I bought a used camera from MPB.
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- Опубліковано 21 вер 2024
- Best place to buy a used camera? We try to find out. In this video, I share my thoughts after a first-time purchase through the used camera seller MPB.com.
This video is not sponsored.
UPDATE 8 MONTHS LATER:
FAST FORWARD TO 8 MONTHS AFTER THIS- I tested ordering from MPB THREE more times, and all THREE experiences were perfect. The items were as described, shipping was quick, and absolutely no problems. I'd say I recommend them now and thank you to all of you that shared your experiences. It's just like the restaurant industry. Don't let one case of diarrhea stop you from returning.....Ok, maybe it's not the same.
First time here? Hi, I'm Omar Gonzalez, a professional portrait and event photographer in the NYC/NJ area. On this channel, we talk about cameras, lenses, tech, and techniques to improve our photography.
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The notion of calling customer service first is an awesome suggestion.
I use MPB here in the UK for both buying and selling and they’re absolutely fantastic. Brilliant service!😀
Oh and I get next day delivery via DPD!
Same - been using them for probably 5 or 6 years. Not a fan of selling stuff to them as they offer a pittance but you can get good prices as a buyer.
Same in germany
Me too. Brilliant service and everything as described
Me too
It is very valuable that you share your bad experiences with us. Unfortunately most youtubers don't do this. so thanks a lot.
Will post any updates here. :)
1. From you guys, this experience may be an MPB-USA issue. UK folks seem to have positive things to say.
2. Camera shipped via FedEx back to MPB on July 7th.
3. Camera arrived at MPB July 8th.
4. Refunded 7/12! Whew.
UK MPB is exceptional mate, for example the web chat thing you tried, for UK I have never seen it over 1 minute wait time and I have had to do a return via MPB, think you are right the US guys may well have a staffing issue. Glad you got a 5D mk III in the end, cheers Jim
I use MPB in the EU and they're exceptionally good. I've had packaging costs refunded when delivery times have been greater than indicated (even by as little as 1 day over). Communication is wonderful; I use either the webchat or email facility.
Same experience
Likewise. I've bought from MPB in the UK multiple times and has always been hassle-free
Same here, im in Wales and their service is exceptional, even when I had to return a camera it was easy to contact tgem via webchat and email.
They used to be good in EU , now they are acting like scammers. They lost my camera and got two months to get refunded , after tons of emails, delays and excuses. I would stay away from them in their current state
i just had my fourth transaction with MPB UK had a little prob with the gear i part exchanged but when i pointed out i had bought i from them 10 wks earlier & was still under their guarantee , sorted & all new gear to me in 7days :)
I’m from the UK and I’ve never had an issue with MPB. In fact, I just bought a lens from them on Wednesday evening and it arrived on Friday, and was exactly as described. It sounds like their US venture isn’t going to plan, but it’s important to stress that here in the UK their operation appears to be meeting the high level of expectations that we expect.
which other video-photo equipment shop (online) in UK will you recommend apart from mpb?
@@ebentechstudio Park Cameras, Wex Photographic, Camera World have all been good for me.
@@ebentechstudio ffordes photographic.
I had a great experience with MPB in the US. I ordered a used lens, and it arrived on time and in even better condition than I expected at a better price than I could find anywhere else. I use the lens daily and love it.
Still using that lens and did you order again?
Hi Omar. Thank you for taking the time to share your recent experience with MPB.
We want to apologize for the delays and lack of communication you encountered during this transaction, which is not the experience we want for any of our customers. We would welcome the opportunity to address the points you’ve raised and hopefully provide more context behind the issues you encountered.
We recently updated our entire platform to improve overall usability. In making necessary enhancements to our back-end systems to support these changes, we encountered unexpected delays for some customers at our US facility. We also experienced increased demand after relaunching the site, which is why you found it very difficult to get through to a person when contacting customer service.
We pride ourselves on our knowledgeable and friendly customer service, so it was heartening to hear that you found this to be true once you were in contact with us, but we clearly must do better to ensure that we are there for you and all of our customers more quickly and proactively.
Thank you for your patience as we build an even better platform for yourself and others to continue to buy, sell and trade with MPB.
Interesting to know your experience. So far almost all my used gear I bought via MPB here in Germany. The quality and communication so far has been very good. Plus all the gear in very good quality. Same goes for selling as well 😎
Hi there, I can only second this comment, all fine here buying in Germany from MPB UK. And you get - German speaking - humans in Berlin on the phone 🙂
I agree. Greetings from Munich
@@tomleo4670 WHy do you buy from UK? Since Brexit they ship from Berlin.
@@thorstenbrand4803 uups, didn‘t know that.. see it‘s a while I did business with them.. thanks a lot for this valuable tipp! dankeschön 👍🙂
I used Mpb in the UK recently to buy a Fujifilm x-t2. The camera was delivered quickly and was in, as described, perfect condition.
