There are preconceived assumptions about anything refurbished. Some people think used items are low quality and defective and thus inferior to brand-new ones. In some cases, these types of biases are true, but most of them are not. All in all, it’s understandable why people tend to stay away from anything reconditioned.
However, due to practicality or economic reasons, more people are looking into buying preloved items. This is especially true for popular electronics like computers and mobile phones. Apart from saving a lot of money, reusing electronics is an eco-friendlier decision. Additionally, the quality is guaranteed because refurbished items undergo thorough testing by the manufacturer or by experts and faulty parts are repaired or replaced.
Testing and checking are vital when reselling these items because these ensure that customers get the best-conditioned gadgets. If you’re looking to get a refurbished computer or any electronics yourself, here are some tips to guide you.
Do Your Research
If you are working with a budget, think through the decisions you’re about to make. Nail down the basic stuff, like why you need a computer (whether a desktop or a laptop) and specs, to name a few. It may tempt you to buy the first cheap refurbished computer that goes your way without checking what it can do.
For example, you need components with ample computing power to edit videos or play certain games. Some reconditioned computers may only have enough juice to open a word processor or spreadsheet, and anything more than that can lead to a lag or blue screen.
Plan what you want to get, and research the requirements. Consult resources like the internet or tech-savvy people to ensure you’re making the right decision.
Know too that some refurbished-unit prices may be higher than those of brand-new ones and have longer warranties. Lastly, if you plan to buy online, look out for coupons to help you save more.
Buy from Trusted Sources
These days, it’s easy to claim that computers for sale are refurbished and certified. If you want to get your money’s worth, buy from trusted refurbishers only. Authorized sources have strict protocols to test each computer to ensure they’re up to standard and to fix any defect.
You can expect quality and peace of mind when you buy from a qualified refurbisher. Additionally, refurbished machines do come with a warranty to cover any problems. Make sure to take note of how much time the warranty covers.
Have Enough Budget for Peripherals Too
Buying a set is all well and good until you find that other components are not to your taste. Buying a refurbished computer often means just buying the CPU, or the brain of the computer. All other parts are either brought brand-new or secondhand.
If you are doing the latter, consider getting a computer monitor that’s refurbished as well. You may find good deals on perfectly working units that are fairly new. Check the store’s stock, or ask about a certain model.
Check the Operating System
Most refurbished computers are restored to factory settings. They do not come with software installed, but if they do, check what operating system they run on.
Some may have older operating systems, but if you plan to use the computer right away, it’s best to prepare. You’ll know whether you need an image CD or disk cloning. Buy the individual licenses as needed to proceed without a hitch.
Make a Checklist
All that research and planning will be for nothing if you don’t follow them to a T. Before you get overwhelmed by the choices and the pressure of making decisions, make a checklist to guide you.
Apart from what was mentioned above, you should remember to read the fine print. Learn the product’s history, check the seller’s return policy, and inspect the cosmetic damages on the unit. There are plenty more, so here’s a checklist to help you.
Bottom Line: You’re Helping the Environment
Extending the life of a gadget means fewer of them get dumped in landfills; therefore, there’s a less environmental impact. As more and more people are looking into refurbished electronics, the attitude toward them is changing. All things considered, you may not be getting a fresh unit, but you save money and protect nature by buying reconditioned devices—it’s a huge win for everyone.
