“Refurbished” means it is not new, but don’t go away thinking that it is no good. In fact, refurbished PC is the best way to get a powerful, full-featured PC on a budget, even when you are looking to build the ultimate gaming computer.

What is refurbished PC?

When a customer buys a new PC, he might find that the system’s specification is not really what he wants, or there are some flaws (such as dented or scratched surface) in the PC. He then returns the product to the manufacturer under the return policy. The manufacturer put the returned product into a series of tests to make sure that the hardware is working well. If they locate an issue, they make the necessary repairs or replacement, then put it through the series of tests again. Once everything is fine, the manufacturer re-installs the Operating System and put the PC through another series of tests again to make sure there are no conflicts between the OS and the hardware. Lastly, the PC is then reconditioned to the original state before it is placed back to the shelf for retailing.

As you can see, by the time the PC is back on the market, it has gone through series and series of tests. People who buy refurbished PC can be assured that the system is working perfectly fine. This is unlike the case when you buy from eBay or another auction site. If anything went wrong, there are no guarantees and you have little recourse.

Why it is good to buy refurbished product?

The main reason for getting a refurbished PC is that it costs cheaper than the original PC. You can expect the price to shave as much as 30 percent off the original price.

When should you not buy a refurbished PC?

A refurbished machine is typically three to six months old into the product life cycle. If you are always shopping for the latest product in the market, then a refurbished PC is not what you are looking for.

Tips to buy refurbished PC

If you are buying a refurbished PC, here are some tips for you:

1) Know what you want – Before you shop for a PC (regardless it is brand new or refurbished), first find out what you want and need. How much speed and memory do you need for your applications? Do you need a sound card for your system? How much hard drive space do you need? Do you need extra power for your hardware?

2) Check out the specification of the PC – Once you know what you want, source for the refurbished PC that fulfills your needs. Most retailers will list the specification on their website. If in doubt on any parts, check with the support.

3) Do research – There are plenty of manufacturers out there selling refurbished PC. Check all of them out (if possible) and find out which one offers the best bargain and which one is the most reliable. Don’t put your bet only on one manufacturer.

4) Check out the condition of the PC – Check with the support the condition of the PC, especially any dent or scratch surface on the computer case.

5) Find out which accessories are included – Some refurbished desktops might come without a keyboard or mouse. Check it out before you make your purchase.

6) Remember the monitor – Most refurbished packages do not include one, so factor in that additional cost. See if the vendor is bundling a monitor with a new model; you could end up with a better deal.

7) Already have a monitor – Make sure the video connectors on the refurbished are compatible before you buy.

8) Compare the prices around – Before you make your purchase, it is best to compare the prices around, even with a comparable brand new PC. Sometime, a brand new PC could lie around the same price range.

9) Check the warranty period – The manufacturer should provide warranty for any refurbished products. Find out how long you will have support. If not, look elsewhere.

10) Check the return policy – Some sellers give you 7 days, some give you 21 days. If you don’t find the return policy clearly stated, shop elsewhere.

11) Check user review – Check out user forums and review sites for reviews on the products and the retailer. You will be able to find valuable information.

Extra tips for gamers…

When looking for a refurbished PC, always factor in the upgradeability of the system – How “upgradeable” is the system in the near future? Since gaming technology progresses very fast, you don’t want to get a system that becomes obsolete with the next technology update.

In addition, you don’t always have to go for a refurbished system. Instead, you can go for refurbished hardware components. You can get refurbished monitor, hard drive or accessories to lower your building cost. You can easily get a 24″ LCD at $100 less than the original price.