Things You Should Know Before Buying a Refurbished Computer

Buying a refurbished computer is appealing largely because of the significant cost savings. But before you buy that refurbished laptop on eBay, there are a few things you need to know.

Quality refurbished laptops for sale online can provide the same power and performance as factory-new equivalents at a discounted price that’s well worth considering. Yet, not all refurbished computers are worth your money. 

There are a few important things you need to know before you buy a refurbished computer. We’ll begin by dispelling common myths about reconditioned computers, then dive into what you need to know before you click ‘checkout.’

Ignore these Myths About Refurbished Computers

Refurbished computers are largely misunderstood by the general public. You may have heard people say they’re low-quality computers that might be a dud, or that they’re merely used computers without a warranty. 

As long as you purchase your computer from a reputable refurbisher, none of the above myths are true. 

A Dell refurbished computer from the right company is actually more thoroughly tested than a computer fresh from the factory. Every refurbished computer has undergone significant testing and any components found to malfunction are replaced. Conversely, manufacturers only test a sample size of what comes off the line to determine overall quality. 

Additionally, a quality refurbisher will stand behind their work with a 90-day to 12-month warranty. Lastly, some refurbished computers were never even used, they might be an open box return that the retailer can’t resell or a return with a minor defect that’s fixed with a new component. 

What You Actually Need to Know Before Buying Refurbished Computers

How do you navigate the world of refurbished computers to find a reliable computer? A running theme in the above section is the emphasis on the refurbisher. How can you determine which refurbisher is worth your hard-earned money?

Buy from a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher (MAR)

There’s a firm line in the sand when it comes to refurbishers: whether or not they’re a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher. 

A MAR has met Microsoft’s strict requirements regarding how they acquire assets, wipe data, and install a valid operating system. Additionally, every computer sold by a MAR includes a Certificate of Authenticity to validate that the operating system is genuine. 

Anyone can start buying used laptops and resell them as “refurbished”, but the MAR certification process validates the refurbisher and provides confidence in the product you’ll receive. REFURB.io is a MAR and we meet Microsoft’s guidelines with every computer we sell. 

Pay Attention to the Grading Scale

The world of refurbished computers operates based on a grading scale. Pay close attention to the grade of any refurbished computer you purchase. The grade is directly related to the condition of the machine:

• A-grade: These computers are considered ‘like new’ and have minimal or no damage. You won’t find any dents, scratches, or other damage on an A-grade computer. 
• B-grade: A computer with this grade may have minor scuffs or scratches, and the keyboard may be worn down. You may even have hairline scratches on the screen.
• C-grade: As the lowest grade level, a C-grade computer may have significant damage to the screen or body. It’s still been reconditioned and tested, but there may be issues with the body even including dark spots on the screen. 

Many refurbishers sell all grades of computers, but REFURB.io only sells A-grade equipment. We wouldn’t be satisfied with sending damaged computers to our customers, even if they work perfectly fine. Our HP, Lenovo, and Dell refurbished computers are all like-new and thoroughly tested. 

What’s the Warranty and Return Policy?

Let’s say you’ve found a MAR and picked an A-grade computer. You’re not done yet, what’s the warranty and return policy?

Comprehensive and long warranties indicate that the refurbisher stands by their work, while a forgiving return policy means they’ll work with you if problems do appear within the stated time frame. You don’t want to buy from a refurbisher that ignores you once the sale is made. 

Many refurbishers only include a 90-day warranty on laptops and desktops. Some problems may appear within that range, but some defects take longer to show themselves. That’s why REFURB.io offers a one-year warranty on most of our laptops and desktops, and any exceptions will be clearly conveyed on the product’s listing. 

Now You’re Ready to Buy a Refurbished Computer

We’ve dispelled common myths and helped you evaluate a refurbisher. You’re now well-equipped with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision. Is the refurbisher a MAR? What’s the grade of the computer? Do they offer a long warranty and forgiving return policy?