Global Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Expected to Reach USD 131.0 Billion by 2033 - IMARC Group

Global Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Statistics, Outlook and Regional Analysis 2025-2033

The global refurbished and used mobile phones market size was valued at USD 69.0 Billion in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 131.0 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 7.35% from 2025 to 2033.

The global refurbished and used mobile phones market is witnessing significant growth, mainly due to the increasing awareness about electronic waste and its environmental impact. E-waste is becoming a growing concern worldwide, with discarded electronic devices contributing to pollution and resource depletion. The UN's fourth Global E-waste Monitor (GEM) 2024 report shows that e-waste generation is increasing by 2.6 million tons every year and is likely to reach 82 million tons by 2030. Refurbished and used mobile phones are a practical solution to this challenge as they help extend the lifecycle of devices, reduce the need for new manufacturing, and minimize waste. Government organizations and environmental organizations, along with customers, are now increasingly becoming sensitive to green practices. Demand for recycled devices is also rising significantly from these consumers. This set of refurbished devices helps users to reduce e-waste by using an already installed device and further saves energy in terms of manufacturing, which leads to a reduced carbon footprint.

Many companies are embracing the circular economy principles, making sure that older models are put back into the market rather than being discarded. This is becoming popular among consumers who consider sustainability in their purchasing decisions. Trade-in programs initiated by major OEMs and telecom operators are also adding to the market. These programs encourage consumers to return their old devices, which are refurbished and sold at lower prices. It makes smartphones of higher quality more available to a much larger segment, especially in sensitive markets towards cost. Improvement in the processes of refurbishment also upgrades the quality and reliability of these phones such that consumers' expectations concerning performance and durability are assured. The availability of refurbished flagship models from leading brands, such as Apple and Samsung, at affordable prices appeals to consumers seeking premium features with the absence of environmental costs and financial costs associated with new devices. E-commerce platforms are playing a great role in this market by making refurbished phones easily available to customers. Online marketplaces provide transparent pricing, warranties, and return options, making these devices an attractive choice for environmentally conscious-and budget-focused buyers.

Global Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Statistics, By Region

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share driven by e-commerce availability, rising disposable incomes, and increasing awareness about their benefits.

Asia-Pacific Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Trends:

The Asia-Pacific region's refurbished and used mobile phone market is growing at a tremendous pace, as the increasing adoption of smartphones has driven demand for affordable alternatives to new devices. The trend is more pronounced in emerging economies such as India, Indonesia, and the Philippines, where a large population of cost-conscious consumers looks for value-oriented options. Refurbished phones, particularly high-quality models from premium brands such as Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi, present an attractive value proposition. The main aspects that contribute to market growth are competitive pricing, multiple options, and convenient return policies through e-commerce platforms. Some of the best platforms, like Flipkart, Alibaba, and Lazada, offer easy access to refurbished phones, thus making life convenient for consumers. Increased awareness regarding sustainability and the benefits that refurbished devices bring about, in terms of not generating waste, are also determining buying decisions since these phones will reduce e-waste. Trade-in programs both by OEMs and telecom operators further enhance availability and lower the price for refurbished phones. India Brand Equity Foundation states that, as per the International Data Corporation report, a robust smartphone market of India shipped 69 million in the first half of CY 2024 and shows growth of 7.2% year-over-year. It shipped 35 million in the second quarter of CY24, growing by 3.2% year over year. The continuous urbanization and advancement in technology are forcing the demand for smartphones with modern features, which refurbished mid-range devices are very well meeting. Moreover, as internet penetration and digitalization are expanding into rural areas, the market is growing.

North America Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Trends:

A rising consumer preference for affordable alternatives to the new devices is driving the North America market. Major refurbishing companies have a strong presence in the region, as well as robust e-commerce platforms that ensure easy availability coupled with reliable warranties. Environment consciousness is growing, as consumers are choosing refurbished phones as a sustainable option. Growing demand from flagships of marquee brands, such as Apple and Samsung, for which people are willing to pay the same amount at a discounted price, is driving growth. Furthermore, trade-in programs through major carriers and retailers further amplify the market growth in this region.

Europe Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Trends:

Stricter regulations that advocate for sustainability and the circular economy also escalated the demand for refurbished phones in the Europe market. Affordable, quality devices, especially refurbished models from premium brands, attract consumers. A well-developed e-commerce infrastructure makes it accessible, and growing awareness of environmental benefits also supports the cause. Demand is further driven by governments and organizations promoting reduced e-waste. Mid-range and flagship smartphones among young professionals and students, along with favorable financing options, position Europe as a leading market for refurbished and used mobile phones.