Same, my son bought an x-t2 on Wednesday morning, arrived Thursday afternoon, all good
I also purchased an as new XT2 from MPB in the last few weeks! Seems these are still really hot cameras! Lol I’m using it over my XT4 at the mo! I think there’s something special about the IQ on that sensor better dynamic range on the older model! I’ll keep my eyes out for a second XT2 I think! :)
I’m glad that MPB shows the actual item you are purchasing. It has saved me time and headache in a few instances. They will list cameras in “excellent” condition with clearly shown scratches, parts missing, etc. They also frequently mislabel products (eg had the mk1 Fuji 27mm listed and priced as a mk2, again “excellent” condition but the lens markings were completely worn off and there was a very visible scratch on the glass).
Hi Omar, I've used MPB in the USA several times, to sell and buy cameras and lenses (used the trade in option as well),I've had no problems with the transactions. I noticed though that during covid they had longer times than before, one representative told me few months ago that they were moving stuff to a new warehouse and they also had shortage of personnel. My most recent Order was a Nikon Z6 that i got with a trade in, after some testing I noticed that the image stabilization was behaving different than my Z6II that I also have. Long story short , I returned the Z6 (they sent me the label and instructions), and I received another one with even lower shutter count that works just perfect, the return process took about 2 weeks in total. They offer 6 months warranty on their used equipment and I put it to the text with the Z6 and it passed. I picked MPB since their estimates on my lenses were a bit higher than KEH and Adorama. I read good reviews about the company before doing my first transaction with them, I wonder if they're still suffering the post covid shortage of personnel. For new equipment I always use B&H and Adorama, both stellar.
I purchased my X-Pro2 from MPB, but I think that here in Europe, it's all happening from Germany. I did pay a bit for shipping because I was in a bit of a hurry, and I got it OVER NIGHT from Germany to Denmark.
I was very satisfied with how it worked out over here!
Hi Omar - I'm in the UK and also have nothing but praise for MPB in the EU - I've bought, sold and had experience of their returns. Customer service has been flawless. Such a shame that the US operation isn't up to scratch - hopefully they will get their act together!
The UK team are very helpful and friendly
I sold a lens to them and shipped it 3 weeks ago. I still haven't heard anything so I finally sent an email yesterday. They were quick to respond saying that they are backlogged and will get to it as quickly as possible. They were very friendly about it, but I have had much easier times selling gear to KEH and other retailers. Back in May, I sold a lot of items to them and they took 6 weeks. I hate to say it, but I just can't recommend them anymore based on videos like this and my own personal experiences.
Agree mpb have lost my gear £900
I've used MPB here in the UK a few times, but never needed to talk to them in person. That is to say, the buying and selling has always been without any problems so far :)
Same here Zemi,I bought a couple of lens from them with no hassle, prompt delivery and the lens were as described. Can't fault MBP UK.
Just ordered and received a Canon 50D from MPB and my experience with them was much better than expected . My orders were shipped within 24hrs of making them and they even sent Fedex to my door to pick up a return free of charge . The return was a mistake in ordering that I made and they had no problems with that and Fedex was there the next day to get it . Customer service was prompt and my Canon 50D arrived in near mint condition despite being advertised as only "good " - I might have lucked out here ! Anyhow two thumbs up for the MPB experience so far .
The more I buy from MPB, the more smitten I become. I have so little faith in online shopping, never mind used gear. Their descriptions are spot on/understated. I’ve made 3 purchases over the past 6 months (2 in NH & 1 in my new state of FL) & my items have arrived in a very timely manner. I appreciate the fact that they need to do better on the customer service side, but it’s a place in Brooklyn & I’m rooting for them (because I’ve purchased quality items). I had shutter count questions about a camera I wanted to purchase. I had to Google the phone number & I was taken care of. (Amazon has operated in the red, in order to distort what folks see as an acceptable delivery time. That shouldn’t be anyone’s bar.)
Hey Omar, just found your channel. I purchased a used Nikon D4s from MPB a few days ago. I ordered it over the weekend and received it mid-week a few days later. I'm glad my experience didn't match yours as my first purchase. I hit them up on chat, and they were swift to respond in less than 5 minutes. I would order from them again. Keep up the great content!
I've used MPB several times in the UK and have never had any issues. In fact, the gear I've bought with them has exceeded my expectations in terms of its condition.
Me too, had all my camera bodies from them so far and absolutely no issues.
Same. You pay less and get more than other used sellers. If selling they always offer more. They are my 1st choice for buying and selling used.
I recently ordered a camera from mbp and unfortunately had a very similar experience to Omar, except worse, bc the process took longer due to trade in -> quote -> shipping -> late shipping, etc, etc.
Hey Omar, I bought a 5D Mark III from MPB (US) in 2021. Shipping was fine, or wasn’t long enough to bother me. Would be cool if you did a future video talking about the 5DIII.
Good thing you said in your video for people to comment whether they were ordering from MPB in the US or UK.
