When it comes time to purchase a new computer, if you’re like many people, you’re looking to get a good deal on a great machine. One way to save money is to purchase a refurbished machine. However, many people have concerns about refurbished computers, and they aren’t entirely sure what goes into the refurbishing process. Below are some answers to common questions about refurbished laptops and other computers.
Is a Refurbished Computer the Same as a Used Computer?
The short answer here is no. While a used computer and a refurbished computer are both considered “used” in the sense they are not factory-new, a used computer is just that – a computer that has been previously used. Those selling a computer as “used” are generally selling a machine that has not been restored in any way. What you see is what you get and you’re buying it as-is.
On the other hand, a refurbished computer is one that has been returned to a nearly-new state. Often, the refurbishing is done by the manufacturer itself, but third-party refurbishers sometimes will restore computers as well. Depending on the degree of refurbishing done, the computer may perform identically to a new machine, it may have some limitations, or it may even perform better than a new machine would.
Are There Different Types of Refurbished Computers?
As noted above, computers can be refurbished by the manufacturer or by a third party. While both can function equally well, those looking for something that performs as close as possible to a new machine may want to go with a third-party-refurbished computer.
Often, refurbishing involves replacing working parts, and a manufacturer refurb will involve the same parts used in that company’s new computers. On the other hand, a third-party refurbisher has the option of using higher-quality parts than those used by the original company, so you may end up with a computer that performs better than a manufacturer refurb or even some computers.
If you are considering a refurbished computer and want to find one that runs well, it’s wise to read reviews of the refurbished machines from a given company. This can give you a sense of the quality and performance of the refurbished machines.
Are There Downsides to Buying a Refurbished Laptop or Other Computer?
Buying a refurbished computer can be a way to save money while still getting a machine that performs like a new one. However, if you’re interested in refurbished computers and if you’ve seen how affordable they are, you might be wondering if there’s some sort of catch.
One possible downside to consider is the issue of battery life. While this is not always the case, a refurbished machine, since it is likely older, may not have an optimal battery life. Some refurbs may include a brand-new battery as part of the refurb, and others may not. If you are worried about it, you may want to ask the refurbishing company what goes into each refurb, and if the battery life expectation for the machine you’re considering is any different than the expectation for a brand-new machine.
Another possible downside only really applies if you like to have the newest model of a given laptop available. Generally, it will be difficult to find newer models for sale as refurbs, simply because it takes time for a new model to be sold, used, refurbished, and then put back on the market. However, if you don’t mind having a computer that is not the newest of models, this may not be an issue.
Buying a refurb can be a valuable investment and a way to save money, and particularly if you know what you’re doing, you can get an excellent deal. We at Magnify247.com are equipped to answer your questions about refurbished machines and help you deal with any technological issues you may be having.
