I'm intersted in hearing which route everyone has gone or is planning to go when buying an iPhone 5s this Christmas: new or used?
In case anyone wonders, I went the used route.
In case anyone wonders, I went the used route.
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Christmas iPhone 5S buyers: new or used?
- Thread starter JerTheGeek
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Yeah buy new. It will seem a lot nicer to whoever you're giving it to. A used phone would be a little "meh" to some people.
I don't think it's a matter of appreciation (for most). I think if I was spending money on a gift I would be somewhat worried of the item malfunctioning out of warranty, moreso than if I bought it for myself.
That's not to say I wouldn't consider it. I would want at least some warranty on it, be that Apple care or just manufacturer. And in fact I might pay a bit more for a device with Apple care on it.
used is also the best way to get phones with higher onboard storage.
I'm sorry, but no. I would never give a used item as a gift, and would not like to receive one. Whether it be a used DVD or a used MacBook Pro, you don't give previously used items as gifts.
The item will show signs of wear, so the person receiving it can't keep it in pristine shape, you don't have any idea the potential issues with the item (why they are selling it in the first place), you will be responsible for any issues since likely there would be no warranty or proof of purchase, and it takes away from the excitement of unboxing and opening a brand new gift.
I bought a second-hand 4S when home-button issues were all the rage. Resulted in a shiny new device because of warranty
What if you're not 10 years old anymore? My parents both have well-kept second hand iPhones, and they don't seem to mind. The spirit of Christmas is not always about spending as much money as possible
You can always ask the seller for IMEID and use Apple's tool online to see if it is unlocked. And you can ask the seller if it is iCloud locked, and if it is, but they said it wasn't, you can get your money back no questions asked because of Ebay buyer protection.
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I agree! I decided on getting the 5s because I prefer that size, and since it is available at a great discount used, why not search for one in pristine condition and save? It makes the most sense for someone who wants to save.
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Just to clear things up, when I said Christmas I was mainly thinking of buying it for yourself; since it's Christmas I figured a lot of people would be buying iPhones, new or used.
Neither am I, our family only gives one small gift to each other. It's about spending time with family. I'm simply stating my opinion here, and I'm sure many others agree, opening a present to find a used item definitely takes away from the experience.I bought a second-hand 4S when home-button issues were all the rage. Resulted in a shiny new device because of warranty
What if you're not 10 years old anymore? My parents both have well-kept second hand iPhones, and they don't seem to mind. The spirit of Christmas is not always about spending as much money as possible
I'd rather buy a small gift that the person would enjoy on Christmas, and not use that time to give someone a used phone.
True. You go on eBay, get the info, and shows clear. What stops the person from locking it just as they ship it or shipping a different phone?
Also, look up on this site of all the people who got an iPhone/iPad from eBay and the activate lock was on. All the hassles they go through, time wasted, and aggravation. To me, that's. It worth saving a few bucks.
I think it all comes down to need or luxury. If it's something you genuinely need, like a new phone because your old one is simply too old or too battered, then I wouldn't hesitate buying a used one if available resources require so. Like, if someone's phone breaks during the summer, what then? I'm just largely against the current spirit of Christmas, allocating a whole year's worth of resources to that single day to "surprise" people.
But if you're giving your child their first iPod Touch, by all means make it presentable and new, and not some used 3rd generation model you got for cheap.
Totally agree with you! I like the idea of saving about 1/3 to 1/2 on my smartphones. That adds up to great savings if you switch every year or two! The 2 year and 3rd have less depreciation on them to percentage wise.
Many people have various smartphones to use and switch off every week or so. I have four smartphones already and will buy a 5S when the 6S is release. Reason: I have a ton of 5S new case/covers to use up! LOL!