From reading comments, it looks like recency is a factor too. The people who had no issues bought in 2021 or earlier. The people who bought this year seem to be running into similar problems as you. Generally speaking.
Would be cool if you continue this series by buying from Used Photo Pro a.k.a. Roberts Camera. I’ve wondered about buying used gear from them too.
Thanks for these videos. Your knowledge and personality are great.
I also had a poor experience with MPB USA. I bought a Fuji X100F two months ago that was advertised as being sold with a charger. It came with none ! I am 100% certain that a charger was listed in the accessories sold with the camera as this was an important item for me. I thought it was simple mistake on their part and that they had left it out of the box, so I contacted them. The told me that my purchase didn't include a charger and offered to set up an exchange for one with a charger, which I refused since they did not have the same camera (color and used condition) anymore... Given the hefty price I paid for this camera I was really disappointed. I won't be returning to them anytime soon. My advice to future buyers is to take a screenshot of the product description as shown on the website before buying in case of a dispute with MPB.
On the other hand, delivery was pretty fast (2 days with fedex).
I've dealt with mpb several times over the past few years. Being on the West coast, it's hard to distinguish between KEH, mpb, Adorama, and B&H when it comes to free shipping. It always seems to take forever. Returns usually go very smoothly, and the products are generally in just a bit better condition than I expect. I trust all these companies and feel that, for online shopping, they are among the best. Flawed, but among the best.
I have had multiple bad experiences with mpb here in NYC. The last one broke the camel's back for me. I'll never deal with them again. I sent in a lens to sell to them which was a lens I bought from them, but was past 30 days, and so they offered me a price that was unfair, but I was cool with it because I waited too long. All good. We came to a price, and they even offered me an additional 5% (Yay, tongue firmly in cheek), and I sent the lens off. Now, for some background, I used the lens TWICE, in my apt, and it was in the exact condition that I got it from them. A month later, I finally get an email that they had to "adjust" the price, took a good chunk of cash from our agreement, and that was that. During that month, I was emailing and calling constantly, after about a week went by where I got the FEDEX notification that they had received my lens, and I either got ridiculous nonsense responses or no response at all, and finally, when I was emailing asking for an explanation as to why they lowered the price, I never heard from them again, and so, I just put my banking info in there, took the money, and bye bye mpb, you suck. (Sorry, I'm always trying to keep it positive, but fact is fact) I agree, their time thing, at least here in the US, is horrible, they don't stand by what they promise, and if you do a sale or exchange with them, they will take forever, and can change the deal based on whatever. For me, the biggest problem is that you will never get to speak to anyone, and rarely get an email back if there is an "Issue". My experience has been that if you fill out a form and show interest in making a purchase, trade or sale to them, they will be so nice and cool and attentive to get you to make the deal, but once you make it, they are the worst company to deal with. B&H and most other places are more expensive, for sure, but always a pleasure to deal with, and well worth the extra money, as far as I'm concerned. Especially now, after dealing with MPB multiple times. I'm certain they would say I am a "difficult" customer. Ummm, no. ;) thanks for sharing this, it is true public service and community contribution. Peace
Similar experience with a lens I sent them. Everyone needs to stay away from this company.
@@omphotonola Amen
I've had nothing but positive experiences with MPB. Maybe pin that you did it three more times in the comments so people see it? Every time I have an issue, I just call them up and I talk to a human and they handle it without issue. Excellent company to deal with. I've sold 1 thing to them now and bought almost 8 things now? I've had such a good experience that I an affiliate for them now over on my channel. Thanks for this great video as usual Omar.
Thanks Omar, appreciate you sticking up for this community. We deserve better.
I started buying and selling to MPB last fall. Was ok. Fair prices and shipping was ok. Will say that the website for transaction info is very basic and has almost no real info. Also agree that email status sucks. Used the chat and it wasn’t bad until recently when it’s hit or miss, phones are same. Email? We’ll see. Just sent an email on an sale to them and waiting for payment. Seems they have gone downhill. And don’t think I’ll buy again.
KEH and B&H are solid. In fact I’ve called KEH a few times and always get a person. Thanks. Glad you posted this Omar. Also interesting all the positive comments on MPB Europe
I had a positive experience selling my Nikon D800 to MPB in Europe (Berlin, Germany). I sent the camera for free and I includes 2 extra batteries not mentioned in my original listing: they pay me extra for these 2 batteries! Honest people, impressed by that + receive an email informing me that I am getting more money than original estimation…and paid within days of camera arrival in their office…I call that great service. I am in Belgium and this is my experience with MPB in Europe…I did not have to talk to MPB so no data if they responds to phone calls…Happy with their services.
