Used Phones and Gadgets: A Smart Choice or a Risky Gamble these Days?

As we all know, the price of almost everything has gone up, from foodstuff to transport fares—and technology is no exception. Here in Yola, many of us rely heavily on phones, laptops, and other devices not just for chatting or entertainment, but for work, study, and running small businesses. So the big question I want to put on the table today is this:

With inflation biting hard and new gadgets being more expensive than ever, does buying used devices still make sense? Or are there better options now, given all the risks?

Why Used Devices Have Always Been Popular

• Affordability: A brand-new smartphone might cost as much as a month’s salary for many people. Used phones, especially older models or those sold by individuals, come at a fraction of that price.
• Accessibility: Not everyone has access to official stores or authorized dealers. In Yola, many buy phones from local markets or contacts, which often means used devices circulate widely.
• Trying before upgrading: For students or workers who want to upgrade their tools but don’t have enough funds, buying a used device allows them to test technologies without breaking the bank.

But What Has Changed in 2026?

With inflation soaring and new smartphone launches priced at premium levels, the used market has also felt the squeeze. Sellers know buyers are desperate, so prices of secondhand phones have been creeping up. Sometimes, the difference between a new budget phone and a used flagship model is no longer that wide.

Another issue is the quality and longevity of used devices. Back in 2020, buying a used phone with a good battery and screen was relatively easy. Today, many sellers offload devices with hidden faults, damaged batteries, or even phones that have been tampered with. The risk of scams and “kalokalo” devices (phones that are locked, stolen, or fake) is higher, especially without proper inspection.

Realistic Considerations to Keep in Mind

1. Check your needs carefully: What do you really need the device for? If it’s just for WhatsApp, calls, and light browsing, a used phone will probably serve you well. But if you need a phone for online classes or running a business app that requires good performance, you might want to be more selective.
2. Buy from reputable sources: In Yola and other cities, relying on known sellers or groups with return policies is safer. Even better if you can test before buying or get a warranty, however short.
3. Consider certified refurbished: Some online platforms now offer refurbished phones—devices checked and restored by professionals, with some form of warranty. These are usually pricier than typical used phones but less risky.
4. Don’t ignore after-sales costs: Sometimes a cheap phone ends up costing more if the battery is bad or parts are hard to find locally.

Practical Examples from the Market

Let me share what’s been happening around Yola recently. A friend bought a used Samsung A12 for ₦40,000. Initially, it worked fine, but within two months, the battery performance dropped drastically. Repair shops quoted ₦15,000 to replace the battery, which was nearly half the cost of the phone. Another colleague purchased a used Tecno Camon from a street vendor but discovered it was “dual SIM” locked, meaning it only worked with specific network cards—rendering it almost useless.

Meanwhile, some people I know saved up to buy a new Itel or Infinix model on promotion around ₦55,000 to ₦60,000. The device lasted well for a year with no major issues and came with warranty. For them, paying a little more upfront meant less stress later.

So, What’s the Bottom Line?

Buying used phones and gadgets in 2026 can still make sense—especially if your budget is tight and you know exactly what you want. However, the old mantra “used is cheap” is no longer guaranteed. Quality, warranty, and seller integrity matter more than ever. Without those, you might find yourself spending more time and money on repairs or replacements.

For entrepreneurs and students relying on digital tools, it might be worthwhile to prioritize devices with some level of support and reliability—even if that means saving a bit longer to afford something new or certified refurbished.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal situation, your risk tolerance, and how carefully you research the deal.

Questions to Keep Us Thinking

• Have you bought a used device recently? What was your experience like?
• Do you think local market sellers in Yola provide enough guarantees for secondhand devices?
• Would you rather save longer for a new phone with warranty or take a chance on a cheaper used device? Why?

Looking forward to hearing your voices and advice on this!