Shopping for a new phone this Black Friday? Consider a like-new device instead

With Canadian wireless providers dropping their Black Friday deals, there’s a lot of buzz right now around smartphone deals. However, for a lot of people, buying a refurbished or pre-owned device could be a much better option, and a way to save money too.

Refurbished phones are gaining popularity among consumers because they offer similar quality to new phones while being more affordable, and Canadians are starting to adopt them.

It’s worth noting that there are several categories of smartphones that fall under the like-new or refurbished umbrella. Refurbished devices have been fairly used, returned, repaired, and restored to good working condition, differing slightly from open box phones, which are slightly used or unused phones that are returned after their original packaging has been opened. These well-functioning phones are returned for various reasons, such as a customer changing their mind or wanting another colour. Retailers can’t call them new, so they often sell these devices as open box models at a discount.

Several Canadian providers also offer certified pre-owned devices, which are described as “like-new” or “lightly used” devices that are tested by carrier technicians.

Why buy refurbished?

The price gap is definitely a factor. Buying a flagship smartphone in 2025 feels like a luxury, with most exceeding the $1,000 mark. Refurbished and like-new phones are a more budget-friendly option, offering similar experiences for much less. You can buy a perfectly functional Galaxy S23 or iPhone 14 Pro that not only feels brand-new but also offers similar performance, without breaking the bank. For Canadians, this price difference means upgrading to high-end devices without stretching their budgets.

Before getting to consumers, refurbished phones undergo a comprehensive process to meet quality standards. From multistage testing and defective parts replacement to detailed inspections and even makeovers, the refurbished phone becomes almost indistinguishable from a new one. You get a good battery and an excellent display just like you would from a new device. Refurbished phones are not outdated like some believe. They are usually a year or two old, and still receive the latest software updates for years. For instance, Samsung’s Galaxy S23 and Apple’s iPhone 14 still get the latest OS updates and security patches. Not only do you get them at affordable prices, but you also get the perks of using the latest apps, features, and accessories.

Buyers don’t have to worry about the device’s performance because refurbished phones come with guaranteed protection. Canadians who are skeptical about refurbished phones can feel confident thanks to the warranty and customer support service. Most times, customers who face issues with their devices are assisted with troubleshooting and technical services, or even allowed to opt for a return. You receive the same treatment that comes with owning brand-new phones. With that kind of warranty, it can ease concerns about trying a like-new device.

As consumer demand grows, sustainability in consumer electronics becomes more important. Manufacturers prioritize eco-friendly products and adopt measures to reduce electronic waste. But it isn’t just companies; consumers are also considering sustainable products for a cleaner planet. By refurbishing phones, device lifespan is extended, leading to a lower demand for new materials and cutting down on e-waste. Some Canadians might prefer this eco-friendly option that meets their needs without compromising quality.

With all of the above in mind, it might be worth considering a like-new device this year. Whether you opt for refurbished, open box, or certified pre-owned, there are lots of options for getting a smartphone that’s new to you. Not only does it save you money on the phone, but going this route allows you to pursue bring-your-own-device (BYOD) plans from carriers, which are often much cheaper than the plans you need to get when you buy a phone, allowing for more savings over time.