Understand the condition before you buy
SmartGear NZ sells pre-owned technology in a range of cosmetic conditions. A condition grade describes the visible appearance of a device; it does not replace our functional testing process.
What we look at
We assess the screen, housing, edges, corners and other visible surfaces for signs of previous use. Normal cosmetic wear can include light marks, scratches or small scuffs depending on the grade and device age.
As New
Very clean cosmetic condition with minimal signs of previous use. “As New” describes physical and cosmetic presentation and does not mean the device is New Zealand-new or unused unless the listing specifically says so.
Excellent
Clean overall condition with only light signs of previous use. Minor marks may be visible on close inspection.
Good
Fully usable pre-owned condition with more noticeable cosmetic wear such as marks, scratches or scuffs. Cosmetic wear does not by itself affect normal operation.
Fair / Clearance
Heavier visible wear or other clearly disclosed cosmetic characteristics. These devices are priced accordingly and the individual listing should be checked carefully for specific notes.
Every device is individual
Pre-owned devices are not identical. Product photos, listing notes and disclosed condition information should be read together. If a listing includes a specific defect, feature limitation or accessory note, that individual disclosure takes priority over this general grading guide.
Device Condition & Fault Guide
Some SmartGear listings use short condition or fault codes so common marks and limitations can be identified quickly. These abbreviations explain the shorthand only and do not replace the condition notes, photos or fault disclosure on the individual product listing.
Display & cosmetic terms
- WS — White Spot: a brighter or whiter spot or patch on the display, often most noticeable on light backgrounds.
- BS — Black Spot: a black, dark or red-coloured spot or patch on the display.
- LCD Line: one or more persistent horizontal or vertical lines visible on the display.
- Blue Patch / Blue LCD Patch: a blue-tinted or discoloured patch visible on part of the display.
- Screen Burn / Burn-in: faint or persistent ghost images, shapes, icons or colour retention visible on the display, usually from content that has remained on screen for long periods. Visibility can vary depending on background colour and screen brightness.
- Chip: a small chip or nick to the glass, edge, frame or body. Check the individual listing and photos for its location and extent.
- Dents: indentations or impact marks in the frame, housing, lid or body.
- Scratches: visible surface marks on the screen, back, frame, lid or other exterior surfaces.
- Scuffs / Marks: rubbed, worn or marked areas from normal previous use.
Functional fault abbreviations
- NW — Not Working: the named feature or component is not working. For example, “Face ID NW” means Face ID is not working.
- Touch ID NW: the Touch ID fingerprint function is not working. Check the individual listing for any separate note about home-button operation.
- Wi-Fi NW: the Wi-Fi function is not working. Check the individual listing for the device’s other connectivity details.
- Face ID NW: Face ID facial recognition is not working.
- Camera Fault / Camera NW: the camera identified in the listing has a known fault. This may mean it does not work at all or has a specific limitation such as focus, image quality, stabilisation, lens switching or another camera-related issue. The individual listing will state the known fault where applicable.
- Button NW / Volume Button NW / Power Button NW: the named physical button is not working correctly.
- Stiff Button / Hard-to-Press Button: the named button works but may require more pressure than normal, feel stiff, have reduced travel or respond less easily. The individual listing will identify the affected button where applicable.
- Speaker NW / Mic NW: the named speaker or microphone function is not working.
- Charging Port NW: the charging port is not working correctly. Any alternative charging capability will only be assumed if the individual listing specifically states it.
How grading and faults work together
A grade such as As New, Excellent, Good or Fair describes the device’s overall cosmetic presentation. A device can have a clean cosmetic grade while also having a separately disclosed functional limitation, or it can show heavier cosmetic wear while functioning normally. The cosmetic grade does not override a device-specific fault disclosure.
Important: Known functional faults are also clearly disclosed on the individual product listing for that device. Always read the product title, description or condition notes and photos together before purchase. This guide explains the shorthand; the individual product listing remains the specific disclosure for the device being sold.