Used Computers (Desktops/Laptops)– What To Look
For?
Author: Christophe Catesson

Nowadays desktops and laptops are much more durable and
dependable that they were just five years ago. Therefore, buying
a used or refurbished computer is becoming more of a trend.

Suppliers replace their computers on average every 6 months and
companies frequently upgrade their equipment. Buying one of
these used or refurbished computers can save you a lot of money
while still using a quite up to date technology. This is even
more relevant if you are not a heavy user (i.e. most of your
time on a computer is spent online, you may use a few standard
applications once in a while). Even modestly priced computers
will more than suffice for these types of demand.

Thinking about buying a used or refurbished desktop or laptop?

Buying a computer is not at all an easy job, one has look get
detailed information of the available computers of good and
reputed brands. One must take into consideration the size,
color, configurations, features etc… While your computer should
correspond to your personality and lifestyle, you should always
keep in mind the reputation of the brand in the market. Brand
counts a lot; you can render good service by the manufacturer if
your computer is damaged.

Important handy Tips before buying a computer...

* Verify if the brand is reputed and always buy a good reputed
brand. Read about customer service experience for that specific
computer issues.

* Check the warranty/guarantee of the computer (seek out
computers which still have warranty/guarantee remaining)

* Compare the price of the new model in the market with what
price your buying your used computer, try to get the best
bargain. i.e. a two year old computer should not be bought for
more than half of its original price.

* Check if the computer is outdated (if out of production it is
difficult to get spare parts)

* Is the operating system current (Windows Vista/Windows Xp).
Earlier versions probably run slower (windows 2000) and would
not be advisable unless your needs are limited (i.e . web
surfing, Word...). In any event, stay away with computers
running on Windows 98 (granted you don't find many anymore).
Also be aware of Windows Vista. Many users are reverting back to
XP and that is even more obvious in the corporate world. Why?
Vista looks nice but doesn't bring many technical improvements;
therefore IT managers are not willing to implement something new
when what they have works just fine. Some domestic users just
don't like the new way of navigation within the Vista Operating
System.

* Check if the configuration of the computer you are buying is
good.

* Check the speed of the processor. If possible start the
computer and see how long it takes to fully turn on. If its slow
just turning on, imagine the lack of speed once you start adding
software..

Additional Tips for laptops

* Is the battery life good? (search for the computers with a
very good battery backup).

* Check for the screen size of the computer your buying and see
to it that it is not exceeding the Normal (normally the screen
size should be between 15-17). Less than that generally
translates in older computers and increases the chance of age
failure. Once the screen breaks, you are often better of
changing the whole computer.

* Review the connectivity of the computer (Network, USB, Video,
Audio…) look to it that it has a good connectivity including
wireless.

* Check out the weight. Ensure the computer is light enough for
you to carry.

* More details at
http://www.bestlaptopsreviews.com/index.php/Used-Notebooks.html

Where to buy used computers:

* Online auctions. Pro: Often offer the best prices. Cons:
Cannot validate the accuracy of the described item. No warranty.
Tip 1: Some companies will offer warranty for up to two years,
the cost is about 12% to 18% of the purchase price. Tip2: Buy
from sellers with great feedback, do not hesitate to contact the
seller with questions prior to bidding.

* Online marketplaces: Pro: Set prices and quantities -
Sometime warranty is available. Cons: Prices can vary a lot, do
your homework.

* http://Craiglist.com Contacting sellers on
http://Craiglist.com in your local area gives you a chance to
meet with the owner and physically test the computer before the
purchase

Where to buy refurbished computers:

Refurbished computers can be a great way to buy as they have
warranties and are generally sold by manufacturers or companies
affiliated with them.

* Manufacturers websites will tell you how to buy directly from
them or from their authorized sellers. Pros: Warranty,
established companies. Cons: Prices are higher than regular
auctions (you pay more for peace of mind)

Buying a used or refurbished computer can be a great way to
save money. If you use some of the advice discussed above you
can avoid many pitfalls. One last thing concerning laptops, make
sure you have a good bag to protect your computer from a fatal
accident. Your bag should be big enough for a 17 inch screen
computer as it is rapidly becoming the norm, you will probably
change your computer within a few years, the bag you may keep a
lot longer.

Good Buy!


About The Author: Christophe Catesson - Communication Manager
for http://www.bestlaptopsreviews.com. A source of unbiased
information on laptops/notebooks.