That depends.
Sometimes refurbished laptops might even be better than a brand new laptop. That is certainly the case as it relates to affordability.
In technology a refurbished device is not the same as cheap laptops no matter what some people might think.
Consider refurbished cars for example. When I asked a friend about his own desires in refurbished cars here is what he had to say.
His response?
- 1965 – 1969 Shelby Mustang, GT 350 or GT 500
- 1964 – 1967 A C Cobra, 427 Cubic inch engine
- 1966 – 1972 Chevy Chevelle, SS396 or SS427, two-door
However, if you are one that needs to “keep up with the Jones” as it relates to your technology buying refurbished computers is probably not your best choice. When income is the focus a refurbished laptop gives you all you need.
Now we return to our comparison question between refurbished and new computers or laptops.
Generally speaking, yes for a number of reasons.
• Guarantee
• Affordability
• Value
• Excellence
It is not the unit that needs to be in question but rather where that equipment was refurbished at.
*** Guarantee ***
Companies that provide refurbished computers would benefit greatly from providing a guarantee with their equipment. A number of them do.
How does this increase value?
Because a guarantee, even a 90 day guarantee, lets the buyer know that the company is willing to stand behind the product that they bringing to the market. Therefore, if support becomes necessary with the purchase the customer can know they are covered. Even if it is in prime condition and will last “forever” I personally would be wary of refurbished computers where any type of guarantee is exempt. If something goes wrong you have nothing to fall back on except a brand new computer purchase.
*** Affordability ***
This was something we addressed earlier. This may very well be the most import piece of the refurbished laptop purchase puzzle.
In most cases, refurbished units simply cost less than brand new devices. If the budget is the issue then be sure to consider the advantages of refurbished as long as they carry the guarantee I just spoke about. Even better if they offer an extended warranty of some sort, generally speaking I avoid such options but not with refurbished computers.
*** Value ***
Refurbished laptop computers can come with many more options for far less cost compared to that of a more expensive new laptop.
This again depends on you and your individual circumstances. It is quite possible for you to just secure the basic necessities at a much lower cost than new, or if your pocket book will handle it you can get more value for less.
The bottom line here is that you have options that are opened up and made available which are not necessarily present in a brand new device because of the issues of expense.
*** Excellence ***
A refurbished laptop and the word excellence, how can that be?
Again it depends on the person or company providing the unit. However, it would be my own belief that those who want to receive referrals and future business for their efforts are going to do whatever they can to get people talking about their work. To that end, if they were to bring to market second hand equipment they would only be hurting themselves.
High quality products come from companies that understand this approach
*** Summing It Up ***
I call this my GAVE approach because I GAVE myself a break while I GAVE myself the technology I needed within the refurbished laptops that I purchase. Isn’t it time that you GAVE yourself a break too?
To put it another way, I GAVE up on high priced expensive laptops in favor of affordable refurbished laptops while finding a great place to read about affordable laptops at BuyComputerAccessories.org. If you’re like me and want affordable technology that is not necessarily used computers then you owe it to yourself to check these people out for all your refurbished laptops.
