How we grade ex-UK phones — and why it matters

Most sellers of ex-UK stock use words like "grade A" or "mint" without ever defining them. We think that is the root of most bad experiences buyers have, so we define ours precisely and photograph every single unit.

First, what "ex-UK" means A pre-owned handset imported from the United Kingdom. Phones there are usually bought on contract, replaced early and traded in while still in good condition, which is why ex-UK stock tends to be in better shape than locally used equivalents. It is not new, and we never describe it as new — where we stock a model brand new and sealed, it is listed separately at a higher price.

Like New No visible marks under any lighting condition. The screen is flawless, the frame is unmarked and the rear glass is clean. Battery health is 95% or above. In most cases these are units that were returned within the manufacturer's return window and never really used.

Excellent No marks on the screen. The frame may carry the faintest wear that you would need direct light to find. Battery health is 90% or above. This is the grade most of our customers choose, because it looks new in the hand at a meaningfully lower price.

Good A phone with an honest history. There may be light scuffing on the frame or a small mark on the rear glass. The screen is always free of cracks and always free of burn-in. Battery health is 85% or above.

What never varies Grade describes cosmetics only. It never describes function. A Good-grade phone passes exactly the same 42-point functional test as a Like New one: camera, speakers, microphones, Face ID or fingerprint, every antenna, charging, wireless charging, sensors and buttons. If a phone fails any functional test, we do not grade it — we repair it and test again, or we do not sell it.

Battery health, published We publish the minimum battery health for every listing rather than a vague "good battery" claim. If the unit you receive tests lower than what was listed, we replace the battery free or take the phone back. That promise is only possible because we test under load rather than trusting the software reading alone.