4 Best Refurbished Laptops and PCs: Expert Tips

Finding a low-cost computer with a nice display, a comfortable keyboard, trackpad and speed that doesn’t leave you waiting for programs to load might be difficult. However, purchasing top quality refurbished laptops and PCs might be a wise decision. We are here to help you choose top quality refurbished laptops or desktops that meet your demands and fit your budget.

Why Consider Top Quality Refurbished Laptops and PCs?

Cost Savings

One of the most significant advantages of acquiring an used PCs or refurbished laptops is the cost reduction. You can frequently get a best computer from a few years ago for a fraction of the cost of a new one. For example, a high-end Lenovo ThinkPad that cost $1,400 a few years ago may have higher performance and a better screen than a new laptop for about $500.

Environmental Impact

Buying a used PCs or refurbished laptops is also an eco-friendly choice. It helps reduce electronic waste by giving a functional computer a second life, preventing it from ending up in a landfill.

What to Look for in a refurbished Computer

Physical Condition

Examining a second-hand laptop or desktop’s physical state is essential. Examine refurbished laptops for indications of wear and tear, such as display scratches and keyboard damage. Ensure that the desktop computer’s casing is secure and that none of its parts are missing or broken.

Make and Model

Stick to reputable brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, or Apple. These manufacturers often provide better support and parts availability. Specific models known for their durability and performance include Dell’s Optiplex and Latitude series, Lenovo’s Think Centre and ThinkPad families and HP’s Pro and Elite lineups.

Specifications

When buying a refurbished laptops or PCs, pay close attention to its specifications:

• Processor: Look for at least a tenth-generation Intel Core i5 or i7, or an AMD Ryzen 3000-series or newer. These processors offer good performance for everyday tasks and some professional applications.
• Memory: A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is recommended. For more demanding tasks or multitasking, consider 16 GB. Note that many refurbished laptops have non-upgradable memory, so it’s best to check if the memory can be upgraded before purchasing.
• Storage: An SSD with a capacity of 128 GB or more is preferable for faster performance. If you need additional space, consider larger SSDs or external storage solutions.
• Screen Resolution: For a clear and sharp display, aim for a 1920×1080 resolution (Full HD). Higher resolutions like 4K can offer better detail but may impact battery life and cost.
• Screen Type: IPS displays provide better color accuracy and viewing angles compared to cheaper TN panels. While not always specified, refurbished laptops with 1080p screens are more likely to feature IPS technology.
• Ports: USB-C or Thunderbolt ports are convenient for modern peripherals and charging, though they’re not essential for desktops.

Things to Avoid

Outdated Components

Avoid computers with outdated or slow pace CPUs, such as Intel Celerons, Pentiums, or earlier versions of Intel Core processors. Similarly, AMD A-series CPUs are frequently outdated. These components can have a substantial impact on performance.

Low-Resolution Screens

Screens with a resolution of 1366×768 (HD or WXGA) are less sharp and can make text and images appear blurry. Opt for higher resolutions for a better viewing experience.

Traditional Hard Drives (HDDs)

HDDs are slower than SSDs and can drag down overall system performance. If you encounter a refurbished laptops or PCs with an HDD, consider upgrading to an SSD for a noticeable speed improvement.

Small Storage Capacities

Avoid PCs with less than 64 GB of storage, as this is insufficient for operating systems and essential applications. Look for larger SSDs or external storage options.

Old Wi-Fi Standards

Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) is outdated. For better wireless performance, choose a PC that supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6.

Special Considerations for Used Macs

• Pre-2013 Models – Older Macs, particularly those from before 2013, may not support the latest macOS versions, which can impact security and app compatibility. Aim for models that support the most recent macOS updates.
• Butterfly Keyboards – The inaccurate butterfly keyboards on MacBooks produced from 2016 and 2019 are well-known. Think about purchasing a used MacBook if it has one of Apple’s M-series CPUs, which provide better performance and more reliable keyboards.

Where to Buy Used PCs

Reputable Retailers 

Keep your purchases to big-box retailers like Best Buy, Amazon and Newegg for a safer shopping experience. These retailers offer a range of open-box, refurbished and preowned refurbished laptops and desktop computers with different levels of quality and warranties.

• Best Buy provides a selection of refurbished and open-box computers. Their site allows you to filter by specifications, making it easier to find a suitable refurbished laptops or PCs.

• Amazon features the Amazon Renewed program, where products are inspected, tested and come with a 90-day replacement or refund policy.

• Newegg offers refurbished laptops or PCs but be cautious of older models and third-party sellers. Use filters to find products sold directly by Newegg for a more reliable purchase.

Manufacturer Refurbished Options

Manufacturer-refurbished PCs are an excellent option if you wish to avoid the risks connected with old computers. Companies like as Apple and Dell offer refurbished models with warranties that are comparable to new products. Lenovo and HP also provide reconditioned equipment with varied warranties.

Upgrades and Repairs

Upgrading Storage and Memory

If you buy a refurbished laptops or PCs with a spinning hard drive, upgrading to an SSD can significantly improve performance. Similarly, increasing the RAM can enhance multitasking capabilities. Be sure to check compatibility and upgrade options for the specific model you choose.

Replacing Chargers and Adapters

For refurbished laptops, ensure that the charger is included or purchase a genuine replacement. Avoid cheap, non-branded chargers to prevent potential damage.

Wi-Fi Adapters

Older desktops might lack built-in Wi-Fi adapters. In such cases, a reliable USB Wi-Fi adapter can provide connectivity.

Software Updates

Operating Systems

Ensure that the refurbished laptops or PCs has a supported version of Windows or macOS. Older versions may no longer obtain security updates. Windows PCs may be possible to upgrade to Windows 11 if their hardware satisfies the requirements. Mac users should ensure compatibility with the latest macOS versions.