Phone Grading Explained

Every pre-owned phone has its own history. Our grading system helps you understand its cosmetic condition before ordering, while our individual product photographs show the actual device wherever possible.

A phone’s grade describes its appearance—not how well it works. Unless a product description clearly states otherwise, every phone we sell is fully tested, functional and ready to use.

Brand New in Box

A brand-new, unused device supplied in its original box with the original accessories. The device has not been previously owned.

Grade A — Excellent Condition

Grade A phones are our best cosmetic examples. They have been carefully used and should look excellent overall.

You may find extremely light signs of handling when inspecting the phone closely, but there should be no significant scratches, cracks, chips or dents. The screen, back and frame will all present particularly well.

Grade A is ideal if you want a pre-owned phone that looks as close to new as possible without paying the new-device price.

Grade B — Good Condition

Grade B phones are in good overall condition and may show normal signs of previous use.

There may be light surface scratches, small marks around the frame or minor cosmetic wear. These signs will not affect the phone’s operation or make it uncomfortable to use.

Grade B normally offers an excellent balance between appearance and value. The phone remains fully tested and functional, but it may not look completely untouched.

Grade C — Fair Condition

Grade C phones are fully working but show more noticeable cosmetic wear.

They may have visible screen or body scratches, scuffs, small dents, paint wear or other marks caused by everyday use. These phones will not have a cracked screen or casing, and their cosmetic wear will not prevent them from performing their intended functions.

Grade C is a strong choice when price and performance matter more than appearance. We will not describe a phone with serious undisclosed damage or a functional fault as Grade C.

What We Test

Every pre-owned phone is checked before it is offered for sale. Depending on the device and its available features, our testing includes:

  • Power, charging and battery operation
  • Touchscreen and display
  • Front and rear cameras
  • Speakers, microphones and call audio
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and mobile connectivity
  • Physical buttons and vibration
  • Charging port
  • Face ID, Touch ID or fingerprint recognition
  • IMEI and activation-lock status

If a feature does not work as expected, this will be clearly stated in the individual product description.

Battery Health

Battery condition is separate from cosmetic grading. A Grade A phone may look excellent but have a different battery-health percentage from another device.

Where battery-health information is available, we display the individual percentage on the product listing. Battery performance naturally varies according to the device’s age, settings, usage and charging habits.

If a battery has been replaced or the phone displays an important battery message, we will state this whenever known.

Boxes, Chargers and Accessories

Original packaging and accessories are not automatically included unless they are shown or specifically mentioned in the product listing.

Each listing will clearly explain what is supplied. This may include the phone only, a compatible charging cable, an original box or another stated accessory.

Photographs and Cosmetic Differences

Where possible, the photographs on a pre-owned phone listing show the actual device being sold. Please inspect all available photographs before purchasing.

Very small marks can sometimes appear differently depending on lighting, screen brightness and camera angle. If we use a representative image instead of photographs of the exact device, we will make that clear.

Fully Tested, Clearly Described

Our aim is simple: no unpleasant surprises. Every phone should arrive in the condition described and with any known material issue clearly disclosed.

If you would like more photographs or clarification before ordering, contact CambTech Media Solutions and we will be happy to help.

Which Grade Should I Choose?

Choose Brand New in Box if you want an unused device supplied in its original box with the original accessories.

Choose Grade A if you want the closest possible appearance to a new phone.

Choose Grade B for a good-looking phone and an excellent balance between condition and value.

Choose Grade C if you prioritise functionality and price over cosmetic appearance.

Visit or Contact Us

CambTech Media Solutions
Unit 6, Unwin Square
Orchard Park
Cambridge
CB4 2AD