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How To Safely Buy A Used or Refurbished iPhone 6

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A used iPhone 6 can be much cheaper while still working like brand new. Obviously, though, despite all the advantages that used products deliver, there are many associated risks as well. 

You may get scammed, you may have to pay extra money, or you may get a defective product. If you’re new to buying used electronics online, then there a few stuff that you need to know first. With that being said, let’s get right into it!

Used iPhone 6 Buying Guide

Following these steps should provide you with a safe buying experience: 

  1. Only buy from reputable and trustworthy sellers/websites
  2. When possible, prefer PayPal over credit/debit cards
  3. Take into consideration any extra charges that may apply
  4. Keep an eye out on the condition of the phone or you may end up getting something defective
  5. Don’t buy a locked device unless you absolutely have to

And that’s all there is to mention as fast as possible. If you want the details, keep on reading!  If not, Swappa is our recommended place to purchase a used iPhone.

1: Only Buy From Trustworthy Websites And Sellers 

Places to buy a used iPhone 6

When buying a used iPhone 6 or any iPhone for that matter, you should always only look in trustworthy and reputable websites. And don’t forget to keep an eye out on the ratings of each individual seller under those websites. 

The reason is pretty obvious. A very popular platform is much more likely to provide you with a pleasant shopping experience while a less reputable website is more likely to scam you, provide false information about their product, or anything like that. 

Do keep in mind that the platform and the individual seller are not the same thing. eBay is a reputable platform, but the guy who uses it to sell a $10 iPhone with no positive ratings isn’t. So, do keep an eye out for that well. 

With that being said, some very popular platforms that we recommend are: 

  1. Swappa (Highly recommended and trust-worthy)
  2. Amazon
  3. eBay

From all these choices, Swappa is most likely the best one for buying a used iPhone since their quality control is top-notch. Not to mention that their whole platform is focused on selling used devices. So, kinda hard to go wrong with it. 

2: Prefer PayPal When You Can

 

There are a ton of payment methods out there. But, most websites commonly offer either PayPal or credit card as the two main methods of paying. 

When possible, prefer PayPal. Not only it’s safer and easier to use, but it also allows you to get a refund in case that something goes wrong. And if you’re right, the seller can rarely do anything about it!

Creating an account and linking it to your bank or card is fairly easy. So, if you haven’t already, do seriously consider making a PayPal account and start using it as your primary payment solution. 

And if you don’t feel threatened, do keep in mind that even some of the most popular websites like Wish and eBay are hosting scams.

Take this and this as an example. The GTX 1060, a card that normally costs at least 300 euros, is being sold brand new for 65 and 55. Under the hood, it’s obviously something much, much worse, and this has actually been tested by numerous YouTubers. 

If something like that happens on two of the most popular shopping websites in the whole world, imagine how bad the situation can get with less popular platforms that nobody knows. 

So, again, when buying something relatively expensive like a used iPhone 6, do try to use PayPal. And if something goes wrong, you’ll at least be able to make a refund claim. 

3: Keep An Eye Out For Any Extra (Sometimes Hidden) Charges

Depending on the region that you currently live in and the website’s location, you may have to pay extra charges. Sometimes they show up on the checkout page and sometimes they don’t. 

Amazon does that really well. As you can see in the image above, it almost always tells you how much extra money you need to pay for import fees and shipping charges. 

However, other websites like eBay almost never do that. So, if you don’t know about it, you may end up having to pay quite a lot of extra money when your used iPhone 6 gets delivered. 

More often than not, these extra charges are just import taxes that need to be paid when you buy something from outside of your country. For example, if you’re living in Europe and you buy something expensive from the US, there’s a good chance that you’ll have to pay import fees upon delivery. 

Again, some websites like Amazon will recognize that and will allow you to pay everything upon checkout. The only issue is that it doesn’t work with all of them. 

Chinese-based websites like Gearbest, Wish, and Ali-Express are often the ones that are most prone to this. The solution? Look for websites that have warehouses on your region. 

Do keep in mind that Swappa is based in the US.  

4: Don’t Forget About The Condition Of Your Used iPhone 6

Used iPhone 6

When shopping for a used iPhone 6 or any used electronic, always keep an eye out for its condition. It can make the difference between receiving something that’s almost brand new and a broken phone. 

First things first, it’s best to look in places where the seller is forced to mention the exact condition of the device. Platforms like Amazon are supposedly only listing items that have passed certain tests and are like brand new, but there are lots of times where this hasn’t exactly worked well. 

Platforms like eBay, on the other hand, completely leave everything up to the seller to decide. So, again, look for someone who is trustworthy and mentions the exact condition of the phone. 

Swappa is one of the very few websites that actually force all of their sellers to be very specific about the product’s condition. So, they win this round as well. 

Now, the exact description differs from website to website. But, generally, this is what you can expect: 

  1. Good/Refurbished/Like New/Grade A: These terms are often used to describe a phone that’s almost brand new without scratches or marks
  2. Mint/Fair/Grade B/C: Scratches and other signs of wear/use may be present, but the device works normally
  3. Bad/Damaged/Parts and Repairs only/Grade D: The phone is damaged to the point where normal operation is tough or impossible

5: Prefer Unlocked Devices 

A locked iPhone will only work with the carrier that it has been locked down too. For example, if you get a used iPhone 6 that’s locked to Verizon, then you can only use it with a Verizon SIM. Period. 

In order to avoid that, either look for an unlocked model or at least get one which is locked down to the carrier of your choice. You can always unlock it later on. But, that costs extra money. So, choose carefully. 

Most reputable sellers, including Swappa, clearly mention if a phone is unlocked or not, and which carrier it is locked down to. All you have to do is keep an eye out for that. 

