Backmarket.com.au Review

Based on checking the website, Backmarket.com.au appears to be a legitimate online marketplace for refurbished electronics. It functions as a platform connecting consumers with various sellers offering renewed smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other tech devices. The website highlights its commitment to quality through strict seller checks and internal monitoring, which is a good sign for consumer confidence. However, some common elements expected from a top-tier e-commerce site, such as prominent direct contact information or a clear return policy overview directly on the homepage, aren’t immediately visible, which could be a point of concern for some users.

Here’s an overall review summary:

Website Legitimacy: Appears legitimate, focusing on refurbished electronics.
Product Offering: Wide range of refurbished smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Quality Assurance: Mentions “strict seller checks” and “mystery orders” for quality control.
Transparency: Lacks immediately visible, direct contact numbers or a concise return policy summary on the homepage.
Ethical Consideration: Selling refurbished electronics generally aligns with ethical consumption by promoting sustainability and reducing waste, which is a positive from an Islamic perspective as it encourages avoiding extravagance and caring for the environment.
Pricing: Implied to be competitive due to the refurbished nature, but specific price ranges aren’t front and centre on the homepage.
User Experience: Clear navigation for product categories and country selection.

The platform’s emphasis on renewed tech and its environmental benefits resonates well with a sustainable and responsible approach to consumption, aligning with principles of avoiding waste and preserving resources. While the concept of purchasing refurbished electronics is sound, potential buyers should always scrutinise the specific seller’s warranty and return policies before committing to a purchase to ensure peace of mind.

Here are some excellent alternatives for ethically-minded consumers looking for electronics and sustainable practices:

Dick Smith
- Key Features: Wide range of electronics, competitive pricing, often features sales and bundles. Offers new and refurbished products.
- Average Price: Varies widely depending on the product, generally competitive.
- Pros: Reputable Australian brand, good customer support, varied product selection.
- Cons: Refurbished stock can be limited, some products are imported.
JB Hi-Fi
- Key Features: One of Australia’s largest retailers for electronics and home appliances. Offers competitive prices, a wide selection, and extended warranties.
- Average Price: Mid to high range, offering premium and budget options.
- Pros: Extensive product range, strong customer service, physical stores for easy returns/support, good warranty options.
- Cons: Can be pricier for some items compared to online-only retailers.
Officeworks
- Key Features: Specialises in office supplies, technology, and furniture. Offers laptops, printers, monitors, and various tech accessories. Strong focus on business and education solutions.
- Average Price: Competitive, often has promotions for bulk purchases or back-to-school deals.
- Pros: Reliable for office tech needs, good customer service, convenient for businesses, strong return policy.
- Cons: Less focus on entertainment electronics like gaming consoles or advanced cameras.
Kogan.com
- Key Features: Australian online retailer offering a vast array of products, including electronics, home goods, and more. Known for competitive pricing on its own-brand products and other brands.
- Average Price: Generally lower to mid-range, with frequent sales.
- Pros: Wide product selection, often very competitive prices, frequent deals.
- Cons: Mixed reviews on customer service, some products are Kogan brand which might not be universally reviewed.
Mwave
- Key Features: Specialises in computer components, gaming PCs, and advanced tech. Known for a huge selection of parts for building custom systems and high-performance electronics.
- Average Price: Mid to high range, depending on the complexity of the components.
- Pros: Excellent for PC enthusiasts and professionals, vast inventory of components, good technical support.
- Cons: Primarily focused on computing, less variety in general electronics.
Umart
- Key Features: Similar to Mwave, Umart is an Australian retailer focusing on computer hardware and electronics. Offers competitive pricing and a good range of components for custom builds.
- Average Price: Competitive for computer components, often similar to Mwave.
- Pros: Strong selection for PC builders, multiple pickup locations across Australia, good customer service for technical queries.
- Cons: Niche focus on computer hardware, limited general electronics.
Amazon Australia Electronics
- Key Features: Global giant with an Australian presence, offering an unparalleled selection of new and refurbished electronics from various sellers. Strong customer protection and return policies.
- Average Price: Highly variable, from budget to premium, with frequent deals.
- Pros: Massive selection, competitive pricing, reliable shipping, strong buyer protection policies.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming with too many choices, not all sellers are local Australian businesses.

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

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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.

