Refurbished phones in Kenya is a used device that has been professionally tested, repaired where necessary, wiped and resold with a warranty. In Kenya, refurbished phones cost roughly 40-60% less than new: a refurbished iPhone 11 starts at Ksh 25,000 against about Ksh 75,000 new at launch, and a refurbished Samsung Galaxy S21 starts at Ksh 24,000.
The difference between refurbished and the “ex-UK” or second-hand phones sold in most Kenyan markets is not the phone. It is what was checked before it was sold, and what happens if it fails. Everything below explains that difference in detail, with the prices, the grading, the warranty terms and the honest disadvantages.
84 devices in stock· Prices in Kenya Shillings, VAT included· Free delivery countrywide
Same-day delivery in Nairobi on orders placed before 3:00 pm.
What this page covers
- What “refurbished” actually means
- Refurbished vs ex-UK vs second-hand vs new
- Why refurbished phones cost less
- Grading: A, B and C explained
- Everything we sell, by brand
- iPhone prices in Kenya
- Samsung Galaxy prices
- Pixel, OnePlus, Sony, iPad, MacBook
- Battery health and what it’s worth
- The 32-point inspection
- Warranty and returns, compared
- Where to buy in Kenya
- How long a refurbished phone lasts
- How to verify a phone is genuine
- What to buy at each budget
- What to buy for how you use it
- Trade in your current phone
- Paying in instalments
- Delivery across Kenya
- The Kenyan market, in numbers
- The environmental case
- Honest disadvantages
- 30 questions answered
What “refurbished” actually means
The word is used loosely in Kenya and it hides real differences. A phone can be called refurbished after a wipe and a polish, or after a 32-point diagnostic and a new battery. Both use the same word. Only one is worth paying for.
| Condition | What it means | Tested? | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand new, sealed | Never opened, full manufacturer warranty, retail price | By the manufacturer | 12 months, manufacturer |
| Open box | Opened but unused: returned, display unit, or cancelled order | Usually | Varies by seller |
| Certified refurbished | Used, then professionally diagnosed, repaired if needed, wiped and recertified | Yes, to a published standard | 6-12 months, seller |
| Ex-UK / ex-USA import | A used phone imported from abroad. Says where it came from, not what was done to it | Sometimes, rarely published | 0-3 months |
| Second-hand | Sold as-is by the previous owner or a dealer. No process | No | None |
: The five conditions a phone is sold in
The critical distinction: “ex-UK” describes where a phone came from. “Refurbished” describes what was done to it. A phone can be both, one, or neither. An ex-UK phone that nobody tested is a second-hand phone that travelled.
Refurbished vs ex-UK vs second-hand vs new
The same iPhone 11 64GB, bought four different ways in Kenya. This is the comparison most buyers are actually making.
| Second-hand | Ex-UK import | Certified refurbished | New | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical price | Ksh 20,000-24,000 | Ksh 25,000-28,000 | Ksh 25,000 | No longer sold new |
| Functional testing | None | Sometimes | 32 points | Factory |
| Battery health checked | No | Rarely | 85% minimum, replaced below | 100% |
| IMEI blacklist check | No | Sometimes | Yes, supplied in writing | N/A |
| iCloud lock cleared | No | Sometimes | Yes | N/A |
| Water damage checked | No | No | Yes: indicators inspected | N/A |
| Warranty | None | 0-3 months | 6 months | 12 months |
| Returns | None | Rare | 7 days, no questions | Per retailer |
| Recourse if it fails | None | Varies | Registered business | Manufacturer |
| Data wiped properly | Unknown | Unknown | Factory reset, fresh OS | N/A |
: Same phone, four routes: iPhone 11 64GB
A second-hand iPhone 11 might save you Ksh 4,000. What you give up is every check in the column above, plus anyone to call when it stops working. On a Ksh 25,000 purchase that is a 16% discount for 100% of the risk.
Why refurbished phones cost so much less
Not because something is wrong with them. Because phones lose value on a steep, predictable curve that has almost nothing to do with how well they work.
| Age | % of launch price | What has actually changed |
|---|---|---|
| Brand new | 100% | Nothing |
| 6 months | ~80% | The box is open |
| 1 year | ~65% | A newer model exists |
| 2 years | ~45% | Battery slightly down. Still fully supported |
| 3-4 years | ~30% | Still receives updates. Camera and speed still good. The value sweet spot |
| 5-6 years | ~20% | Battery usually needs replacing. Updates narrowing |
| 7+ years | ~10% | Security updates ending. Some apps dropping support |
: How a flagship phone loses value: indicative, Kenyan market
Depreciation, not defect
A three-year-old flagship outperforms a brand-new budget phone at the same price on almost every measure: chip, camera, screen, build.
Returns and upgrades
Much refurbished stock is barely used: 14-day returns, contract upgrades, insurance replacements. It was never broken.
No marketing cost
A new phone’s price carries advertising, retail margin and distribution. A refurbished one carries testing and warranty. Testing is cheaper.