Get Refurbished iPhone from Swappa

 

Safely Buying A Used iPhone 6: Wrapping Up

Overall, when buying a used iPhone 6, look for reputable sellers, prefer PayPal when you can, be careful with extra fees, charges, and taxes, careful with the condition of your phone, and make sure to either choose an unlocked model or one that is locked down to the carrier of your choice. 

 

 

 

How to Buy A Used iPhone 4: Safe Shopping Tips

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Buying a used iPhone 4 is a great way to save some money while getting the phone that you want. However, the used market can be full of traps where one wrong turn can cost you dearly a number of different ways. 

With that being said, that’s why we decided to make this article for you where we explain some things that you need to know before buying a used iPhone or any used electronic for that matter. So, let’s get right into it!

Used iPhone 4 Buying Guide

Used iPhone 4

Amidst all the chaos in the used market, there are primarily 5 things that you need to know before buying a used iPhone 4 or any used electronics: 

  1. Your seller
  2. Payment methods
  3. Extra fees and charges
  4. Condition of the item
  5. Locked and unlocked devices

1: Know Your Seller

First of all, knowing that you’re buying from a trustworthy seller is very important. And when we say trustworthy we don’t just mean a big name like Amazon or eBay, but also their individual sub-sellers – the ones that use the platform to sell their products. 

Buying from the wrong guy can put you into a lot of trouble. Things like: 

  1. Broken products that can’t be returned
  2. Misinformation about the product and its condition (More on that later)
  3. Hidden fees (Also more on that later)
  4. And possibly more

To find the right seller, the first thing that you can do is to look only at reputable platforms like Amazon, eBay, Swappa, Newegg, or anything like that.

When it comes to used iPhones, we generally prefer Swappa because they are the pros of selling used phones. Not only they are extremely reputable and trustworthy, but they also mention every detail that you might need like the condition of the phone, its carrier, and more. 

Speaking of information, that’s another important thing that you want to look out for. More on that further below. 

2: Choose a Safe Payment Method

Finding a good seller is one thing. How about finding a good payment option as well? There are many people out there who are still shopping online with their credit/debit card without knowing that this poses two big risks: 

  1. Identity and banking information theft
  2. Lack of buyer protection

If you got a reputable seller, then you obviously don’t need to worry about identity theft or anything like that. Amazon, Swappa, Newegg, eBay, all these big names can’t potentially risk scamming you. 

However, we’re talking about the used market here and there’s no guarantee that someone will not at least try to. For example, take a look at this item. A graphics card that normally costs 300+ euros for 63? And it’s also brand new? Boy oh boy what a crazy bargain this is, right? Except it’s clearly a scam attempt. 

And mind you, this is on one of the world’s biggest shopping websites. So, if there are people who are willing to try and scam you on the big platforms, imagine how bad things can get when we’re walking on thin ice with unknown sellers. 

A secure payment method like PayPal can help you protect yourself from both scams and identity theft. That’s because if you buy something by using PayPal and you realize that you were scammed, you can always reach out to them, provide proof that this happened, and the seller will be forced to issue a refund. In most cases, it works. 

Even when things don’t go according to plan, having a small layer of protection instead is always better than nothing. Because let’s be honest, chances are that our banks are not going to lift a finger in case we buy the wrong item. 

3: Watch Out For Extra Fees And Charges

One thing that lots of people don’t know is that you can end up paying extra money upon delivery. So, you basically buy whatever you want, pay for it while thinking that you’re done, and only once your used iPhone 4 arrives at your doorstep you are asked to pay the extra fees and charges. 

Not all regions do this. But, the EU is definitely a continent that has this law. It doesn’t apply for every single item. After all, those who check for imports can’t possibly have the time to go through the process of taxing every little thing. And for this reason, only items that have a specific price and above will be checked and will have to be paid for import fees. 

Unfortunately, a used iPhone 4 usually costs more than enough to be placed on this range and unless you get lucky, chances are that you’ll have to pay the extra fees for it upon delivery. Of course, that is unless you buy it from a seller who is within your country. That, or someone who is living outside of your country but offers a warehouse that’s inside. 

American buyers don’t really have to worry too much about this as the major platforms like Swappa and Amazon all have warehouses within the USA. Just do make your research for the individual states. Just in case. 

Apart from that, watch out for the obvious stuff. Shipping costs, standard taxes, anything like this that commonly appears only after you’ve inserted the payment and delivery details. So, don’t be in a massive hurry to press that “buy” button. 

4: Watch Out For The Condition Of Your Used iPhone 4

Used iPhone 4

This is another thing that lots of people forget to check out. Sometimes, it’s not even mentioned in the details – in which, case, maybe you should look for another website/platform/seller. 

The condition of your used iPhone 4, or any used phone for that matter, reflects the overall shape of the device. Scratches, cracks, broken things, anything like that. 

Generally speaking, the more flaws that a phone has, the cheaper that you can get it. And remember: If something looks too good to be true, then it most likely is!

Now, different sellers may use different terms to describe the condition of a device. But, generally speaking, this is what you can expect: 

  1. Good/Refurbished/Like New: These terms are often used to describe a phone that’s almost brand new without scratches or marks
  2. Mint/Fair: Scratches and other signs of wear/use may be present, but the device works normally
  3. Bad/Damaged/Parts and Repairs only: The phone is damaged to the point where normal operation is tough or impossible. 

Again, don’t forget to read the individual descriptions of your particular seller. He/she may have different conditions in mind when using each and every one of these terms. 

5: Watch Out For Carrier Locked Devices

There are numerous countries that offer carrier-locked devices. A carrier-locked phone will basically refuse to work with any other carrier apart from the one that it is locked down to. 

For example, if you get a used iPhone 4 that’s locked to AT&T, then it doesn’t matter what you want to use. That phone will only work with AT&T. Period. 

