This year, Google has introduced several smartphones, including the affordable Pixel 8a and the foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Despite this, they continue to offer older models like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 7a from the previous year, both of which can be found for sale on the Google Store. Recently, the company has also started selling certified refurbished versions of some of these earlier models.
Pricing of Refurbished Models
Customers can now get certified refurbished Pixel 7 units for $429 and Pixel 7 Pro units for $629 directly from the Google Store. Additionally, there are refurbished options for the Pixel 6a priced at $249, the Pixel 6 at $339, and the Pixel 6 Pro at $539.
Quality Assurance Process
According to Google, each device has gone through a thorough inspection and testing to guarantee top-notch quality. Any devices with problems are fixed using original Google parts, and all units are shipped with the latest version of Android software before being packaged. This means that these phones should come with Android 15 right out of the box.
Warranty and Support
Every refurbished device includes a new one-year warranty and complete customer support. Moreover, Google is providing a charger with the refurbished Pixel phones, which is unexpected since they stopped including chargers with their phones starting with the Pixel 6 series in 2021. The refurbished phones are also packaged in 100% plastic-free materials, similar to the Pixel 9 series.
Currently, Google is only offering these refurbished Pixel phones in the United States and has not announced plans to sell them in other areas. However, they have confirmed intentions to expand the range of refurbished Pixel phones available.
Comparison with Newer Models
While it’s great to see Google offering refurbished Pixel phones, the question remains if they are a good buy. Shoppers may easily find better bargains on newer models at online retailers. For instance, the Pixel 8 is listed on Amazon for $499, making it a more attractive option than the $429 refurbished Pixel 7.
You can even discover renewed and refurbished versions for significantly lower prices, like the Amazon renewed Pixel 7 priced at $249, although it doesn't include a charger in the package.