Grading: what A, B and C actually mean
Grading describes cosmetic condition only. Every grade we sell is functionally identical: same tests, same battery standard, same warranty. You are choosing how it looks, not how it works.
| Grade | Appearance | Screen | Typical saving | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grade A | Excellent. Looks close to new, no marks at normal viewing distance | Flawless | Baseline | Most buyers, gifts |
| Grade B | Good. Light scratches on frame or back, visible up close | No visible marks when on | −10 to −15% | Anyone using a case |
| Grade C | Fair. Clear scratches, possible small dents on frame | Minor marks possible | −20 to −30% | Tightest budgets, work phones |
: Cosmetic grading and what it saves you
A Grade C phone with a case on it is indistinguishable from a Grade A phone with a case on it, and it costs up to 30% less. If you were going to use a case anyway, and most people do, the grade you pay extra for is hidden from view the moment you leave the shop.
Everything we sell, by brand
84 devices across five brands, plus tablets, laptops, watches and accessories. This is the whole catalogue.
| Category | Devices | Range | Prices from | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhones | 29 | iPhone 7 through iPhone 17 Pro Max, plus SE 2020, SE 2022 and 16e | Ksh 8,000 | Browse |
| Samsung Galaxy | 26 | S20 to S25 lines, Note 10, Z Fold 4/5/6, Z Flip 4/6, A54, A56 | Ksh 16,000 | Browse |
| Google Pixel | 11 | Pixel 6 through Pixel 10 Pro, including 7a, 8a, 9a | Ksh 18,000 | Browse |
| iPads | 4 | iPad 6th, 7th, 9th generation and iPad Air 4th generation | Ksh 15,000 | Browse |
| Sony Xperia | 3 | Xperia 10 II, Xperia 10 V, Xperia 5 IV | Ksh 12,000 | Browse |
| MacBooks | 2 | MacBook Air M1 2020, MacBook Pro 15-inch 2017 | Ksh 45,000 | Browse |
| OnePlus | 2 | OnePlus 9, OnePlus 10 Pro | Ksh 20,000 | Browse |
| Watches & accessories | 5 | Apple Watch Series 8, Watch Ultra, Apple Pencil 2, Galaxy Buds 3, cases | Ksh 1,500 | Browse |
: Catalogue at a glance, September 2026
What we don’t sell. We do not stock Tecno, Infinix, itel, Oppo or Xiaomi. Those brands are a large share of the Kenyan market and there are good refurbished sellers for them. We are not one. We concentrate on Apple, Samsung and Google because that is where our technicians, spare parts and warranty capacity are. If you want a refurbished Tecno, buy it from someone who specialises in it.
Refurbished iPhone prices in Kenya
All prices are Grade A, base storage, including 6-month warranty and free delivery. Larger storage adds roughly Ksh 3,500-8,000 depending on model.
| Model | Released | From | Still updated? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry: under Ksh 25,000 | ||||
| iPhone 7 | 2016 | Ksh 8,000 | Ended | Backup phone, first smartphone |
| iPhone SE (2020) | 2020 | Ksh 14,000 | Yes | Small hands, tight budget |
| iPhone X | 2017 | Ksh 18,000 | Ending | First OLED iPhone, cheap |
| iPhone XS Max | 2018 | Ksh 22,000 | Ending | Big screen, low price |
| iPhone SE (2022) | 2022 | Ksh 22,000 | Yes | 5G on a budget |
| The sweet spot: Ksh 25,000 to 50,000 | ||||
| iPhone 11 | 2019 | Ksh 25,000 | Yes | Best value in the range |
| iPhone 12 mini | 2020 | Ksh 28,000 | Yes | The smallest modern iPhone |
| iPhone 12 | 2020 | Ksh 33,000 | Yes | First 5G iPhone, OLED |
| iPhone 11 Pro | 2019 | Ksh 35,000 | Yes | Telephoto camera, compact |
| iPhone 13 mini | 2021 | Ksh 36,000 | Yes | Small with modern battery life |
| iPhone 12 Pro | 2020 | Ksh 42,000 | Yes | Photography on a budget |
| iPhone 13 | 2021 | Ksh 43,000 | Yes | Excellent battery, great all-rounder |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | 2020 | Ksh 48,000 | Yes | Big screen, long battery |
| Premium: Ksh 50,000 and above | ||||
| iPhone 13 Pro | 2021 | Ksh 55,000 | Yes | First 120Hz iPhone |
| iPhone 14 | 2022 | Ksh 55,000 | Yes | Crash detection, good camera |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | 2021 | Ksh 62,000 | Yes | Battery champion of its era |
| iPhone 16e | 2025 | Ksh 62,000 | Yes | Cheapest current-generation iPhone |
| iPhone 15 | 2023 | Ksh 68,000 | Yes | First USB-C iPhone |
| iPhone 14 Pro | 2022 | Ksh 70,000 | Yes | Dynamic Island, 48MP camera |
| iPhone 15 Plus | 2023 | Ksh 75,000 | Yes | Big screen, USB-C |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | 2022 | Ksh 78,000 | Yes | Pro camera, big battery |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 2023 | Ksh 88,000 | Yes | Titanium, Action button |
| iPhone 16 | 2024 | Ksh 85,000 | Yes | Apple Intelligence capable |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 2023 | Ksh 98,000 | Yes | 5× telephoto |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 2024 | Ksh 108,000 | Yes | Near-current flagship |
| iPhone 17 | 2025 | Ksh 115,000 | Yes | Current generation |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 2024 | Ksh 120,000 | Yes | Biggest camera system of 2024 |
| iPhone 17 Pro | 2025 | Ksh 140,000 | Yes | Latest Pro, refurbished discount |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | 2025 | Ksh 155,000 | Yes | The most phone available |
: Refurbished iPhone price list for Kenya, September 2026
Browse all 29 iPhones iPhone 11 series in detail
Refurbished Samsung Galaxy prices in Kenya
Samsung is the largest smartphone brand in Kenya at just over 26% of the market, and it depreciates faster than Apple, which makes refurbished Galaxy flagships some of the best value on this page.