And if you happen to do the mistake of falling into that trap, then your only choice is to either use the carrier that you’re locked to or pay for unlocking services to get yourself out of that situation. The last thing that anyone would want after getting a new/used device is to pay extra money just to be able to use his phone. 

Thankfully, most reputable sellers always mention if their phones are locked or unlocked and they also mention exactly what carrier they are locked down to. So, keep an eye out for that. 

Check out Used iPhone 4 Devices on Swappa

 

Safely Buying a Used iPhone 4: Wrapping Up

That’s all for now. Hopefully, our little guide helped you out and you’ll be able to buy a used iPhone 4 without anything going wrong. To wrap things up, this is all we talked about and that you need to remember: 

  1. Buy from a reputable seller
  2. Choose a safe payment method
  3. Watch out for extra fees and charges
  4. Keep an eye on the condition of the device
  5. Careful with the carrier-locked devices

 

Guide to Buy a Used Google Pixel 3 – Everything You Need to Know

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Looking to grab a used Google Pixel 3 and enjoy the best of Android straight from the company that has built it? Here’s a definitive buyer’s guide to purchase a second hand Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL smartphone, and how you can fetch one without overpaying or settling for a subpar device.

How to buy a Used Google Pixel 3?

Back in the early 2000s when Android OS was first developed, the intention was to create a software platform for digital cameras. Google Inc. was quick to notice the potential behind this mobile operating system and acquired Android OS, along with the team that worked on it in the year 2005. Just a couple of years later, Google, in partnership with Taiwanese tech company HTC, released the very first Android OS powered smartphone – the HTC Desire. In the beginning, Google needed to support of big names in the tech manufacturing space, thus creating the Nexus series of devices.

Over the years, the Mountain View company collaborated with brands such as HTC, Samsung, LG and Motorola to release different iterations of the Nexus series of smartphones and tablets. However, in the year 2016, the very first Google Pixel was unveiled, which officially kick started Google’s bidding in the premium smartphone wars. Deemed as the flagship Android smartphone straight from Google, the Pixel series has become a benchmark by which all other Android flagship phones are measured, and the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL are no different.

With the premium hardware specs that the flagship mobile phone from Google, you also get a hefty price tag. Each year, the Google Pixel gets updated with design refinements and significant hardware upgrades, so are you willing to shell out nearly a thousand dollars for the high-end variant of the flagship phone? If you’re among the power users who want the best of Android straight from Google, but don’t want to put a serious dent in your budget, buying a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL is your best option.

There is no shortage of second hand Google Pixel sellers in the market and online, so how do you find an affordable one that’s in the best possible condition? Purchasing a used electronic device can be an unnerving experience, but only if you don’t know what to look for and do the due diligence to find out that device you’re about to buy is worth the ask. We’ve rolled up our sleeves and done the work of understanding how you can buy a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL in the best condition possible, without making any compromises, and pay considerably less than what you would for a new one.

For our highest rated refurbished iPhone reseller, use Swappa. All their used iphones are unlocked and tested for quality and function.
 Our Second Highly Rated Option is Amazon.com. There are lots of certified vendors who offer iPhones and more price options.  Plus Amazon provides a solid return policy and fast delivery with Amazon Prime. .

Why buy a used Google Pixel 3?

Reason #1 – Premium hardware and software

Google has designed its official phone to be a flagship device that is the measurement standard for all other Android smartphones. Google Pixel devices almost always beat every other Android OEM phone on benchmark scores, all thanks to the latest and great hardware configuration, and the Google Pixel 3 lives up to this promise. Packing the Snapdragon 845 processor that is paired with 4GB of RAM capacity, the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL have the highest DxOMark score among all Android phones.

Thanks to the combination of the camera hardware and software optimizations done for the Google Camera, you get to capture fleeting moments better than ever. Additionally, each and every software update that is rolled out for the device, comes straight from Google, which means reduced wait times. So when you get yourself a Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL, you can expect nothing less than the best of Android OS, with support for two years of major software updates right out of the box.

Reason #2 – Great value for money

The Google Pixel is built up to be the iPhone among Android devices, being the go-to choice for users who want the most from their smartphone. Back in the day, upgrading to the latest mobile phone seemed like a justifiable act, since each and every update came with significant hardware improvements. However, the Pixel series of devices from Google, just like many other premium Android smartphones, packs a powerful punch in terms of hardware processing.

Since you get seamless software support for 2 years and additional security update for a year more, your phone is far from being outdated within a year of use. Even if you choose to buy a used Google Pixel device, you still get the latest software updates straight from Google, before all other Android OEMs. Getting yourself a second hand Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL instead of a new one can mean big savings, since any electronic device loses value once it is out of the original packaging.

Reason #3 – Free of contracts

Purchasing a brand new Google Pixel on easy installments may require you to be restricted to a particular carrier, or you might have to select a carrier-locked variant to enjoy some rebates. However, when you choose to buy a used smartphone, you have the ability to go for an unlocked variant of the Google Pixel. Since most of the used Pixel devices that you find online are either in factory unlocked, or carrier unlocked state, you don’t have to worry about being bogged down to a single network.

You might not require the need to have network unlocked capabilities if you have been linked to a specific network carrier for years. However, the ability to use your phone with any SIM card comes in handy, especially if you’re traveling and want to save up on international roaming costs.

How much does it cost?

Just as you would expect and hope for, the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL are offered at a far more affordable price when purchased in used condition. The actual price of the device is evaluated based on the physical condition of the phone, how long it has been used, whether or not the phone comes carrier unlocked or not, and the accessories that are being offered by the seller with the device. Either way, you can expect to save up big when buying a second hand Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL instead of a brand new one.

