Backmarket.pt Reviews

Updated on

Based on checking the website, Backmarket.pt appears to be an online marketplace specializing in refurbished electronics, primarily focusing on smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

They present themselves as a platform that promotes a circular economy by giving new life to used technology.

The site emphasizes professional refurbishment, a 2-year warranty, and a 30-day free return policy, aiming to build trust with consumers looking for more affordable and environmentally friendly alternatives to new devices.

While the concept of reusing electronics is commendable from an environmental perspective, as a Muslim professional, it’s crucial to approach all transactions with a discerning eye, ensuring they align with Islamic principles.

Our focus should always be on acquiring what is truly necessary and doing so through ethical means, avoiding waste and extravagance.

The website highlights significant discounts compared to new products, which can be appealing, but it’s important to remember that even in seeking value, our consumption patterns should reflect a balanced approach to worldly possessions.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Understanding Backmarket.pt: A Deeper Dive

Backmarket.pt positions itself as a leading platform for refurbished electronics, aiming to make technology more accessible and sustainable.

Their model revolves around connecting consumers with professional refurbishers who restore used devices to a functional, often near-new, state.

This approach seeks to reduce electronic waste and provide cost-effective options for consumers.

Backmarket.pt’s Business Model

The core of Backmarket.pt’s operation is facilitating the sale of refurbished electronic goods.

They do not directly refurbish items themselves but rather act as an intermediary. Wtlighting.co.uk Reviews

  • Marketplace Approach: Backmarket.pt functions as a marketplace, similar to Amazon or eBay, but specifically for refurbished electronics. They onboard certified refurbishers who list their products on the platform.
  • Quality Control: To maintain a certain standard, Backmarket.pt claims to implement a rigorous vetting process for its refurbishers. This includes checks on their refurbishment processes, quality control, and customer service. They also encourage customer reviews to provide ongoing feedback on seller performance.
  • Grading System: Devices are typically graded based on their cosmetic condition e.g., “Excellent,” “Good,” “Fair”. This helps set customer expectations regarding the appearance of the device, though all devices are expected to be 100% functional.
  • Focus on Sustainability: A significant part of their marketing emphasizes the environmental benefits of buying refurbished, such as reducing e-waste and extending the life cycle of electronic devices. This aligns with principles of avoiding waste and being responsible stewards of the Earth’s resources.

Backmarket.pt Review & First Look

Upon first glance, Backmarket.pt presents a clean, user-friendly interface.

Amazon

The navigation is intuitive, allowing users to easily browse categories like iPhones, Android smartphones, MacBooks, and smartwatches.

  • Product Variety: The site boasts a wide array of products, from recent iPhone models like the iPhone 15 and 14 series to various Android devices, iPads, and Windows laptops. This extensive selection caters to a broad spectrum of consumer needs and budgets.
  • Transparent Pricing: Each product listing clearly shows the refurbished price alongside the “new” price, highlighting the potential savings. For instance, an iPhone 15 listed at €507.84 compared to a new price of €889.00 showcases significant value, approximately a 42.8% saving. An iPhone 14 Pro at €519.00 vs. €1349.00 new represents a 61.5% saving.
  • Detailed Product Pages: Individual product pages provide comprehensive details, including specifications, cosmetic condition grades, and warranty information. This transparency is crucial for informed purchasing decisions.
  • Customer Testimonials: The homepage prominently features positive customer reviews, such as “Envio super rápido” super fast shipping and “O telefone está em estado excelente” the phone is in excellent condition. These testimonials build initial trust and offer insights into customer experiences with specific products and delivery. Over 10 million customers worldwide are reported, which suggests a significant user base.

