12 things to check before buying a used mobile phone in Pakistan
02 Oct 2026 · 2 min read
A used phone can save you a lot of money, but only if you check it properly. Take ten minutes, stay calm, and go through this list. A good seller will be happy to wait.
Before you meet
- Ask for clear photos and a video of the phone switched on.
- Ask directly: any repair, any part changed, any fault? Write down the answer.
- Agree the price before meeting, so there is no pressure on the spot.
The 12-point check
- IMEI and PTA: dial *#06#, match it with the box, and send it to 8484.
- Screen: open a plain white picture and look for spots, lines or yellow patches.
- Touch: drag an app icon slowly across the whole screen. It should never jump or drop.
- Battery health: on iPhone, open Settings > Battery > Battery Health. On Android, ask the seller to show it in settings or a battery app.
- Charging: plug in your own charger and make sure it starts charging straight away.
- Cameras: test front and back cameras, zoom and the flash.
- Speakers and mic: make a short call and record a voice note.
- Fingerprint and Face ID: add your own finger or face and test it.
- Buttons: volume, power and silent switch.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and SIM: put your SIM in and make a call.
- Accounts: make sure iCloud or the Google account is signed out. Otherwise the phone may lock after reset.
- Box and receipt: a matching box and the original shop receipt are a strong sign the phone is genuine.
Paying
Pay only after the checks, in person. Never pay an advance through JazzCash, Easypaisa or a bank transfer for a phone you have not seen. If the seller insists on advance payment, walk away. There will always be another phone.
Read next
Start with PTA approved or non-PTA: what it means, and if anything about the deal feels off, read how to check a phone isn't stolen.
More guides
Not sure which brand to buy at your budget? See the best mobile brands in Pakistan by budget, and if you're also weighing a brand-new phone, read new vs used: which saves you more money.