| Model | Released | From | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| S Series: the flagships | |||
| Galaxy S20 FE | 2020 | Ksh 16,000 | The cheapest way into a Samsung flagship experience |
| Galaxy S20 | 2020 | Ksh 18,000 | 120Hz screen, still fast |
| Galaxy S21 FE | 2021 | Ksh 20,000 | Flagship chip, lower price |
| Galaxy S21 | 2021 | Ksh 24,000 | Best Samsung value under Ksh 25,000 |
| Galaxy S21 Plus | 2021 | Ksh 28,000 | Bigger screen and battery |
| Galaxy S22 | 2022 | Ksh 30,000 | Compact flagship |
| Galaxy S21 Ultra | 2021 | Ksh 34,000 | S Pen support, 108MP camera |
| Galaxy S22 Plus | 2022 | Ksh 36,000 | |
| Galaxy S23 | 2023 | Ksh 42,000 | Excellent efficiency |
| Galaxy S22 Ultra | 2022 | Ksh 45,000 | Built-in S Pen |
| Galaxy S24 | 2024 | Ksh 55,000 | Galaxy AI features |
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | 2023 | Ksh 62,000 | 200MP camera, S Pen |
| Galaxy S25 | 2025 | Ksh 70,000 | Current generation |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra | 2024 | Ksh 82,000 | Titanium, best Android camera of its year |
| Galaxy S25 Ultra | 2025 | Ksh 105,000 | Current flagship |
| Foldables | |||
| Galaxy Z Flip 4 | 2022 | Ksh 32,000 | The cheapest way into a folding phone |
| Galaxy Z Fold 4 | 2022 | Ksh 48,000 | Tablet-sized inner screen |
| Galaxy Z Flip 6 | 2024 | Ksh 65,000 | Much improved crease and battery |
| Galaxy Z Fold 5 | 2023 | Ksh 68,000 | Gapless hinge |
| Galaxy Z Fold 6 | 2024 | Ksh 92,000 | Thinnest Fold to date |
| Note series & A series | |||
| Galaxy Note 10 | 2019 | Ksh 18,000 | S Pen, compact |
| Galaxy A54 5G | 2023 | Ksh 22,000 | Mid-range, long software support |
| Galaxy Note 10 Plus | 2019 | Ksh 24,000 | Big screen, S Pen |
| Galaxy A56 5G | 2025 | Ksh 30,000 | Newest mid-range in stock |
: Refurbished Samsung Galaxy price list for Kenya, September 2026
Pixel, OnePlus, Sony, iPad and MacBook prices
| Model | Released | From | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pixel 6 | 2021 | Ksh 18,000 | First Tensor chip |
| Pixel 7a | 2023 | Ksh 22,000 | Best camera per shilling on this page |
| Pixel 8a | 2024 | Ksh 30,000 | 7 years of updates from launch |
| Pixel 7 Pro | 2022 | Ksh 32,000 | Telephoto, big screen |
| Pixel 8 | 2023 | Ksh 35,000 | Best small Android camera |
| Pixel 9a | 2025 | Ksh 45,000 | Newest a-series |
| Pixel 8 Pro | 2023 | Ksh 48,000 | Temperature sensor, pro controls |
| Pixel 9 | 2024 | Ksh 55,000 | Gemini features |
| Pixel 10 | 2025 | Ksh 72,000 | Current generation |
| Pixel 9 Pro XL | 2024 | Ksh 78,000 | Largest Pixel screen |
| Pixel 10 Pro | 2025 | Ksh 95,000 | Current flagship |
: Google Pixel: refurbished prices in Kenya
| Device | From |
|---|---|
| iPad 6th generation | Ksh 15,000 |
| iPad 7th generation | Ksh 18,000 |
| iPad 9th generation | Ksh 26,000 |
| iPad Air 4th generation | Ksh 32,000 |
| MacBook Pro 15″ 2017 | Ksh 45,000 |
| MacBook Air M1 2020 | Ksh 62,000 |
: iPads & MacBooks
| Device | From |
|---|---|
| Sony Xperia 10 II | Ksh 12,000 |
| Sony Xperia 10 V | Ksh 24,000 |
| Sony Xperia 5 IV | Ksh 38,000 |
| OnePlus 9 | Ksh 20,000 |
| OnePlus 10 Pro | Ksh 32,000 |
| Galaxy Buds 3 | Ksh 9,000 |
| Apple Pencil 2nd gen | Ksh 9,000 |
| Apple Watch Series 8 45mm | Ksh 24,000 |
| Apple Watch Ultra | Ksh 55,000 |
: Sony, OnePlus, watches & accessories
Battery health: the number that should set the price
Kenyan buyers increasingly ask sellers what battery health percentage they are getting, and they are right to. It is the single most important number on a used phone, and the one most sellers will not volunteer.
