The Typical Savings When Buying Refurbished
Savings When Buying Refurbished
When shopping for electronics, you may see refurbished options available. These products are re-packaged and sold at a reduced price, which makes them an attractive alternative to buying new tech. While some consumers shy away from buying refurbished items, it’s a great way to get quality devices at a fraction of their retail price.
The typical savings when you buy refurbished are significant, according to a survey by Wakefield Research in 2021. For example, Apple’s refurbished iPhone 11 Pro with 512 gigabytes of storage costs $829, which is $370 off the device’s retail price tag. Similarly, Dell’s refurbished Latitude E6420 laptop with an Intel Core i5 processor sells for $269, while a brand new model would cost $1,788.
However, the biggest benefit of refurbished technology is that it often comes with a manufacturer warranty. Depending on the product, this can make it more reliable than a third-party warranty or one offered by a retailer. This is especially true for electronics made by name-brand companies, such as a Dell refurbished laptops or an Apple refurbished computer.
Refurbished devices can also offer additional benefits that help the environment and your wallet. For example, many professional refurbishers, like PCs for People, test and repair refurbished computers to ensure they meet certain standards before selling them. This can help reduce electronic waste, as fewer items are being sent to landfills. The process also helps extend the lifespan of a device, so it can continue to perform for a longer time.
The Typical Savings When Buying Refurbished
Some refurbished computers are open-box returns and demo models from retailers that were used by customers to try out the product before making a purchase. While these units may have some scuffs and scratches, they should still work properly and come with all of the original accessories. Other refurbished computers are devices that have been returned to the manufacturer due to manufacturing defects or other issues. Generally, these laptops will have more noticeable wear, but they should still be able to perform the basic tasks that most consumers need them for.
Lastly, some companies use refurbished technology to replace old or obsolete equipment in their offices. This can save money and resources, as businesses can re-use existing hardware that has been standardized on for some time. In addition, it can avoid a costly upgrade and the learning curve associated with the new technology.
A word of warning, though: Not all refurbished products are created equal. It’s important to do your homework before buying any refurbished tech, so be sure to read the fine print and understand what each seller considers a refurbished item. Look for a return policy and warranty that is as comprehensive as possible. Also, if you’re buying from the manufacturer directly, that is usually the best option to ensure you’re getting an item that will last.
Martyn Burke is a tech writer who covers iOS, Android and Windows for Macworld and its sister site, Tech Advisor. He has been involved in tech since the arrival of his ZX Spectrum back in the early ’80s and enjoys helping users get the most out of their devices.