What To Look For Before You Purchase A Refurbished Computer



Posted: Tuesday, January 26, 2010

by Raj Sangrashker
PC Tech Outlet

Refurbished desktop computers are giving consumers a cheaper alternative to brand new desktops and laptops. In a time when everyone is scrambling for ways to save money and bring down expenses, it is really wise to consider purchasing refurbished computers. However, it is also not surprising that many people are afraid of reconditioned or Used Computers because they think that these units would easily bog down. So, here are some steps that you might want to follow to ensure quality used computers.

The first step is to determine where you will use the computer. The components that you will need and the amount of RAM or type of processor that you will require depend on your reason for buying a computer. You cannot expect that all the refurbished desktop computers that you buy will have all the components and specifications that you need. If you are going to use it for gaming, make sure that you have a compatible video card and a RAM that will enable you to run PC games. If you are planning to use it to check your email or surf the Internet, then a modem or a NIC, Network Interface Controller, is necessary. Therefore, the second step in buying refurbished computers is to know the hard drive capacity, RAM, and the specifications of the unit that you are eyeing on. It is also important to check the system requirement of the software which you will use.

The third step is to test the PC before you buy. Do not be afraid to test as many refurbished desktop computers as necessary. You want to make sure that you are not buying a lemon computer and the only way to do that is to see if the hardware components, as well as software, are working perfectly. Also, be sure to ask the seller of the refurbished computers for warranty and return policies. A warranty of six months and above is a fairly good deal when it comes to reconditioned desktop computers or laptops.

Even if you are purchasing refurbished desktop computers, it does not mean that you will need to buy new ones every time you want a software upgrade or you have found new uses for a computer. Thus, the last step is to determine if your cheap computer is open for further upgrades. It is also important to know what if the software you are going to buy or use is compatible with your short-listed refurbished computers.

Cheap Computers , Used Computers , Refurbished Computers

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Top-level comments on this article: (4 total)
» left by Christy Ritterbeck
 2 years 122 days ago.
5 fans.
This was a very informative article. I am one of those people who are afraid to buy refurbished stuff. You have opened my eyes.
» left by Jack H. Schick
 2 years 121 days ago.
99 fans.
I will keep the information in mind when I look for a computer, thanks.
» left by Harlan Foster
 2 years 121 days ago.
11 fans.
Raj:
 
It has always been a question in my mind that when I'm shopping online for a different machine why I keep running across Refurbs and Reconds. I read some information but it left me with more questions. I think your advice in this article is more for the tyro... the beginner and not for the more experienced. Nonetheless, I found your information useable and use it I shall. Thanks
» left by Walter Peterson
 2 years 117 days ago.
4 fans.
Grat points to bring-up. I have found with electronics is, that if it works initially, it will probably work for its reasonable life cycle. Electronics either work or don't work.
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