Thank you for this excellent, fair review of MPB. During the past 2 years I have sold -a lot- of gear to MPB. Their offers have always been on the generous side of fair and their shipping and payment processes are as frictionless as it gets, especially for a city guy like me. I will say, however, that my most recent transaction with them in May was a bit ragged. It was a large sale in two shipments, the second of which got lost for a week in their warehouse. Their communications with me was poor, like here. My impression is that this is a British operation expanding to America and has become absolutely overwhelmed. I’m very glad they’re here, as the competition has clearly kicked KEH into a higher gear of smoother service. (Although KEH is still not competitive for sales to them.). I hope MPB USA gets their act together. Thanks again for this experience review, Omar.
I purchased a used camera from MPB and did not like it. I sent it back, exchanging it for a different camera. No muss, no fuss. I was completely satisfied with MPB as I have been with KEH. BTW, I love your channel and think your gallery pics are great!
I will never deal with MPB again. I received a quote on June 1, 2022 for them buying my Canon XSi camera, the 18-55mm lens, battery (I actually sent them 3 batteries) and the charger. Today is July 20th, and I am just getting the run-around on why they haven't sent payment. Originally, I told them I wanted to buy a lens and to use the money from the camera towards it...then changed my mind on buying the lens. Maybe they are upset with me and are holding payment??? I emailed them about not receiving payment (I prefer to contact businesses by email because then I have in writing what was said), and the gal that responded said she was giving my request "priority" status, but I still have not received the money. You were right, Omar...check out a business's customer service department before buying or selling anything to them! Thank you for this video!
I’ve used MPB in the UK and in the EU and they have been solid. Both for selling gear and buying. It seems the US rollout is not going as smoothly yet, hopefully things improve.
Love the "I'm recording this as well"
I totally agree with you as my experience of dealing with MPB is the same. I paid for 2 day shipping and once it was mailed took 2 days but was a few days before item was put in the mail. I sold some gear to them and took weeks before I heard from them and got the money. The items I have got have been ok as good as advertised or just slightly worse but they are very slow to process orders both selling or buying. In my limited experience B&H and KEH have been first rate no complaints with either.
Used them loads in the UK, always great service with good comunication. I've bought and sold and many times they've given me a quote based on my assesment and when they've received the gear they've increased their offer.
I have bought every camera from them. Superb company. Highly recommended.
Funny how the algorithm recommend me this within an hour of my first MPB purchase. Got to love those tracking cookies...
I buy from MPB in the UK. Always delighted with products, service and delivery.
Bought a Nikon Z7 from MPB a month ago. It arrived in great condition and works fine thus far. However I bought the Z mount 50mm f1.8 lens a week later and had a bit of a communication issue. The shipment was delayed due to an issue with my shipping address. I called their number several times with no answer. A day later they returned my call and I received the lens about a week later. The lens is in excellent condition as advertised. None the less, I was a little surprised with the communication delays but overall am happy with the purchase.
Omar is right about KEH. They answer the phone and are very professional although their prices are slightly higher. Personally, I prefer good customer relations with a business and will pay the higher price for that service. Will I buy from MPB again? Probably. But, if KEH has what I'm looking for I may go there first. KEH is great for selling your old gear also. Very fair and prompt with their response.
I’ve bought and sold from US MPB. Shipping does take a long time to California for both buying and selling. Two months ago it took upwards of 2 weeks for them to receive and assess, then another 3 for the payment to hit my bank. This month, the shipping went a little faster. Their estimated time is 12 days, which is close. It’s quoted less than a week if you are trading in to buy. I choose to sell to them because it’s far less stressful than eBay (I’ve had massive trouble one time and have trauma, despite hundreds of sales,) they pay significantly more than KEH, and hugely more than my local camera shop.
My purchase from them took around two weeks last year. It was a Nikon 200-500mm. I was afraid it was busted since it’s box was crushed, but it was in fantastic shape. It had a RRS aftermarket foot that’s worth about$300, which surprisingly discounted the price compared to their other listings which had stock Nikon feet. Good stuff.
So yes, they have their flaws, communication outlets are subpar, shipping is slow, but they offer good deals and offers if you are patient.
Based on my own experiences (buying cameras and lenses), I'd certainly recommend MPB in the UK. A very well put-together video! Thanks Omar.
I've bought and traded with MPB many times in the last 2 years. Most of those times were good experiences. They are slow in delivery for sure, but they are accurate in their descriptions of the cameras and lenses. I like the fact that they post photos of the actual items. When I have traded to upgrade equipment they have been fast with their responses on pricing your items. Shipping is slow when using the free option, but I would expect that. 25 days however is a bit out of line. I've never waited more that 2 weeks for a trade to be completed and not more than a week when buying without a trade. Maybe I'm the lucky one. I did however receive a Canon 16-35mm f2.8L lens that has a focus issue I just discovered this week. So I'm going to return and see how that go's. I think they are just under staffed right now in the New York facility.
