A study by the Dutch consumers’ union has found that refurbished smartphones are frequently listed at inflated prices, with some models costing more than brand‑new equivalents. Reviewing 24 popular devices across 16 online retailers, the group observed cases where shoppers paid tens of euros extra for second‑hand phones at outlets including Apple Store, Leapp, Forza Refurbished and Refurbished. On Back Market, a refurbished iPhone 14 (256 GB) was even advertised at €100 above the new price.

Despite such outliers, the research outlined typical savings by condition. Handsets showing visible wear were, on average, 27% cheaper than new; lightly used devices were around 25% less; and those marketed as “as good as new” carried an average discount of 20%.

The Consumentenbond also identified questionable sales tactics, citing misleading reference prices and inflated “discounts”. Some sellers compared refurbished offers to the original launch RRP rather than today’s new price, potentially overstating savings. The association has notified the companies involved and urged them to stop these practices.