How Handtec Tests and Grades Refurbished Smartphones in the UK
If you're considering buying a refurbished smartphone in the UK, you’ve probably seen phrases like “Grade A iPhone,” or “Fully tested Samsung Galaxy S21.” But what do those grades mean — and how can you be sure your phone has been properly inspected?
At Handtec, we take quality control seriously. With over 15 years in the refurbished tech industry, our team uses a strict multi-point testing process and transparent grading system to ensure every device meets the highest standards.
In this post, we’ll break down how Handtec tests and grades refurbished smartphones, and why our approach makes us a trusted refurbished phone seller in the UK.
🔧 What Is a Refurbished Phone?
A refurbished phone is a pre-owned device that has been professionally restored to full working condition. This includes:
-
Running diagnostics
-
Replacing faulty parts
-
Cleaning the device inside and out
-
Resetting the software and removing previous data
Unlike used phones sold privately, refurbished phones from Handtec go through a rigorous inspection process and include a 12-month UK warranty.
✅ How Handtec Tests Refurbished Phones: The 30+ Point Quality Check
Every phone we receive goes through a comprehensive 30+ point test in our UK refurbishment centre. This process ensures the phone is fully functional, unlocked, cleaned, and ready to use.
Our checks include:
🔋 Battery Health Test
-
Ensures battery capacity is above our minimum threshold
-
Replaced if performance is poor
📱 Screen & Display Check
-
No dead pixels, lines, or touchscreen issues
-
Any screen burn or damage flagged during grading
🔊 Speaker & Microphone Test
-
Verifies sound clarity and volume
-
Mic input checked for voice recognition
📸 Camera Functionality
-
Front and rear lenses tested
-
Autofocus, zoom, flash, and video recording verified
📶 Network & Connectivity
-
Ensures the phone is fully unlocked to all UK networks
-
Tests WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, 4G/5G, NFC
🔐 Security Features
-
Face ID / Touch ID tested and reset
-
Factory reset to remove all previous data
💡 Other Components
-
Buttons, ports, SIM tray, vibration, proximity sensor and more
📦 Final Clean & Sanitation
-
Professionally cleaned
-
Fully data-wiped and repackaged in eco-friendly packaging
🏷️ How Handtec Grades Refurbished Smartphones (A, B, C Explained)
At Handtec, we use a transparent grading system to clearly explain the cosmetic condition of each phone — so there are no surprises when it arrives.
💎 Grade A – Excellent Condition
-
Almost like new
-
Minimal to no signs of use
-
Fully functional, tested, and covered by 12-month warranty
⭐ Grade B – Good Condition
-
Light cosmetic marks or scratches
-
Fully working with no hardware issues
-
Great value-for-money option
🔧 Grade C – Fair Condition
-
Heavier signs of use, visible marks
-
Ideal for buyers who care more about price than appearance
-
Still fully tested and functional with warranty
All grades are eligible for returns within 14 days and include our standard UK warranty.
🔒 Why Handtec Is a Trusted Refurbished Phone Seller in the UK
There’s a reason thousands of UK customers trust Handtec when searching for “certified refurbished phones with warranty UK.” Here’s why:
✅ UK-Based Testing Facility
All devices are inspected and tested right here in the UK — not outsourced.
✅ 12-Month Warranty on All Refurbished Phones
Peace of mind with every purchase.
✅ Clear Grading System & Honest Descriptions
What you see is what you get — no hidden flaws.
✅ Free UK Shipping & Klarna Available
Flexible payment options and fast delivery across the UK.
✅ Thousands of 5-Star Reviews on Trustpilot
We’ve built our reputation on quality, transparency, and customer service.
