Refurbished Phone Grading Explained: A, B, and C Grades for Resellers

If you resell pre-owned devices, grading is your reputation. Inconsistent grades mean returns, disputes, and bad reviews. Here is a clear framework.

Grade A — like new

Fully functional, minimal to no cosmetic wear, screen free of scratches at a normal viewing distance. Commands the highest resale price. Battery health typically 90% or above.

Grade B — good

Fully functional with light, visible wear — minor scuffs or faint screen micro-scratches. The volume seller. Price accordingly and photograph honestly.

Grade C — fair

Fully functional but noticeable cosmetic wear (deeper scratches, dings). Budget tier; set clear expectations. Never grade a device with a functional fault as C — functional faults get repaired first.

Grade consistently, sell confidently

Test display, touch, cameras, speakers, mics, buttons, biometrics, and battery health on every unit before grading. Repair functional faults with quality parts first — browse iPhone, Samsung, and Pixel parts, or the full model index. Then stock graded stock via our refurbished devices.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Grade A and Grade B refurbished phones?
Grade A is like-new with minimal cosmetic wear and high battery health; Grade B is fully functional with light visible wear. Both work perfectly — the difference is cosmetic condition and price.
Should a phone with a cracked screen be graded C?
No. A cracked screen is a fault that should be repaired before grading. Grades describe fully-working devices, so repair first, then grade the finished unit.
How do I grade consistently across a lot of phones?
Use a fixed checklist — display, touch, cameras, audio, buttons, biometrics, battery health, and cosmetic inspection at a normal viewing distance — and apply the same thresholds to every device.

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