Used iPhone Condition Grades: Fair, Good, Excellent Explained
When buying a used iPhone, you will see condition grades like "Fair", "Good", and "Excellent". But what do these actually mean? Here is exactly what to expect from each grade at USEDIPHONE.
Excellent Condition
For buyers who want like-new without the new price
- Almost no visible wear or scratches
- Screen is pristine - no scratches, cracks, or dead pixels
- Back and sides have minimal to no marks
- Battery health typically 90%+
- Functions perfectly, all buttons and ports work
- Best for: gift buyers, perfectionists, resale value
Excellent condition iPhones look almost brand new. You would have to look very closely to find any signs of previous use.
Good Condition
The best balance of price and appearance
- Minor scratches and scuffs, only visible up close
- Screen may have light micro-scratches (not visible when screen is on)
- No cracks, dents, or major damage
- Battery health typically 85%+
- All functions work perfectly
- Best for: everyday users, value seekers
Good condition iPhones look great in normal use. The minor wear is only noticeable if you inspect the phone closely under bright light. Most people cannot tell it is used.
Fair Condition
Maximum savings, fully functional
- Visible scratches, scuffs, and/or dents
- Screen may have visible scratches (does not affect functionality)
- Back and sides show clear signs of use
- Battery health varies (75%+)
- All functions work perfectly - guaranteed
- Best for: budget buyers, practical users, kids' phones
Fair condition iPhones have visible cosmetic wear but are 100% functional. They are perfect if you plan to use a case anyway (which hides most wear) and want the lowest possible price.
Condition Comparison Table
| Aspect | Excellent | Good | Fair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen scratches | None | Micro-scratches | Visible scratches |
| Body wear | Almost none | Minor | Visible |
| Dents | None | None | Possible |
| Battery health | 90%+ | 85%+ | 75%+ |
| Functionality | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Price premium | Highest | Medium | Lowest |
What About "As New" or "A Grade"?
Some sellers use different terminology. Here is how they map:
- A Grade / As New / Pristine = Excellent
- B Grade / Very Good = Good
- C Grade / Fair / Used = Fair
Does Condition Affect Warranty?
No. Every iPhone from USEDIPHONE - regardless of condition grade - comes with our 1-year replacement warranty. If it breaks, we replace it. Condition only affects appearance, not functionality or warranty coverage.
Which Condition Should You Choose?
- Excellent if you want the best appearance and plan to resell later
- Good if you want great value with minimal visible wear
- Fair if you want the absolute lowest price and will use a case
Browse our collection and filter by condition to find your perfect match. Every phone is fully tested and backed by our 1-year replacement warranty.