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Table of Contents

Backmarket.com.au Review & First Look

When you land on Backmarket.com.au, the first thing you notice is its clean, user-friendly interface designed to streamline the process of finding refurbished electronics. The site immediately highlights its core proposition: providing renewed tech as a greener, more affordable alternative to buying new. This focus on sustainability and value is a major draw for consumers conscious about their budget and environmental impact. The initial impression suggests a modern e-commerce platform that understands its niche.

Initial Impressions and User Interface

The homepage is well-organised, featuring clear categories for different types of electronics like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Navigation is intuitive, making it easy for users to browse. There’s a prominent search bar and options to select your location, which is crucial for Australian users to ensure relevant pricing and delivery information. The aesthetic is bright and appealing, creating a positive user experience from the get-go.

Transparency of Information

One area where Backmarket.com.au could improve, from an initial glance, is the immediate visibility of comprehensive policy information. While the website mentions “strict seller checks” and “mystery orders” to assure quality, quick links to detailed warranty, return, or refund policies aren’t as prominent as one might expect on the front page. For first-time visitors, having this information readily accessible without deep navigation would enhance trust. Consumers often look for clear reassurances regarding their purchases, especially when dealing with refurbished goods.

Backmarket.com.au Features

Backmarket.com.au positions itself as more than just a marketplace; it’s a curated platform for refurbished electronics. Its features are designed to build confidence in buying second-hand tech and provide a seamless shopping experience. These features differentiate it from typical classifieds or auction sites.

Quality Assurance Processes

The website states that it employs rigorous quality control measures. This includes vetting sellers thoroughly before they can list products on the platform. Furthermore, they conduct “mystery orders” by their technical staff to ensure that the quality of devices matches their promises. This level of oversight aims to minimise the risk of receiving faulty or misrepresented items, which is a common concern when purchasing refurbished electronics. Such efforts are critical in building consumer trust in the refurbished market.

Environmental Impact Focus

A significant feature highlighted by Backmarket.com.au is the environmental benefit of choosing refurbished over new. The site explicitly states that renewed tech has “way less environmental impact than brand new.” This aligns with a growing consumer trend towards sustainable consumption and responsible waste management. By extending the life of electronic devices, the platform contributes to reducing electronic waste (e-waste), a pressing global issue. This appeal to eco-consciousness can be a strong motivator for many buyers.

Price Competitiveness

While exact prices aren’t displayed prominently on the homepage without drilling down, the underlying premise of Backmarket.com.au is to offer significant savings compared to purchasing new devices. Refurbished electronics, by nature, come at a lower price point. The website implies that consumers can get “the same quality, and the same excitement, for less.” This value proposition is a key feature, attracting budget-conscious individuals who still desire high-quality tech.

Backmarket.com.au Pros & Cons

Like any online marketplace, Backmarket.com.au presents a mix of advantages and disadvantages for consumers. Understanding these can help potential buyers make an informed decision about using the platform for their electronic needs.

Pros

Cost Savings: The most obvious benefit is the significantly lower price of refurbished electronics compared to new ones. This makes high-end devices more accessible.
Environmental Benefits: By opting for refurbished tech, consumers contribute to reducing e-waste and the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new devices. This aligns with sustainable practices.
Quality Assurance: The platform claims to have strict vetting processes for sellers and conducts “mystery orders” to ensure quality, providing a layer of confidence often missing in other second-hand markets.
Variety of Products: Backmarket.com.au offers a wide range of refurbished devices, including popular smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronics, from various brands.
Standardised Grading: While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, reputable refurbished marketplaces often use standardised grading systems for device condition, which helps manage buyer expectations.

Cons

Lack of Immediate Policy Transparency: From the homepage, detailed warranty and return policies are not immediately apparent. Users may need to navigate deeper into the site to find this crucial information, which can be a minor inconvenience.
Reliance on Third-Party Sellers: While Back Market implements quality checks, the actual product quality and shipping experience ultimately depend on individual third-party sellers. This introduces an element of variability compared to direct sales from a single brand.
Refurbished Condition Variability: Even with grading, “refurbished” can mean different things. There might be minor cosmetic imperfections or variations in battery health that, while acceptable for the price, might not meet everyone’s expectations for “like-new” condition.
Customer Service Reliance: While Back Market acts as an intermediary, resolving issues may sometimes involve communication with the specific seller, which can add complexity compared to dealing directly with a retailer.
Limited Physical Presence: As an online-only platform, there’s no option to physically inspect devices before purchase, which some buyers prefer for electronics.

