Walk onto any major Australian refurbished electronics platform and you'll see devices labelled Grade A, Grade B, or Grade C. But what do those grades actually mean — and does a Grade A device really look "like new"? This guide breaks down the grading system, explains the differences that actually matter, and helps you choose the right grade for your situation.
The Three Core Grades at a Glance
Grade A — "Like New" or "Excellent"
What it means: A Grade A device has no visible scratches, scuffs, or damage when held at normal arm's length in normal lighting. The screen is pristine. The housing looks new. Some sellers call this "Excellent" or "Premium" instead of Grade A, but the criteria are similar.
What it doesn't mean: Grade A does not necessarily mean the device came with its original packaging or accessories. Most Grade A refurbished iPhones or Samsung phones come in generic (aftermarket) white or brown boxes, not the original retail box. If having the original box matters to you, look specifically for "Sealed" or "Factory Sealed" listings, which typically cost more.
Battery health: Reputable sellers' Grade A stock comes with battery health of 85–95%+ for phones. Some premium sellers guarantee 90%+ for their Grade A tier. Always confirm the stated percentage in the listing.
Who should choose Grade A: Anyone who wants the closest experience to buying new. If you don't use a case and care about cosmetics, Grade A is worth the premium. Also sensible if you're buying for someone else as a gift.
Grade B — "Good" or "Very Good"
What it means: A Grade B device has minor cosmetic imperfections — typically light surface scratches — that are visible under direct light or close inspection, but not noticeable at arm's length in normal use. No cracks, chips, deep gouges, or significant dents. All buttons, ports, sensors and features work correctly.
Battery health: Typically 80–90% for phones. At 80%, Apple considers the battery at the lower threshold of health — it will still last a full day for most users, but heavy users may notice shorter battery life compared to a new device.
Who should choose Grade B: Most buyers. The cosmetic differences from Grade A are genuinely minor and invisible once you put a case on the device. Grade B offers the best balance of price, quality, and functional performance. The savings over Grade A are typically 10–20%.
Grade C — "Acceptable" or "Fair"
What it means: A Grade C device shows clear cosmetic wear — visible scratches, scuffs, or marks noticeable without close inspection. There may be light marks on the screen. No cracks in the glass or significant structural damage. All features must work.
Battery health: Typically 75%+, though this varies by seller. At 75%, battery life will be noticeably shorter than a new device. Heavy users may find themselves charging more than once per day.
Who should choose Grade C: Budget-first buyers for whom price is the overriding priority, or buyers who plan to keep the device purely as a backup, loaner, or for a child. Grade C offers the lowest prices but the least visual appeal and potentially the shortest remaining battery lifespan.
Beyond A/B/C: Other Grade Labels You'll See
Not all sellers use the A/B/C system. Here are other common labels you'll encounter on Australian platforms:
| Label | Typically Equals | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Pristine / Premium | Grade A | No visible marks. Like new cosmetically. |
| Excellent | Grade A / A– | Essentially no marks. May have very minor micro-scratches under magnification. |
| Very Good | Grade B | Light marks visible under direct light. Normal wear from careful use. |
| Good | Grade B / B– | Visible light scratches in normal light. Fully functional. |
| Acceptable / Fair | Grade C | Noticeable cosmetic wear. All functions working. |
| Open Box | Grade A+ | Opened but essentially unused. Often comes with original accessories. |
| Seller Refurbished | Varies widely | Refurbished by the seller, not manufacturer. Quality depends entirely on that seller. |
| Manufacturer Refurbished | Grade A | Refurbished by the original brand (Apple, Samsung). High quality but typically more expensive. |
What Grade Doesn't Tell You
Grading typically describes cosmetic condition, not battery health, software status, or warranty coverage. Two Grade A devices from different sellers can be very different propositions depending on:
- Battery health: Always get the specific percentage, not just the grade.
- Network status: Is it unlocked? Carrier-locked? For which carrier?
- Refurbishment quality: Was it inspected by a trained technician? Were components replaced with OEM (genuine) or aftermarket parts?
- Warranty: Grade A from a seller with no warranty is riskier than Grade B from a seller with a 12-month warranty.
- Return policy: Can you return it if the grade doesn't match the description?
Which Grade Should You Choose?
Here's a simple decision framework:
- Buying as a gift or want it to look genuinely new → Grade A
- You'll use a case and care most about price vs quality balance → Grade B (recommended for most people)
- Maximum savings, price is paramount, cosmetics don't matter → Grade C (check battery health carefully)
- Buying for a child as a backup or starter device → Grade C is fine
- Buying for work productivity where you need reliability → Grade A or B with 12-month warranty
Find the Right Seller for Your Grade
RefurbVerify scores all 90 Australian refurb sellers on transparency — including whether they clearly disclose their grading standards and battery health information.
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