  • 64GB Google Pixel 3  – Starts at $422
  • 128GB Google Pixel 3 – Starts at $566
  • 64GB Google Pixel 3 XL – Starts at $476
  • 128GB Google Pixel 3 XL – Starts at $630

Where can I buy a used Google Pixel 3 online?

Being able to take a look at the device that you’re about to buy, especially if it’s a used one, certainly has its benefits. While it helps you make your purchase confidently, getting a phone from a reseller means that you end up paying more than you would have to if you chose to buy directly from the seller themselves. All thanks to the online marketplaces at facilitate the buying and selling of used electronics, you can get a wider variety of devices to check out and competitive pricing as well, which makes the following ways to buy a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL ideal.

OUR TOP RECOMMENDED CHOICES ARE AMAZON AND SWAPPA

Swappa – Top Recommendation

Designed to be your one-stop shop for all of your used electronics needs and wants, Swappa offers everything from mobile phones and tablets, to gaming consoles and home tech. A platform by the users, for the users, Swappa has become the face of second hand tech marketplaces online ever since its inception back in the year 2010. Hosting a gargantuan listing of mobile devices categorized based on the brand manufacturer and sorted out into unlocked and carrier-locked variants, the simplified user interface that is put in place by Swappa makes sorting through thousands of devices easier than ever.

When taking a deeper look at the products that are sold on Swappa, you will realize the depth of how this marketplace performs. Each and every product listing is first verified by moderators before being made public, and these listing must adhere to the strict guidelines put in place. Pictures from all angles are mandatory when selling a product on Swappa, and you need to do so while displaying a verification code provided, which ensures that the used product that you’re displaying in the images is the one that’s up for selling on the used

The listings are separated based not just on the network carrier status of the device, but the condition too. You can choose a product based on its evaluated physical state, which can be determined by choosing between Good, Fair, Mint, and even New state. Additionally, each of the seller is given a star rating, which helps you determine how trustworthy they are before you go ahead and spend your hard-earned money on a used gadget. Additionally, Swappa comes with PayPal Protection, which means that your money is always in safe hands.

Pros:

  • Online marketplace that is dedicated to selling only used and refurbished electronic items, guaranteeing a cheaper price.
  • The platform is designed to be intuitive and categorized for ease of use, based on type of product, brand, network carrier status, and more.
  • Mandatory visual inspection with images and full disclosure about any damage or defects in the device.
  • Users can communicate directly with the sellers, clear any queries they may have regarding the device, and even negotiate prices in the comments section.

Amazon

Shop Google Pixel 3 on Amazon

With potentially millions of products sold each day all across the world, Amazon certainly is the giant among e-commerce platforms. While the e-retailer is not exactly known for being a dedicated reseller of used and refurbished products, you can find a wide variety of it on its website. Whether you’re looking for used devices, refurbished products sold by the brand manufacturer, or open box products which have been returned by unsatisfied buyers, Amazon can help you cut a good deal on your second hand electronics purchase. The sheer size of this e-commerce giant is what attracts thousands of sellers to it, which also help you, the buyer, enjoys plenty of choices to pick from.

Similar to the way Swappa dictates that the buyer maintains complete transparency, Amazon also mandates that the seller mentions details regarding the condition of the device being sold. However, Amazon does not make it compulsory to add images of the product with a verification code for assurance like Swappa does. However, most of the used devices that sold, are secured through Amazon Purchase Protection, so you don’t have to worry about losing your money in case the product fails to meet your expectations.

Since Amazon is not an exclusive store just for used products, you might have to do more digging in comparison to Swappa. However, you can expect the general price point to be somewhat lower on Amazon, along with a larger selection of products to choose from. However, you do not get a direct channel of communication that helps you easily communicate with the seller, although you do get to send out messages. Additionally, if you do have an Amazon Prime subscription, you can even enjoy one-day delivery if your chosen product qualifies for it.

Pros:

  • Almost every major electronics item on Amazon is available in multiple buying options, giving you a larger selection of second hand devices to choose from.
  • Prices of the used products is highly competitive among the sellers, which enables you to find the right device for a cheaper price.
  • Amazon Purchase Protection secures your investment when buying a used device, while Prime service guarantees quicker delivery to your doorstep.

Cons:

  • Product details are not as descriptive as you would be able to view over at Swappa.

eBay

If you’ve been shopping online long enough, the eBay brand should not seem unknown, since it is one of the oldest one in the business. The guidelines to start listing products on eBay are fairly simple, which is why you can expect to find a higher density of used Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL phones on this platform. Additionally, you can expect the prices of the phone to be lower on eBay compared to other used device marketplaces, since the commission charged by eBay to the sellers is lower. You don’t have to worry about your money either, since eBay also comes with PayPal Protection in place, so you can always take things up with PayPal if you aren’t satisfied with your purchase.

The loose guidelines might make the task easier for the sellers, but at a buyer, not being able to verify the physical condition of the device through pictures may be a deal-breaker for some. You don’t get a dedicated shipping service from eBay, and the entire process has to be done by the seller themselves, which means that you’re at their mercy when it comes to having the product shipped out on time and delivered to you. eBay also has a single-dimensional rating system for its sellers, where a seller in any category of products can go ahead and put up a second-hand device on sale, while their high rating might fool customers into thinking that their purchase is coming from a top-rated electronics seller.

eBay certainly has its merits apart from the competitive pricing, which is apparent through the filtering system that allows you to find the cheaper device right away. One unique feature of this e-commerce platform is the auction system, which allows you to bid for the product you want to buy. This way, you can compete with other buyers to bag the item, while being assured that you did not end up paying a cent more than what the device is worth. Most of the reputed sellers on eBay are responsive and even offer a return policy with 100% refund if you aren’t satisfied with the product You will, however, have to manage the return process yourself and have the product shipped back, which can be quite the ordeal.

