Introduction
Buying a refurbished or used Android phone can be a smart and budget-friendly option. Backmarket, a popular platform for used electronics, offers a wide range of Android devices that are thoroughly inspected and certified to meet high standards. With so many options available, choosing the best one for your needs can be challenging. This article highlights the top picks for backmarket Android phones, detailing their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Top Picks for Backmarket Android Phones
Samsung Galaxy S10
The Samsung Galaxy S10 stands out as a top pick for backmarket Android phones. This device boasts a high-resolution display, making it perfect for watching movies or browsing apps. The camera quality is excellent, featuring optical zoom and low-light enhancement. Additionally, the S10 supports wireless charging, offering convenience for those who prefer to avoid cables.
Pros:
- High-resolution AMOLED display with vibrant colors and deep blacks
- Excellent camera system with multiple lenses for various lighting conditions
- Wireless charging capability
Cons:
- Older model, potentially missing the latest software updates
- Battery life may be slightly reduced over time
Alternative: Google Pixel 4a
For a similar camera experience with newer software updates, consider the Google Pixel 4a. It offers comparable camera quality and more up-to-date software but lacks wireless charging.
OnePlus 7 Pro
The OnePlus 7 Pro is another top pick for backmarket Android phones. This device features a smooth 90Hz display, providing a seamless viewing experience. Performance is fast, thanks to its powerful processor. The build quality of the OnePlus 7 Pro is excellent, making it a durable option.
Pros:
- Smooth 90Hz display for a silky-smooth experience
- Fast performance with a powerful processor
- Premium feel with metal and glass construction
Cons:
- No wireless charging support
- Camera quality could be better compared to other flagship devices
Alternative: OnePlus Nord
For similar performance and a 90Hz display with a better camera at a lower cost, consider the OnePlus Nord. It offers similar features with improved camera capabilities.
Google Pixel 3
The Google Pixel 3 is known for its excellent camera and clean Android experience. It offers regular software updates directly from Google, ensuring the latest security patches and features. However, it has a smaller battery and lacks a headphone jack.
Pros:
- Excellent camera with features like Night Sight and Portrait mode
- Clean, intuitive stock Android interface
- Timely software updates from Google
Cons:
- Smaller battery compared to other devices in its class
- No headphone jack, which might be a drawback for some users
Alternative: Google Pixel 4a
For better battery life and a headphone jack while enjoying similar camera quality, consider the Google Pixel 4a. It offers improved battery performance and includes a headphone jack.
LG G8 ThinQ
The LG G8 ThinQ offers a good display and solid performance. It also features unique hand gesture controls that can be both useful and gimmicky depending on usage. However, software updates can be slow, which might concern those who want the latest features.
Pros:
- OLED display with vibrant colors and deep blacks
- Smooth performance with a powerful processor
- Unique hand gesture controls for certain tasks
Cons:
- Slow software updates compared to other devices
- Hand gesture controls might not be practical for everyday use
Alternative: Samsung Galaxy A71
For better software support and a larger battery, consider the Samsung Galaxy A71. It offers similar performance to the LG G8 ThinQ with more reliable software updates and a larger battery.
Motorola Moto G7
The Motorola Moto G7 is an affordable option that offers clean software and decent performance. However, it has an average camera and limited storage options.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly option
- Near-stock Android for a clean, intuitive interface
- Decent performance with a mid-range processor
Cons:
- Average camera quality compared to other devices in its class
- Limited storage options, requiring external memory cards for expansion
Alternative: Moto G Power
For better battery life and an improved camera while remaining budget-friendly, consider the Moto G Power. It offers improved battery performance and better camera capabilities at an affordable price.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Refurbished Phone
Battery Life
- Lower screen brightness to reduce battery consumption.
- Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when not needed.
- Close unused apps to prevent background battery drain.
Storage
- Use cloud services like Google Drive to free up space.
- Regularly delete old photos.
- Clear app caches to improve performance.
Security
- Enable two-factor authentication for added security.
- Use strong, complex passwords.
- Install updates regularly to patch vulnerabilities.
Performance
- Restart your phone weekly to clear temporary data.
- Uninstall unused apps to free up space.
- Clear RAM to close unnecessary processes.
Camera
- Clean the lens regularly to ensure clear photos.
- Use gridlines for better composition.
- Explore manual settings for various lighting conditions.
Customization
- Change wallpapers to personalize your home screen.
- Use custom ringtones for different contacts or events.
- Organize apps into folders for easy access.
Connectivity
- Use airplane mode in low-signal areas to conserve battery.
- Reset network settings if connectivity issues arise.
- Update carrier settings for the latest network features.
Accessibility
- Enable voice commands for tasks like sending messages.
- Use screen readers for visually impaired navigation.
- Adjust text size for easier reading.
Data Usage
- Monitor data usage with built-in tools.
- Set data limits to prevent overages.
- Use Wi-Fi for large downloads to save on costs.
Backup
- Regularly back up to Google Drive or other cloud services.
- Use external storage options like SD cards.
- Sync contacts and calendars across devices.
App Management
- Update apps regularly for the latest features and security patches.
- Read reviews before installing new apps.
- Manage app permissions to prevent unauthorized access.
Notifications
- Customize notification settings for each app.
- Use Do Not Disturb mode during specific times.
- Clear notifications regularly to keep your home screen clutter-free.
Health
- Use blue light filters to reduce eye strain.
- Take breaks to avoid prolonged screen time.
- Use health tracking apps to monitor physical activity.
Navigation
- Download offline maps for areas you frequently visit.
- Use voice-guided navigation for hands-free directions.
- Save favorite places for quick access later on.
Entertainment
- Use streaming services like Netflix or Spotify.
- Download content for offline use when internet access is unavailable.
- Explore new apps for music and video streaming.
Comparing Refurbished Phones to New Models
Samsung Galaxy S10 (Refurbished)
Pros:
- High-resolution display
- Good camera quality
- Wireless charging
Cons:
- Older model
- Battery life may be reduced
Alternative: Google Pixel 4a
The Google Pixel 4a offers similar camera quality and newer software updates but lacks wireless charging.
OnePlus 7 Pro (Refurbished)
Pros:
- Smooth 90Hz display
- Fast performance
- Good build quality
Cons:
- No wireless charging
- Camera could be better
Alternative: OnePlus Nord
The OnePlus Nord offers similar performance and a 90Hz display but with a better camera for the price.
Google Pixel 3 (Refurbished)
Pros:
- Excellent camera
- Clean Android experience
- Regular updates
Cons:
- Small battery
- No headphone jack
Alternative: Google Pixel 4a
The Google Pixel 4a offers better battery life and a headphone jack while maintaining similar camera quality.
LG G8 ThinQ (Refurbished)
Pros:
- Good display
- Solid performance
- Unique hand gesture controls
Cons:
- Software updates are slow
- Hand gesture controls can be gimmicky
Alternative: Samsung Galaxy A71
The Samsung Galaxy A71 offers better software support and a larger battery while providing similar performance.
Motorola Moto G7 (Refurbished)
Pros:
- Affordable
- Clean software
- Decent performance
Cons:
- Average camera
- Limited storage
Alternative: Moto G Power
The Moto G Power offers better battery life and an improved camera while remaining affordable.