New computers are expensive, especially if you want something trouble-free, enjoyable to use, and last many years. Whether the hardware justifies the price is an argument for another day, but one fact is clear: the high cost of premium computers makes them unaffordable for many people.

1. Refurbished vs Used

There is a big difference between used and refurbished computers. Usually, used computers are sold when they start having issues, such as slowdowns, worsening battery life, or niggling software and hardware annoyances. However, unlike phones, most people tend to use their computers for more than five years, and some expect to use up to a decade or longer!

A refurbished computer will have replaced parts that wear out quickest - such as hard drive, battery, and sometimes fans, and keyboard.

2. You Have Less Choice

Refurbished products can only come onto the market when people return or sell their existing products. Many companies tend to use their laptops for 3 years, until the official manufacturers' warranty expires, and then replace them with newer models.

For common devices, such as old entry-level laptops, that's not an issue. But if you want a fancier model, you might have to wait for a refurbished version to hit the stores.

Similarly, you're going to struggle to find the newest laptops. Unfortunately, there aren't that many people selling laptops that are less than three years old.

3. Refurbished Computers are Cheaper

If you want to save money, refurbished devices are the way to go. You can typically expect savings between 10 and 30 per cent, depending on the age of the laptop and the condition it's in. In some cases, the savings could be as much as 50 or 60 per cent if the device is quite old.

Used, non-refurbished laptops are even cheaper. However, they do not have refreshed replacement parts and won't be as reliable as refurbished models.

4. Refurbished Computers Are Not in Perfect Condition

Typically, refurbishing a computer doesn't involve replacing the case or chassis. As a result, the device you buy won't be in the same condition as a new one. Remember, somebody has already used it before you.

5. Expect Shorter Warranties

Many online stores sell refurbished computers. Typically, you will see a three-month warranty. Some sellers allow you to extend the warranty to one year or even more, but you will pay extra for that.

When we sell refurbished computers at our store, we always do warranties for one year. We had a few repairs and replacements done out of hundreds that we sold so far.

6. Refurbished Computers are Fully Tested

A part of the refurbishing process involves running the diagnostic checks to identify if all components and ports work well. If something needs attention, it either gets replaced or, depending on how difficult fixing the problem is, provided an alternative solution. For example, if a laptop has a faulty USB port, you can use ports on the other side, and if you need extra, a USB hub is the easiest way to add a few more.

7. All Refurbished Computers are Fully Cleaned

The refurbishing process involves cleaning the computer internals from dust, grime and debris. The computers also go through sterilization to kill germs and bacteria.

Since the hard drive is almost always replaced with a new Solid State Drive, you will also get a freshly formatted Operating System, with all updates and some useful programs installed.

A Refurbished Computer Makes a Lot of Sense

There's nothing wrong with buying refurbished products. As long as you do your research and understand the pros and cons, it's possible to find some great deals that offer better value than a new device.

For lots of people, buying a refurbished laptop makes more sense than buying a new one; ultimately, you're going to get a lot more bang for your buck.

By the way, we have two dozens of laptops and a dozen of desktops at our shop in Nelson. When you feel like it's time to replace your old computer and get something better, come to talk to us!