Buying used camera gear is a great way to save a ton of money. Especially if you are just starting out or don't have the money to spend on new gear. Here is a list of 6 places to buy used camera gear.
1. Corporate Power Houses - BH Photo, Adorama
These are your "big box" type stores that sell both new and used camera gear. They also sell a wide range of other items, such as computers, consumer electronics, video equipment and lighting. Selling used camera gear is apart of their business, but not the sole focus.
What I Like about them
Used gear is categorized by a strict rating scale.
Equipment is tested before it is sold.
Used gear will typically come with a warranty.
These stores have generous return policies.
These stores have in-house financing options available.
What I Don't like about them
These stores typically don't have a large selection of used gear when compared to dedicated third party resellers.
You usually don't see the actual picture of the item you are receiving.
Prices for used gear are usually higher than other sites.
They do not distinguish between Grey Market and US items.
2. Used Retailers - KEH, MPB, Used PhotoPro
These sites usually ONLY sell used camera gear.
What I Like about them
Most sites will show the actual item you are buying.
Used gear is categorized by a strict rating scale.
Equipment is tested before it is sold.
Pricing is a bit more competitive when compared to corporate locations (BH Photo, Adorama).
Used gear will typically come with a warranty.
These retailers usually have return policies.
What I Don't like about them
They do not distinguish between Grey Market and US items.
Some gear will only be available in poor conditions.
These sites typically do not have financing options.
3. Online Forums - Fred Miranda, Reddit, DP Review
Online forums, such as Fred Miranda, are usually run by a single or group of administrators. These admins may be affiliated with each other or each operate independently. These sites usually require adherence to certain rules for entry and participation. For example, Fred Miranda requires you to have an account and pay a fee before you can use the Buy and Sell feature.
What I Like about them
Pricing is usually more competitive than a corporate or used camera store.
You have a greater ability to negotiate price.
Some sellers give you the option to trade for items.
Forums usually have strict posting policies that require you to have detailed descriptions and pictures of the actual item for sale.
User feedback and rating systems help combat fakes accounts.
"Pay to Play" feature keeps out scammers.
Interact with mostly professional photographers.
What I Don't Like about them
No warranties through the site.
No guaranteed return policies.
Sellers may or may not distinguish between Grey Market and US items.
Scams or fake accounts are more of a threat since you are dealing with unknown sellers.
4. Social Media Sites - Facebook Marketplace, Facebook Groups, etc.
Similar to online forums, social media sites such as Facebook Marketplace and Groups have areas for buying and selling camera gear. Marketplace is more open to anything and everything, whereas Groups can be more specific. For example, the Group, LEICA Classifieds, only sells Leica cameras and lenses. The Group Film Photo Gear only sells film photography gear.
What I Like about them
Pricing is usually more competitive than a corporate or used camera store.
You have a greater ability to negotiate price.
Some sellers give you the option to trade for items.
Groups usually have strict posting policies that require you to have detailed descriptions and pictures of the actual item.
What I Don't Like about them
No warranties offered.
No guaranteed return policies.
Sellers may or may not distinguish between Grey Market and US items.
Scams or fake accounts are more of a threat since you are dealing with unknown sellers.
Searching for an item may not be as easy as other buying/selling methods.
5. Auction Sites - eBay
Auction sites, such as eBay, allow buyers to bid on, makes offers or directly purchase items.
What I Like about them
These sites usually have a wide range and quantity of items for sale.
Buyers can narrowly define search results so that only specific items are shown.
Buyers have access to sellers worldwide.
Some sellers accept returns.
User feedback and rating systems help combat fakes accounts or subpar sellers.
What I Don't Like about them
Pricing is mixed. Some sellers are competitive while others are not.
Sellers may or may not distinguish between Grey Market and US items.
Scams or fake accounts are a present threat.
Depending on the seller, their knowledge of a particular item's ability to function correctly may be limited.
6. Local Camera Stores
These are your mom and pop, brick and mortar type stores. Similar to corporate sellers like BH Photo, they have a store front and inventory on hand. Most camera stores will buy, sell and trade used camera gear.
What I Like about them
These stores are part of the local community.
You have the ability to test out and use the gear before buying.
Some stores allow you to trade for gear.
Some stores have financing options.
Some stores offer returns and warranties on used items.
What I Don't Like about them
Physical stores are becoming more and more rare.
Due to overhead costs, pricing for used gear may not be as competitive as online sellers.
Some stores may not have return or warranty policies.
Used inventory may be limited compared to online sellers.
My Recommendations
Deciding where to buy used camera gear really boils down to your risk tolerance and price. Lower risk sites will usually mean a higher price, whereas higher risk sites will have more competitive pricing.
Buy from a Corporate Retailer, Used Retailer or Local Camera Store IF:
Your risk tolerance for scams is low.
You want a guaranteed return policy or warranty.
You don't mind spending extra.
You need financing options.
Buy from an Online Forum, Social Media site or Auction site IF:
You have a higher risk tolerance for scams.
You are prepared to negotiate for the best possible price.
You are not concerned about returns or warranties.
You can deal with individuals who may not know much about what they are selling.
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