Pros:

  • The number of listings available are higher in number since any user is allowed to create a private listing and start selling.
  • The auction system that is put in place allows the buyer to find the most suited price to buy the item and make big savings.

Cons:

  • Moderation of the products sold through the listings is subpar, which may result in a poor buying experience.

Social Media/Craigslist

Users all across the world have been using online classifieds such as Craigslist to buy and sell products such as furniture, cars, and even rent out places. It should come as no surprise that Craigslist is also effectively used for buying and selling of used electronics such as mobile phones, and the ability to create listings for free right away, makes it more accessible to the masses. You can expect significantly lower prices when buying products off Craigslist, since there is no middleman with commission fees.

However, the freedom of being able to buy directly from the seller comes at its own risks, especially without a moderator in place. When purchasing a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL from a seller on Craigslist, you need to make a judgement call. You can do so based on the description that the seller provides, pictures of the actual device, and how responsive they are to your queries regarding the listing. Either way, there is a certain amount of risk that comes with buying something from a complete stranger, so the price of the phone should be able to justify it.

If you are willing to go out into the open and look for someone who wants to sell their used phone, why not look into your social circle first? Ask friends and family around if someone they know is looking to sell their used mobile phone, and with a direct connection, you can fetch one for the right price. Asking as many questions as possible when buying a used phone directly through the seller is always a smart practice, so don’t hold back on any queries you may have. Albeit there is no protection in place that can safeguard your money, but that’s the price you have to pay for a cheaper smartphone.

Evaluate a used Google Pixel 3 before buying

Once you’ve decided where you want to buy the second hand Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL from, the work isn’t done just yet. Purchasing a phone that you are most likely going to be using for a year or two should be a well-informed decision that you feel confident about. Covering the basics such as looking closely at the cosmetic condition of the phone is just the first step to qualifying a device for purchase. However, you need to look deeper into whether the device that you have your eyes on is worth your money and the effort you put into buying it.

Step 1: Verify the IMEI Number

The very reason device manufacturers assign the unique IMEI Number to mobile phones and tablets is to curb the illegal trading of phones. Additionally, stolen devices can also easily be tracked using the IMEI Number, and when it comes to purchasing a used Google Pixel 3, you need to be sure about the fact that the device you’re purchasing is neither stolen or blacklisted. Before you go ahead and make the purchase, it is essential to ask the seller for the IMEI Number of the phone for verification purposes.

One of the first things you need to ask the seller is the IMEI Number, and if they fail to provide it, you might want to steer clear of the purchase. A blacklisted IMEI phone will not only be rendered useless, but using one can get you into legal trouble, so regardless of the enticing price tag that it comes with, avoid such products at all costs. If you are able to get your hands on the device, here’s what you need to do to find out the IMEI of the used Google Pixel phone that you’re looking to buy:

  1. From the home screen of the device, head over to the Settings
  2. Scroll down to find the System tab and open it.
  3. Now head over to the About phone
  4. Access the MEID menu, which should give you a view of the IMEI Number of the device.
  5. You can also choose to dial *#06# from the Phone app to find out the IMEI Number.

Step 2: Network unlock the device

If you’re choosing to get yourself a factory unlocked Pixel 3, you don’t need to worry about this particular step. However, if you’re planning to save a few bucks by getting a network locked variant, you might want to consider having it unlocked. Not only is the 15-digit IMEI Number the signaling factor that validates the legitimacy of the seller, but is also essential for unlocking the phone from the network carrier. If the phone does not come unlocked right out of the box, you will need to verify if the phone is unlockable, for which you will need to provide the IMEI Number of the device to the unlocking service provider.

Even if you’re planning to use the Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL with the same network carrier that the phone is locked to, we recommend that you have it network unlocked. Down the road if you decide to change your network carrier for better coverage or cheaper service plans, having an unlocked phone would give you plenty of options to choose from. Additionally, if you travel abroad often and need to stay connected on the go, swapping your SIM card with a local one would help you save big on international roaming costs. This is why we especially like the feature of Swappa that allows you to choose a device which is carrier-specific or unlocked right out of the box.

Step 3: Ensure that Google FRP is disabled

Apple devices come with a security feature called iCloud Activation Lock, which restricts the user from accessing a newly formatted iDevice without entering the owner’s Apple ID and password first. This straightforward security feature works as a deterrent of mobile theft, since it effectively makes the device useless without accessing the iCloud account. Google has adopted a similar security protocol in the form of Google Account Verification, which is also known as FRP (Factory Reset Protection).

There is no apparent way of knowing whether the FRP feature is enabled or disabled on a used Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL. This is what makes it crucial that you ensure that the feature has been disabled by the seller before they send over the device to you. Since reaching out to the seller after the point of sale may not always be possible, or they may be hesitant to share their Google account username and password with you, this is a process that you need to complete before making the purchase.

To disable the FRP feature on any Android phone, all that you need to do is remove the Google account that is associated with the device.

  1. From the home screen of your Google Pixel device, head over to the Settings
  2. In the Settings app, scroll down to find the Accounts
  3. Tap on the Google icon and find the associated Google account and select it.
  4. Select the Remove account button and confirm your action.

Step 4: Perform a general inspection

Once you have the phone arrive to you in the mail, or you are able to get a hold of the device before making the purchase, a general inspection is in order. Since you will be able to either turn down the seller or send the phone back within the first few days, it is essential that you get to testing things out about the used Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL right away.

Physical condition – With the phone’s display being the main concern, the first thing you should start observing is the wear and tear on the housing of the Google Pixel. If you notice any chips on the side of the screen or hairline cracks that run all the way, that could mean hundreds of dollars in screen repair. While a broken screen is unacceptable, other oddities such as dents on the corner of the phone or abrasions on the back might just help you negotiate for a better price. Additionally, taking a look at the accessories that are provided with the phone, along with any damage in the charging cable should also be considered.

