Second Hand Smartphones: Choosing Between 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB Storage
When buying a second hand smartphone, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right storage capacity. Unlike a new phone where you can easily decide based on budget, second hand devices often come in limited variants—mainly 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB.
But which one is right for you? This guide explains the pros and cons of each storage option, pricing differences, and how to decide based on your needs.
Why Storage Matters in a Smartphone
Storage space determines how many apps, photos, videos, and files your smartphone can hold. While cloud storage is available, it cannot completely replace internal storage—especially in India where internet speeds and data costs may vary.
When considering a second hand smartphone, storage size becomes even more critical because you cannot always expand it with an SD card (many iPhones and premium Androids don’t support expandable storage).
32GB Second Hand Smartphone: The Budget-Friendly Choice
Who Should Buy?
A 32GB smartphone is best for users who only need the basics: calling, texting, social media, and light app usage. If you’re a student or someone looking for a secondary phone, this is an affordable option.
Pros of 32GB:
- Cheapest in the second hand market.
- Good for light users who don’t store too many photos or apps.
- Available in popular brands like Samsung, iPhone SE, and budget-friendly Android models.
Cons of 32GB:
- Fills up quickly with photos, apps, and videos.
- May require frequent cleaning or use of external storage.
- Limited for heavy gaming or video editing.
Average Price Range (India):
₹4,000 – ₹8,000 depending on the brand and condition.
👉 If you’re looking for cheap smartphone deals with minimal usage, 32GB is the right pick.
64GB Second Hand Smartphone: The Balanced Option
Who Should Buy?
A 64GB smartphone is the sweet spot for most users. It allows for apps, casual gaming, photography, and even video storage without running out of space too quickly.
Pros of 64GB:
- Perfect balance between storage and price.
- Enough for daily usage plus entertainment apps like Netflix, Spotify, and Instagram.
- Widely available in models like iPhone 11, OnePlus Nord, and Samsung Galaxy A series.
Cons of 64GB:
- May feel limited if you shoot 4K videos or store large files.
- Gamers who play heavy games like PUBG or COD may need more space.
Average Price Range (India):
₹8,000 – ₹15,000 depending on brand and features.
👉 For most buyers, a second hand smartphone with 64GB storage is the most practical choice.
128GB Second Hand Smartphone: The Power User’s Pick
Who Should Buy?
A 128GB smartphone is ideal for users who want more freedom without constantly worrying about storage. If you shoot lots of photos and videos, download movies, or play heavy games, this is the best option.
Pros of 128GB:
- Perfect for heavy smartphone users.
- Can store thousands of photos, hours of video, and dozens of apps.
- Available in premium models like iPhone 12, OnePlus 9R, and Samsung Galaxy S series.
Cons of 128GB:
- Slightly higher cost in the second hand market.
- May not be necessary for light users.
Average Price Range (India):
₹15,000 – ₹25,000+ depending on model and condition.
👉 If you want a refurbished smartphone with warranty and premium features, 128GB is the way to go.
Storage Comparison: 32GB vs 64GB vs 128GB
| Feature | 32GB Storage | 64GB Storage | 128GB Storage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | ₹4K – ₹8K | ₹8K – ₹15K | ₹15K – ₹25K+ |
| Best For | Light users | Average users | Power users |
| Apps & Games | Limited | Moderate | Unlimited use |
| Photos & Videos | Minimal | Good balance | Large storage |
| Longevity | Short-term | 2–3 years | 3–5 years |
Where to Buy Second Hand Smartphones in India
- Online Stores: Amazon Renewed, Flipkart Refurbished.
- Local Dealers: Search for second hand smartphone dealers near me to test before buying.
- Certified Stores: Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus also sell refurbished phones with warranty.
How to Choose the Right Storage
Ask yourself these questions before finalizing:
- Do I use my phone for only calling, WhatsApp, and browsing? → Go for 32GB.
- Do I take a decent number of photos and use entertainment apps? → Choose 64GB.
- Do I game, shoot 4K videos, and need space for work files? → Select 128GB.
Final Thoughts
Buying a second hand smartphone is a smart way to save money without compromising on features. The key factor is choosing the right storage size: 32GB for light use, 64GB for balanced use, and 128GB for heavy use.