If the phrase refurbished laptop computer units off alarms bells inside your head, don’t fear, you’re not the one one. Many of us see refurbished and used as the identical factor, however they’re really fairly totally different. That used laptop computer you see at a storage sale hasn’t been quality-tested, and could also be fairly dinged up. But a laptop computer refurbished by a good retailer has been repaired, upgraded and customarily spiffed up.
Picking up a refurbished laptop computer might prevent lots of of {dollars}. They’re additionally good for the setting, as they scale back the quantity of e-waste created. If you’re nonetheless not satisfied, worry not, as I’m not achieved but. Read on to study extra about the advantages of shopping for a refurbished laptop computer. I’ve additionally included a FAQ part that addresses any lingering questions.
More cash in your pocket
IDG / Matthew Smith
I’m going to be actual with you. When it involves refurbished laptops, you’re not going to get the newest and best {hardware}. That stated, you may nonetheless decide up a wonderfully useful laptop computer that meets your wants for an affordable worth. eBay is the right place to scope out refurbished laptops and stable offers. Most of those machines have been professionally restored by the producer and are anticipated to work like new. Let’s try the value of a refurbished unit, simply so you know the way a lot you’re saving.
Say you’re seeking to get a comparatively new, premium-quality machine. Dell’s XPS line, for instance, is thought for its high-end {hardware} and splendid, light-weight builds. The Dell XPS 9520 (refurbished) is at present on sale for $1,059 at eBay. That’s a financial savings of $540, which is 34 % off of the unique $1,599 worth. It comes with an Intel Core i7-12700H CPU, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of PCIe NVMe SSD storage. That’s sufficient energy for informal gaming in addition to workplace work.
So lengthy as you’re high-quality with final era {hardware}, you may get a reasonably whole lot on luxurious laptops just like the Dell XPS line. My colleague Mark Hachman sums it up properly:
“A refurb provides the chance to purchase a reliable laptop computer at a extra handy worth. You gained’t get caught with a ‘latest and greatest’ worth premium, however you will get the reassurance that it nonetheless works. That’s what separates it from one thing you’d discover at a flea market.”
Mark Hachman, senior editor
You’ll get a stable guarantee (if you already know the place to look)
eBay has an important certified refurbished warranty that lasts one or two years relying on the situation of the laptop computer, and covers product breakdowns in addition to malfunctions. Not solely is there no further value for the guarantee, however the laptops are repaired by both vetted sellers or the producer. The situation must be clearly listed, too (“certified” means it’s pristine and like new). I’d advocate getting a guaranty that gives full protection for at the least a 12 months. My colleague Alaina Yee, who used an reasonably priced refurbished laptop computer throughout her faculty years, shared some sound recommendation:
“Whenever someone asks me about refurbs, I usually recommend models direct from the vendor (e.g., Dell’s outlet store). I also tell folks to see how long the warranty period is. Sometimes it’s shorter than with a new laptop, so it can be worth weighing that as a risk against the cost savings.”
Alaina Yee, senior editor
Good for the setting
Refurbished laptops assist scale back e-waste by extending the lifetime of older {hardware}. As chances are you’ll already know, discarded laptops usually find yourself in landfills, which wreaks absolute havoc on the setting. Laptops include dangerous chemical compounds, which then seep into the soil and groundwater. It’s a significant drawback. So, if caring for the setting is essential to you, refurbished laptops are the best way to go.
Most refurbished laptops have been totally examined
The factor that units a refurbished laptop computer aside from “used” ones is the testing and high quality checks. If a refurbished laptop computer is returned with a defective half, it is going to greater than probably get changed with a model new one. The elements which might be in good working order, nonetheless, will usually obtain a radical cleansing. These machines are often examined by both the producers themselves or by a 3rd social gathering. Used laptops don’t obtain the identical type of care, making them a much bigger gamble so far as a working laptop computer goes.
Refurbished laptop computer FAQ
- What are refurbished laptops and the place do they arrive from?
Simply put, refurbished laptops are used machines which have been repaired, upgraded, and cleaned for the aim of reselling. They’re often open-box returns, overstock, or laptops with beauty injury (scratches, scuffs, and so on).
- What’s the distinction between a refurbished laptop computer and a used laptop computer?
This query actually will get me going, so let’s dive proper in. A refurbished laptop computer is a used laptop computer that has gone by rigorous high quality checks. Whether it’s a defective keyboard or touchpad, among the elements will get changed as wanted. A used laptop computer, nonetheless, is usually bought by a non-public vendor. Usually, there aren’t any high quality checks with used laptops, so they’re fairly darn dangerous. Always spring for a refurbished unit, because it’s extra dependable.
- What situation ought to the laptop computer be in?
Refurbished laptops must be principally freed from beauty injury like scratches and scuffs. The inside the machine must also be cleaned, repaired (when needed), and examined. I’d advocate ensuring you’re getting the proper specs, too. If you’re unsure how to do that, try our comprehensive guide on how to check your specifications in Windows 10.
- What’s the lifespan of a refurbished laptop computer?
A refurbished laptop computer ought to final you anyplace from two to 5 years, as long as you deal with it gently and sustain with any upkeep (each bodily and software-related).
- Are there any downsides or caveats to refurbished laptops?
Of course there are. In addition to beauty blemishes from the earlier proprietor, the battery might have a shorter lifespan. This is as a result of batteries degrade over a time period. That’s why it’s all the time essential to check your laptop’s battery health.
- Where are the perfect locations to search for a refurbished laptop computer?
Personally, I’d decide eBay due to the one-year guarantee. That stated, you may as well scope out the producers retail storefronts like Dell’s Outlet Store and Apple’s Refurbished Store. Just be conscious of the phrases of the guarantee or lack thereof.
Still not bought on refurbished models? Then chances are you’ll be fascinated with PCWorld’s top picks for laptops under $500, our suggestions for best gaming laptops under $1,000, or our grasp checklist of best PC laptops in every category.