If you've never bought refurbished tech before, the grading labels can feel like a guessing game — what's the real difference between "As New" and "Excellent"? Is "Good" actually good, or is that code for "a bit beaten up"? Here's the honest, plain-English breakdown of exactly what each Mr Bargain grade means, so you know precisely what's going to turn up at your door.

One thing that's true across every single grade: everything we sell is 100% functional, tested and cleaned before it's listed. A lower grade never means a broken or unreliable device — it only ever refers to cosmetic condition.

Brand New

Not refurbished at all — this is unused stock, still sealed. If there's anything to note (like minor box damage from shipping), we say so directly in the product title, so there are never any surprises.

As New

No visible scratches or signs of use. If you're after something that looks like it just came out of the box, this is the grade to shop. Fully functional, tested and cleaned, just like every other grade — the only difference is the cosmetics are essentially flawless.

Excellent

Minor signs of wear that you'd only notice up close — think a faint mark you'd have to really look for, not something you'd see from across the room. This is the sweet spot for most shoppers: genuinely great condition, at a better price than As New.

Good

Light scratches or small marks, but never dents or bends. This grade is for buyers who care more about the price tag than a flawless finish — the device still works perfectly and looks perfectly presentable, it just carries a bit more visible history.

So which grade should you buy?

Honestly — it depends on what you're using it for. If it's a gift, or you just like things looking pristine, go As New. If you want the best balance of condition and price, Excellent is where most of our customers land. If you're kitting out a second device, a work laptop, or just want the lowest price without sacrificing reliability, Good is genuinely a smart choice — it's the same tested, working device, just with a little more visible history.

What a grade never changes: battery health, functionality, or whether it's been properly tested. Every device — regardless of grade — goes through the same checks before it's allowed to be listed.

Shop by grade

Ready to browse? Check out our most popular refurbished categories:

• Refurbished Phones & Tablets
• Refurbished Laptops, PCs & Gaming Gear
• Refurbished Cameras & Audio
• Refurbished Home Appliances

For the complete breakdown of every condition grade we use — including our separate criteria for mobile phones — see our full Grades Explained page.