shipped in a new white box. You will also get a one-day delivery option. Discounts start at 10% and go all the way up to 35% for the older Apple Watch.
Certified Apple Watch Deals on Apple
2. Walmart
Walmart boasts an impressive refurbished Apple Watch inventory. With free shipping, you can snag a Series 4 for as low as $119.92. You get features like fall detection and ECG at a bargain price. In my opinion, the Apple Watch Series 7 at $157.91 is the best deal.
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Walmart sellers typically offer a 90-day refund window. So, check for discoloration and other abnormalities. If something is wrong, you can always return it. Check for the “Restored: Like New” tag on the products. You can also buy a protection plan along with the watch.
3. Mac of All Trades
Mac of All Trades is an aggregator for refurbished Apple products. In other words, they list refurbished Apple Watch from multiple sellers. You can choose between “Factory Sealed, excellent, very good and good.” I liked how you can filter products according to conditions.
Mac of All Trades has awesome deals for the latest Apple Watch Series 9. You can get one for as low as $219.99. Moreover, the Apple Watch Ultra deal for $399 is lucrative. The payment plans make it easier to afford a refurbished product.
Mac of all Trades tests the Apple Watch via a 40-step inspection. Next, the smartwatch undergoes a hardware test. After all the tests are passed, the refurbished Apple Watch is shipped.
All refurbished Apple Watches are shipped free of charge. You can also return the product within 14 days of delivery. Lastly, some products’ optional two-year platinum warranty is the icing on the cake.
4. RefurbMe
RefurbMe is an aggregator platform with many useful features. It has set up filters and standards for various parameters, including wear and tear, warranty policy, battery health, etc. I loved the consumer-centric design and the comparison process.
RefurbMe claims to cherrypick retailers with a good track record—plus one for that! However, you must remember that they provide a minimum of 30 days of warranty, which is much lower than others. So, double-check the warranty policy before purchasing a refurbished Apple Watch. The site has listed the Apple Watch SE as low as $209.
However, I was dejected to find the prices much higher than those of other refurbished stores. Also, the Apple Watch Series 9 was missing from the inventory.
5. Decluttr
Decluttr offers comprehensive in-house refurbishment with up to 90 quality checks on some items, so the higher price is understandable. Decluttr also offers a 12-month limited warranty and a 14-day no-questions-asked money-back guarantee on all refurbished Apple Watches.
Further, Decluttr clearly mentions the items included in the package so you will know what to expect. I am happy to share that it has products in good condition, so you won’t have to think twice before buying. The site offers an impressive Apple Watch Series 9 inventory at $249.99.
6. Geek Squad on Best Buy
Best Buy needs no introduction. In 2002, the retailer partnered with Geek Squad to sell refurbished devices. We suggest you drop by the nearest Best Buy store to physically check out the Apple Watch and choose the best one.
Besides, buying a refurbished product from Best Buy has some advantages. You can get up to 24 months of product support or choose the AppleCare+ plan for up to 2 years. Best Buy also offers a 15-day no-questions-asked return.
Right now, you can snag the Apple Watch Series 8 for $229.99!
Signing off
I hope the article has cleared up all your doubts about the refurbished Apple Watch. If you have any more doubts, feel free to comment.
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