Is It Safe to Buy a Refurbished Computer for My Business?

Well, it looks like you found a great deal on some refurbished computers for your business! Before you click that BUY NOW button, there are some concerns you may want to address.

Are Accessories Included?

Sometimes a great deal is a great deal because it’s not… let’s say, “complete.” Perhaps you’re looking at a workstation that has been refurbished and costs half of what it would be new.

The computer may be in great shape, but it may only include the central processing unit (CPU). No monitor, no keyboard, no speakers, no mouse, no cables, no operating system. If this is what you want, great. Make sure to read the description carefully.

Are All the Parts Included?

Computer parts have become incredibly expensive, especially graphics cards. This is due to a few issues, such as:

• The COVID-19 pandemic
• Chip shortages
• Cryptomining
• Increased demand

Many times computers are dumped on eBay with certain high-value components missing. Before you purchase an unbelievable deal on some Alienware desktops for your video editing business, check the description to make sure all of the components are included.

Why Was the Computer Returned?

Computers aren’t always returned because there was a fault. Perhaps a computer just didn’t meet the specs needed by the purchaser, or maybe a new model came out that they preferred.

Is It Under Warranty?

If refurbished computers are new enough, they may still have a factory warranty. If not, this isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker. Aftermarket warranties are relatively inexpensive, and you’ll still end up saving money over buying new ones.

Who Refurbished the Computer?

Find out who did the refurbishing. If the factory did it, then the computer should operate like new. If a reseller did it, that’s perfectly fine as long as they’re reputable. Make sure to check their ratings and reviews to ensure you can trust they have quality products.

What’s the Condition of the Computer?

If there are obvious signs of damage, the seller should note this in the description. Depending on the configuration and price, you may still want the computer, but if damaged there should be a deep discount and a clear description of the damage before you buy.

Are Refurbished Computers Secure?

Well, yes and no. No, in the sense that if you take a refurbished computer and plug it into your network with no intermediate steps, there’s always a chance that the seller (especially if they’re not reputable) didn’t do a good job of wiping the hard drive. Look for devices from resellers certified to standards like R2 or e-Stewards to ensure they are properly wiping data.

If you want to make sure your refurbished workstations don’t have any malware, viruses, or other harmful programs, you can format the drives yourself after your purchase.

Reselling with Someone You Trust…

If you’re in South Dakota or North Dakota and have equipment you’d like to resell, SEAM can help. As the only certified electronics recycler and reseller in the Dakotas, SEAM ensures all data is destroyed through wiping or destruction and all equipment is recycled or resold in accordance with the highest industry standards possible.

This gives you the best value back possible while maintaining peace of mind with guaranteed data protection and security.  If you’re in the market for used computers and IT equipment, check out SEAM’s online retail store, Bargain Bytes. We make reselling and recycling used electronics seamless.