Anyone who is considering the purchase of a new computer should consider a refurbished laptop.  Though many dealers and online retailers have sold refurbished laptops for years, few people are aware of the money they could be saving with their purchase.  In many cases, it is possible to save almost 40% on a computer that has been lightly used and is still under warranty.  This savings can translate into more memory and a faster processer than you thought possible without adjusting your budget.  These computers often come with the same software installed that new models offer, so there is little to lose.

                Before setting out to purchase a new or refurbished computer, it is important to accurately identify your computing needs.  It is extremely common for customers to purchase more computer than they need, and pay a premium for it, simply because they want the fastest model possible.  While this may make sense for some, most people will not use the computer they purchase to its fullest potential.  The memory that added to the price will go unused, the speed of the processor will not be fully exploited, and the lightest model on the market will fester unmoved on a desk.  For those who use one program at a time, do not typically use their computers for gaming, and do not travel frequently with their laptops, an older refurbished laptop computer will more than meet your needs.   

Even for those who want the newest computer on the market, cheap refurbished laptops are available.  Many of the refurbished computers currently available are little used customer returns.  They may have been kept by the customer for less than 30 days before being sent to a technician for refurbishment.  This means that shortly after a computer’s release date, high quality refurbished models will become available through either the manufacturers or other authorized retailer’s website.  Many of these returns were not made due to a defect, but when a customer has simply changed their mind.

Different brands have different policies on the treatment of a refurbished laptop computer.  Refurbished HP Laptops tend to be available through the manufacturer or other authorized outlets for a small fraction of their original price.  Their online outlet store is a great resource through which to purchase both a refurbished laptop as well as the necessary accessories at heavily discounted prices.  Computers that are not PCs tend to offer less of a price break on refurbished laptops.  Dealers may only sell these computers with permission and must submit to pricing guidelines from the company.  Though the savings may not be as significant as those with an HP or other PC brand, they can still bring computers that would otherwise be too expensive within reach.

Remember that a refurbished laptop is subject to a close inspection by a trained technician before resale.  Most refurbished dealers also offer a warranty (and may be obligated to do so through state law) so there is little risk of getting a non-working computer.  In fact, statistics show that return rates for a refurbished laptop computer are actually lower than they are for those purchased brand new.  To ensure a maximum lifespan, a buyer may want to consider an extended warranty either through the retailer or the manufacturer.  It is also advisable that before making a purchase you conduct the same research into a model that you would when purchasing new.

To protect yourself when purchasing a refurbished laptop, never purchase from a site such as eBay or Craigslist that offers no consumer protection.  If you are purchasing from a retailer that does not offer a warranty, it may be in your best interest to contact your credit card companies to see if they will cover your purchase if anything goes wrong.  Many do offer such guarantees.  There are so many reputable dealers that specialize in refurbished laptops, that there is no need to buy one without protection. 

                Before making your next computer purchase, take the time to weigh all the options available to you.  Buying a refurbished laptop will guarantee that you are buying the best possible computer for your money.