Affordable Refurbished Laptops

For those who know how to fix and upgrade laptop computers, refurbishing old ones or those that are broken isn't very difficult. The screen may malfunction, or the processor or the hard drive might stop working. Maybe it's just the RAM chips. The average person probably wouldn't bother to fix her own laptop, but probably would just buy a new one. A middle ground to this is buying refurbished laptops which are readily available.

Considerations

Laptop computers are expensive. There are some cheap limited-use models, but for the most part a good laptop, whether Macintosh or Windows-based, can cost from around $1,000 to $3,000 brand new. When one of these breaks down outside of its warranty, it usually isn't the entire computer that has died. It's usually one or two components. So, individuals and companies often can fix or replace the bad component to make the laptop as good as new. Sometimes, a buyer simply will trade up a laptop within the warranty period. These computers, too, can be tested, fixed if necessary and resold.

Misconceptions

You can fix laptops yourself. The components are readily available and there are manuals both online and in hard copy to direct you step by step. Some common problems are easy to fix. If the hard drive packs up, buying a new one and installing it can take as little as a half hour. Replacing a screen takes longer, but still is possible at home. Parts are available from online stores and eBay. This is the most affordable way to get a refurbished laptop.

Types

The companies that make laptop computers, from Apple to Dell, often refurbish their own laptops. This probably is the best means of acquiring refurbished affordable laptops because these companies base their reputations on their products. Dell and Apple, for example, both certify their refurbished laptops. This means, according to Dell's website: "These systems are put through the production process again to ensure they meet all original factory specifications. We also retest each system to ensure excellent quality and workmanship standards. Certified Refurbished systems may have observable cosmetic imperfections, but they will not affect performance." Apple has the same standards.

Features

The price of refurbished laptops is significantly lower than a brand new model. Sometimes, the price can be half the retail list price. Take for example, a new Macbook priced at about $999. A refurbished Macbook with the same configuration is $799 from Apple itself. A new Dell Vostro 2510 laptop costs around $1,200, but a refurbished one costs around $700 from the company.

Identification

Other companies offer refurbished laptops as their main business. For example, RefurbDepot.com specializes in selling them. This company also claims to have refurbished certification. A recent search of the company's website shows a list-priced Toshiba Satellite laptop at $1,299 for sale at $569.95, an HP Pavillion that lists for $1,699.99 for $699.99 and a Sony Vaio that lists for $1,799.99 for sale at $599.95. There are many other places to get refurbished laptops as well.

Warning

Be sure to note the difference between "refurbished" and "used." A used laptop is simply that: a computer that was used by someone, then sold as is without any testing or fixing. A refurbished laptop has been tested and had any needed fixes made. This can be by a company or an individual.