What does refurbished grade C mean?
Refurbished Grade C means a device is fully functional but shows heavy signs of previous use. It has passed every functional test but has significant cosmetic wear. On RefurbMe, Grade C is labeled Fair.
What to expect from a Grade C device
A Grade C (fair condition) refurbished product typically shows:
- Screen: May have light scratches visible on close inspection.
- Body and casing: Noticeable scratches, scuffs, or small dents on edges, corners, or back.
- Keyboard and trackpad (laptops): May show shine or wear marks on frequently used keys.
- Functionality: 100% working. Identical performance to a new or Grade A device.
A Grade C phone features significant scratches on its case and may have visible dents on corners. A Grade C laptop has heavy scuffing and marks on the lid, keyboard, or bottom panel. Despite the cosmetic wear, the device runs exactly like new.
Why choose Grade C?
Grade C delivers the deepest discounts, typically 35-50% below the retail price of a new device. It is the best choice if you:
- Plan to use a protective case anyway.
- Care more about performance and price than appearance.
- Need a reliable device on a tight budget, such as a student iPad or a work laptop.
How Grade C compares to other grades
| Grade A (Excellent) | Grade B (Good) | Grade C (Fair) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Near-new | Light scratches or scuffs | Visible wear |
| Typical savings | 15-25% | 25-35% | 35-50% |
All grades are equally functional. The difference is purely cosmetic. Learn more about all refurbished cosmetic conditions.
How refurbishers define Grade C
Each refurbisher on RefurbMe defines Grade C slightly differently. You can compare Grade C definitions across all refurbishers to see exactly what cosmetic wear each seller allows under "fair condition."
Apple Store does not sell Grade C products. Only third-party refurbishers offer devices in fair condition.
