What "Pristine" means: how we grade refurbished phones

24 September 2026

Every refurbished device we sell has a grade. Here's exactly what each grade means, what every device gets whatever its grade, and how to check the battery yourself.

The grade is about looks, not performance

Grades only describe cosmetic condition. Every XTEC Renewed device, whatever its grade, works exactly like new and gets the same checks and the same warranty.

Our three grades

  • Pristine: no visible scratches or marks. Looks as good as new. Battery health at least 85%.
  • Excellent: light signs of use, only visible up close. The screen is free of scratches. Battery health at least 85%.
  • Good: visible scratches or scuffs on the body. The screen may have faint marks that you can't see when it's switched on. Battery health at least 80%.

All of our refurbished stock is currently graded Pristine.

What every refurbished device includes

  • A full functional test
  • Data wiped securely
  • Unlocked to any UK network
  • A charger in the box
  • A 12-month XTEC warranty
  • Free UK delivery
  • 30-day returns

What battery health means

Battery health compares how much charge the battery can hold now with how much it held when new. A phone at 85% battery health holds about 85% of its original charge, so a full charge lasts a little less than it did out of the box. That's normal for a used phone, which is why we set a minimum for every grade.

How to check battery health

  • iPhone: go to Settings, then Battery, then Battery Health (called Battery Health & Charging on some versions).
  • Samsung: open the Samsung Members app, choose Support, then Phone diagnostics, then Battery status.

About the photos

Product photos show the model, not your individual device. The condition of the device you receive is set by its grade.

What the warranty covers

Our 12-month warranty covers faults that happen under normal use. It doesn't cover accidental damage, liquid damage, or devices that have been opened or repaired by someone else. Your legal rights are not affected. Read more in our returns, refunds and warranty policy.

Questions about a device? Message us on WhatsApp (07599 803768) or email info@xtecuk.com.