Smartphones, watches and accessories: how to buy at a good price
New model or last year's
With smartphones, the difference between generations is not always noticeable. Last year's flagship often costs as much as this year's mid-range phone, and beats it on features. So start with what you really need: a good camera, long battery life, lots of storage, or simply a reliable phone for calls.
Also decide whether you will consider a used one. For a phone this makes sense if you check the battery, the screen and whether the device is locked to an account.
What the section covers
- The phones themselves. Mobile phones and smartphones: model, storage, colour, condition, what's in the box, and the market version (official or not).
- Protection and convenience. Cases and screen guards and other accessories: the exact phone model matters, because sizes differ even between similar versions.
- Wearables. Smartwatches and fitness trackers: compatibility with your phone, size, sensors, battery life.
- Communication. Walkie-talkies and satellite phones: range, band, battery, any rules on their use, and also SIM cards, plans and numbers.
- Repair. Spare parts: screens, batteries, flex cables, original or copy.
How it works through BlaBlaPrice
You don't scroll through listings. You write a request: what you need, the condition, your city and delivery. Add one photo, for example of a broken screen if you need a part. The request is checked, and you get hints about what else to clarify.
Sellers of phones and accessories reply in the chat with offers: model, price, what's in the box, warranty, delivery. BlaBlaPrice shows the best offer by value first, and reviews help you judge the seller. Sellers see their place among the others and compete on terms. Your number stays hidden. Details are on the “How it works” page.
How to check a phone before you buy
For a used phone, ask for photos and a video of the screen, a screenshot of the battery health, the IMEI, and proof that the device is not tied to someone else's account (Apple ID or Google). Ask whether the screen or battery was replaced. For a new one, ask about the warranty and whether the software is the official version.
Common mistakes
Going only by camera megapixels and gigahertz. Taking a phone with too little storage, which soon runs out. Buying cases without checking the model. Buying a “new” smartphone far too cheap and without a bill: that happens with refurbished or stolen devices. For walkie-talkies and satellite phones, ask the seller about any restrictions on their use.
What affects the price and the choice
- Generation and storage. More storage raises the price noticeably.
- Condition. New, refurbished and used with a checked battery cost differently.
- Market version. An official local warranty and an international version can differ in terms.
- What's in the box. A charger, cable, box and case may be included in the price or sold separately.
Compare offers only with the same storage and condition, otherwise the saving is only apparent.
If you are buying for a child or an older person, say so in your request: a simple interface, a big screen and loud speakers may matter more than a powerful camera. Sellers can suggest suitable models and a case with a screen guard in the box.
And if you need a part for a repair, always give the exact model and revision, because displays and batteries rarely fit neighbouring versions.
Don't rush: a request stays open for 7 days, and in that time you can compare several offers.
