0 comments
A Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) or Certified Re-New (CRN) device is a smartphone, tablet, or computer whose aesthetic appearance is close to, or even equivalent to, that of a new product, and which has been refurbished by the manufacturer or an authorised partner using original parts. Initially developed in the automotive industry, CPO and CRN grades are now widely used in the refurbished market to certify the most reliable and high-quality second-hand tech products.
👉 However, this grading still raises questions: what do CPO and CRN grades actually include? Are they based on aesthetic, functional, or logistical criteria? Do they include accessories and/or a manufacturer warranty? This article aims to answer these questions clearly, so you can fully understand CPO/CRN standards.
💡 Please note: aesthetic grades (such as CPO/CRN, A, B, or C) are defined based on the visual appearance of the device. They differ from functionality levels (such as Premium or Used), which assess the technical performance of each product, as well as from packaging options that standardise the distribution experience.
This distinction allows professionals to better manage their purchasing strategies, ensure consistent quality, and offer solutions tailored to each customer need.
What is a CPO iPhone or a CRN Samsung?
CPO and CRN grade overview: technical characteristics and specific features
Based on the criteria outlined in the table below, CPO and CRN grades are considered the highest aesthetic standards in the refurbished market, particularly for professionals seeking quality, reliability, and transparency. Each product undergoes a very thorough testing process that meets the same standards as a new device (new battery, new 100% original parts, cosmetic condition equivalent to new, etc.). These include:
| Apple (CPO) | Samsung (CRN) | |
| Description | Refurbished with original parts by Apple or an authorised refurbishment partner, with a cosmetic condition close to new. | Refurbished with original parts by Samsung Electronics, with a cosmetic condition close to new. |
| Operating system | Latest iOS update available for the model. | Latest Android update available for the model. |
| Lock status | iCloud unlocked. | Google account unlocked. |
| Aesthetic condition | Intact, close to new. | Intact, close to new. |
| Battery | New Apple battery. | New Samsung battery. |
| Screen | Original screen or Apple replacement screen. | Original screen or Samsung replacement screen. |
| Content | New. | New. |
| Accessories | Accessories included or not (not mandatory). | Accessories included or not (not mandatory). |
| Warranty | 0 to 12-month warranty. | 2 years warranty. |
💡 A CPO product is not systematically delivered with original accessories or a manufacturer warranty. These elements depend on the offer, the distribution channel, and the options selected by the seller.
CPO and CRN grades: how do they differ from other refurbished grades?
As outlined above, CPO and CRN grades apply to products certified by Apple, an authorised partner, or Samsung, and refurbished using 100% original components. This dual requirement is what fundamentally differentiates a CPO or CRN device from standard professionally refurbished products, and therefore from all other grading levels.
On Dipli, aesthetic grades are clearly defined to ensure consistent refurbishment quality, regardless of stock source or origin. Typically, a CPO device differs from a Grade A product through an even more flawless cosmetic condition (no micro-scratches or signs of use), whereas a Grade A device may show very slight marks. Grades B and C indicate increasing levels of visible cosmetic defects, without any impact on functionality.
💡 As such, CPO and CRN grades are primarily intended for professionals and consumers looking for a premium solution, with a visual appearance equivalent to new and performance guaranteed by original parts.
👉 To learn more about the grades defined by Dipli, explore our refurbished offers.
Beyond cosmetic grading: functionality levels and packaging
At Dipli, the quality of a refurbished product goes beyond its aesthetic grade. To provide a complete view of a device’s condition, we also distinguish two additional key criteria: the functionality level and the type of packaging.
- Functionality levels:
All electronic devices undergo certified mobile diagnostic software checks to securely erase the previous user’s data and test the device’s functionalities. Used by our partner refurbishment facilities, these tools comply with strict technical specifications defined by Dipli. To ensure optimal performance, each product is tested against more than 40 control points. Based on the results of these tests, two functionality levels are offered:
- Packaging:
Dipli offers a range of standardised packaging solutions designed to simplify logistics while ensuring a consistent distribution experience. All unit boxes are neutral (white or brown), and the accessories are new and compatible.
Do you still have questions about our grading system? Visit our refurbished offers page or contact a Dipli expert.
