Mobile Device Grading Standards
This page explains how we classify pre-owned devices so buyers, sellers, and trade-in customers can see the difference between each grade before they commit.
How to read the scale
- Brand New Brand new in original packaging.
- Open Box Comes in the original packaging, but is not sealed. These units are usually from buyers' remorse programs that the customer returned within 14 days of purchasing.
- A is the cleanest cosmetic grade.
- B is clearly used, but still good value.
- C shows heavy wear and is priced accordingly.
Photo reference
See the real device photos behind the grading system.
These visuals show how the conditions differ in practice, from near-flawless A grades to the heavy-wear end of the scale.
Near-flawless presentation with only the faintest signs of use.
Clearly used, but still strong for resale and retail presentation.
Heavier wear with obvious cosmetic marks and signs of long-term use.
Primary grades
The difference between A, B, and C.
The grades move from near-flawless cosmetics down to heavier wear. Each step allows more visible marks on the screen or housing.
The cleanest cosmetic grade on the standard scale. A devices look close to new and are ideal for premium resale.
Screen
Very few, if any, faint scratches that are only visible on close inspection or when the screen is rotated under light.
Housing / bezel
Very few, if any, minor blemishes that are only visible when you look closely.
What this means
A is the cleanest cosmetic presentation in the standard scale and is the closest thing to showroom condition.
Best for: Premium resale and buyers who want the cleanest possible pre-owned device.
B devices are clearly used, but the wear is still modest and the phone should present well for most buyers.
Screen
Few to several faint small scratches visible only on close inspection or when rotated under light.
Housing / bezel
Several blemishes such as scratches or scuffs that are noticeable on quick inspection.
What this means
B is the practical step down from the A grade. It has more visible use, but it is still a clean used device.
Best for: Value-focused retail buyers who want a clean used phone without paying near-new pricing.
C devices show substantial cosmetic wear. They are still usable, but the wear is very obvious.
Screen
Extensive, pronounced scratches that are easily visible on quick inspection.
Housing / bezel
Extensive, pronounced blemishes such as scratches and scuffs that are easy to see at a glance.
What this means
C is the bottom end of the standard cosmetic scale before you get into more defect-specific or functional issue categories.
Best for: Budget buyers, refurbishing, parts use, or customers who only care about function.
Comparison table
A side-by-side view of the grading ladder.
Use this table when you want the quick summary version of the standards.
| Grade | Cosmetic level | Screen | Housing / bezel | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
AExcellent to near-flawless | The cleanest cosmetic grade on the standard scale. A devices look close to new and are ideal for premium resale. | Very few, if any, faint scratches that are only visible on close inspection or when the screen is rotated under light. | Very few, if any, minor blemishes that are only visible when you look closely. | Premium resale and buyers who want the cleanest possible pre-owned device. |
BGood used condition | B devices are clearly used, but the wear is still modest and the phone should present well for most buyers. | Few to several faint small scratches visible only on close inspection or when rotated under light. | Several blemishes such as scratches or scuffs that are noticeable on quick inspection. | Value-focused retail buyers who want a clean used phone without paying near-new pricing. |
CHeavy wear | C devices show substantial cosmetic wear. They are still usable, but the wear is very obvious. | Extensive, pronounced scratches that are easily visible on quick inspection. | Extensive, pronounced blemishes such as scratches and scuffs that are easy to see at a glance. | Budget buyers, refurbishing, parts use, or customers who only care about function. |
IMS certified devices
All devices are carefully tested, inspected, and verified by a certified IMS technician before being approved for sale. Any physical cosmetic defects, such as scratches, dents, or signs of previous use, do not affect the overall performance, functionality, or reliability of the device.
Brand New
Maps to grade A
This is the cleanest customer-facing label and should be reserved for devices with minimal visible wear.
Open Box
Maps to grade A
This is a lightly handled device with packaging opened, but it still presents extremely clean and close to retail condition.
Grade A
Maps to grade B
This is a clearly used device that still presents well and is a good value for price-conscious shoppers.
Grade B
Maps to grade C
This label fits devices with obvious wear, where the buyer cares more about function and price than cosmetics.
Grade C
Maps to grade C
This is the most budget-focused customer-facing label and fits devices with the heaviest visible cosmetic wear.