1. 4 Things to consider when
buying a refurbished computer.
My name is David and I work with Dell. This
presentation will walk you through things you need to
consider when shopping for a refurbished computer.
For more information on refurbished laptops check
here or for a refurbished desktop click here.
2. What is a refurbished computer?
Most large computer manufacturers have a very
stringent refurbishing process. They want
customers to continue to shop with them so they
are not going to risk selling sub
standard equipment. In most cases refurbished
computers will be identical to it's brand new
counter part. Occasionally they will come with a
minor scratch but usually even that is fixed before it
is sent to you. Shopping for a refurbished computer
gives you the benefits of a practically new machine
for the price of a used one.
3. #1 Consider Functionality
There are two main reasons a computer would be considered refurbished.
The most common reason is that it was sent back because a customer
changed their mind. If a customer returns a computer within the warranty
period the manufacturer will resale it as a refurbished machine even though
there was never anything wrong with it. They can't sell them as new because
they have been opened at used slightly for a short period of time.
The other reason a computer may be considered refurbished is if it came with
defective parts. A defective part could be anything from a RAM module to the
motherboard. When the manufacturer gets these computers back from the
customer they replace the faulty parts with brand new ones or if it is
an installation problem then they do a proper reinstall and you basically have
a brand new machine.
Manufacturers also test for like-new functionality before selling. They do not
only test the replacement parts, but everything else as well. You can expect
refurbished computers to function just as well as new ones.
4. #2 Check the warranty
Just like any other computer purchase, the warranty
matters. Large companies will almost always offer
the same warranty on refurbished computers as
they do on their new products. This really takes the
risk out of buying a refurbished machine. Make sure
that you buy your refurbished machine from the
manufacturer rather than a reseller. This helps
insure the warranty is in place. Ash questions about
the warranty so that you are certain you are getting
exactly what you think you are.
5. #3 Compare prices
Computer manufacturers have strict guidelines of what they
can and can not claim as new product. If a customer chooses
to return a computer after the package has been opened the
manufacturer must mark it as used or refurbished.
Manufacturers know that their customers will not be willing to
pay full price for something that is marked used or
refurbished. They don't want to hang on to extra inventory
waiting to find someone willing to pay a higher price so the
will offer deep discounts on refurbished computers. Typically
a 20 percent discount off the price of a new computer but if
you shop around and compare prices you can sometimes find
even better deals.
6. #4 Check that all accessories are
included
When you are buying a refurbished machine can you
expect all the pieces to be included? The answer is yes. If
you buy a refurbished computer from the manufacturer
the will provide you with everything that the original
computer came with. Things like user manual, original
documentation, all the power cords and accessories can
be expected. Make sure you ask what will be included so
you don't run the risk of something being left out.
If you follow these steps there really should be no risk in
buying a refurbished desktop or laptop computer.