Pre-meet proof

Evidence to request before you spend time travelling.

01Request exact model and app screenshotAsk for the product name, firmware and battery view in the official companion app. Counterfeits often fail official identification or updates.
02Request left, right and case battery evidenceFor earbuds, record each component separately after charging and after stated listening time; one weak bud can be hidden by an average percentage.
03Confirm replaceable hygiene partsCheck the cost and availability of new tips, pads and headband parts. Ask the seller not to apply fragrance or wet cleaner before inspection.

Physical inspection

What to inspect under bright light before powering on.

01Inspect hinges, sliders, mesh and caseLook for hairline cracks, loose yokes, stretched headband, dented driver mesh, corroded charging pins and a case lid that no longer aligns.
02Check pads, tips and acoustic sealsPeeling pads and torn tips alter sound and noise cancellation. Budget replacements and avoid sharing unclean in-ear tips.
03Inspect charging and audio connectorsA cable should seat firmly; analog jacks should play without crackle when moved gently. Check case contacts for green or white corrosion.

Function test

A short, repeatable test of the device's expensive functions.

01Run mono and left/right channel testsUse a trusted local track at moderate volume to compare driver level, bass response and distortion. Stop if the test requires unsafe loudness.
02Test ANC, transparency and microphonesSwitch modes near steady ambient noise, then record speech with each available microphone mode and listen for crackle or pumping.
03Test controls, multipoint and brief rangeVerify every button or touch zone, pause sensors, charging detection and stable Bluetooth while walking a normal room distance from the phone.

Account & lock check

Confirm the next owner can activate and use the device normally.

01Remove device-finding and account associationFor models linked to Apple, Google or a maker account, the seller should remove them from the official app and finding network.
02Perform the official hardware resetReset pairing memory using the manufacturer's instructions, then confirm the seller's devices no longer reconnect automatically.
03Pair through the official appConfirm correct model recognition, serial or firmware visibility and normal feature access without requesting the previous owner's account.

Price proof

Comparable facts to record before negotiating or paying.

01Compare exact revision and included caseUse completed sales for the same generation, connector, colour and accessories. Earbud charging cases are often revision-specific.
02Deduct immediate pad and tip replacementPrice genuine or reputable hygiene parts before comparing the used offer with a discounted new or refurbished unit.
03Treat sealed battery wear as permanentMany wireless models are not economical to re-cell. Discount unequal runtime, weak case capacity or rapid drain rather than assuming an easy repair.

STOP

Walk-away signals

Pause the transaction when one of these cannot be resolved with direct evidence.

The official app cannot identify or update a supposedly genuine product.
One channel is quieter, distorted or loses connection independently.
The charging case or connector shows corrosion or heat damage.
The seller cannot remove the product from an account-based finding network.

Safe-use boundary

Evidence helps. It does not certify the device.

DeviceProof is a general private-sale inspection aid, not an appraisal, authenticity certificate, electrical-repair guide or guarantee. Meet in a public place, keep personal passwords private, use only known-safe cables and accessories, and never bypass an owner, activation or organisation lock. Do not open mains-powered equipment or damaged batteries. Stop immediately for swelling, smoke, burning smell, exposed conductors, abnormal heat or threatening behaviour.