Buying a used phone in Pakistan: a 15-point checklist
A practical checklist for buying a used phone in Pakistan: PTA status, IMEI, battery health, screen, cameras, iCloud and Google locks, and what price is fair.
Published 4 min read
The short answer
Before buying a used phone in Pakistan, check its PTA status on both IMEIs, that the IMEI matches the box, that the account locks (iCloud or Google) are removed, the battery health, the screen, cameras, speakers, charging, buttons and signal. Then compare the price with verified new prices for the same model and PTA status — a used phone should be meaningfully cheaper than new.
Key takeaways
- PTA status and matching IMEIs come first; everything else is secondary.
- Make sure the seller signs out of iCloud or Google and resets the phone in front of you.
- Battery health and screen condition decide most of a used phone’s value.
- Test every camera, both speakers, the microphones, charging, buttons and signal.
- Use the verified new price as a ceiling: a used phone should be clearly cheaper.
On this page
Why a checklist helps
Used phones can be excellent value in Pakistan — flagships lose value quickly, and many are sold in good condition. But problems are easy to miss in a busy shop or a quick meet-up. Go through the list in order; if a phone fails the first section, stop there.
Identity and locks
- IMEI matches. Dial *#06#; compare with the box and the settings screen.
- PTA status on both IMEIs. SMS each IMEI to 8484 or check on DIRBS. See how to check PTA status.
- Account locks removed. On iPhones, Find My / iCloud must be signed out; on Android, the Google account must be removed. Ask the seller to reset the phone in front of you — a phone locked to someone else’s account can become useless.
- Not reported stolen. Be wary of sellers who refuse ID, a receipt or a proper meeting place.
Battery and body
- Battery health. iPhones show it in Settings → Battery → Battery Health; many Android phones show battery information or support a diagnostics app. A worn battery means a replacement cost soon.
- Screen. Check for scratches, dead pixels, burn-in (ghost images on a grey screen), touch response across the whole screen and whether it’s an original panel. A replacement screen can look different in colour and brightness.
- Frame and back. Dents, cracks and bent frames matter for water resistance and resale.
Hardware tests
- All cameras — front, back and each lens; check focus and zoom.
- Speakers and microphones — play a video, record a voice note, make a call.
- Charging port and wireless charging — charge with your cable and check it holds.
- Buttons, vibration and fingerprint / Face ID.
- Signal and SIM — insert your SIM, make a call, check mobile data and both SIM slots.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS.
Paperwork and warranty
- Receipt or proof of purchase. An original receipt, box and accessories add confidence and value.
- Written terms. If a shop sells it, get any checking warranty or replacement period on the receipt. See official vs shop warranty.
Free · no sign-up needed
Know the new price before judging a used one
Ask DAAM for the verified new range of the same model, storage and PTA status — then decide if the used price makes sense.
Opens DAAM with: “Samsung Galaxy S23 new price PTA approved”
What price is fair for a used phone?
Used prices depend on model, storage, PTA status, battery health, condition and whether the box and accessories are included. Start with two reference points:
- The verified new price of the same model, storage and PTA status — your ceiling.
- The condition discount — scratches, a worn battery or a replaced screen should lower the price noticeably.
A used phone priced close to a new one rarely makes sense: new comes with a fresh battery and full warranty. DAAM keeps new and used separately, so you can see the new range and judge the gap. If a used price is far below other used listings, ask why — locks, a replaced part or a questionable history are common reasons.
Where to buy used phones
Mobile markets, classifieds and social media groups all sell used phones. Markets offer a counter to go back to and sometimes a short warranty; person-to-person sales can be cheaper but carry more risk. Meet in a public place, bring a friend, test everything and pay only after the checks.
Frequently asked questions
What should I check before buying a used phone in Pakistan?
PTA status on both IMEIs, matching IMEIs on the phone and box, that iCloud or Google accounts are removed, battery health, screen condition, all cameras, speakers, microphones, charging, buttons and mobile signal.
How do I check a used iPhone’s battery health?
Go to Settings, Battery, then Battery Health. A lower maximum capacity means a battery replacement soon, which should be reflected in the price.
How much cheaper should a used phone be than new?
It depends on age and condition, but it should be clearly below the verified new price of the same model, storage and PTA status. Worn batteries, replaced screens and missing accessories should lower it further.
Is it safe to buy a used phone from social media?
It can be, with care. Meet in a public place, test everything, check PTA status and account locks, ask for proof of purchase and pay only after the checks are done.
Free · no sign-up needed
Know the new price before judging a used one
Ask DAAM for the verified new range of the same model, storage and PTA status — then decide if the used price makes sense.
Opens DAAM with: “Samsung Galaxy S23 new price PTA approved”
Written by
Hamza writes DAAM’s price guides for shoppers in Pakistan: where to buy, what to check before paying and how to use verified prices to avoid being overcharged.