Backmarket.pt Pros & Cons

Like any marketplace, Backmarket.pt comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

For consumers, weighing these factors is essential before making a purchase. Beechwoodtree-services.co.uk Reviews

Pros:

  • Cost Savings: This is arguably the biggest draw. Refurbished products are significantly cheaper than new ones, allowing consumers to access premium technology at a fraction of the cost. Savings can range from 30% to 70% off the retail price.
  • Environmental Impact: Buying refurbished directly contributes to reducing electronic waste. The global e-waste volume reached 53.6 million metric tons in 2019, and this number is projected to hit 74 million metric tons by 2030. Opting for refurbished items helps mitigate this growing problem.
  • Warranty and Returns: Backmarket.pt offers a 2-year warranty on all products and a 30-day free return policy. This provides a strong safety net for consumers, addressing common concerns about the reliability of used electronics. This is a significant advantage over private sales or other less regulated marketplaces.
  • Professional Refurbishment: The platform’s emphasis on professional refurbishment by certified experts suggests a higher quality standard than simply buying “used” devices. This often includes thorough testing, repairs, and cleaning.
  • Wide Selection: From various models of iPhones and Android devices to MacBooks and gaming consoles, the breadth of products available is substantial, catering to diverse needs and preferences.

Cons:

  • Cosmetic Imperfections: While functional, refurbished devices may have cosmetic imperfections scratches, dents, depending on their graded condition. Even “Excellent” condition devices might have minor, almost imperceptible marks. Users seeking a pristine device might be disappointed.
  • Battery Health Variations: Although many refurbishers replace batteries, some might not, leading to varying battery health percentages. While a 100% battery capacity was mentioned in one testimonial, it’s not guaranteed for every device. This is a crucial point for smartphone users who rely heavily on battery life.
  • Dependency on Refurbisher Quality: Despite Backmarket.pt’s vetting process, the actual quality of the device ultimately depends on the individual refurbisher. While the platform offers recourse, inconsistencies can arise. Customer reviews for specific refurbishers are vital.
  • No “New” Device Feel: For those who enjoy the unboxing experience and the assurance of a factory-sealed new product, a refurbished device might not offer the same satisfaction.
  • Software Updates and Longevity: Older refurbished models might receive fewer future software updates, potentially limiting their long-term usability compared to brand-new devices. This is particularly relevant for operating systems like iOS and Android, which frequently release updates.

Backmarket.pt Alternatives

For those seeking to purchase electronics or sell old ones, several alternatives exist, both within the refurbished market and new product channels.

The best alternative depends on individual priorities, whether it’s cost, warranty, sustainability, or direct interaction.

  • Other Refurbished Marketplaces:
    • eBay: A global marketplace with a vast selection of used and refurbished electronics. While it offers competitive pricing, the buyer must be diligent in checking seller ratings and return policies, as quality control can be less stringent than specialized platforms.
    • Amazon Renewed: Amazon’s own program for refurbished, pre-owned, and open-box products. Items are inspected and tested to work and look like new, backed by the Amazon Renewed Guarantee. This offers a level of trust similar to Backmarket.pt.
    • Swappie for iPhones: A popular platform specifically for refurbished iPhones, known for its strict quality control and warranty. They handle the refurbishment themselves, offering more direct control over the quality.
    • Manufacturer Refurbished Stores: Many original equipment manufacturers OEMs like Apple, Dell, and HP offer their own refurbished products directly. These often come with the same warranty as new products and are considered highly reliable, though prices might be higher than third-party refurbishers.
  • Direct Sales Platforms Local & Online:
    • Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace: For local buying and selling of used electronics. These platforms offer direct negotiation and inspection but come with higher risks regarding product quality and security, requiring significant caution.
    • Gazelle US-based: A well-known platform for buying and selling used smartphones and other devices. They offer a simple selling process and vetted used devices for purchase.
  • New Product Retailers:
    • Major Electronics Retailers e.g., FNAC, Worten in Portugal: For those who prefer brand new devices with full manufacturer warranties and the latest models. While more expensive, they offer peace of mind and the latest features.
    • Direct from Manufacturer Websites: Buying directly from Apple, Samsung, or Microsoft ensures authenticity, full warranty, and access to the newest releases.

How to Make Halal-Conscious Choices When Buying Electronics

When considering purchases like those on Backmarket.pt, a Muslim professional seeks to align their choices with Islamic principles of responsible consumption, avoiding waste Israf and extravagance.

