What is a Refurbished Laptop?

Even if you aren’t a techie, you’ve probably heard the term refurbished laptop. But you may be asking yourself “what is a refurbished laptop?”. To break it down to the simplest terms, a refurbished laptop is a previously used laptop computer. However, there are several categories of refurbished computers to know about.

• Answering the question, “What is a refurbished laptop?” isn’t always simple. For instance, some refurbished computers may be simply machines that the buyer opened, looked at, and decided they didn’t want, so this PC or Mac may be brand-new, but since it has been opened, it’s considered “refurbished.” These are also called “open-box” products.
• A true refurbished machine has been used and returned to either the manufacturer or the store where the computer was purchased. If the computer is still in good shape, the manufacturer will assess the laptop, make any repairs, reset the computer to its factory settings, clean it up, and resell it. These computers can save you $100s if a brand-new computer isn’t in your budget. 
• A refurbished computer may have also been a floor demo, so it hasn’t really been used, but it has been displayed in a retail setting. 
• Sometimes, tech reviewers receive new computers to review them. Once they complete their review, they return the laptop. You may end up with a laptop that has only been tested for review purposes. 
• Lastly, a refurbished machine may be simply an overstock product that the retailer didn’t sell.

What to Know About Refurbished Laptops for Sale

Now that you know the basics of what is a refurbished laptop, there are some factors you’ll want to keep in mind as you shop. So, what should you consider when you’ve decided to purchase a refurbished computer? Here are a few questions to ask before you take your refurbished PC or Mac home.

Firstly, you need to know whether it comes with an existing OS (operating system). It will be less expensive than purchasing an OS separately and installing it yourself. Check the cosmetic appearance of the laptop. Of course, a few light scratches here and there won’t affect how the computer works, but it shouldn’t look overly beat-up or dented. 

Inquire about the battery. A refurbished laptop should have a brand-new battery installed so you can reap the benefits of long-term battery life. Some refurbished machines may or may not come with accessories. Find out if the machine comes with accessories and what they are. If the PC doesn’t come with extras, see if you can get a discount on accessories. After all, what is a refurbished laptop without a power cord, earbuds, and possibly an extra battery?

Warranties for Refurbished Laptops

Is there a warranty available or some type of guarantee to give you peace of mind just in case your computer does have a problem?

Many businesses do offer at least a one-year warranty, which is important, especially when you’re purchasing refurbished. You may never have a problem at all, but it’s good to know help is available should one occur. PlanITROI provides an 18-month warranty on all devices, longer than most warranties on both new and refurbished devices. 

Buying Refurbished Gaming Laptops

Refurbished laptops for sale aren’t just limited to computers for school or work. What is a refurbished gaming laptop? Many gamers can save thousands of dollars purchasing refurbished gaming laptops instead of opting for high-dollar, brand-new gaming computers. Since gaming computers have extra software and other additions for smooth and vivid gameplay, these computers often cost more than the average PC for everyday or work purposes. 

When you’re buying a laptop specifically for gaming, you’ll want to consider the same factors you would like to buy a regular laptop. On top of those, you’ll also want to check the processor to see if it meets your gaming requirements. Look at the display, consider the keyboard (and if a gaming keyboard is available should it not come with one) and gaming features like an anti-glare screen, an HD monitor, plenty of ports, and a powerful enough processor to handle graphics-intensive games. A graphics card is also a must. 

Should I Buy a Refurbished Laptop?

You’ve learned the essentials of what is a refurbished laptop, so you may now be asking yourself, “Should I buy a refurbished laptop?” If you’re still not convinced, here are some benefits to buying refurbished. 

Purchasing refurbished tech is an alternative to media destruction, which means it’s environmentally friendly to recycle and reuse old tech instead of simply destroying it. 

Purchasing refurbished is also cost-effective, sometimes saving you $100s to $1000s on a perfectly usable machine. You can still obtain a warranty, so you don’t have to worry about issues. These laptops have been reconditioned, repaired, and cleaned so they’re practically brand-new. You may get the same lifespan from a refurbished machine as you would a new one. 

You may get lucky and even nab a refurbished computer that’s used for much less than a new one. There are zero downsides to buying refurbished, and think of the environmental benefits.

To find your perfect refurbished laptop, visit Acer Recertified or BuyRefurbished.