Top Deal Mobiles - Too Good to be True?

newvillan

MSE's top deals seem too good to be true, for example a brand new Samsung Galaxy S24 is several hundred pounds cheaper than the major retailers/providers despite, apparently, like for like specifications.  The cheapest retailers regularly feature Mozillion or The Big Phone.  But these are not household names and I am concerned there may be a catch.    Is there some hidden difference in these phones?  Have these retailers proved reliable? 
MSE members views/experience on this would be appreciated.
Does MSE 'vet' the retailers appearing in their 'top deals'?

wild666

I never go for new phones as they, IMHO, are overpriced even if they are discounted by £400 or more. I go for refurbished phones that are acceptable quality. You can buy an iPhone 11 or Samsung Galaxy S20 for under £200.

flaneurs_lobster

wild666 said:

I never go for new phones as they, IMHO, are overpriced even if they are discounted by £400 or more. I go for refurbished phones that are acceptable quality. You can buy an iPhone 11 or Samsung Galaxy S20 for under £200.

Of the refurbished phones that you've bought

• were any bought at Mozillion or The Big Phone as per OP's question?
• if not, can you name the retailers you've had good experiences with?