Backmarket.com.au Alternatives

While Back Market offers a compelling proposition for refurbished electronics, Australia has several other excellent options for purchasing new or renewed devices. These alternatives cater to different preferences, from those seeking brand-new, cutting-edge technology to those looking for budget-friendly or specialised IT solutions.

Leading Retailers for New Electronics

JB Hi-Fi: Australia’s go-to for consumer electronics, offering a vast array of smartphones, laptops, TVs, and home appliances. Known for competitive pricing, frequent sales, and excellent in-store customer service. Their extensive warranty options and physical store presence for returns and support are significant advantages.
Dick Smith: Now primarily an online retailer, Dick Smith offers a broad range of electronics, often at very competitive prices. They frequently feature deals on popular tech items, making them a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers looking for new products.
Officeworks: While primarily focused on office supplies, Officeworks has a substantial electronics section, particularly strong in laptops, printers, monitors, and networking gear. They often cater to students and small businesses with competitive pricing and loyalty programs.

Specialists for Computer Hardware and Components

Mwave: For PC enthusiasts, gamers, and professionals, Mwave is a powerhouse. They offer an extensive catalogue of computer components, pre-built PCs, peripherals, and high-performance electronics. Their expertise and wide selection make them ideal for custom builds and upgrades.
Umart: Similar to Mwave, Umart is another top-tier choice for computer hardware in Australia. They boast a massive inventory of CPUs, GPUs, motherboards, storage, and accessories, along with competitive pricing and multiple pickup locations.

Broader Online Marketplaces

Kogan.com: An Australian e-commerce giant, Kogan offers a massive range of products, including electronics, home goods, and fashion. They are known for aggressive pricing, especially on their own-brand Kogan products, and frequent sales events.
Amazon Australia: The global e-commerce leader has a strong presence in Australia, offering an unparalleled selection of electronics from countless sellers. Amazon’s A-to-Z Guarantee and robust return policies provide significant buyer protection, making it a reliable choice for diverse electronic needs, including new and third-party refurbished options.

These alternatives provide a robust landscape for consumers, whether they prioritise the latest models, specific component needs, or a vast marketplace experience.

How to Cancel Backmarket.com.au Order

Cancelling an order on Backmarket.com.au typically depends on the status of your order. Given that Back Market acts as a marketplace for various sellers, the process might involve direct communication with the seller or utilising Back Market’s customer support. It’s crucial to act quickly if you wish to cancel an order to increase the likelihood of success.

Order Cancellation Process Overview

Generally, if an order has not yet been shipped by the seller, cancellation is more straightforward. You would usually log into your Back Market account, navigate to your “Orders” section, and look for an option to “Cancel Order” next to the relevant purchase. If such an option is available and the order is still processing, the cancellation request will be sent to the seller.

What if the Order is Already Shipped?

If the order has already been dispatched, a direct cancellation might not be possible. In this scenario, it typically transitions into a return process once you receive the item. You would then need to initiate a return request via your Back Market account or by contacting their customer service, explaining that you wish to return the item. The website should outline the steps for returning goods, which usually involve obtaining a return label and sending the item back to the seller for a refund. It’s important to understand the specific return window and conditions as outlined in Back Market’s policies.

Contacting Back Market Support

For any difficulties with cancellation or if the self-service options aren’t clear, contacting Back Market’s customer support directly is the next step. Their “Need help?” or “Orders and help” sections on the website are the primary avenues for assistance. Providing your order number and a clear explanation of your request will help expedite the process.

Backmarket.com.au Pricing

The pricing on Backmarket.com.au is inherently designed to be competitive, as it deals exclusively with refurbished electronics. The primary value proposition is offering devices at a lower cost than their brand-new counterparts, while still ensuring quality through their verification processes.

Price Structure and Savings

Back Market’s pricing model is dynamic, influenced by several factors: the specific device model, its cosmetic condition (often graded, e.g., “Good,” “Excellent,” “Mint”), and the individual seller’s pricing strategy. Generally, you can expect to see significant savings, often ranging from 20% to 70% off the original retail price of a new device. This makes premium electronics more accessible to a broader audience. For instance, a refurbished iPhone might be hundreds of dollars cheaper than a new one, depending on the generation and condition.

Factors Influencing Price

Condition: Devices are typically categorised by their cosmetic state. A device graded “Mint” or “Excellent” will usually be at the higher end of the refurbished price spectrum but still considerably cheaper than new. “Good” or “Fair” conditions, which might have more visible cosmetic wear, will be priced lower.
Model and Age: Newer models, even when refurbished, tend to command higher prices. Older models will naturally be more affordable.
Seller: Different sellers on the platform may have slightly varied pricing for the same model and condition, leading to competitive pricing.
Storage Capacity: Like new devices, higher storage capacities will increase the price.

