Does CEX Buy Broken Phones? Everything You Need to Know
Are you wondering if CEX buys broken phones? Perhaps you have an old smartphone with a cracked screen or other issues, and you’re looking for a way to get some money for it rather than letting it collect dust.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about selling broken phones to CEX, including what conditions they accept, how pricing works, and the selling process.
Key Takeaways
- CEX’s Acceptance Policy: Learn about what types of broken phones CEX will buy, including devices with cracked screens, battery issues, and other faults.
- Grading System and Pricing: Understand how CEX grades broken phones and what factors affect the price offered for your device.
- Selling Process: Get to know the step-by-step process of selling broken phones to CEX, whether in-store or through their website.
What Types of Broken Phones Does CEX Buy?
When it comes to broken phones, CEX has specific criteria for what they will and won’t accept. Getting to know these guidelines can save you time and effort when trying to sell your damaged device.
Phones with Cracked Screens
CEX will generally buy broken phones with cracked screens, but the price you receive will be affected by the severity of the damage. Minor cracks that don’t affect the functionality of the touchscreen are likely to get you a better price than a completely shattered screen.
A phone with a cracked screen will typically be classified as a Grade C item, which means it’s in a usable but damaged condition. The reduction in price compared to a working phone can be significant, but it’s still better than having a useless device sitting in a drawer.
Phones with Battery Issues
Mobile phones with battery problems are also something CEX might buy. If your phone doesn’t hold a charge well or shuts down unexpectedly, CEX may still purchase it, but again, this will affect the grade and price offered.
Batteries are often replaceable components, which means CEX can potentially fix these issues. However, if the battery problem has caused other damage to the phone, they might refuse to buy it.
Water Damaged Phones
Water damage is trickier. If your phone has been exposed to water and shows signs of internal damage, CEX might be more hesitant to buy it. They need to ensure that the device can be refurbished and resold safely.
Some signs of water damage that might cause CEX to refuse your phone include visible moisture under the screen, corrosion on internal components, or failure to power on consistently.
Phones with Functional Issues
Phones with software problems, connection issues, or hardware faults fall into various categories of damage. CEX evaluates these on a case-by-case basis, but generally, if the phone can be reset and the issues fixed, they’ll consider buying it.
How Does CEX Grade Broken Phones?
CEX uses a grading system to categorize the condition of all items they buy, including broken phones and mobile phones. This system helps determine the price they’ll offer for your device.
According to Consumer Rights UK, second-hand electronics retailers like CEX must clearly describe the condition of the goods they sell, making their grading system essential for both buying and selling.
Grade A (Mint Condition)
Mint condition items show minimal signs of use. For a phone to qualify as Grade A, it must be fully functional, have no visible scratches or marks on the screen, include all original accessories (where applicable), and come with the original box (if specified).
Obviously, broken phones won’t qualify for this grade.
Grade B (Good Condition)
Grade B items show some signs of use but are still in good working order. A phone might be classified as Grade B if it has full functionality, minor scratches on the case, small marks that don’t affect usage, or missing non-essential accessories.
Some broken phones with very minor issues might fall into this category, but it’s uncommon.
Grade C (Broken or Faulty)
This is where most broken phones will be categorized. Grade C items have significant faults or damage, such as a cracked screen, faulty buttons or ports, significant cosmetic damage, battery issues, or functionality problems.
The price offered for Grade C items is substantially lower than for higher grades, but CEX still buys them for parts or refurbishment.
What Affects the Price CEX Offers for Broken Phones?
Several factors determine how much CEX will pay for your broken phones. Getting to know these can help you have better expectations about what you’ll receive.
Model and Age
Newer models of phones generally fetch higher prices, even when broken. A recent flagship with a cracked screen will still be worth more than an older budget phone with the same damage.
The date of release also matters. Phones that are several years old have less value, as replacement parts become harder to find and fewer customers want to buy refurbished versions of these devices.
Extent of Damage
The severity of the damage significantly affects the price offered. For example, a phone with a small hairline crack in the corner of the screen will be worth more than one with a completely snapped display. A device with a faulty camera but otherwise working will get a better price than one that won’t turn on at all.
Research from Statista shows that screen damage accounts for nearly 30% of smartphone damage worldwide, making it a common issue CEX deals with when buying broken phones.
Market Demand
Some phones maintain their value better than others. Popular brands and models in high demand will get better offers, even when broken.
