Would you buy a used computer?

Would you buy a used computer? Refurbished computers are a serious threat to retailers despite the heavily discounted varieties in the market. Most retailers offer an introductory level unit and are sometimes fortunate when discerning customers choose to upgrade.

The upgrades represent the best value for the retailer as the markup is at least twice that of the standard unit. Overall however most people stick to the entry-level package and concentrate on the best price, terms and support.

The refurbished market which normally comprises ex-lease and ex-demo computer systems is a thriving market for wholesalers and potentially a treasure trove for the astute buyer. Most wholesalers will run their ex-lease ex-demo systems through a program which involves a process called ‘bench testing’.

Bench testing involves running the computer including the screen, desktop or tower (sometimes referred to as the CPU) and the peripherals through tests for a number of days – usually three (3). During this process all historical data is removed and any anomalies with the hardware are identified. The individual components that do not pass are removed from the stock allocation and the entire system, including the replaced item, is tested from scratch.

The result is a guarantee that the equipment is working and will most probably continue to work long past the warranty date.

Warranty…!

Most refurbished computer systems will come with at least 30 days warranty and some wholesalers will even guarantee them for 90 days.

The trend with wholesalers has been to increase the base-level configuration to provide competition for new computer systems. Things like larger memory and screens as well as hard drives depending on what the original specification had been when the lease expired.

The cost is usually less than 50% that of a new system – even the basic models from retailers.

But where do I buy used computers?

This is a tricky proposition as the internet and internet classifieds are awash with 2nd hand computers. It’s always difficult to identify a leading edge bargain from a lemon.

Remembering that ex-lease and ex-demo computers are bench tested is a great start. The next step is to find an outlet for these computer systems. This is also a little tricky as most wholesalers will only sell used computers in bulk – normally a minimum order of ten (10). However, sometimes local PC shops and often some persistent web-surfing will yield a result.

For best results start with a budget then a list of specifications that represent your minimum requirement. Next, compare your ‘specs’ and budget against the Bargain computer systems being advertised locally. If you find that your budget is 60% or less and the specifications are no more than 2 generations of technology ‘old’ then you’re on the right track.

It could end up being the best buy used computer you’ll own for years.