No Subscription or Free Trial

As Backmarket.com.au is a marketplace for one-off purchases of electronics, it does not operate on a subscription model and therefore does not offer free trials of its services. Customers purchase individual products as needed, similar to a traditional retail store. The focus is on the direct sale of refurbished goods.

Backmarket.com.au vs. New Device Purchases

The choice between buying a refurbished device from Backmarket.com.au and a brand-new device is a common dilemma for consumers. Each option presents distinct advantages and disadvantages, primarily revolving around cost, environmental impact, and perceived quality.

Cost-Effectiveness

Backmarket.com.au (Refurbished): The most compelling argument for choosing Back Market is the substantial cost savings. Refurbished devices are significantly cheaper, making high-end smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets more affordable. This can be a game-changer for budget-conscious individuals or those who want premium features without the premium price tag. For example, a flagship iPhone model from a year or two ago, when refurbished, can often be half the price of the latest new model.

New Device Purchases: Buying new means paying full retail price, which is generally higher. While you get the latest technology and untouched condition, the rapid depreciation of electronics means the value drops significantly as soon as you open the box.

Environmental Impact

Backmarket.com.au (Refurbished): This is where Back Market truly shines from an ethical standpoint. Choosing refurbished actively reduces electronic waste (e-waste), which is a massive global environmental problem. It extends the life cycle of devices, conserves resources, and lowers the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing new electronics. This aligns with sustainable consumption and responsible stewardship of resources.

New Device Purchases: Manufacturing new electronics consumes considerable raw materials (including rare earth minerals), energy, and water, and generates significant carbon emissions. While companies are working on greener production, buying new still contributes to this cycle and the eventual e-waste problem when the device is discarded.

Quality and Warranty

Backmarket.com.au (Refurbished): Back Market asserts its commitment to quality through strict seller checks and quality control, aiming to ensure devices are fully functional. Refurbished devices often come with a warranty from the seller or Back Market itself, offering some peace of mind. However, cosmetic condition can vary, and there’s a perceived risk compared to new. The battery life might also be slightly reduced on older models, though often replaced during refurbishment.

New Device Purchases: New devices come in pristine condition with a full manufacturer’s warranty, guaranteeing optimal performance and lifespan (at least initially). There’s no concern about previous ownership or cosmetic blemishes. The latest models also offer peak performance and features.

Conclusion

For consumers prioritising savings and environmental responsibility, Backmarket.com.au offers a compelling and ethical alternative. It allows access to quality technology without the hefty price tag and the added benefit of reducing your environmental footprint. For those who demand the absolute latest technology, pristine condition, and full manufacturer’s warranty without compromise on price, new devices remain the go-to. It boils down to individual priorities regarding budget, sustainability, and perceived risk.

How Backmarket.com.au Helps to Fight E-Waste

Backmarket.com.au plays a significant role in the global effort to combat electronic waste (e-waste), which is one of the fastest-growing waste streams worldwide. By promoting and facilitating the sale of refurbished electronics, the platform directly contributes to a more circular economy for tech devices.

Extending Product Lifespan

The core mechanism through which Back Market fights e-waste is by extending the useful life of electronic devices. Instead of being discarded prematurely, often due to minor faults or the desire for the “latest” model, devices are collected, repaired, cleaned, and resold. This process keeps valuable materials in circulation longer, delaying their entry into landfills or complex recycling processes. According to the United Nations, only 17.4% of e-waste generated in 2019 was formally documented as collected and recycled, highlighting the vast amount of materials still going to waste. Platforms like Back Market help bridge this gap by giving products a second life.

Reducing Resource Extraction and Manufacturing Impact

Every new electronic device manufactured requires significant amounts of raw materials, including precious metals (gold, silver, palladium), critical minerals (cobalt, lithium for batteries), and plastics. The extraction and processing of these materials are resource-intensive and often environmentally damaging. By encouraging the purchase of refurbished goods, Back Market helps to reduce the demand for new production, thereby lessening the environmental strain associated with mining, manufacturing, and transportation. This translates to fewer greenhouse gas emissions and reduced consumption of natural resources.