Battery health is the capacity remaining against the battery’s original capacity when new. On an iPhone you can check it yourself in Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging. On most Samsung phones it is in Settings → Battery and device care → Diagnostics, or dial *#0228#.
| Health | What you’ll experience | Fair price effect | Our policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95-100% | Essentially as-new battery life | Full price | Sold as-is |
| 85-94% | Good all-day use. Apple considers a battery healthy above 80% | Full price | Our minimum |
| 80-84% | Noticeably shorter days, top-up charge likely | Should be Ksh 2,000-3,000 cheaper | Replaced before sale |
| 75-79% | Will need replacing within a year | Should be Ksh 3,000-4,500 cheaper | Replaced before sale |
| Below 75% | Needs replacing now. Phone may throttle | Deduct the full replacement cost | Replaced before sale |
: What each battery health band means, and what it should cost
Our standard: nothing leaves with a battery below 85%. If a device comes in below that, the battery is replaced before it is listed. The cost is in our price, not a surprise in yours. When you compare a cheaper phone elsewhere, ask for the battery health figure. If the seller will not give you a number, that is the answer.
| Device | Replacement cost | Effect on a “cheap” phone |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 / 12 / 13 | Ksh 3,000-4,500 | A Ksh 21,000 phone at 74% health is really a Ksh 25,000 phone |
| iPhone 14 / 15 | Ksh 4,500-6,500 | |
| Samsung Galaxy S series | Ksh 3,500-5,500 | |
| Google Pixel | Ksh 3,500-5,000 |
: Battery replacement cost in Kenya: typical Nairobi market
The 32-point inspection, in full
“Certified” means nothing unless the certification is published. Here is the entire list, so you can hold us to it, and so you have something to ask any other seller for.
Identity & legal: 5 checks
IMEI checked against blacklist databases · iCloud or Google activation lock cleared · serial verified against the manufacturer’s records · genuine or approved replacement parts confirmed · region and carrier lock status established.
Power: 5 checks
Battery health measured and recorded · full charge cycle observed · wired charging · wireless charging where fitted · charging port inspected and tested under load.
Display & body: 6 checks
Dead and stuck pixels · burn-in on OLED panels · touch response across the full panel · True Tone or adaptive colour · frame checked for bends · liquid contact indicators. Any triggered indicator and the device is rejected outright.
Cameras & sensors: 7 checks
Each rear lens at every zoom level · front camera · flash · Night Mode · Face ID or fingerprint · proximity and ambient light sensors · accelerometer, gyroscope and compass.
Audio & connectivity: 7 checks
Earpiece · loudspeaker · all microphones · Wi-Fi · Bluetooth · GPS · 4G and 5G tested on Kenyan networks, plus SIM tray and eSIM where fitted.
Finishing: 2 checks
Wiped to factory settings with a fresh operating system installed · cleaned, graded, and photographed as the actual unit you will receive.
Note on the number: several Kenyan refurbishers advertise a “32-point check”, and the phrase has become a category standard rather than a differentiator. What matters is whether the seller will show you the list. Ours is above.
Warranty and returns, compared honestly
Warranty headlines are easy to misread. A “12-month warranty” can mean twelve months of full cover, or six months of full cover followed by six months of labour only. Read the tiers, not the headline.
| Shwari Phones | Badili Kenya | Typical CBD shop | Jiji / classifieds | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Headline warranty | 6 months | 12 months | 0-3 months | None |
| Full parts & labour | 6 months | 6 months | Varies | – |
| Labour only | – | Months 7-12 | – | – |
| Replacement window | 7 days, any reason | 7 days, technical defects | Rarely | None |
| Accidental damage | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | – |
| Published inspection list | Yes: see above | Not published in warranty terms | No | No |
| Battery health floor | 85%, published | Not published | No | No |
: What the main Kenyan refurbishers actually offer
Where we are genuinely better, and where we are not. Badili’s headline warranty is twice ours, and if length is what matters most to you, that is a real advantage – we would rather you knew. What we offer instead is a published inspection list, a published battery health floor, and a 7-day return for any reason rather than for technical defects only. On full parts-and-labour cover the two are identical at six months.
