Are Outdated Smartphones Good Enough? We Recommend "Slightly Older" Models! Their Charms and How to Choose Them

公開日: 2025年06月05日更新日: 2025年10月30日

中古スマホ購入ガイド

"The latest smartphones are too expensive to afford."
"I'm a little hesitant about used phones, but I want to get a smartphone at a good price."
If this sounds like you, then you should consider a "previous generation smartphone."

Previous generation smartphones refer to models from one or two generations ago, and they actually have specifications that are just right for today's lifestyles.
In this article, we will introduce the benefits of previous generation smartphones, how to choose one without making a mistake, and how to utilize PRODIG to make a purchase with peace of mind.

What are previous generation smartphones? Their true value is "more than just cheap."

When you hear "previous generation," you might associate it with being outdated or old, but in reality, many models have sufficient performance for daily use.

Previous generation = recommended "slightly older" high-spec models

For iPhones, models like the SE (2nd generation), 8, and XR are applicable.
For Android, popular models include AQUOS sense3 and Xperia Ace.
Models within 2-3 years of release are the mainstream.

They are compatible with the latest apps and OS, so you'll have no problems with everyday use like SNS, watching videos, browsing the internet, and cashless payments.

Why previous generation smartphones offer the best cost performance

New smartphones often cost over 100,000 yen. On the other hand, previous generation smartphones can be purchased forless than half that price.

Safer than used, cheaper than new

Can be purchased at 30-60% less than new.
Plenty of refurbished products with replaced batteries and checked functionality.
PRODIG offers certified refurbished smartphones with warranty.

Furthermore, some older models include high-end models from their release period, meaning they are often "high-performance despite being previous generation," making them a top-class choice for cost performance.

Points to check before buying a previous generation smartphone

Even if you're choosing a previous generation smartphone for the first time, you'll rarely go wrong if you keep the following points in mind.

Are the specifications suitable for your intended use?

If you mainly use it for communication and research, models from 3-4 years ago are fine.
If you watch a lot of videos and use social media, 3GB of RAM or more is recommended.
If camera performance is important, choose a high-end model released within the last 2 years.

Is there a warranty and support?

PRODIG offers initial defect return support and a warranty of up to 6 months so you can use it with peace of mind after purchase. They have a system in place to alleviate the anxieties unique to used products.

Why "PRODIG" is recommended for buying previous generation smartphones

For those who are "a little uneasy about used or previous generation products," choosing a trustworthy seller is very important.
PRODIG offers a good balance of price, quality, and support, giving you peace of mind.

3 reasons to buy from PRODIG

1. All products are functionally checked and cleaned.

Professional staff perform functional checks, and problematic devices are not sold.

2. Clear pricing makes it easy to understand the "bargain."

Refurbished smartphones are available from 10,000 yen, making it easy to choose a model.

3. Warranty system is user-friendly for beginners.

It's less likely to encounter the common "what if it breaks immediately" issue with used products, making it ideal for first-time used smartphone buyers.

Internal link: View list of previous generation smartphones/refurbished products
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/

Finally

Previous generation smartphones are not just "old models."
In today's smartphone market, they represent "just right specifications at just right prices."

With PRODIG, you can get such a previous generation smartphone with peace of mind, at a low price, and with a warranty.
"I want to keep costs down as much as possible, but I don't want to compromise on performance" – for you, a previous generation smartphone is the optimal choice.