We all need up-to-date computers for our professional and personal lives, but buying new can be incredibly expensive. With just a little research, you can buy a refurbished computer that will not only save you hundreds of dollars but can also be more reliable than a new one. 

What Are Refurbished Computers?

A refurbished computer is better than simply a used computer. It has been reset, cleaned, tested, and upgraded by professional technicians—not on an assembly line. This means the computer has had more dedicated attention and thorough testing by human hands and eyes, which translates into a more reliable machine than even many new computers.

Many refurbished computers were never even used in the first place. A customer may have cancelled an order, or a company decided that the computer was not the best fit. Many other refurbished computers are only lightly used and are resold because the user upgraded to a different system. However, retailers cannot sell these machines as “new,” so they’re sold as “refurbished.”

The common belief that refurbished computers are defective is not necessarily true. Certified refurbishers subject their used computers to the same testing as new machines, ensuring that used computers perform just as well as new ones at a fraction of the cost. Here is your guide to buying a refurbished computer that fulfills all your computing needs. 

Tips for Buying a Refurbished Computer

Tip #1: Buy From a Certified Refurbisher

The most important consideration when researching refurbished computers is to buy from a trustworthy seller. Only buy refurbished computers from the manufacturer directly or from a certified refurbisher. The Microsoft Registered Refurbisher directory provides an easy-to-use searchable database of trustworthy refurbishers and their websites so you can find a trustworthy seller in your area.

A trusted local refurbisher is an excellent source of refurbished computers. Larger companies like Amazon and Best Buy often contract with small local refurbishers and then sell their machines at a markup. Going directly to a local refurbisher cuts out the middleman, lowers the price, and often gets you better service.

Dymin’s refurbishment process involves meticulously deconstructing the machine and rebuilding it from the ground up. It includes a visual inspection, testing, installation, troubleshooting, and a stress test to ensure top performance.

The machine’s original manufacturers are also reliable sellers because they ensure that their refurbished computers perform just as well as their new machines. For example, manufacturers like HP, Dell, or Lenovo refurbish and sell their machines at a fraction of the cost of their new counterparts. 

Tip #2: Compare Prices

Most refurbished computers will be a few years old, but newer models will normally be available for a larger investment. To get a sense of the value of a computer, research the model of the refurbished machine and compare its price to other machines of the same model. It’s important to consider, however, that higher quality refurbishing companies will put significantly more work into making the computer better than new by running comprehensive tests, upgrading it, and providing a longer warranty. 

Tip #3: Check the Computer’s Specifications with Its New Equivalent

Before making your purchase, make sure you know exactly what you are buying. If a refurbisher had to replace components of the computer, they may have used less expensive options and passed the savings on to you. That can be a great advantage if that cheaper component fits your needs but frustrating if it doesn’t.

One way to assess the expected performance of your refurbished computer is to compare its specifications, such as RAM, disk space, and processing power, with that of the new version of the model. You can learn more about what different specifications can offer and how they fit your needs by reviewing buying guides put together by industry experts. Specifications can be complex, however, and it can be difficult to understand how the numbers affect a machine’s functionality. Consult a trusted expert like those at Dymin Systems about the specifications that are important for your or your computing needs. The experienced technicians at Dymin Systems are trained to help you identify the right computer for you. 

Tip #4: Protect Your Computer with a Warranty Policy

Reputable refurbishers provide a minimum 3-month warranty on their refurbished computers, and manufacturers always warranty their machines. Dymin Systems offers warranties lasting a full year on many of its refurbished products. 

Where to Start?

Buying a refurbished computer can allow you to get a quality machine without breaking your budget. As the oldest and largest full-service computer repair shop in the Des Moines area, Dymin Systems is a trusted place to start your search. Dymin buys computers primarily from businesses that frequently replace their equipment. As a result, the refurbished machines at Dymin Systems are only lightly used, typically less than three years old. Dymin subjects all its computers to the same rigorous and transparent refurbishment process. Best of all, Dymin will offer a 1-year “same as new” parts and labor warranty on many of our refurbished products. Contact us today!