Refurbished iPhones: Worth the Risk?

Reader JeffK writes: I saw the news that refurbished iPhones are on sale for $100 off. I'm tempted, but how big of a risk am I taking? Am I better off just buying a new one?

I'm often asked about the wisdom of buying refurbished (i.e., used) tech products, and my answer is always the same: it depends on the manufacturer and/or reseller. Apple seems to have a pretty good reputation when it comes to refurbished items, and the company pledges that it thoroughly tests, cleans and repackages all its used good before reselling them (and a one-year warranty is also part of the deal).

I've never bought any used Apple wares myself, but from what I've heard, refurbished Apple hardware typically arrive in pretty good shape, and with a minimum of nicks and scratches. That said, there's always some risk inherent in buying used tech (or used anything else, for that matter), hence the $100 off the retail price. If you do decide to get a refurbished iPhone, I'd strongly recommend you shop at an actual Apple retail store—that way, you can inspect the goods on-site, and if you see any scuffs you don't like (or if the phone doesn't turn on), you can request a new device right there.

Related:
Apple trots out refurb iPhones, $100 off list price [Engadget Mobile]