How to Evaluate a Used Computer for Potential Purchase

Buying a used computer makes sense when price is your primary consideration and you are savvy enough to accurately diagnose problems yourself. Although you will sacrifice speed (and perhaps life span of the mechanical components), the quality of a used $2,000 computer might give you better value and longevity than a computer built to sell new for under $1,000.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Credit Cards And Loans
• Used Computers

1. Find out what hardware components are included, if any, such as keyboard, mouse, speakers, microphone, monitor, and printer. Find out if the seller will sell just the components you want.

2. Find out what hardware is inside the computer, such as sound card, video card, CD-ROM drive, modem, and number of SIMM or DIMM (RAM) sockets and how many are in use.

3. Ask if parts have been repaired or replaced. Major components that have been replaced add to the longevity of the machine.

4. Make sure computer is upgradable (it has expansion slots for different types of cards; RAM can be added; the processor can be upgraded; and so on).

5. Test computer to make sure all functions are working.

6. Figure out what you will have to buy to make the machine as functional as a new one.

7. Make sure the computer's operating system will run any software you have or wish to add now or in the future.

8. Find out if any application software is included.

9. Be aware that people selling computers privately often do not do their homework and, therefore, ask exorbitant prices. Many models or configurations advertised in classified ads are available new for a lower price!

10. Understand that a retailer will charge more than an individual for the same machine, but may offer you a warranty and the safety of using a credit card.

11. Ask if the seller owns a transferable warranty or service agreement.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are a college student, make sure the computer meets your school's minimum requirements.
• Used Pentium (Windows) and PowerPC (Macintosh) machines are available for $200 or less; don't buy anything older.
• If you have some components already (a monitor, Zip drive, printer), make sure that the computer is compatible with them.
• Most software licenses do not allow software to be copied and resold. You will break U.S. law by using unlicensed commercial software. In addition, you'll have no back-up disks or technical support and won't be able to buy upgrade versions.

[russellcox]

on 3/13/2009 You make some very good points. I found this article just in time. I'm in the market for a desktop. I'll consider a used one instead of a just going to Best Buy.

[jogold]

on 2/28/2009 I would purchase a used computer if it's close to being new and I knew the reason the person was selling. But then again, I can fix computers myself so I am fortunate. You may wish to have a knowledgeable technical person with you through the process. And take your assistant to lunch or something in exchange for their advisement!

[theperfectfit]

on 1/15/2009 I would not buy a used computer. Individuals who their computers very rarely know anything about the computer. Caveat Emptor! Let the buyer beware.

[Whitty]

on 12/23/2008 Do not buy a used computer if you can help it unless you are going to use it as a lab rat! Besides, if you can save to buy a name brand shirt/pants you should be able to do the same for a new computer. Overall, sound advice.

on 11/22/2005 Make sure the used computer has the system disk, and/or the manufacturer restore disk, or you may find yourself with a handy doorstop in a few months if files become corrupted. Also, check to see if it's an upgrade disk, without the original system software. That disk is just a pretty coaster for your coffee cup.