Latin America Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Trends:

Latin America market is growing due to the increased penetration of smartphones and price-sensitive consumers searching for cheaper alternatives. Regions have limited disposable income; hence, refurbished and used devices are in demand. Internet marketplaces and local refurbishers are expanding operations to make the product easily accessible and increase consumer trust. Awareness about sustainability has begun to influence buying behavior, though it is still in its infancy. Refurbished mid-range devices offering the latest functionalities have become extremely popular with younger users, further boosting this region's markets.

Middle East and Africa Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Trends:

Affordability is again a dominant demand driver of refurbished and used phones across the Middle East and Africa. In these regions, increasing availability of very affordable smartphones is also being provided through local retailers as well as online platforms, hence, further contributing to market growth. Further driving growth are increased smartphone adoption rates among the youth and small business population, and sustainability initiatives and awareness campaigns, which have gradually impacted consumer choice towards purchasing refurbished phones. Urban regions experience strong market development driven by the demand for feature-rich, mid-range, and budget-friendly products.

Top Companies Leading in the Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Industry

Some of the leading refurbished and used mobile phones market companies include Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc., AT&T Inc., Best Buy Co. Inc., Cashify, Ebay Inc., Kempf Enterprises Limited, Nippon Telephone Inc., Reboxed Ltd., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Verizon Communications Inc., Walmart Inc., among many others.

• In February 2024, eBay emphasized the increased demand for refurbished technology, specifically used mobile phones, as a way of fighting e-waste. eBay UK helped avoid millions of kilograms of waste via refurbished sales, as consumers were increasingly seeking sustainable, cost-effective alternatives. The shift toward refurbished tech is supporting the circular economy.

Global Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Segmentation Coverage

• On the basis of the type, the market is categorized into used phones and refurbished phones. Refurbished phones dominate the market as low-cost-conscious customers prefer phones for their assurance regarding quality and reliability. Those mobile phones are checked upon, repaired, and certified, also issued with warranty, and most usually look aesthetically wonderful. The focus on sustainability and the reduction of electronic waste has further fueled demand, as refurbished devices provide an eco-friendly alternative to buying new phones. Moreover, refurbished flagship models from premium brands such as Apple, Samsung, and Google are available at significantly lower prices, attracting a wide demographic, including students, young professionals, and businesses looking for affordable yet reliable devices for their workforce. The increasing trend of global refurbishing companies and retailers offering attractive trade-in programs along with easy financing options has further bolstered the position of refurbished phones as the preferred choice in this market.
• Based on the price range, the market is segmented into the low-price (below $200), mid-price ($200 to $500), and premium (above $500) categories, among which mid-price range ($200 to $500) dominates the market. In between affordability and quality, mid-priced phones form the most attractive category to be considered by consumers. They range from high-quality resolution cameras to large-sized screens and powerful performance features catering to a wide audience base. Refurbished mid-priced devices, especially the older high-end models, enable a high-class specification at just a quarter of the new price and, therefore, are highly adopted by consumers in emerging markets. These are the price-sensitive markets that are less inclined to spend but can be very aspirational about state-of-the-art devices in technology. Moreover, their mid-price segment also augments the uptake among other businesses and institutions of an educational nature, buying in their hundreds for economies of scale. Strong partnerships between refurbishes and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) further enhance the appeal of this segment by providing reliable devices at competitive prices.
• On the basis of the distribution channel, the market is categorized into offline and online, while online holds the largest market share. This dominance of the online channel can be owed to convenience, wide variety, and price transparency. These features benefit consumers by letting them compare a number of brands and models, go through the experiences of former customers, and get minute specifications before they buy. The major e-commerce players, such as Amazon and eBay, and region-specific companies, such as Flipkart and Alibaba, provide competitive pricing, warranties, and promotional discounts, which attracts the tech-savvy customer base. Online platforms also cater to the needs of consumers with easy return policies and secure payment options. In addition, the surge in online shopping habits during the pandemic has further supported this segment because consumers like the safety and ease of doorstep delivery. In contrast, offline channels are still important for those consumers who want to inspect devices in person before purchasing, as this allows them to check the quality and functionality of the device themselves. Retail outlets and authorized refurbishes also target this market, where personalized service and trust-building through face-to-face interaction are more critical.