Verify the battery life – The amount out screen on time that you get from your mobile phone is a crucial aspect that you must consider. Since the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL are not even a year old, you should expect the battery to be in healthy condition and give you hours of performance for communication, entertainment, and everything in between. You can start off by performing an entire battery cycle, by charging the phone all the way up to 100% and then letting it drain down to 0% until it shuts off. This process should help cleanse the battery and also give you an estimate of how many hours of screen-on time to expect.

Conclusion

The speed with which technology is evolving is mesmerizing, with personal tech devices getting faster, smarter, and more expensive with each iteration. Back in 2016 when Google released the very first Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones, it did not hold back on the hardware specs and premium build quality, and that hasn’t changed now either. If you’re a power user who appreciates the pure stock Android experience that Google offers with its Pixel line of devices, but don’t feel that the premium price tag is justified, then saving hundreds of bucks on a used Google Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL is the way to go.

We’ve closely examined the marketplaces that offer a healthy range of mobile devices and other electronics, and shortlisted the best options for you. If you have any questions regarding how an e-commerce platform such as Swappa works, or need any assistance related to how you can unlock your Google Pixel phone the easy way, just reach out to us in the comments section right down below, and you’ll hear back from us soon.

Chromecast Vs FireStick TV – Battle of the Budget Streamers

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Chromecast Vs FireStick TV – Battle of the Budget Streamers

Can’t decide who to pick between the competition of Chromecast Vs FireStick TV to select for your entertainment streaming experience? Here’s a close look at both of the budget streaming devices from Google and Amazon, so you can choose the right one to buy.

The television is more than just an entertainment system – it is a piece of technology that is able to bring alive the party and adds to the home space for some family time. For decades, the visual entertainment industry has been tied down to the cable company, which strictly limited the content you could enjoy on the big screen. But the recent pushback possible with the help of the internet, has ushered in an era of streaming entertainment, made possible by smart devices that allow content to be played over the wireless network.

In the fight to cut the cord and reclaim the easiest way to watch our favorite movies and TV shows, the biggest brands in the tech business have come up with some nifty solutions. Streaming services such as Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video, and many others are offering millions of customers across the world the ability to enjoy entertaining content on the go as well as from the comfort of their living rooms. What makes it possible for users to stream content on the big screen are devices like the Google Chromecast, and Amazon Fire TV Stick.

Chromecast Vs FireStick TV – The Fight

Web entertainment services can be expensive as it is, which is why most users are weary of stepping up and spending hundreds of dollars on a premium streaming device. The idea behind the Google Chromecast as well as the Amazon Fire TV Stick is to create an entry-level solution for customers to access online entertainment. By bringing down the price point and making online entertainment accessible, both the budget streaming devices are here to help you explore a world of content, while cutting out the hefty recurring fees, viewership restrictions, and advertisements that the traditional cable company dumps on you.

Are you planning to get onboard with wireless entertainment, but can’t decide on whether you’re all about Amazon, or want to be a member of team Google? We’re here to help you understand the best features of the both these wildly popular budget streaming devices, so you can choose the one that suits your needs the best.

Design and Build

Starting off with the Amazon Fire TV Stick, you get a rectangular structure which resembles an extra-large USB drive by its design. But instead of the USB connector, you have an HDMI port that plugs into your TV, along with a Micro USB port at the rear of it, which takes in the power supply. There isn’t any element to the design of the Amazon Fire TV Stick that would stand out, but since it will mostly be tucked away behind the TV panel, the aesthetics should not be much of a concern. A useful addition in the box is the HDMI extension adapter, which should come in handy if the boxy structure of the Fire Stick TV obstructs the HDMI port.

Speaking of the Google Chromecast, you get a rather unique look in the form of a circular structure with the HDMI cable dangling out from one end. The pebble-shaped Chromecast conveniently tucked into the back side of the TV, while the flexible HDMI cable ensure that it never gets in the way either. Available in Black and White color schemes for you to choose from, the rear side of the HDMI cable and the Chromecast itself is magnetic, allowing you to fold it over for an even more minimalist appearance. Unlike the Fire TV Stick, Chromecast does come with a button right next to the Micro USB port, which acts as a reset button.

Winner: Google Chromecast

Remote Control

The competition of Chromecast Vs FireStick TV starts heating up when it comes to the remote control options, especially since the latter comes with a physical remote control. Amazon offers the Alexa Voice Enabled Smart Remote along with the Fire TV Stick right out of the box, which comes with a physical voice assistance button built right into it. Apart from allowing you to easily access content using your voice, the added ability of having a smart voice assistant on the big screen allows you to perform a quick online search, look up the weather, and even check the latest sports score right away.

With a circular navigation panel at the center which resembles the old Apple TV Remote, you get the Back, Home, Options, Rewind, Play/Pause, and Fast-Forward buttons embedded in it. A physical remote control makes it easier for the less-tech-savvy users to operate the smart streaming device, hence giving the user a more traditional way of enjoying big-screen entertainment. The Amazon Fire TV for both, Android and iOS allow you to ditch the remote, and makes it easier to type in your searches, which is quite a slow experience when done through the Alexa Voice Remote.

On the other hand, Google Chromecast takes a different approach entirely, by ditching a physical remote control and turning your phone or tablet into one. Google has integrated the Chromecast service into thousands of apps, which makes the transition from the mobile phone’s display to the TV screen almost instantaneous. The user interface that the app provides you to control the Chromecast from a phone or tablet is fairly easy to understand, and the entire ecosystem of Google apps such as YouTube, Google Play Music, and many others, makes the experience fairly gentle and intuitive.