For example, broken iPhones often fetch higher prices than similarly damaged Android devices due to their consistent market value and the standardized nature of repair parts.
Accessories Included
While not as important for broken phones as for working ones, having the original box and accessories can slightly increase the price offered by CEX.
How to Sell Broken Phones to CEX
If you’re ready to sell your broken phones to CEX, here’s what you need to know about the process.
In-Store Selling Process
Selling in a CEX shop is straightforward. Take your broken phones to your local CEX store, and their staff will assess the condition and test the functionality of your device. They’ll offer you a price based on their assessment, and if you accept, you can receive payment in cash or as a CEX voucher (which typically offers a slightly higher value). You’ll need to provide ID and create a CEX account if you don’t already have one.
The Which? Consumer Rights guide suggests that in-person selling can often be more reliable for damaged electronics as the assessment happens immediately.
Online Selling Process
You can also sell through the CEX website. Log into your CEX account or create one, select the sell option and search for your phone model. Answer questions about the condition of your device, then get an instant quote based on your answers.
If you accept the quote, CEX will provide shipping instructions. Send your phone for assessment, and once verified, you’ll receive payment via bank transfer.
Remember that the online quote is subject to change after CEX physically inspects your phone, so be honest about its condition to avoid disappointment.
How Does CEX Compare to Other Options?
It’s worth looking at how CEX compares to other options for selling broken phones.
Mobile Phone Recycling Companies
Specialized mobile phone recycling companies often accept a wider range of damaged phones than CEX. However, they may offer lower prices since their business model focuses on parts recovery rather than refurbishment and resale.
The Environmental Audit Committee highlights that proper electronics recycling is crucial for environmental protection, making these services valuable even if they offer less money.
Online Marketplaces
Platforms like eBay might get you a higher price for your broken phones, especially if they’re rare models or have specific parts that are in demand. However, there’s more effort involved in listing, communicating with buyers, and arranging shipping.
Repair and Sell Yourself
If you’re comfortable with technology, you might consider a replacement screen or fixing other issues yourself before selling. This could increase the value significantly, but it comes with risk and requires technical skills.
Are There Alternatives to Phones That CEX Buys?
CEX buys a wide range of electronics beyond just mobile phones. If you have other items gathering dust, consider selling these too.
Tablets and Other Devices
CEX accepts broken tablets in similar conditions to phones. The same grading system applies, and functionality issues are assessed in much the same way.
Gaming Consoles and Games
CEX is well-known for buying and selling games and consoles. Even if your gaming system is faulty, they might still make an offer depending on the specific issues.
According to Game Industry, the second-hand games market remains strong in the UK, with CEX being one of the leading retailers in this space.
Overall
CEX does indeed buy broken phones, but what they’ll accept and how much they’ll pay depends on various factors including the type of damage, the phone model, and current market demand. Cracked screens, battery issues, and other common problems typically won’t prevent you from selling your device, but they will affect the price offered.
Before you sell, we recommend getting quotes from multiple sources including CEX, mobile phone recycling companies, and perhaps even marketplace listings like eBay to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal. Remember that CEX offers both cash and voucher options, with vouchers typically providing better value if you plan to purchase something else from them.
Whether you choose to sell in-store or via the CEX website, make sure you have backed up any important data and removed personal information from your device before handing it over.
Frequently Asked Questions
What proof of ownership does CEX require when selling broken phones?
When selling to CEX, you’ll need valid photo ID and may be asked to sign a declaration of ownership. For high-value items, they might also request proof of purchase.
Will CEX buy phones with a blacklisted IMEI?
No, CEX will not buy phones with blacklisted IMEI numbers, as these indicate the device has been reported lost or stolen.
Does CEX pay more for a voucher than cash?
Yes, CEX typically offers approximately 10% more in voucher value compared to cash payment.
Can I sell phones with iCloud or Google account lock?
No, CEX requires all phones to be factory reset and removed from any account locks before they will purchase them.
How long does the online selling process take with CEX?
The online selling process usually takes about 5-10 business days from when you ship your device to when you receive payment.
Will CEX buy phones without original packaging?
Yes, CEX will buy phones without the original box, but having it may slightly increase the price offered.
What happens if CEX rejects my phone after I’ve sent it in?
If CEX refuse to buy your phone after inspection, they will return it to you free of charge.
