Does buying a refurbished laptop mean compromising on quality?
Not necessarily. However, to get a high-quality computer on a budget can be challenging. There are many factors that need to be considered. It's wise to make an informed decision based on technical factors rather than just trusting the name of a brand.
To help you navigate the process of buying a used or refurbished laptop, we have curated a checklist of key considerations to keep in mind. Whether you are a working professional, student or a casual user, this guide can help you find the perfect laptop to suit your needs.
What’s the difference between refurbished and used laptops?
Yes, there’s a difference. Used laptops are typically the ‘second-hand’ ones simply passed on by one user to another. When a laptop that has been used before undergoes repairs or restoration and is being sold again by a seller, it is commonly referred to as a "refurbished" laptop.
Whether you choose to buy a used or a refurbished laptop, it’s important that the seller is trustworthy. It might be difficult to choose the perfect gadget for you but the following list might be of help:
7 things to consider before buying a refurbished laptop
1. Operating system, processor and software:
When it comes to hardware, software, interface and utilities, Windows and macOS are often considered the most robust option for operating systems. However, Chrome OS is lightweight and works well with inexpensive hardware. Typically, they are already pre-installed on laptops.
If you plan to use your laptop for basic needs or if you are a student, an ordinary processor will suffice. But if you need it for specific usage such as video editing, particle simulations, designing and more, a strong CPU and GPU is recommended. Your budget would play a role too, ofcourse.
2. Battery life
Imagine being on the move with your device and it runs out of power with no charging outlet in sight. Highly inconvenient, right? But that’s just an example of how important a good battery life is for your laptop. Look out for the battery life of any refurbished laptop but even if a comprehensive battery check is not always possible.
You can also search for customer reviews and learn from their experience. Once you get a good estimate of the battery life, it would be easier for you to make a decision regarding your new refurbished laptop.
3. Keyboard and trackpad
Keyboard and trackpad are the most frequently used components of a laptop. Running a thorough check is crucial. If you get a chance to examine the laptop physically, check the keyboard for any broken keys and ensure that key travel is smooth and comfortable for typing. Test the trackpad by trying out the supported motions, such as pinch-to-zoom, two-finger scroll, and three-finger swipe.
However, if you are buying online, ensure that your seller is trusted enough and the hardware is properly checked from their end.
4. Weight and size
Most of us look for portability in a laptop these days. So, while choosing a new or refurbished laptop, it's important to consider its weight and dimensions. It depends on how you plan to use the laptop, really. For instance, if you want to carry the gadget around, a lightweight 13-inch laptop with optimum battery life is a great option. But if you plan to keep your laptop stationary for extended periods of time, a 17-inch gaming laptop can be the one for you.
The weight and size of a laptop you choose typically depends on your preference. Comprint has various options in varying sizes to fit your needs without you having to compromise on other specifications.
5. Other Specifications
Speaking of specifications, laptops should have the ones that give you the right look and feel along with performance. Here are some of the specifications that you can czech before buying a used laptop:
- Connectivity:
Check that the device can connect to the internet smoothly and supports wifi connectivity. You can also check its Bluetooth connectivity and the device’s performance while being connected to the internet and other devices.
- Display:
Apart from the external specifications, you should check different aspects of a laptop’s display such as brightness, discolouration, flickering etc.
- Webcam and speakers:
Check whether the laptop has a decent webcam and the sound from its speakers is not muffles or distorted. Having a properly working webcam and speaker can be helpful in virtual meetings.
- Hard drive:
A hard drive or hard disk is a device that electromechanically stores data. There are three primary types of hard drives: Solid State Drives (SSD), Hard Disk Drives (HDD), and Solid State Hybrid Drives (SSHD). When selecting a laptop, it's important to consider the appropriate type of hard drive for the activities you intend to undertake. However, it's recommended to opt for a laptop with an SSD instead of an HDD, as this provides a faster performance.
- Ports:
USB-C connections are present in almost every device. However, you can look for HDMI ports to connect to an external monitor or projector. Moreover, a USB-A port can help you connect an external mouse or keyboard if necessary.
6. Potential for expandability
If you plan to keep your laptop for a long run, it's necessary to consider that it allows component upgrades. A RAM and storage upgrade option is absolutely required but if the device has a possibility to improve graphics card or CPU, it would be even more amazing. This way you can improve the performance of your device if you wish.
7. Fit for your budget
This is by far the most crucial thing to remember. Getting a used laptop with all the required features within your budget can be challenging. Compare the specifications and prices of all the options available and make your decision accordingly.
Comprint has a variety of refurbished and used laptops from top brands such as HP, Lenovo, Dell and more. So, before you buy your next laptop, you can definitely check it out.
Online Vs offline shopping of used laptops
Whether you buy a used laptop from a verified store or offline, it is important to be cautious. Buying from some e-commerce websites may seem promising for low prices or buying from your nearest store may seem plausible because you can actually see the device before buying it. But what actually matters is the seller’s reputation, warranty you receive and the return policy.
Now that you know all the points to consider before buying a used or refurbished laptop, you can use these to grab your latest gadget. The best refurbished laptops are available both online and offline, you just need to find your right fit. For best deals and numerous options, you can check out Comprint and use the aforementioned points to choose your next laptop.