The 7-day, no-questions guarantee
Use it for a week. If the battery disappoints you, if the camera is not what you expected, if you simply do not like it: send it back and we refund you in full, including delivery. You do not have to explain why.
The phone needs to come back in the condition it left in. Cracked screens and liquid damage are not covered by the return window.
: Every route to a refurbished phone in Kenya, compared
When not to buy from us. If you want a refurbished Tecno, Infinix or Oppo, we do not stock them. If your budget is under Ksh 8,000, the honest answer is a classifieds listing you test yourself. And if you need a manufacturer warranty for a corporate policy, buy new or authorised-refurbished. We would rather tell you that than sell you the wrong thing.
How long does a refurbished phone last?
The most common question people ask before buying one, and the answer is more reassuring than most expect. A refurbished phone is not on a shorter clock than a new one of the same model. It is simply further along the same clock.
| Limit | Typical timeline | Fixable? | Cost to fix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 2-3 years per battery | Yes | Ksh 3,000-6,500 |
| Screen damage | Whenever you drop it | Yes | Ksh 6,000-18,000 |
| Storage full | Depends on use | No, buy enough up front | – |
| Software updates end | iPhone ~6-8 yrs · Samsung S ~4-7 yrs · Pixel ~5-7 yrs | No | – |
| Apps drop support | 1-2 years after updates end | No | – |
: What limits a phone’s usable life, and what you can do about each
The practical answer: a refurbished phone bought 3-4 years after its release typically has 2 to 4 more years of comfortable use, with one battery replacement somewhere in the middle. Software support, not hardware, is what eventually ends it, which is why the release year column in our price tables matters more than the condition grade.
How to check a phone is genuine before you pay
Do this with any seller, including us. It takes four minutes and it is the difference between owning a phone and holding one until someone reports it stolen.
| # | Check | How | Fail means |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IMEI matches | Dial *#06#. Compare against the number on the box, the SIM tray and in Settings → General → About | Mismatched numbers mean parts or housing have been swapped |
| 2 | Not blacklisted | Run the IMEI through a blacklist checker before paying | A blacklisted phone can be barred from networks at any time |
| 3 | Activation lock cleared | Factory reset it in front of the seller and set it up yourself | If it asks for someone else’s Apple or Google account, walk away |
| 4 | Serial is real | Check the serial on the manufacturer’s coverage page | “Invalid serial” means it is not the phone it claims to be |
| 5 | Battery health stated | Settings → Battery → Battery Health, or *#0228# on Samsung | A seller who will not show you the number is hiding it |
: The five checks to run before money changes hands
The three warning signs of a fake iPhone in Kenya: the Settings menu looks subtly wrong or has unfamiliar entries; the serial returns “invalid” on Apple’s coverage page; and the price is dramatically below every other listing for that model. A genuine iPhone 11 at Ksh 12,000 does not exist. That price is the tell.
Full guide: checking a phone is original
What to buy at each budget
The single most useful table on this page if you know what you can spend but not what it buys.
| Budget | Our pick | Runner-up | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under Ksh 15,000 | iPhone SE 2020 · Ksh 14,000 | Sony Xperia 10 II · Ksh 12,000 | The SE has a flagship chip in a small body and still gets updates |
| Ksh 15,000-20,000 | Galaxy S20 FE · Ksh 16,000 | Pixel 6 · Ksh 18,000 | 120Hz flagship screen and a strong camera for mid-range money |
| Ksh 20,000-25,000 | Pixel 7a · Ksh 22,000 | Galaxy S21 · Ksh 24,000 | The 7a’s camera beats phones costing three times as much |
| Ksh 25,000-35,000 | iPhone 11 · Ksh 25,000 | iPhone 12 · Ksh 33,000 | The best value band in the whole catalogue |
| Ksh 35,000-50,000 | iPhone 13 · Ksh 43,000 | Galaxy S23 · Ksh 42,000 | Superb battery life and a camera that still competes today |
| Ksh 50,000-70,000 | iPhone 14 Pro · Ksh 70,000 | Galaxy S23 Ultra · Ksh 62,000 | 48MP and 200MP cameras respectively, at half their launch price |
| Ksh 70,000+ | iPhone 15 Pro Max · Ksh 98,000 | Galaxy S24 Ultra · Ksh 82,000 | Near-current flagships with years of support ahead |
: Best refurbished phone at each Kenyan budget
What to buy for how you actually use it
| If you are… | Buy | From | Because |
|---|---|---|---|
| A student | iPhone 11 or Galaxy S21 | Ksh 24,000 | Durable, repairable locally, holds resale value when you upgrade |
| Running a business from your phone | iPhone 13 | Ksh 43,000 | Battery lasts a full working day of calls, M-Pesa and email |
| Serious about photography | Pixel 8 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro | Ksh 48,000 | Best computational photography available at refurbished prices |
| A heavy gamer | Galaxy S23 Ultra | Ksh 62,000 | Large 120Hz screen and sustained performance under load |
| Buying for a parent | iPhone SE 2022 or iPhone 11 | Ksh 22,000 | Simple, well supported, easy to get help with anywhere in Kenya |
| Buying a first phone for a child | iPhone 7 or Xperia 10 II | Ksh 8,000 | Low value to lose, full parental controls |
| Needing a work backup | Galaxy A54 5G | Ksh 22,000 | 5G, long software support, low enough cost to keep in a drawer |
: Matching the phone to the person
Trade in the phone you already have
Most people buying a refurbished phone have an old one in a drawer. Send it to us and its value comes straight off the price on the day.