While Google Chromecast may beat the Amazon Fire TV Stick app, it does beat the actual interface that comes with the convenience of a physical remote control. For instance, when you choose to cast a movie or TV show from your Netflix app on the phone to the Chromecast, you can’t choose to watch anything else on Netflix from your phone without interrupting the playback on the big screen. Additionally, your phone or tablet must always be well within the range of the Wi-Fi network to which the Chromecast is connected to, if you want to enjoy uninterrupted streaming.

Winner: Amazon Fire TV Stick

Apps and Content

Amazon follows the same process of app deployment for the Fire TV Stick that it does for the Fire tablets, choosing to run its own version of Android. The company chooses to filter out Google Apps suite such as the Google Play Store, Google Movies, Google Play Music and several other, in an effort to minimize the monetization for its closest rival in the online media streaming business. The Amazon App Store still gives you a healthy choice of apps to choose from, including everything from news, games, productivity, and more, and there’s the option to sideload apps such as Kodi media player by enabling “Unknown Sources” from the Developer Options, just like you would on an Android phone or tablet, and the built-in 8GB storage should give you enough room to do so.

Google offers the ability to include the Chromecast option in almost every major media streaming app available on the Google Play Store, which is in the thousands. You get seamless integration in all of the popular names such as YouTube, Netflix, Hotstar, Hulu, Plex, Kodi, and there’s even the ability to cast non-supported ones through third-party apps such as AllCast. Amazon once again goes head to head with Google, by not offering the casting feature in the Amazon Prime Video app, thus putting your hopes of cross compatibility between Amazon and Google to rest. Additionally, Chromecast does not come with any built-in storage like the Fire TV Stick does, so all of the apps that you use with it need to be installed on your phone or tablet.

Winner: Tied

Display Mirroring

The Chromecast Vs FireStick TV showdown gets even closer when you are comparing two devices’ ability to perform screen mirroring. The feature allows users to use their TV screen as a duplicate display for their phone or tablet, allowing them to essentially view all sorts of media on the big screen effortlessly. Amazon Fire TV Stick comes with Miracast support right out of the box, which makes it possible for Android users to easily select the streaming device as a casting display and get going. Albeit there is lag when it comes to casting motion content such as videos, but the Mirroring feature on the Fire TV Stick is self-sufficient in handling photos, documents, and even music content.

Google Chromecast is a power-house when it comes to the ability of casting and mirroring content, allowing you to not only use the Cast button that is supported by thousands of apps, but also to cast directly using Google Chrome web browser. Just like its rival, the streamer does lose a few points when playing high-definition video content using screen mirroring, especially when the wireless router is not built to handle it. But the seamless integration of Google Photos makes the experience viewing images on the big screen a lot more fluidic and comfortable to navigate through.

Winner: Tied

Value for Money

Amazon is creating an ecosystem of products and services that are intertwined, and it has been successful in the form of Prime service. The chances are that as someone who is purchasing an Amazon Fire TV Stick, you are also an Amazon Prime member, which grants the Amazon Prime Video, Prime Music, and Prime Photos service bundled in. Considering that you can get the Fire TV Stick for cheaper as a Prime subscriber during the Amazon Prime Day sale, it makes the device even cheaper to get. The base price of the Fire TV Stick is set at $39.99 as of now, which includes the Alexa Remote along with it, making it a standalone media streaming solution.

Google Chromecast on the other hand is just a few dollars cheaper than its competitor at $35.00, but it does come with a lot less than the Fire TV Stick. You don’t get any form of physical remote control with the device, or is there an HDMI extension adapter included in the box. Google does have its very own streaming services such as Play Movies & TV, and Play Music as well, but these services are offered separately and not bundled along in the sense that Amazon has been able to achieve, which makes them an added entertainment expense for you to bear.

Winner: Amazon Fire TV Stick

Chromecast Vs FireStick TV – ExpressVPN is Essential

Regardless of the streaming device that you have your mind set on, it all comes down to the quality of your viewing experience with the numerous streaming services that are available. Services such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and many others tend to offer varying catalogs of content based on the region you access the website from. Additionally, you may not be able to enjoy premium streaming services in certain regions due to regional copyright conflicts, but your way around it all is ExpressVPN. 

Bypassing Geo-restrictions – If you reside in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other regions where there the federal authorities have blockaded access to streaming services, you won’t be able to access the service through Kodi either. Whether the functionality of the add-on is censored in your region or the service is entirely unusable, ExpressVPN allows you push forward with hundreds of remote servers across the world for you to connect to.

Avoid ISP Logging – Even if the service is not explicitly banned in your region of residence, the ISP (internet service provider) can still keep tabs on your usage. The online activity that you perform  can be logged, which poses not only a privacy threat, but the problem of the ISP fining you for unauthorized usage as well. With ExpressVPN and its military-grade encryption to secure your online activity, rest assured that your online browsing experience is 100% secure.

High-speed Streaming – Although you can find plenty of free and barely-secure VPN services out there that can help you connect with Kodi and make the most out the services, most of them offer sub-par streaming quality. When using ExpressVPN, you are automatically recommended servers which offer top upload and download streaming speeds, so you don’t ever have to sit in front of the screen, waiting for the buffering circle to load up.

Final Verdict

Amazon may essentially be an e-commerce company, but it is attempting to conquer the streaming entertainment world as well. Although there is plenty of competition in the space, thanks to Apple TV, Roku Player, Android TV, and others, Amazon is reaching out to the consumer base by offering a unique entry-level streaming device in the form of the Fire TV Stick. The only real competitor to the service at the same price point and similar features is the Roku Streaming Stick, but it also pales in comparison when you consider how well Amazon Prime Video and its supporting streaming services are cross-integrated.

