CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) is a phone, tablet, or laptop that has been refurbished by the manufacturer or an authorised refurbishment facility. CPO products typically include:
- New battery (where applicable)
- Full diagnostic and functional testing
- Cosmetic restoration to near-new condition
- Replacement of any failed components
- Manufacturer or authorised warranty (typically 90 days to 1 year)
- Original or replacement packaging and accessories
The canonical example is Apple Refurbished, sold direct via apple.com/shop/refurbished. Apple CPO devices come in white Apple-branded boxes, carry full 1-year Apple warranty, and are eligible for AppleCare+. Samsung Certified Re-Newed, Microsoft Certified Refurbished (Surface), and Dell Refurbished provide equivalent programmes.
In wholesale, CPO commands a meaningful premium over Grade A used, typically 15-25 percent, because the warranty and certification reduce buyer risk and enable retail-channel resale into “refurbished” tiers that customers trust. Channel restrictions sometimes apply: Apple, for example, does not freely permit third-party resale of its CPO stock under the “Certified Pre-Owned” label without authorisation.
CPO: common questions
What is CPO (Certified Pre-Owned)?
CPO is a device refurbished by the manufacturer or an authorised facility, typically with a new battery where applicable, full diagnostic and functional testing, cosmetic restoration, replacement of failed components, and a manufacturer or authorised warranty.
How much more does CPO cost than Grade A used?
CPO commands a meaningful premium over Grade A used, typically 15 to 25 percent, because the warranty and certification reduce buyer risk and enable resale into trusted refurbished retail tiers.
What is an example of a CPO programme?
Apple Refurbished is the canonical example, sold via apple.com with a full 1-year Apple warranty and AppleCare+ eligibility. Samsung Certified Re-Newed, Microsoft Certified Refurbished, and Dell Refurbished are equivalent programmes.