| Your phone | We pay up to | iPhone 11 then costs | iPhone 13 then costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 8 / 8 Plus | Ksh 7,000 | Ksh 18,000 | Ksh 36,000 |
| Google Pixel 6 | Ksh 10,000 | Ksh 15,000 | Ksh 33,000 |
| Samsung Galaxy S20 | Ksh 11,000 | Ksh 14,000 | Ksh 32,000 |
| iPhone X / XR | Ksh 12,000 | Ksh 13,000 | Ksh 31,000 |
| iPhone XS Max | Ksh 15,000 | Ksh 10,000 | Ksh 28,000 |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 | Ksh 15,000 | Ksh 10,000 | Ksh 28,000 |
| iPhone 11 | Ksh 16,000 | – | Ksh 27,000 |
| iPhone 12 | Ksh 22,000 | – | Ksh 21,000 |
: Indicative trade-in values: confirmed after inspection
Values depend on model, storage, battery health and cosmetic condition. We give you a firm figure before you commit, and you are free to decline it and keep your phone.
Paying in instalments
Lipa mdogo mdogo, pole pole, in bits: whatever you call it, paying over time is how a large share of Kenyan phone purchases actually happen. Here is exactly what each route costs in total.
| Method | Upfront | Then | Total paid | Extra cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pay in full | Ksh 25,000 | – | Ksh 25,000 | Ksh 0 |
| Trade in an iPhone XR, pay the rest | Ksh 13,000 | – | Ksh 13,000 + phone | Ksh 0 |
| Deposit + 3 monthly | Ksh 10,000 | 3 × Ksh 5,300 | Ksh 25,900 | Ksh 900 |
| Deposit + 6 monthly | Ksh 8,000 | 6 × Ksh 3,100 | Ksh 26,600 | Ksh 1,600 |
: Ways to pay for an iPhone 11 at Ksh 25,000
Every figure above is the total you will pay. Nothing is added at the end. Instalment plans are subject to a simple affordability check.
Delivery across Kenya
Free everywhere in Kenya. You can also collect from our CBD office.
| Where | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi CBD & environs | Same day | Free | Order before 3:00 pm |
| Greater Nairobi | Same or next day | Free | Westlands, Kilimani, Karen, Ruaka, Thika Road, Rongai |
| Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru | 1-2 working days | Free | Courier to your address or a pickup point |
| Eldoret, Nyeri, Meru, Kakamega | 1-2 working days | Free | Courier to a pickup point |
| Everywhere else in Kenya | 2-3 working days | Free | Nationwide courier network |
| Collect in person | Immediately | Free | 4th Floor Suite, Kimathi House, 409 Kimathi Street, Nairobi CBD |
: Delivery times and coverage
The Kenyan phone market, in numbers
Useful context for why refurbished has grown the way it has here.
| Brand | Share | Do we stock it refurbished? |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | 26.09% | Yes, 26 models |
| Tecno | 13.14% | No |
| OPPO | 8.63% | No |
| Apple | 7.26% | Yes, 29 iPhones |
| Infinix | 6.56% | No |
: Smartphone market share in Kenya (StatCounter, June 2026)
63.7%
of all mobile phones connected to Kenyan networks are smartphones, per the Communications Authority of Kenya, Q3 of the 2025/26 financial year.
Ksh 50,000-60,000
is the typical price of a new premium smartphone in Kenya. Refurbished puts the same tier of device within reach at Ksh 25,000-45,000.
7.26%
Apple’s share of the Kenyan market. iPhones are aspirational here rather than default, which is exactly why the refurbished route matters so much.
The environmental case
Around 80% of a smartphone’s lifetime carbon footprint comes from manufacturing it, not from using it. Extending a phone’s life is the single most effective thing an individual can do about it.
| Measure | Estimated saving | Source range |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon dioxide | 50-77 kg CO₂e | Published refurbishment industry estimates vary by model and methodology |
| Raw materials | Roughly 75 kg of mined ore not extracted | Based on typical smartphone material intensity |
| Electronic waste | One device diverted from waste | Kenya generates tens of thousands of tonnes of e-waste annually |
: Estimated impact of buying one refurbished phone instead of new
Estimates differ substantially between studies, and the benefit depends on how long the refurbished device is then used. We have given a range rather than a single figure because a single figure would be misleading.
