MPB is a real used camera and video gear business, founded in 2011 and operating in the US through MPB US INC. Its own pages promise a six-month warranty on items bought from it, five condition grades and a 14 day cancellation right. The catch is that sellers can see a quote change after inspection, so read the terms for both buying and selling.
If you've priced up a camera lately you'll know how quickly the numbers climb, and used gear starts to look sensible. MPB is one of the names that keeps coming up, and people ask whether buying or selling there is safe. I haven't bought from them, so this comes from MPB's own about page, warranty, sell and trade page and terms and conditions, written down so you can see what's promised.
Who owns and runs the MPB site
MPB's about page says it was founded in 2011 by Matt Barker and is headquartered in the creative communities of Brighton, Brooklyn and Berlin. Its US company information page lists the legal entity as MPB US INC, with a trading address in Brooklyn, New York. That's useful, because it means the US site has a named company and a physical address you can quote if you ever need to.
The about page also says MPB recirculates over 570,000 items a year, which gives you a sense of scale. It's MPB's own figure, so I'd treat it as the company's description rather than something I've verified independently.
How MPB checks used gear
According to the about page, MPB's product specialists inspect all used gear, and each item comes with a six-month warranty. Prices reflect make, model, cosmetic condition and the market. In its terms, MPB uses five cosmetic ratings, listed in order: Like new, Excellent, Good, Well used and Heavily used.
- Like new looks essentially unused, with almost no wear.
- Excellent shows minor wear to the body or casing.
- Good shows noticeable wear to parts such as grips or ports.
- Well used shows clear wear and light scuffs.
- Heavily used shows significant wear, heavy marks or scuffs.
Cosmetic ratings describe how it looks, not a promise about how every part performs, so read the listing details for each item and check what's included in the box.
The MPB warranty
MPB's warranty terms say the warranty runs for six months from the time you first buy the item, and it applies only to items bought directly from MPB US by the first purchaser. It covers defects in material and workmanship when the item is used normally. MPB chooses the remedy: repair, a like-for-like replacement or a refund.
There are limits. The terms exclude consumables such as batteries, normal wear and tear, and damage from causes such as water, shock or misuse. Items sold for spares or repairs in a stated faulty condition are also excluded. Return shipping is covered, via a label MPB provides, only for customers in the United States. Keep your receipt, because you'll need proof of the purchase date.
Cancelling or returning an MPB order
Separate from the warranty, MPB's terms say you can cancel an order within 14 days of receiving the item, and you need to send it back not later than 7 days after you tell MPB you're cancelling. If you change your mind about a lens, tell MPB in writing straight away and keep the packaging.
Selling or trading in your camera kit
MPB's sell or trade page explains the steps. You get a quote by choosing a model and its cosmetic condition. Shipping is free and insured via FedEx Ground, and a specialist inspects the item. The page says MPB may increase or decrease the quote after that inspection, and that you're paid within days of MPB receiving the gear.
That inspection step is the one to plan for. Take clear photos of the gear before you pack it, be honest about condition when you choose the rating, and keep the shipping receipt. An accurate rating is the best way to avoid a changed quote.
Want AI doing the heavy lifting in your marketing?
I build the systems that handle the boring 80 percent, so you get your week back. Done properly, with the human kept in.
How MPB pays sellers
MPB's terms say sellers are paid by ACH transfer and that you enter your bank details through a secure link. Ownership of the item passes to MPB when it processes the payment, not when the money reaches your account. The terms also say that if correct payment details aren't provided within 3 months of the item being checked, MPB may take ownership of the item without further payment. So respond to payment emails quickly, but only through the official MPB route.
Spotting fake MPB messages
Because sellers hand over bank details, scammers love this kind of business. Be cautious of messages offering to buy your gear through a chat app, or asking you to pay a fee to release money. Go to the MPB site yourself instead of clicking a link, and check your account for the order status. If you're thinking of making photography a business, my guide to how Amazon Vine reviewers get products shows one route to free gear, and whether Etsy is legit is worth a look if you plan to sell prints.
MPB at a glance
| What I checked | What MPB's own pages say |
|---|---|
| Who runs it | Founded in 2011, US entity MPB US INC |
| Inspection | Specialists inspect all used gear |
| Condition grades | Five, from Like new to Heavily used |
| Warranty | Six months, bought directly from MPB US |
| Cancel an order | Within 14 days of receiving the item |
| Seller payment | ACH transfer, quote can change after inspection |
Is MPB worth using?
MPB is a real business with a named US company, a written warranty, a published cancellation right and a clear process for selling. The catch is in the details: the warranty covers only items bought directly from MPB US, quotes can change after inspection, and you need to supply bank details promptly. If you try it, choose the condition grade carefully, keep your receipt and photos, and read the terms for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Is MPB legit?
Yes, it's a real used camera gear business founded in 2011. The US site is run by MPB US INC, and its pages describe a six-month warranty and inspection of all used gear.
Does MPB have a warranty?
MPB's warranty terms say it runs for six months from purchase and applies to items bought directly from MPB US by the first purchaser. It covers defects in material and workmanship in normal use.
Can I return something I bought from MPB?
MPB's terms say you can cancel within 14 days of receiving the item and must send it back not later than 7 days after telling MPB you're cancelling.
Can MPB change my quote?
Yes. MPB's sell or trade page says specialists inspect your item and may increase or decrease your quote if necessary, so rate the condition carefully.
How does MPB pay sellers?
Its terms say sellers are paid by ACH transfer using bank details entered through a secure link. The sell page says you're paid within days of MPB receiving the gear.
