Category: How we work

Every item we sell gets one of three grades. Customers ask us about them more than anything else, so here’s exactly how we decide.

Grades describe appearance, not function

Every item goes through the same functional tests, whatever its grade. A Fair laptop isn’t less tested than an Excellent one. It just has more visible wear, and costs less because of it.

The three grades

• Excellent: marks only visible on close inspection under direct light.
• Good: light scuffs or small scratches you can see at arm’s length.
• Fair: obvious wear such as deep scratches, dents or worn keys. Every defect is photographed.

Why the condition report matters more

Two “Good” laptops can look different. That’s why each listing also has a condition report listing wear by location, such as “Lid: light scuffs near the logo”. Read the report, not just the grade.

The full definitions are in our condition guide.

Every listing on UKUsed is the result of the same four-step process. Here’s what happens at each step.

Intake

We confirm the make, model and specification from the item itself, not from the box. Accounts and activation locks are removed, and we verify they’re gone.

Testing

Each category has its own checklist. Every result is recorded as passed, fault found, or not tested, along with the date.

Why “Not tested” matters

Sometimes we can’t test something, for example a fingerprint reader with no driver installed. Rather than assume it works, we say so. You decide whether it matters to you.

Photography

We photograph the actual unit, including close-ups of every notable mark. If there’s a dent, you’ll see it before you buy.

Read more on how we source and inspect.