Users can find great deals when buying refurbished headphones. Designations like “used-like new” leave customers confused about the exact conditions of the product. There are often a lot of questions about the best way to finds save money and still get a good pair of headphones. We’re hoping to clear up some of the confusion when it comes to buying used headphones on Amazon.
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Are Used Headphones On Amazon Worth It?
Definitely! Open-box items can result in a good discount, Amazon warehouse deals and items from third party sellers can all be had with fast prime shipping. While all this is great, finding the right used headphones on Amazon. Amazon has condition guidelines that help ensure customers get what they purchased. We’ll start off by talking about Amazon’s guidelines for conditions.
What Does Used Like New Mean For Headphones on Amazon?
The truth is the condition designations for used headphones on Amazon can mean a few different things. There are typically a few clues though to look out for to get the most value. When purchasing refurbished or open box headphones, there is often additional text. Pay close attention to the included details. There are often comments no matter what the condition. Description of the products will include things such as “manufacturer refurbished” or “item will come repackaged”. Comments like this should give you a good idea of what shape pre-owned items will come in. Some will even say sealed in box.
I’ve bought several refurbished products and headphones from Amazon. Some of the more premium ANC headphones can be found at steep discounts. I typically target headphones with Used Like New conditions. I try to target open box headphones with descriptions like sealed in box, authorized reseller, and original packaging. Unfortunately, the condition designations are made by the sellers. This means the descriptions may be on somewhat of a sliding scale. With that being said, Amazon DOES provide condition guidelines to third-party sellers for an item sold with these designations.
Condition Guidelines For Used Headphones on Amazon
Used – Like New or Open Box Headphones
Amazon makes it clear that headphones with designated open box or used-like new should be in perfect working condition. The packaging originally included with the product must be included. Minor packaging defects are allowed and so is missing protective wrapping.
Used – Very Good Headphones
Used headphones with this condition designation should be well cared for and in good working condition. There should be only limited signs of wear. This includes small cosmetic damage and blemishes like scuffs or scratches. Headphone packaging may arrive from the warehouse damaged. It may also be repackaged with material other than the original packaging. Missing accessories are fine for this condition, but they must be clearly outlined.
Used – Good Headphones
Those looking to save money on Used – Good headphones should realize things won’t be in perfect condition. Amazon’s guidelines describe headphones with this designation as showing signs of “consistent use” while remaining in good, functioning condition. Items purchased in these conditions may be repackaged or have damaged packaging. It’s acceptable if an item shows signs of minor cosmetic damage and markings. Missing accessories and/or instructions are also possible.
Used – Acceptable Headphones
Acceptable condition headphones come at a good discount, as they represent the lowest condition level. Used headphones with this designation will function properly and be fairly worn. Scratches, dents, and considerable wear are all possible aesthetic issues. Accessories and instructions may also be missing.
Things To Avoid When Buying Amazon Warehouse Headphones
As you can see, there are a variety of possibilities when it comes to the condition of used and open box headphones on Amazon. Third-party sellers are responsible for following these guidelines when selling user. If it’s a reputable seller, they likely err on the side of caution to avoid returned items. Here are a few things to avoid if you want the best shot at a quality pair of used headphones from Amazon. They don’t means necessarily equate to badly used items. They are just red flags I typically avoid when several options are available.
- Missing cables and accessories
- Badly damaged packaging
- Large Imperfections and/or scratches
- Any minor imperfections months after release
Keith Collins has been writing for over 15 years for various publications. He’s a lover of music, home theater, and excellent sound quality. His fondness for technology in addition to his non-stop curiosity fuels his writing ventures.