The Handelot Times
Used vs refurbished phones
A Growing Market Reimagined for Sustainability For decades, every new phone release sparked anticipation— but beneath the glitz of flagship launches lies a quieter revolution. Consumers and businesses are increasingly turning to used and refurbished smartphones.
This isn’t just nostalgia for older technology—it’s a transformation in how devices serve us. Let’s explore the economics, the trends, and what comes next for this burgeoning market.
Size and scale: numbers that tell the story
In 2024, the global market for used and refurbished mobile phones was already substantial:
Valued at around $69 billion in 2024, the market is projected to nearly double—to $142 billion by 2034, growing at a steady CAGR of about 7.4%.(OpenPR, Vox, Vocal, zionmarketresearch.com)
Another forecast pegs the 2024 size at $62.5 billion, rising to $117 billion by 2034, with a slightly lower CAGR of 6.5%.
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