Guide
Buying used
One list, linked from every CeX and eBay row. Not per-model fluff. Meet in person where you can; fly it before you pay when they will let you.
Gimbal play
Power on, let it finish the tone. The camera should hang level and not grind. A bent ribbon or a knock in transit is the expensive fault. Avata does not have a Mini-style 3-axis gimbal — skip this check and look at the lens and guards instead.
Battery cycles
In DJI Fly, read cycle count on every pack. Swollen cells are a no. A Fly More with two tired packs is not a bargain. Plus batteries can change UK class on a Mini — ask which pack is in the airframe.
Propellers and arms
Hairline cracks at the hub, chewed tips, floppy arms. Props are cheap; a folded arm that will not lock is not.
ND filters and front glass
Missing ND is a few tens of pounds. A scratched front element is the picture. Mini 4 Pro filters do not fit Mini 5 Pro.
Controller pairing
Confirm the RC in the photo is the protocol this airframe speaks (O3 vs O4, RC-N2 vs RC 2). A beautiful RC 2 does not fly a Mini 3 Pro. Ask them to bind it in front of you.
Logs and account
Stolen drones get brick-traced. Ask for original invoice or DJI account transfer. Care Refresh is usually tied to the first owner.
Then look at the spec for the model you are actually holding — used photos lie about which Mini it is.