What to check before buying used electronics
- See it working. Switch it on and test every button, port and function the seller mentions — not just whether it powers up.
- Ask for the bill and box. The original invoice proves ownership and shows how much warranty is left.
- Match the serial number on the device with the bill and the box.
- Look for signs of repair — mismatched or missing screws, broken seals, or a replaced screen with uneven colour.
- Test with your own things — a memory card in a camera, your phone paired to a Bluetooth speaker, your pen drive in a TV.
Popular used electronics
Cameras — DSLR and mirrorless bodies and lenses hold their value well. Ask for the shutter count, check the sensor for dust and the lens for fungus or haze.
TVs — check for dead pixels, lines or dark patches on a plain white and a plain black screen, and test every HDMI port and the remote.
Audio — play music at low and high volume to catch crackling or distortion, and check the battery life on wireless headphones.
Accessories — chargers, power banks and cables are cheap to buy used, but avoid swollen batteries or chargers with damaged wires.
Electronics by budget
Shopping with a fixed amount in mind? See electronics under ₹5,000, under ₹10,000, under ₹20,000 and under ₹50,000.
Selling your old electronics
Clean the item, photograph it switched on, and mention its age, whether you have the bill and box, and any faults honestly — buyers trust ads that show flaws. Our guide to selling used electronics covers pricing and photos in more detail.
Meeting a buyer or seller for the first time? Read our safety tips first.