Loved this video. I’ve used KEH for a few lenses, and after your KEH video about the 5D, I decided to try a used camera and got a 6D mark zero. One reason I like KEH is the customer service. My second lens was a Tamron 100-400 and the focus stopped working after 3 days. I went online to figure out the process and the “can I help you” chat came up before I could find the page myself. Within 3 minutes on the chat I had a return authorization (for repair) coming my way, and had the pdf to print out via e-mail in less than 5 minutes. After the return and they completed the fix, I received it back and have been using it for over a year now.
I've generally had good experience with KEH in recent times, but there was one time a number of years ago they really rubbed me the wrong way. I was looking to buy a Nikon DSLR body from them and inquired if it was a US Model or grey-market. The person from KEH on the phone got really irritated with me and said that it "didn't matter" and they wouldn't tell me (even though at the time it was as simple as looking for a small "USA" sticker in the battery compartment.) Of course, if I had sent a grey-market camera into Nikon for service down the road, it would have mattered a lot. It was a long time before I bought from them again. But now I mainly use them for accessories and still don't buy lenses or bodies from them still because they still don't differentiate.
Clearly MPB is great within Europe. I am 100% satisfied of their services here in France (They ship from/to Germany). Also, 2 times i sell them stuff and they come back to me with higher estimate than what i got initially. That's nice, i like !
I have used MPB here in the UK to sell some gear. They gave me the best quote by far, and getting my camera and lenses to them was super easy. I did have to chase them regarding my payment though. I called one afternoon during my lunch break, got straight through to someone. They apologised and put it down to them currently doing a stock-take. True or not I don't know but the money was in my account the following day.
Haven't bought from them yet, my photography has taken a bit of a backseat for a while. I would definitely consider them though.
Really appreciate the honesty. So many UA-camrs give good reviews to gain favor with a particular company.
I use MPB in England and I have only praise for everything they do and they are my go to first choice for used gear . I have many items over the years and just given my nephew my old Pentax to practice on , as he thought he might be having thing for photography . His father is also going to ensure his sister practices on it to. First results and everybody is over the moon .
Recycling is more than great packaging , it is seeing youngsters pick up our gear like we did with film cameras . It was also noticed how well I looked after my gear .
So , there we have it. One Pentax on its way back to Miami . I have a like new Nikon FM2n with 50mm lens . I have kept it because I thought it was the best looking camera ever built after my F2 died .
Omar , don’t give up on MPB. Whatever the cause of the two issues where you felt they let you down is not something I recognise on this side of the pond .
Thanks again for the update
I’ve purchased several camera bodies and a lens from MPB. Returned one camera body with no problems. Great place to find good used gear.
I have never purchased anything from MPB because of the number of negative reviews on their site. Others have also complained, as you have, about their poor shipping time and the poor communication. Some have complained that they have sold items to MPB and had difficulty receiving payment. Thank you for removing any doubt I may have had about not giving them a try. I agree that the have a very nice website but that is far form enough to override the poor reviews.
Hi Omar, MPB are amazing here in the UK, very fast and they always answer the phone in seconds. The updates on orders are slow, but at least they answer their phone. I’m always happy to help with MPB if you ever need. John
I ordered a Nikon D7000 on Monday, April 24th and I got the camera on Thursday the 27th. I got an email from MPB stating it was shipped. So maybe in the past 9 months from the time you made this video, they made some changes. I HIGHLY recommend MPB
I have had multiple issues with MPB in the US as of late. Items listed as “Like New” that were visibly worn, slow shipment even when paying for expedited delivery and incredibly slow processing and terrible customer service. My most recent dealings with them my product sat for over 15 days before they even bothered to check it in. Avoid them at all cost. They used to be my go to not anymore.
This seems to be what I’m dealing with at the moment.
Same here. I bought and sold several items from them in 2021 and was very satisfied with the quality and each transaction. However, more recently in 2022, my experience has been exactly what you describe. They even used to have a phone number for customer service, but now all communication seems to be handled through chat/email.
Ive had the same experience with MPB.
Yep. I emailed today and they responded quickly stating “you were advised it would be up to eleven days”. This would of been fine if it hadn’t been 14 days already. SMH.
I ordered the XF27mm 2.8 wr and they sent me the older version. Also my first order was an X-Pro 3 and I received it with a broken button, it was pushed in and stuck. You could visually see it was broken, so I don’t know how it passed the review process. Customer service never has good answers and doesn’t offer any type of compensation for the inconvenience. I’m done with them!
I can walk to my local MPB in 5 minutes and I'm a disabled 64 yr old. Used them loads and never had a problem. I have talked to support and spoke to a human and didn't wait long. I'm in the UK. I wish they had a customer desk so I could go get my item instead of waiting for the delivery. But they do tell you when your delivery will be, day and time.
I just purchased a Fujifilm 14mm 2.8 prime lens from MPB. I did pay a premium for expedited shipping ($19) for 3 day shipping. Arrived right on schedule. I did so based on feedback on long delivery times and locked into a defined delivery time. Extra cost indeed, but the price was right for the lens and it did match description. Also just bought a camera (X-T2) from Used Photo Pro. That went smooth as well. Free shipping, arrived in two days.
