Maybe, but not necessarily.
Sometimes refurbished laptops can be even better than a new laptop. That’s certainly the case when it comes to affordability.
Some people equate the word reconditioned to be used or second-hand with the bottom line of buying cheap laptops. This is not necessarily the case.
For example, think of the plight of reconditioned cars. I asked a friend of mine what kind of reconditioned car he would be happy with.
Your answer?
- 1967 Chevy Impala, two-door hardtop, gold convertible
- 1963 AC Cobra, high potential motor
- 1964-1967 AC Cobra, 427 cu in engine
If you want the latest technology, then a refurbished computer may not be your best answer. A refurbished laptop is more than enough for those who live from paycheck to paycheck.
This brings us back to our original question of refurbished models versus new ones.
My answer, for the most part, would be yes for a number of reasons.
• Warranty
• Affordability
• Value
• Excellence
It is not the unit that should be in question, but rather where that equipment was reconditioned.
*** Warranty ***
Companies that provide refurbished computers would greatly benefit from providing a warranty on their equipment. Some do.
Why is this so important?
Because a warranty, even a 90-day warranty, lets the buyer know that the company is willing to stand behind the product it is bringing to market. So if support becomes necessary with the purchase, the customer can know that they are covered. Running out of warranty or warranty is reason enough not to consider a refurbished device. If problems arise, the only thing you can do is buy new equipment.
*** Affordability ***
This was something that we addressed previously. I would say that if you are considering purchasing a refurbished laptop, this item may be the determining factor.
Logically, a used computer costs much less than a new one with exactly the same features. If budget is the issue, be sure to consider the advantages of refurbished as long as they have the warranty I just talked about. Even better if they offer an extended warranty of some kind, I generally avoid those options, but not with refurbished computers.
*** Value ***
Affordability positions a refurbished device in more features than can be found for the same price in new units.
It really depends on what you need the most. It is quite possible that you will be sure to cover basic necessities at a cost much lower than the new one, or if your wallet can handle it, you can get more value for less.
The bottom line here is that you have options that are opened and made available that are not necessarily present in a new device due to expense concerns.
*** Excellence ***
Is it really possible that the words refurbished laptop and excellence coexist in the same sentence?
Again, it depends on the person or company that provides the unit. However, I believe that those who want to receive referrals and future business for their efforts will do their best to get people talking about their work. Therefore, providing units that are “out of date” would be a tremendous disservice to themselves.
Companies that take this business approach will do their best to produce high-quality products.
*** Summarizing ***
I call this my DIÓ approach because I GAVE ME a break while GIVING me the technology I needed inside the refurbished laptops I buy. You work hard and you also deserve a break. It’s time for you to GIVE yourself that, right?