Comprehensive Checklist for Purchasing a Used iPhone 6 or 6s: What to Check Before Buying

When considering the purchase of a used iPhone 6 or 6s, it is essential to inspect several key aspects to ensure you are making a good investment. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you make an informed decision.

1. Physical Condition

Exterior

Check for scratches, dents, or cracks on the screen and body. A damaged screen can be expensive to replace.

Buttons

Test all buttons (power, volume, mute) to ensure they work properly.

Ports

Inspect the charging port and headphone jack for debris or damage.

2. Screen Quality

Display

Look for dead pixels, discoloration, or screen burn-in. Ensure the touchscreen is responsive across the entire display.

Brightness

Test the brightness settings to ensure they adjust properly.

3. Battery Health

Battery Status

Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. A battery health percentage below 80 may indicate that the battery needs replacement.

Battery Life

If possible, check how long the phone lasts on a charge during normal usage.

4. Software Check

iOS Version

Make sure the phone is running the latest compatible version of iOS as of August 2023 (the latest for iPhone 6/6s is iOS 15).

iCloud Activation Lock

Ensure the device is not locked to someone else's iCloud account. Go to Settings > [Your Name] to verify. If it prompts for another user’s credentials, do not buy it.

5. Functionality

Camera

Audio

Check the speakers and microphone by playing music and making a test call or recording a voice memo.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Ensure both connect and function properly.

6. Storage Capacity

Available Storage

Check how much storage is available. An iPhone 6/6s typically comes in 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB variants. Ensure the storage meets your needs.

7. Carrier Compatibility

Unlocked vs. Carrier-Locked

Confirm whether the phone is unlocked or tied to a specific carrier, especially if you plan to switch carriers.

8. Accessories and Original Box

Incurred Accessories

Check if it comes with original accessories like the charger and headphones. Aftermarket accessories may not perform as well.

Original Box

Having the original box can indicate the phone has been well cared for.

9. Price Comparison

Market Value

Research the current market price for similar models to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

10. Seller Reputation

Trustworthiness

If buying from an online marketplace, check the seller's ratings and reviews. If possible, buy from a reputable retailer or certified pre-owned program.

By following this checklist, you can minimize the risks associated with buying a used iPhone 6 or 6s and make a more informed decision.