What are the negatives associated with buying a used computer?
Sunday, April 18th, 2010 at
9:36 am
My lap top is broken and I want to buy a new one. I’m considering buying a used one because it’s much cheaper. I will not finance a new computer or put it on a credit card. Is this a really bad idea? Thanks!
Tagged with: bad idea • credit card • lap top • new computer
Filed under: Used Computers
Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!
To me, buying a refurbed laptop is like buying a used car. You are picking up someone elses troubles and potentially something you’ll end up replacing again in less than a year.
You’ll have limited warranty, if any, on what you get. You have no idea how often the system has been used so drives could be soon to fail, or the batteries won’t last long (one of the first things to go).
It is most likely that it is out of date already and therefore really slow. Or will be too slow for newer software. Or not enough memory or disk.
While you may think you are saving money, it may cost you more in the long run.
Unless you know the source of the laptop I would stay away.
My $.02 worth
The biggest disadvantage is the warranty will probably be expired. By paying less for a refurb or used laptop you assume the risk that it could fail in a short period of time and you would have to get it repaired out of pocket. Also make sure if you do decide to get one, make sure who you buy it from states the condition it is in so you know what you are getting.
If you want to use your laptop on the go, that would be a bad idea. Normally used batteries don’t last long. Even new batteries may be lousy if it’s too long from the manufacturing date.
i think that’s a bad idea…..
no one would sell away good laptops for half rates.