Promoting a Circular Economy

Back Market’s business model is a prime example of a circular economy in action. Instead of the traditional linear “take-make-dispose” model, it champions a system where products and materials are kept in use for as long as possible. This approach minimises waste and pollution by design. By connecting consumers with refurbished products and potentially enabling them to sell their old devices back (though the direct “buy back” function isn’t highlighted on the Australian homepage as a primary feature), Back Market contributes to closing the loop in electronics consumption. This is a vital step towards a more sustainable future, encouraging a shift in consumer mindset from constant upgrading to responsible re-use.

FAQ

What is Backmarket.com.au?

Backmarket.com.au is an online marketplace in Australia that specialises in selling refurbished electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, from various professional sellers.

Is Backmarket.com.au legitimate?

Yes, based on the website’s description, Backmarket.com.au appears to be a legitimate platform that connects consumers with professional refurbishers of electronic devices.

What kind of products can I buy on Backmarket.com.au?

You can buy a wide range of refurbished electronics, including iPhones, Samsung Galaxy phones, other smartphones, tablets, laptops, and potentially other tech accessories.

How does Backmarket.com.au ensure quality of refurbished products?

The website states they employ “strict seller checks” and conduct “mystery orders” placed by their technical staff to ensure the quality of the refurbished devices meets their standards.

What is the difference between “renewed” and “new” tech on Back Market?

“Renewed” tech refers to refurbished devices that look and work like new on the outside, but are pre-owned and have been repaired or restored, significantly reducing their environmental impact compared to brand-new products.

Does Backmarket.com.au offer a warranty on its products?

While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, reputable refurbished marketplaces like Back Market typically offer a warranty on products sold through their platform, usually provided by the seller or Back Market itself. You would need to check their detailed terms and conditions.

Can I return a product purchased from Backmarket.com.au?

Yes, typically online marketplaces have a return policy. You would need to refer to Back Market’s specific return policy, usually found in their help or terms and conditions section, to understand the procedures and timeframes for returns.

How do I contact Backmarket.com.au customer service?

The website has “Orders and help” and “Need help?” links, which would lead you to their customer support options, likely including a help centre, contact forms, or email support.

Is buying from Backmarket.com.au environmentally friendly?

Yes, buying refurbished electronics from platforms like Back Market is considered environmentally friendly as it extends the lifespan of devices, reduces electronic waste, and lessens the demand for new manufacturing, which consumes significant resources.

Are the prices on Backmarket.com.au cheaper than new products?

Yes, the core value proposition of Backmarket.com.au is to offer electronic devices at a significantly lower price than brand-new equivalents, typically with savings ranging from 20% to 70% off retail prices.

Does Backmarket.com.au have a physical store in Australia?

Based on the website’s nature as an online marketplace, it does not appear to have physical retail stores. All transactions are conducted online.

Can I sell my old device to Backmarket.com.au?

While Back Market focuses on selling refurbished devices, a direct “buy back” program for individual users isn’t prominently featured on the Australian homepage. You would need to check their specific sections or terms to see if this service is offered.

What payment methods are accepted on Backmarket.com.au?

Specific payment methods are not listed on the homepage, but typical online payment options like credit/debit cards and potentially other digital payment services are usually accepted. This information would be available during the checkout process.

How long does delivery take from Backmarket.com.au?

Delivery times would depend on the individual seller and your location in Australia. This information is usually provided during the checkout process or within the seller’s terms on the product page.

What are the grades of refurbishment on Backmarket.com.au?

While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, refurbished marketplaces typically use grading systems like “Mint,” “Excellent,” “Good,” or “Fair” to describe the cosmetic condition of devices, with corresponding price differences.

Are there any hidden fees on Backmarket.com.au?

Reputable platforms are transparent about pricing. Any additional costs like shipping fees would typically be displayed clearly before you confirm your purchase.

Can I get a tax invoice from Backmarket.com.au?

Yes, for purchases made through a legitimate platform, you should be able to receive a tax invoice for your records. This is usually accessible through your order history in your account.

Does Backmarket.com.au offer financing options?

The homepage does not indicate specific financing options. If available, this would typically be mentioned during the checkout process or in their help sections.

How does Backmarket.com.au compare to buying refurbished on eBay or Gumtree?

Backmarket.com.au typically offers a more curated and quality-controlled experience than general marketplaces like eBay or Gumtree, with dedicated quality checks for sellers and potentially standardised warranties.

What if my refurbished device from Backmarket.com.au has issues after purchase?

If a device develops issues within the warranty period, you would typically contact Back Market’s customer support or the seller directly through the platform to initiate a repair, replacement, or refund process according to their policy.