You know what? Your videos are always on time and on point for me. I was thinking about trying MPB because of a recent UA-cam video as well. I agree with your assessment of both KEH and B and H. I’ve bought from both and their customer service is top notch. I bought my Z6 II from B and H because of all the retailers I talked with they were the only retailer that had no problem using my 20+ visa and Mastercard gift cards I received over the years to make one purchase. Keep up the good work sir.
I didn't have a problem with MPB. I didn't call them though but I did do the online chat. It wasn't instantaneous but responded to me eventually. I traded for the first time with them used gear to them and they gave me a quote right away. They reserve the item you want to trade for once you get the shipping label provided by them. Takes about 5-7 business days for your items to ship to them and another 3-5 days or so to verify each item's working condition after they receive it and they email you a final quote which was not too far off from the first quote. Completed my payment and got the item another 7-10 business days later. Traded for fuji xf 16-55mm f2.8 and it's in excellent condition with good packaging like in this video. Took about a month if you're trading but otherwise a pretty smooth experience for me. In the process of another trade for fuji xf 33mm 1.4
I've bought several items from MPB in the UK all delivered in expected condition and on time say two or three days, great service all round.
Have nothing but praise for MPB in the UK. Have used them for both buying and selling cameras and lenses. Always found their assessment to be fair and accurate . Also postage very efficient. Seems the US side needs to sharpen up .
I used to buy from MPB all the time! They had some communication issues post-COVID outbreak and have gone through challenges. Waiting for them to get back up to speed but intend to get back again. I can tell you prior to the pandemic they were amazing! No issues. I’m sooo glad you called them out on this though!! Unacceptable as they are currently.
P.S. KEH is out of my hometown of Atlanta and of course we’re going to give you the best customer southern service 😉!
p.s.s. just bought an item for a nominal amount that I don't care to much about when it arrives. Will post an update and let you know how well it went.
I ordered a Fuji battery and it arrived within 3 days.
Hi Omar. Wow!! I must have gotten lucky. I too bought from MPB because I could see the actual gear that I was getting.
Anyway, bought a camera and lens...received it in 3days. Very satisfied! The camera and lens was even better than described. So far working beautifully! Later on bought another lens, and got thar one in 2 days! Again, impressed and everything great. Throughout the whole period, must have gotten 4-5 emails giving me purchase and arrival status etc. I even chatted with them within a few minutes when I was asking a question regarding the 2nd lens I purchased. Like I said, maybe I got lucky, but I'm super satisfied with the service and products so far. I'm sorry you had such a bad experience.
Regardless, thanks for your videos...great stuff!! Like your presentations!!
My experience with MPB in the US is pretty much the same. Whether buying, selling, or returning, a phone call was the only reliable way to get issues resolved. Another aspect worth mentioning is their shorter return window compared to KEH, B&H etc. A side topic, but I discovered a fatal flaws in a used DNP printer I bought from Adorama, but after the return period closed. It was a lesson to me that I might want to stick with things which are easier to evaluate used, like camera bodies.
I had a very positive experience from the UK branch back in 2019, 2020 when i purchased all the equipment i needed. My comment, as of the prices, is that they lean towards the top of what could reasonably be good deal, but i was willing to pay a premium for peace of mind. But i was also able to find good deals (almost steals) and make use of them, as well. The UK customer service was nice and i was able to call and speak in person. Delivery time was standard one week with DHL. The shipping costs were a bit expensive outside UK, but that had to do with DHL i suppose. After full implementation of Brexit, they opened a store in Berlin, with prices in euros, to serve their European customers, but at the same time the UK store items became unavailable. Initially the store was a bit poor, but things have improved a lot recently. The new site is fantastic and fast. The previous was sluggish and in many occasions unresponsive, to the point that transactions could end up being in trouble. Overall i regard MPB as a good and trustworthy store and having all the site issues of the past resolved, i highly recommend it.
I just sold my gear to MPB Germany from Spain and everything went smoothly. They payed me the exact price they offered. The only negative comment I have is that I had to wait almost 10 days before they confirmed they’ve inspected my gear - they explained it’s because they are so busy, then they speeded up the money transfer. I will use them again in the future for sure.
That thing with the front knob is a simple fix. It is caused by the rubber ring getting slippery from the oil on one's finger and is slipping. The solution is to simply clean it. I simply took an alcohol pad and lifted the "O" ring from the plastic knob and wiped it down all the way around, and it worked perfect after that. It took me just a few minutes to clean it, and to this day it is still working fine.
I'm in the UK and recently bought a d810 from them, in 'heavily used' condition - I was surprised how clean it was! I'd definitely use them again
I love you guys taking the opportunity for promoting sustainability. That is so important...
