Needing to buy a new (used) android

[mysherrona]

Haven't been thru a a lot of phones in my time so I need some help replacing my LG G3. Insurance is offering to replace it with a L6 but I haven't really been impressed with my L3 so looking at other phones. I can't buy new, so looking a older models. One thing I have seen is sellers posting "The seller has indicated the device is not rooted, ROM'd, or otherwise software-modified after purchase." What does this mean and is it good or bad? Also thinking of changing carriers but know nothing about unlocked phones. Any advice appreciated.

 

[escobedojo35]

Hold LG3 fon

 

[today]

To me it's a good thing. It means the phone was used as it was intended from the factory. No performance tweaking by the previous owner who we know nothing of their abilities to carry out such a meticulous endeavour.

 

[Clementine_3]

What carrier are you thinking of going to and who are you using now?

Swappa.com is a great place to buy used phones from, I've gotten many and have had zero issues.

And yes, that statement means the phone hasn't been tinkered with, I always verify that with the seller before I buy.

 

[mysherrona]

What carrier are you thinking of going to and who are you using now?

Swappa.com is a great place to buy used phones from, I've gotten many and have had zero issues.

And yes, that statement means the phone hasn't been tinkered with, I always verify that with the seller before I buy.

I have looked at Swappa because a friend bought hers there. Insurance deductible is $125, so for about twice that I can buy a decent phone on Swappa. Having a hard time figuring out which to get based on reviews. As for carrier, I have been with AT&T for years but friends with Verizon seem to get better signal. That's why I'm wondering if I should buy a phone that is unlocked.

 

[Clementine_3]

AT&T uses GSM bands so it's much easier to get an unlocked phone for them. Verizon uses some GSM (LTE) bands and, most importantly, CDMA. You'll need to find a phone that supports Verizon's bands. The good news is that there are more out there now, most of the recent Motorola phones come to mind (X, Pure etc.). You can also get a Verizon branded phone and, more good news, if you decide to go back to AT&T you can without having to worry about it working (again, most will).

What phones are you looking at? Also, check willmyphonework.net to be sure it'll work.