BUY AMAZON FIRE TV STICK

BUY GOOGLE CHROMECAST

Google may have been first to market with the Chromecast, but the streaming device has always been more of an accessory, rather than a standalone streamer. In the battle of Chromecast Vs FireStick TV, the fact that the latter has its own user interface that is free from the requirement of a mobile phone or tablet, makes it a better choice. Google still has a huge stake in the industry, thanks to Android TV, which gives the Fire TV platform a run for its money. But when comparing the budget offerings from two of the biggest names in the tech industry today, Amazon Fire TV Stick is our preferred choice.

Is your home entertainment system powered by the enclosed, self-sustaining ecosystem of Amazon Fire TV Stick, or is Google Chromecast your choice of weapon against the cable company? Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments section on which side you’re on in the battle of Chromecast Vs FireStick TV and specify why so.

Best Cell Phone Zoom Lens for your iPhone or Android Device

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Optical zoom, wide angle lens, smartphones nowadays come with all sorts of camera goodies. But, what if you’ve got an old or budget phone which has a decent camera but not those extra features? Well, that’s where an external cell phone zoom lens can come in handy. 

If you’ve never heard about this accessory, it’s basically just an external lens that you can attach to your phone’s camera. This can give you extra features like zooming, taking wide-angle shots, and more.

And now you might say: “But, George. I can already zoom with my phone. Why do I need an extra accessory for that?” The answer is that if you don’t have an optical zoom lens pre-installed on your  device, then you’re only zooming digitally. Digital zooming harms your image quality while optical zooming leaves it as it is. 

With that being said, there are multiple lenses to pick from; each one with their pros and cons. So, there’s not one best solution for everyone. For that reason, we’ll take a look at some of the best options, and you can choose whatever fits you best. Let’s go!

One Thing to Keep in Mind

Before we start, there’s one thing to keep in mind. Have you noticed how superzoom cameras are almost always being used with a tripod? There’s a reason for that.

You see, when you zoom over extreme distances, typicall from 8-10x and above, the slightest movement creates extreme deviations. That makes it difficult to capture an image or a video. Especially a video.

So, just remember that this is not the lens’s fault. It’s normal. The only thing that you can do is prey that your phone has good digital image stabilization; or you can also get a tripod which is typically included with a cell phone super zoom lens that goes over 10x.

If you’ve got an extremely stable hand, then you can probably forget about all this. But, that’s a rather rare trait. You’ll soon find out that anything above 10x is extremely shaky.

1: Best Cell Phone Zoom Lens for Macro Shots (Budget): Easy-Macro Lens Band

Cell Phone zoom lens

When you think of zooming in, the first thing that comes to mind is just bringing objects that are far away closer to you. This is useful for landscape photography. But, what about taking macro shots? 

A macro shot is essentially just a close-up/focused picture. Our phones can focus on their own, but they don’t do that very well with extreme close-ups. That’s where an external lens like this one can come in handy.

And by the way, the lens straps around your phone with a rubber band. So, it should be compatible with pretty much any smartphone out there.

This particular lens may not be the best around. But, still, if you want to get some macro shots for fun without busting the budget, check it out! It costs like 15 bucks.

Get the Budget Macro Lens From Amazon

 

2: Best Premium Cell Phone Zoom Lens for Macro Shots: Xenvo Pro

Best cell phone zoom lens

We took a look at what is probably the best budget option for macro shots. The problem with budget options is that they are often subpar in terms of quality. After all, that’s how they manage to be cheaper.

So, how about the best then? What if I’m willing to spend more money for the best macro shots that one can capture by using a phone? Well, in that case, the Xenvo Pro is probably your best bet.

For 40 bucks, you get Amazon’s best seller in phone lenses, a rechargable LED light, two lenses with one of them being the macro lens and the other one giving you wide-angle shots, and a travel case so that you’ll be able to carry your stuff without the fear of breaking them.

Let us clarify that you only get one lens and not two seperate ones. It’s  just that it can act for both macro and wide-angle shots without you havaing to swap out different lenses.

The main advantage of Xenvo compared to budget options is that it doesn’t give you that vignette or fishye effect. Furthermore, it’s easier to capture macro shots without everything turning blurry.

Overall, if you want the best macro lens that you can get, we’d highly recommend checking out the Xenvo Pro.

Get the Xenvo Pro From Amazon

 

3: Best Cell Phone Zoom Lens Package/Kit

best cell phone zoom lens

Alright, so, let us be completely transparent here. There is a LOT of false advertising with this product.

  1. It doesn’t imrove the lighting quality of your pictures
  2. There’s no way to achieve DSLR quality with phones. At least not yet
  3. The difference between close-up shots with and without the macro lens isn’t that huge. Smartphones still have the ability to focus up to a certain point
  4. The telephoto lens can indeed zoom over a hundred meters. But the image isn’t going to be that crisp and clear

To summarize. Is this lens kit badly advertised? Yes. But, is it a good kit? Also yes. At least as good as external lenses can get. If you want a little bit of everything, then do seriesously consider checking this one out. It gives you:

  • Optical zoom up to 12x
  • A Wide-angle lens
  • A 180 degree fisheye lens
  • And 2 15x macro lenses

Againa little bit of everything. However, let us not forget to mention that if taking macro shots is your primarily focus, then you’re better off getting the Xenvo Pro.

If you want both the best macro shots that you can capture but also a telephoto lens or anything similar, then you’ll probably have to get the Xenvo Pro and any other lens that you want seperately. The whole package isnt worth it if you’re going to pay for macro lenses twice. Only as a standalone choice.

Get This Kit From AmazonGet This Kit From Amazon

 

What is your favorite phone lens? Let us know in the comments section down below. If you feel like there is another cell phone zoom lens that is worthy of being in this list, do mention that as well.

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