How to choose OEM or Aftermarket Cell Phone Parts

How to choose OEM or Aftermarket Cell Phone Parts

You have lots of options when it comes to buying cell phone accessories on the net. One option is to decide whether you want original equipment manufacturer (OEM) cell phone accessories or aftermarket cell phone accessories and parts.

OEM cell phone accessories: Oem accessories are simply accessories made by the phones manufacturer. Oem accessories are sold by most Cell Phone retail stores and are quite expensive. There are a lot online retailers claiming to offer OEM products at ridiculously low prices.

How do they do that? Answer, they don't! 98% of products sold on the internet claiming to be OEM are "copy" or "knock offs". Yes, like the knock off watches or handbags you see at most flea markets, street corners, and on often on internet auction sites like eBay. This is especially true with Bluetooth headsets.

How do I know if a item I see online is a "knock off"? In most cases if it is too good a deal to be true then it probably is. If you see, let's say a Motorola OEM Charger, online for $3.99 but you see the same one at your cell phone store for $29.99 then this item is probably a "knock off". If it is a actual Motorola charger then it is probably used or "A-Grade". A-Grade is another term retailers are using for used products. There is also a chance that it is a refurbished item. Look closely at item descriptions and be sure you know what you are buying.

Aftermarket cell phone accessories: Aftermarket cell phone parts and accessories are compatible with specified cell phone brands and are usually offered at a lower price than OEM products.

So what is the difference? Answer, now there really is not much of a difference. The thing is that the OEM manufactures hire the same companies that make the aftermarket products to manufacture their products. This means that the wires, cells, plastic, chips, etc. are usually the same in a aftermarket product and an OEM product.

In general, when considering cell phone parts or accessories, look at the price, style, company, and warranty. Before purchasing also make sure they work with your specific cell phone. Verify brand and model compatibility before you buy. We have a guide here that will help you find your cell phone model number.