The honest disadvantages
Every page selling refurbished phones lists the benefits. Here are the real drawbacks, because you will find them out anyway and it is better you hear them now.
| Drawback | How much it matters | What helps |
|---|---|---|
| Shorter warranty than new | Real | 6 months against 12 from a manufacturer. Check the tiers when comparing sellers |
| Cosmetic marks | Depends on grade | Grade A is near-flawless. A case hides the rest |
| Shorter remaining update window | Real and important | Check the release year. A 2023 phone has years more support than a 2019 one |
| Battery already partly used | Manageable | Our 85% floor, and a replacement costs Ksh 3,000-6,500 when the time comes |
| No original box or accessories | Minor | We supply a charging cable, case and screen protector |
| Model availability varies | Real | Refurbished stock depends on what comes in. Exact colours and storage are not always available |
| Quality varies hugely by seller | The biggest risk of all | This is why the inspection list, the battery floor and the warranty tiers matter more than the price |
: What you give up by buying refurbished
30 questions about refurbished phones, answered
What is a refurbished phone?
A refurbished phone is a previously owned device that has been professionally inspected, repaired where necessary, wiped of all previous data and resold with a warranty. It is not the same as second-hand: the defining feature is the testing and the warranty, not the fact that someone owned it before.
Is it safe to buy a refurbished phone?
Yes, when you buy from a seller who publishes what they check and gives you a warranty. The risk in refurbished phones is not the phones. It is sellers who use the word without doing the work. Ask for the inspection list, the battery health figure and the warranty terms in writing. Any seller who will not provide all three is selling second-hand and calling it refurbished.
Why are refurbished phones so cheap?
Because phones depreciate steeply and predictably for reasons unrelated to how well they work. A three-year-old flagship typically sells for about 30% of its launch price while still doing almost everything it did on day one. You are paying for the depreciation curve, not for a defect.
Is a refurbished phone original or fake?
A properly refurbished phone is an original manufacturer device. The same phone that was sold new, tested and resold. It is not a copy or a clone. You can verify this yourself: check the IMEI with *#06# and the serial number against the manufacturer’s coverage page. If either fails, it is not genuine.
What’s the difference between refurbished and ex-UK?
“Ex-UK” describes where a phone came from. It was used in the United Kingdom and imported. “Refurbished” describes what was done to it: tested, repaired, recertified. A phone can be ex-UK and refurbished, ex-UK and untested, or refurbished from local stock. The origin tells you nothing about the condition.
Which is better, refurbished or second-hand?
Refurbished, unless your budget is genuinely fixed below what refurbished costs. Second-hand saves roughly 15-20% and removes every check: no battery test, no IMEI verification, no iCloud check, no warranty and nobody to call. On a Ksh 25,000 phone that is about Ksh 4,000 of saving against all of the risk.
How long do refurbished phones last?
A refurbished phone bought 3-4 years after its release typically gives 2 to 4 more years of comfortable use, usually with one battery replacement along the way. What ends a phone’s life is software support, not hardware, so the release year matters more than the condition grade.
Do refurbished phones come with a warranty?
Ours come with 6 months covering hardware failure, plus 7 days to return the phone for any reason at all. Warranty lengths across the Kenyan market range from nothing at all on classifieds to 12 months from the larger refurbishers, but read the tiers, because some 12-month warranties cover parts and labour for only the first six months.
Do refurbished phones have new batteries?
Not always, and any seller claiming every phone gets a new battery should be questioned. Our standard is that no phone leaves with battery health below 85%. If a device comes in below that, the battery is replaced before it is listed. Above 85% the original battery is kept, tested and the figure disclosed.
How much does a refurbished iPhone cost in Kenya?
From Ksh 8,000 for an iPhone 7 to Ksh 155,000 for an iPhone 17 Pro Max. The most popular band is Ksh 25,000-45,000, which covers the iPhone 11 through the iPhone 13. The models with the best balance of price, remaining software support and camera quality.
Where is the best place to buy a refurbished phone in Kenya?
It depends on what you value. Specialist refurbishers give you testing and warranty. Marketplaces like Jumia and Kilimall give you buyer protection but the individual seller sets the warranty. CBD shops let you hold the phone first. Classifieds are cheapest and carry every risk. We have compared all five routes honestly in the table above.
Is it better to buy new or refurbished?
Buy new if you need the newest features, a full manufacturer warranty, or a specific configuration. Buy refurbished if you want the most capable phone your money can reach. At Ksh 45,000 refurbished buys a former flagship with a professional camera system; new buys a mid-range phone. Both are reasonable, they are just different trades.
What are the disadvantages of a refurbished phone?
A shorter warranty than new, possible cosmetic marks depending on grade, a shorter remaining software-update window, a battery that has already been used, and no original box. The biggest risk is not the category but the seller: quality varies enormously between refurbishers.
How do I know if a phone is blacklisted or stolen?
Dial *#06# to get the IMEI, then run it through a blacklist checker before paying. We check every IMEI before listing and give you that check in writing with the phone. Do this with any seller. A blacklisted phone can be barred from networks at any point, and you would have no recourse.
Can I trust a refurbished phone with my banking and M-Pesa?
Yes, provided it has been properly wiped and reset. Every phone we sell is restored to factory settings with a fresh operating system installed, so there is no previous owner’s data or software on it. When it arrives, set it up as a new device rather than restoring someone else’s backup.