Hey Omar, Jose from Puerto Rico. I just subscribed to your channel. I've bought from KEH camera and never had issues as well as with B&H. To be honest, I've bought a lot from B&H and Adorama too. Haven't had any problems. The last purchase I made from B&H was a major one, which consisted of a 16" MacBook Pro. I ordered it on a Sunday, and it arrived that same week on Thursday. I ordered through a sales representative who was super courteous and patient. Everything went smoothly. Currently, I have a back order on a new Olympus camera. With B&H and Adorama, I've spoken with a human also. No substitute for that. Anyhow, I wanted to share my experience with you.
Had many an item from MPB with zero issues, always as described and so far a very happy customer.
I've used MPB a couple of times in the US, and overall have had pretty average experiences. I've only ever purchased a couple different lenses, but aside from being outside their delivery estimates (one lens arrived faster and one lens was a few days later) everything else was fine. Lenses arrived in good condition as described, packaging was well done, no complaints. Overall, it was as one would expect from any online shopping. I never had to try and contact them for service or updates, thankfully, but everything else was decent for me.
I love MPB! I’ve bought and sold so much from them. Great experience!
Actually, I purchased a Fujifilm X-e2s from KEH back in February and unlike previous items purchased there (wrapping like you showed) the camera body came in a padded zippered pouch! It’s great because I keep the camera in my tool cabinet at work (w/ 27mm f2.8 attached) and it is much safer in the padded case than just bouncing around in a drawer. Thanks for all the videos!
I have sold and bought from MPB here in the UK and have always had a great experience - fast comms, fast delivery, items exactly as described and decent prices for stuff I’ve sold to them. And when I’ve sold stuff they send a courier to collect from my home free of charge. I haven’t had to contact them personally so can’t comment on the 'getting a human' aspect! Yeah, so maybe the USA MPB is not quite up to the same standard as the one in the UK. For anyone reading in the UK I have also dealt with Harrison Cameras and Wex Photo and have had great service from them also!
Glad it worked out for you.... I was told things that never ended up coming to pass and out 70 bucks for 1 day shipping.
Hello Omar, I used mpb several times to buy and sell as well. At the beginning I had contact with mpb in UK. Meanwhile they have an office in Berlin. I have nothing to complain, prices fair, conditions good, contact by mail quick and helpful. I would recommend mpb to others so I hope that your experience is an exception….
I use mpb all the time in the uk. Exceptional service, no problems.
This was an interesting video. MPB has been my go-to for my camera stuff. Main reason is because It's always the best price and never a single issue getting what I ordered. I used to look a KEH but prices are higher and there is no telling what you are going to get. I have never sold to any of them so I can't speak to that.
MPB is a UK company. Customer Service answering calls have never been a problem for me during normal UK working hours. Great to see another video from you, though I think the problems your seeing don’t seem to reflect my experience as a UK customer.
I have bought a number of lenses and one camera from MPB in the UK. The camera was faulty on receipt and a telephone call reached a human at once and I was able to return it for another example. They sent a courier to collect the camera at their expense and I received my replacement within a few days. All the lenses have been perfect and exactly as described. I would recommend them in the UK.
Great and timely video! Omar, my experience with MPB is similar to yours. I ordered a Nikon D750 in Excellent condition. The camera is drop dead gorgeous. It was advertised as having 9 yes NINE shutter actuations. When I got it, it was more like 6950 actuations. Not bad. But not as advertised. The pop up flash didn’t pop up either. Well, I only use that feature in emergencies and as a commander. But for what I paid, $789.00 US, I felt it overpriced. So I called customer service. Took a day or so to actually reach a human. Explained everything. Ultimately they felt that the mistaken shutter count didn’t matter, nor did the flash. After some back and forth discussion and indicting I really wanted to keep the D750, I did tell them I would be happy to return it and make sure I expressed my dissatisfaction publicly. The did refund a portion of the purchase price. Eventually I got the flash to pop up. Possibly some casting flash was holding it up.
This was my second interaction with MPB. I will have to look long and hard before there’s a third.
Being a regular user of MPB in EU. I can only congratulate them for how dedicated their customer service team is.
I bought a lens once and noticed some softness on it, was quickly able to get in touch with an actual human and they organised pick-up and return at no cost and in no time.
They also made the overall experience very stress free and personal which is always nice.
MPB is always my go to choice for used stuff, excellent stuff.
which other video-photo equipment shop (online) in UK will you recommend apart from mpb?
I had been dealing with KEH, but was a bit unsatisfied with the last two transactions, so I decided to MPB a try. I sold a Sigma 100-400mm, and got a reasonable price offer, which was put toward the cost of the Canon 100-400 that I wanted. The entire process took a week; I contacted them on a Friday, got the shipping label, boxed up the Sigma and sent it to them. They had the lens by Tuesday, and on Thursday I got the email that they had inspected it and the offer was valid. I went ahead and ordered the Canon and had it the next day. So far, so good.
