How-To Guide
Phone Condition Grading: Complete Guide
Understanding how we grade phones from Grade A to Grade D. Learn what affects your device's condition rating.
Your phone's condition grade directly affects how much money you'll get. Grade A devices sell for 40-50% more than Grade D devices. Here's what each grade means, how we assess your phone, and how to improve your device's rating before selling.
Understanding Phone Grading Systems
Phone grading is the standardized way the refurbished electronics industry assesses device condition. This system ensures fair pricing and sets clear expectations for both buyers and sellers.
The Four Grade System
Grade A - Excellent/Like New
Visual Condition: Minimal to no visible wear. May have very light micro-scratches only visible under direct light.
Screen: Perfect or near-perfect, no cracks or deep scratches
Body: No dents, minimal wear on corners
Functionality: 100% working, battery health above 85%
Value: Commands highest prices, typically 60-70% of retail
Grade B - Good
Visual Condition: Light to moderate wear visible at arm's length
Screen: May have light scratches not affecting use
Body: Some scuffs and scratches, minor dings acceptable
Functionality: Fully functional, battery health above 80%
Value: Typically 45-55% of retail price
Grade C - Fair
Visual Condition: Moderate to heavy wear clearly visible
Screen: Multiple scratches, minor cracks acceptable if not affecting display
Body: Obvious wear, dents, deep scratches
Functionality: All features working, battery health above 70%
Value: Usually 30-40% of retail price
Grade D - Poor/Damaged
Visual Condition: Significant damage present
Screen: May be cracked or have dead pixels
Body: Heavy damage, bent frame possible
Functionality: May have some non-functioning features
Value: Typically 15-25% of retail, sold for parts/repair
How to Self-Assess Your Device
Step 1: Clean Your Device
Before assessment, thoroughly clean your phone. Sometimes what appears as damage is just dirt or residue.
Step 2: Check the Screen
- Look for cracks (even hairline cracks affect grade)
- Check for dead pixels or display issues
- Test touch sensitivity across entire screen
Step 3: Examine the Body
- Check all corners and edges
- Look for dents or bends
- Inspect camera lenses for cracks
Step 4: Test Functionality
- All buttons working properly
- Cameras (front and back) functioning
- Speakers and microphone clear
- Charging port accepting charge
- Biometric features (Face ID/Touch ID) working
Tips to Maintain Higher Grade
- Use Protection: Quality cases and screen protectors prevent most damage
- Regular Cleaning: Prevents port damage and maintains appearance
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Protects battery and internal components
- Handle with Care: Most damage occurs from drops
Why Accurate Grading Matters
Honest assessment ensures smooth transactions. Overestimating condition leads to quote adjustments upon inspection, while underestimating means you might accept less than your device's worth.
At Cash My Tech, our expert technicians perform thorough inspections to ensure fair grading. We accept devices in all conditions and provide transparent pricing based on actual condition.