  • Necessity Over Luxury: Before any purchase, reflect on whether the item is truly a necessity or a luxury. While technology is integral to modern life, constant upgrades for minor improvements often fall into the latter category. Ask: “Do I truly need this, or merely desire it?”
  • Avoiding Riba Interest & Debt: Finance purchases through interest-free methods. If a device is beyond immediate means, save for it rather than resorting to credit cards or loans that involve Riba. Backmarket.pt does offer installment payment options, which must be carefully scrutinized to ensure they are not interest-based. If they are, these should be avoided.
  • Supporting Ethical Businesses: While Backmarket.pt’s environmental mission is positive, consider the broader ethical practices of the company and its refurbishers. Do they treat employees fairly? Are their supply chains ethical? While difficult to ascertain fully, it’s a worthwhile consideration.
  • Durability and Longevity: Opt for products known for their durability and a longer lifespan. This reduces the frequency of purchases, aligning with the principle of minimal waste. Refurbished items, if properly restored, can offer excellent longevity.
  • Giving Sadaqah Charity from Savings: If significant savings are made by purchasing a refurbished item instead of a new one, consider allocating a portion of those savings to charity. This transforms a personal gain into a communal benefit, aligning with the spirit of generosity in Islam.
  • Responsible Disposal: When upgrading, ensure old devices are disposed of responsibly. Backmarket.pt’s model of buying back old devices or facilitating their refurbishment is an excellent alternative to simply discarding them, which contributes to harmful e-waste.

Backmarket.pt’s Commitment to Circular Economy

Backmarket.pt’s mission is deeply rooted in the concept of a circular economy, which is a sustainable model that aims to reduce waste and maximize resource utilization.

  • Reducing E-Waste: The staggering amount of electronic waste produced globally is a significant environmental concern. Backmarket.pt directly addresses this by extending the life of electronics. By encouraging the purchase of refurbished devices, they help divert items from landfills. In 2021, only 17.4% of global e-waste was formally collected and recycled, highlighting the scale of the problem Backmarket.pt attempts to mitigate.
  • Resource Conservation: Manufacturing new electronics requires significant raw materials rare earth minerals, precious metals and energy. Refurbishment reduces the demand for new production, thereby conserving these finite resources and lowering the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing. For example, producing a new smartphone can require up to 1,200 liters of water and 75 kg of raw materials.
  • Accessibility and Affordability: By offering high-quality refurbished electronics at lower prices, Backmarket.pt makes technology more accessible to a wider range of consumers who might not be able to afford brand-new devices. This democratizes access to essential tools for education, work, and communication.
  • Buyback Programs: The platform also facilitates the selling of old devices, further closing the loop in the circular economy. This encourages consumers to recycle or refurbish their old electronics rather than discarding them, which is a responsible approach from an Islamic perspective as well.
  • Economic Impact: The refurbished electronics market is growing. Globally, the refurbished smartphone market alone was valued at $49.9 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $118.5 billion by 2030. Backmarket.pt contributes to this burgeoning sector, creating jobs and fostering innovation in sustainable consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Backmarket.pt reliable?

Yes, Backmarket.pt aims to be reliable by vetting its refurbishers, offering a 2-year warranty, and providing a 30-day free return policy. Dogtrainingcollege.co.uk Reviews

They have a large customer base over 10 million globally and display positive testimonials, suggesting a generally reliable service.

What is the warranty on Backmarket.pt products?

Backmarket.pt offers a standard 2-year warranty on all refurbished products sold through its platform, providing assurance against defects.

Can I return a device bought from Backmarket.pt if I’m not satisfied?

Yes, Backmarket.pt provides a 30-day free return policy, allowing customers to return a device for any reason within this period if they are not satisfied with their purchase.

What is the difference between “refurbished” and “used” on Backmarket.pt?

On Backmarket.pt, “refurbished” means the device has been professionally inspected, tested, cleaned, and repaired as needed by certified experts to ensure full functionality.

