What You Need to Know Before Buying Refurbished Computers Leave a comment

Is buying a brand-new computer out of your budget? If so, then buying a refurbished computer is the best budget-friendly solution. These reconditioned PCs or laptops cost 30-50% less compared to a new piece and are also good for the environment. However, many people hesitate in buying refurbished gadgets and electronic accessories because of several misconceptions.

If you’re considering buying a refurbished computer, then go through this blog post. We have addressed these misconceptions and tried to clear the confusion regarding refurbished devices by explaining all the important things you need to know before making the purchase decision.

Meaning of a Refurbished Computer

The common misconception is that a reconditioned computer is second-hand and of poor quality. But, the actual meaning is something different. A refurbished computer generally means the devices can’t be sold as ‘new’. As a result, they are offered for resale at discounted prices. Computers that are returned by a customer, unable to meet the standards and then restored by the manufacturer like the new, come from a cancelled order or rebuilt with new and updated components are considered as refurbished.

Process of Refurbishing

Many people fail to understand what exactly a computer goes through when it is reconditioned. It depends on the manufacturer what a refurbishment process would involve. It generally consists of a factory reset, cleaning and testing of the system. But, if the unit was damaged or faulty, repairs and/or replacement of the damaged component are also involved before the unit is sold. The process can vary depending on who is doing it. So, purchase the computer from the reputable manufacturer or an authorized dealer instead of third-party sellers to ensure that the device has undergone the appropriate level of testing.

Reasons to Buy a Refurbished Computer

• Choosing a reconditioned computer can save from 20% to 50% of the cost of a brand-new piece. If you have a limited budget, then you go for a ‘like-new’ computer to get all essential features at a comparatively lower cost.

• You’re assured of the quality of the device as it is tested and cleaned to meet the strict quality standards.

• You get better performance at the same price as the refurbished computers often come with updated software and operating system to make them like new in appearance and performance.

• Buying a reconditioned computer is a ‘green option’ as helps in reducing the amount of electronic waste by making the life cycle of devices way longer.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Refurbished Computer

Before you make the decision of purchasing a ‘like-new’ computer, it is important to consider all important aspects related to it.

• Assess your current and future computing needs before buying to get the right device. If you’re planning to get the computer mostly for surfing the net, storing documents, using social media platforms and reading your mail, then a three-year-old refurbished PC will be good for you. But, if you want to install the latest video editing software or high-end games on the computer, then go through the minimum and recommended system requirements of the refurbished piece.

• Make sure that you buy the computer from an authorized refurbisher or a certified electronics store that sells reconditioned equipment. If you make the mistake of buying used computers from a flea market, then they are likely to disappoint you with their performance.

• Go through the warranty and return policy carefully as revamped computers generally don’t offer a two-year warranty, instead, you’ll get up to two-month warranty to cover manufacturing defects. Also, pay attention to the fine print about the seller’s refurbishment process to find out whether it includes testing or not.

• Not all reconditioned PCs and laptops are good deals so doing some research will help you get an understanding of which model to buy.

Buying a refurbished desktop or laptop involves a little risk compared to a new computer, but it has some perks as well. Whenever you consider buying a reconditioned device, use this guide to consider every important factor and then make the purchase. To learn more about electronic accessories, contact RTC Electronics.