Literally going through this exact experience right now. Apparently, MPB thinks it is a good idea to send expensive cameras via horse and buggy from the East Coast to the West Coast. Like I want a camera after it's been swelling up in a hot truck for a month. First and last time buying from MPB and when the camera finally shows up I'm going to send it right back without opening the box. I've bought lots of gear from KEH and never had an issue!
The KEH rep used your name when addressing you --- high marks for his training and professionalism. Thanks.
I have used both KEH and B&H for purchasing used gear over the years, and always been satisfied with their service, and the products received are always as good as described if not better.
Appreciate you doing the research for us and reporting back.
I used MPB from Belgium, good notification for shipping and good delay. I had to return twice cameras, no discussion and free shipping. I wanted a Fuji XE2 (like one of my favorite youtuber), the 2 first cameras had problems with the usb connector. They explicitly tested one for me before shipping. So it was a positive experience.
Sorry to hear about your issue with MPB Omar. I’ve bought and exchanged Fuji lenses with MPB UK four times and never had any problem with them at all. Five days turnaround for a lens exchange and purchase is the longest I’ve ever had to wait. I also received multiple e-mails advising me of the item’s progress including the Courier details and exactly when the item would be delivered. I’d recommend them to anyone in the Uk. Hope you have better luck with them next time, if you ever use them again!
I have bought two cameras from MPB at exceptional prices and been very satisfied. I recently sold them a camera and lens and it took a long time to process and get paid but they made me a good offer that was much better than KEH, B&H, or Adorama. Definitely worlds better than trying to sell on eBay. Speaking of which if you do sell anything on eBay make sure you take a moment to google the address of the buyer before sending anything. I did this and it saved me sending thousands of dollars in gear to a known scam address.
That’s why I buy only from my local dealer - even 2nd hand. Was never disappointed! Impossible to beat it here in Stickholm.
MPB was solid for me here in California!
I've purchased three cameras and completed three returns and refunds from MPB, the service, communication, and packaging was outstanding for me! :)
Love how they show pictures of the cameras and show shutter count.
Omar, good information - thanks! Next time you need/want something, you might consider Roberts Camera in Indianapolis. (I do not work for or with them) Their used division, Used Photo Pro (UPP) has served me very well the last few years. Their condition ratings are very conservative and on bodies they show the shutter count. In my experience, it's a fabulous place to buy camera gear.
Great info. I had a really good experience recently with mpb. I purchased a battery grip for my Nikon D850. Came quickly exactly as described and worked fine. I didn’t have shipping issues or camera issues so I didn’t need to engage with customer service. I’ve purchased from keh a number of times and have always had a good experience. Your experience with MPB gives me pause about using them in the future.
Hi Omar, I live in the UK and have bought and sold from MPB lots. I have not had to contact them by phone as I have never had a problem. I would thoroughly recommend them, although I understand your issues. Thanks for your videos; they are much appreciated.
Probably purchased 10/15 times here in the UK and always been a perfect experience, quick delivery, very accurate descriptions of their products etc overall I highly recommend them.
Hi Omar, I purchased a Fuji 2X teleconverter from MPB (Brooklyn, USA Location). The teleconverter was ordered on a Monday, & I received the item on Thursday of the same week.(PayPal was used for my purchase.) Item was in excellent condition & functioned perfectly. Sorry to hear of the problems that you encountered & all the issues that you experienced in an attempt to resolve the problem with your Canon 5D Mark III.
I sold my Fuji Xt-20 and all my fuji lenses, and a flash to MPB ( because they were offering the best $$$) and got a fairly fast pay out of the used gear once it was received and condition verified I got the funds in my checking account asap. Good to know buying a camera from them is a total crap shoot. Thank you for this review.
I’m in the U.K. I’ve used MPB. I had similar issues to you Omar. When I did a part ex on some of my gear, they lost my old gear and then found it the next day. Communication was difficult which put me off, but the camera I did buy came within 2 weeks and was as described. I found that the lack of any updates or communication from their end put me off using them again. When I did speak to a human they were helpful. When I sent 2k worth of gear to them, I thought I’d at least get a confirmation that they had received it. Nothing. Then to find they had no recollection of it being delivered to them when my courier said it had been delivered was very worrying at the time. I had to make several attempts to get through and get an answer eventually many hours by a bot. To me if customer service is out of whack, I won’t be buying !! If they had lost my gear I’d have had to send “ The Boys” round. 😬
Thanks for this video…i was ready to buy a 1dx MarkII from MPB but have changed my mind now..thank you!
same almost going for an XT4..
used mpb in the uk for years for buying and trading in never a problem even through the pandemic the phone was answered straight away .
I use the EU mpb for buying and selling. I find them 100% reliable and easy to contact. I have sold a ton of gear and after their review they normally and more money based on their review of the gear and transfer the funds quickly.
Probably as you indicated the US branch is either understaffed or mismanaged
I haven't bought from them yet but have had excellent experiences selling 2 cameras and 2 lenses in the UK. I was so happy I vlogged about them as I only just lerned they exist this year.