“Used” typically refers to an item sold as-is without professional restoration, which is not the primary model for Backmarket.pt’s core offerings. Linkapprove.com Reviews

How are the cosmetic conditions of devices graded on Backmarket.pt?

Backmarket.pt grades devices into categories like “Excellent,” “Good,” and “Fair” based on their cosmetic appearance.

“Excellent” means minimal to no visible signs of wear, while “Fair” may have more noticeable scratches or dents, though all grades are fully functional.

Does Backmarket.pt offer financing or installment payments?

Yes, Backmarket.pt mentions options to pay for devices in installments.

It is crucial for users to verify that any such payment plans are interest-free to comply with Islamic financial principles, as interest riba is forbidden.

Can I sell my old device to Backmarket.pt?

Yes, Backmarket.pt has a section where users can sell their old devices, facilitating the circular economy by allowing others to refurbish and reuse them. Mnpdebt.ca Reviews

What types of electronics can I find on Backmarket.pt?

You can find a wide range of refurbished electronics on Backmarket.pt, including iPhones, Android smartphones, iPads, MacBooks, Windows laptops, smartwatches, gaming consoles, and audio devices.

Are the chargers and accessories included with Backmarket.pt devices?

Typically, refurbished devices on Backmarket.pt come with essential accessories like a charging cable and adapter, though specific inclusions can vary by refurbisher and product. Check the product description carefully.

How long does shipping usually take from Backmarket.pt?

Shipping times can vary depending on the refurbisher’s location and the delivery address.

Testimonials on the site mention “super fast shipping” envio super rápido, indicating that deliveries can be quite prompt, often within a few days.

Is Backmarket.pt available outside of Portugal?

Yes, Back Market operates in multiple countries beyond Portugal, making it a global platform for refurbished electronics. Marketoffer.co.uk Reviews

Backmarket.pt is its specific domain for the Portuguese market.

What if I receive a defective product from Backmarket.pt?

If you receive a defective product, you should contact Backmarket.pt’s customer service immediately to report the issue.

Given their 2-year warranty and 30-day return policy, they should assist with repair, replacement, or refund.

Are the prices on Backmarket.pt fixed or do they fluctuate?

Prices on Backmarket.pt can fluctuate based on supply, demand, and the specific refurbisher.

They often offer competitive deals and promotions, so checking regularly can yield better prices. Silver.dev Reviews

How does Backmarket.pt ensure the quality of refurbished products?

Backmarket.pt ensures quality by vetting its refurbishers, requiring them to adhere to strict quality control standards, and providing a warranty and return policy to protect consumers if issues arise.

Can I get a discount on my first order on Backmarket.pt?

Yes, Backmarket.pt often offers promotional discounts for new customers, such as a €15 discount on first orders of €250 or more when subscribing to their email newsletter.

What kind of customer support does Backmarket.pt offer?

Backmarket.pt provides customer support through various channels, likely including an online help center, email, and potentially phone support, as indicated by their “Precisas de ajuda?” Need help? section.

Does buying from Backmarket.pt help the environment?

Yes, buying from Backmarket.pt significantly helps the environment by reducing electronic waste and conserving natural resources that would otherwise be used to manufacture new devices, contributing to a circular economy.

Are the batteries in refurbished phones from Backmarket.pt guaranteed to be 100% capacity?

While some customer testimonials mention 100% battery capacity, it is not universally guaranteed for all refurbished phones on Backmarket.pt. Propmoney.com Reviews

Battery health can vary depending on the specific refurbishment process.

Always check product details if battery capacity is a critical factor.

What types of payment methods are accepted on Backmarket.pt?

Backmarket.pt likely accepts various common payment methods, including credit/debit cards and potentially other online payment services.

Users should verify specific accepted methods at checkout.

Is it safe to buy high-value items like MacBooks from Backmarket.pt?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to buy high-value items like MacBooks from Backmarket.pt due to their buyer protection policies, including the 2-year warranty and 30-day return period. Trafalgarstore.com Reviews

However, always review the specific refurbisher’s ratings and product details before making a high-value purchase.

0.0
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
Excellent0%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Backmarket.pt Reviews
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *