Why Grading Standards Matter
In unstandardised markets, terms like "mint condition" or "good as new" mean different things to different sellers. TrueVolt uses standardised cosmetic grades—A+, A, B, and C—so buyers can compare listings across different stores with consistent expectations.
Crucially, cosmetic grades refer exclusively to external aesthetic presentation. Functional status, display performance, and battery health are evaluated and disclosed separately when provided by the seller.
Detailed Grade Breakdown
Here is what each cosmetic grade represents on TrueVolt listings:
| Grade | Label | Scratch Level | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A+ | Like new | None | Flawless or near-flawless cosmetic presentation. | Gifting or premium use |
| A | Excellent | Barely visible | Minor signs of use, often only visible under close inspection. | Everyday personal use |
| B | Good | Light, visible | Light wear visible in normal use on casing or glass. | Budget-conscious buyers |
| C | Fair | Noticeable wear | Visible wear and cosmetic imperfections on body or frame. | Secondary or backup device |
Grade vs. Battery Health vs. Functionality
A common misconception is that a Grade B or Grade C phone has weaker battery life or functional issues. On TrueVolt, this is not the case.
A Grade B device may have excellent 90% battery health with light casing scratches, while a Grade A+ phone might have 82% battery health with pristine casing. By separating cosmetic grade from battery health and functional inspection, TrueVolt allows you to make an informed choice tailored to your priorities and budget.
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