What is battery health and what number should I accept?
Battery health is the capacity remaining compared with when the battery was new. Apple treats above 80% as healthy. We do not sell below 85%. Below 80% you should expect to replace the battery soon and the price should reflect that: around Ksh 3,000-6,500 depending on model.
Do you sell refurbished Tecno or Infinix phones?
No. We stock Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus and Sony only. Tecno and Infinix are a significant share of the Kenyan market and there are sellers who specialise in refurbishing them properly. We are not one, and we would rather say so than sell you something we cannot support.
Which refurbished phone has the best camera for the money?
The Google Pixel 7a at Ksh 22,000 is the clearest answer. Google’s computational photography means it produces photos comparable with phones costing three times as much. Above that budget, the Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro are the best cameras available at refurbished prices.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. You can pay a deposit and spread the balance over 3 or 6 months, and the tables above show the exact total for each option so there are no surprises. You can also trade in your current phone to cut the amount owed, or combine both.
Do you deliver outside Nairobi?
Yes, anywhere in Kenya, and delivery is free. Nairobi orders placed before 3:00 pm go out the same day. Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret take 1-2 working days, and everywhere else 2-3.
What happens if the phone stops working?
Within 7 days, return it for a full refund for any reason at all, including delivery costs. Within 6 months, hardware failures are covered by warranty and we repair or replace it. Accidental damage, cracked screens, liquid damage, is not covered, which is true of every warranty in this market.
Is a refurbished phone the same as a replacement phone?
No. A replacement device is one a manufacturer or insurer sends when your phone fails under warranty, and it may itself be refurbished. A refurbished phone is one sold openly on the second-hand market after professional testing. Both are legitimate; only one is something you choose to buy.
How can I tell if my current iPhone is refurbished?
Check the model number in Settings → General → About. A number beginning with M indicates a device originally sold at retail, F indicates a manufacturer-refurbished unit, N a replacement device and P a personalised one. Third-party refurbishment does not change this code, so it tells you about the phone’s origin rather than whether a shop has serviced it.
What should I check before buying any used phone?
Five things: the IMEI matches everywhere it appears, the IMEI is not blacklisted, the activation lock is cleared, the serial verifies with the manufacturer, and the battery health is stated. The full walkthrough is in the verification section above. It takes about four minutes.
Are refurbished phones waterproof?
They retain their original water-resistance rating, but that rating was measured when the phone was new. Seals degrade with age and any repair that opens the device can compromise them further. Treat any refurbished phone as splash resistant rather than waterproof, regardless of its IP rating.
Why is one seller’s price so much lower than everyone else’s?
Usually one of four reasons: the battery health is low and undisclosed, the phone is second-hand rather than refurbished, there is no warranty, or the device is blacklisted or activation locked. Occasionally it is a genuine clearance. Ask for the battery figure and the IMEI check. That separates the four cases quickly.
Do refurbished phones support 5G and the latest software?
It depends entirely on the model, not on the fact that it is refurbished. iPhone 12 and newer support 5G; iPhone 11 and older do not. Software support depends on the release year. Our price tables show release year and update status for every model for exactly this reason.
Can I return a refurbished phone if I change my mind?
Yes. You have 7 days to return it for any reason and we refund you in full, including delivery. You do not have to give a reason. The phone needs to come back in the condition it left in: cracked screens and liquid damage are not covered by the return window.
Which is better for resale value, iPhone or Samsung?
iPhones hold value considerably better. A three-year-old iPhone typically retains around 40-45% of its launch price against roughly 30% for an equivalent Samsung. That makes Samsung the better buy if you are purchasing and Apple the better buy if you expect to resell or trade in later.
Do you buy phones as well as sell them?
Yes. We take trade-ins against a purchase, and the value comes off the price on the day. The trade-in table above gives indicative figures for common models, and we confirm a firm number after inspection. You are free to decline it.
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Refurbished iPhones29 models from Ksh 8,000 Refurbished Samsung26 models from Ksh 16,000 Google Pixel11 models from Ksh 18,000 iPads & tablets4 models from Ksh 15,000 MacBooks2 models from Ksh 45,000 OnePlus2 models from Ksh 20,000 Sony Xperia3 models from Ksh 12,000 AccessoriesWatches, buds, pencils, cases iPhone 11 series11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max in detail Trade in a phoneFree valuation, same-day payment NairobiCBD collection & same-day delivery Warranty & returnsThe full terms
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Shwari Phones: refurbished iPhones, Samsung, Google Pixel, iPads and MacBooks. 4th Floor Suite, Kimathi House, 409 Kimathi Street, Nairobi CBD.
Market share figures: StatCounter, June 2026, as reported by The Kenya Times. Smartphone connection share: Communications Authority of Kenya, Q3 FY2025/26. Competitor warranty terms: Badili Kenya published warranty policy, retrieved 13 September 2026. Carbon estimates: published refurbishment industry figures, which vary by methodology. Prices change frequently and were correct at the date shown.
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