Tips for Buying a Used iPhone 5S

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If you're on a tight budget but still want to experience the great features of the iPhone 5S, opting for a used version is the best choice at this time. However, you may be wondering how to purchase a stable device and avoid counterfeit, imitation, or poor quality products. Check out the following article for tips on buying a used iPhone 5S that we want to share with you to find the highest quality and most reliable device.

Checking a used iPhone 5S before buying is extremely important, especially for those with limited finances. Moreover, if you're someone with little experience, especially if you've never used Apple devices before, this task can be quite daunting. Therefore, through the article below, Mytour will share some tips for buying a used iPhone 5S to help you purchase a good and reasonable phone within your budget. We invite you to follow along.

TIPS FOR BUYING A USED IPHONE 5S

1. Overall Condition

As these are used and pre-owned items, many iPhone 5S models on the market today have undergone casing replacements or component repairs. While their functionalities may still work normally, their external appearance may reveal imperfections. Therefore, you need to thoroughly inspect the external condition and pay attention to the following points:

- Examine the front, back, left, and right sides for excessive scratches, cracks, or dents.
- Check the glass screen for cracks or fractures, and inspect the outer casing for any warping.
- Test the Home button, volume controls, power button, and switch between silent and ringer modes.
- Plug in the charger and headphones to see if the device recognizes them.

2. Verify the Product Code

Regardless of the version you choose, it's essential to check the product code and verify the origin of the used iPhone. Similar to how we check iPhone information to determine storage capacity, operating system version, Wi-Fi address, serial number, and model type, accessing Settings >

General > About on the iPhone/iPad interface allows you to find the Model line.

Moreover, you can also verify the IMEI number here to ensure it matches the information provided by the seller. Checking the IMEI is straightforward, and if you're unsure, our previous article on how to check IMEI can assist you with this.

3. Check for Hidden iCloud

Checking for hidden iCloud is a crucial step, especially when purchasing a used iPhone. A device with hidden iCloud is one that has been previously used and has had its account locked (due to theft or loss) to prevent personal data loss.

Through cunning methods, the used iPhone business sector can cloak iCloud-locked devices to appear 'hidden,' enabling normal usage and outsmarting uninformed customers. However, these devices cannot update software, back up, or restore data due to the previous locked account. To check for hidden iCloud, please refer to our previously shared article on how to check hidden iCloud on iPhone, iPad for a better understanding.

4. Screen Inspection

An authentic used iPhone will have a screen tightly attached to the frame, forming a robust unit. If there are signs of warping, bulging, or adhesive residue around the edges, it may indicate a screen replacement or casing change.

5. Test Speakers, Microphone, Camera, and Physical Buttons

Be wary of used iPhones with flawless exteriors, bright charging/headphone ports indicating minimal use, as they may have undergone casing replacement or refurbishment. A simple test involves playing music, adjusting volume using the side buttons, making a call to check audio quality both ways, capturing photos with both front and rear cameras, recording a one-minute video to assess camera stability, and testing autofocus by tapping on any point on the screen. A good camera will quickly focus, capture clear images, and adjust brightness accordingly.

Additionally, there are further identification points:

- Authentic devices will have a slightly lower Flashlight compared to the casing. For refurbished devices, the Flashlight will align with the surface of the casing.
- The volume buttons on authentic devices will protrude compared to the surrounding edge. For refurbished devices, the volume buttons will be flush with the edge surface.
- Information printed on the back of authentic devices will have thin, sharp text. Refurbished devices will have slightly thicker ink and less sharp text.
- For authentic devices, the black variant will have a black Home button matching the casing color. Other color variants will have a white Home button, and the circular border around the Home button will match the casing color.

6. Thoroughly Test Touch ID Functionality

Recently, there's been an increase in iPhones with faulty Touch ID appearing in the Vietnamese market at relatively low prices. While this feature may not be crucial for many, it harbors significant risks and dangers. Most of these are products that have undergone repairs, component replacements, etc., resulting in compromised quality. Therefore, the fingerprint sensor is a feature you need to thoroughly check and avoid purchasing iPhones with faulty Touch ID.

7. Battery

This is the most crucial and challenging aspect to check on a used iPhone. Users can go to Settings > Battery and check the battery statistics. If the standby time is between 7-8 hours, the battery is considered normal. However, sellers may still replace the battery with a new one, and these batteries can deceive iOS to display high standby times. Beware of devices that experience rapid battery drain after just a few simple operations.

8. Accessories

Depending on where you purchase, you may receive complimentary accessories or need to buy them separately. Nonetheless, it's crucial to know how to check and purchase accessories (charger, cable) with guaranteed quality to avoid compromising the device's quality and the potential danger of explosion.

If you're considering buying a used iPhone 8 or iPhone X, you should also follow articles sharing experiences on purchasing these two devices here:

- Experience buying a used iPhone X
- Experience buying a used iPhone 8

https://Mytour.vn/kinh-nghiem-mua-iphone-5s-cu-22137n.aspx
Above are the experiences of buying a used iPhone 5S as well as detailed steps for selecting an original and guaranteed quality iPhone 5S. Additionally, it's essential to purchase from reputable brands and ensure good warranty policies for peace of mind during usage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I check before buying a used iPhone 5S?

Before purchasing a used iPhone 5S, check its overall condition, including the exterior for scratches or cracks. Test all buttons, the screen, and ports to ensure proper functionality.

How can I verify the product code on a used iPhone 5S?

To verify the product code, go to Settings > General > About on the iPhone. Here, you can find the model number and check it against the seller's information to ensure authenticity.

Why is it important to check for hidden iCloud on a used iPhone?

Checking for hidden iCloud is crucial because if the device is locked due to a previous owner's account, you won’t be able to update or restore the device properly.

How can I assess the battery condition of a used iPhone 5S?

You can assess the battery condition by checking the statistics in Settings > Battery. A normal standby time is 7-8 hours; beware of rapid battery drain during use.

Are there any specific signs of a refurbished iPhone I should look for?

Yes, look for signs such as misaligned buttons, excessive adhesive, or printed text that appears thick. These could indicate that the device has been refurbished rather than being an authentic used iPhone.

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