Do you trust reconditioned laptops?

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Do you trust reconditioned laptops? If you don’t, you should. We’ve talked about this time and time again: Reconditioned laptops are just about the same as any new laptop; there are very few differences other than the fact that a reconditioned model has been previously owned. If that doesn’t creep you out in any way, shape, or form, then you have nothing to fear. These laptops are brought back to pristine condition by people who know best: The manufacturers. Yes, sometimes the manufacturer farms out this work to other companies, but those other companies have to prove that they know how to do the work first. You know that you’re still getting a good product when you buy from them.

So, we know that reconditioned laptops aren’t evil. They’re just misunderstood. The process that a reconditioned computer goes through is quite intensive, and requires more than just a cursory glance at the exterior of the system. Yes, real reconditioning is basically the same process that a used car goes through before it’s put back on the lot, given a shiny new warranty, and sold again as “certified pre-owned.” Pre-owned laptops are quite the same as long as they’ve gone through this process. If they haven’t, well, then you won’t be quite sure what you’re getting. This is especially true if you’re out getting your computers in places like eBay or craigslist. eBay certainly has a good return policy and insurance against fraud caused by the seller, but you don’t want to get into that fight. Just go ahead and stick with a reputable retailer when buying your “new” computer. You’ll do yourself a huge favor when you do so.

So, where do I think you should go to get trustworthy reconditioned laptops? That’s easy: First go to the computer manufacturer’s website. I know for a fact that Dell has a very large online outlet for all of its reconditioned models (called refurbished to them) that were returned for one reason or another. Apple has the same kind of thing, ASUS does as well, etc. etc. They all have them, and they all offer some pretty solid deals. Keep in mind however that buying from the manufacturer directly is going to cause a little bit more of a cost to develop. If you want to save more than the usual 5-10% go ahead and try for a place like Fry’s Electronics. They always have a good selection.