UMVA has learned that buying used or refurbished tech can be a savvy move, especially in today's high-stakes tech market where memory prices continue to skyrocket.
The main advantage is clear: you can save a substantial amount of money on your tech purchases, sometimes by as much as 50% or more. But there are also downsides to consider. For one, you're not getting a brand new device, which could come with issues or technical faults attached. The SSD inside a two-year-old laptop won't be as speedy as one inside a new model, for example.
It's a gamble, but knowing where to buy from and what to look for can help tip the odds in your favor. Refurbished devices come with a limited warranty attached, typically, and have been checked and cleared for resale by the manufacturer. Used gadgets, on the other hand, come from private sellers, with fewer guarantees about future performance.
So why go used or refurbished? The answer lies in the savings. Refurbished devices can be almost as good as brand new, but for a lot less. And with used gadgets, you can save even more, but be aware that the risks are greater - each deal is different, and you're looking at everything from 10-year-old phones that people are about to throw away to nearly new laptops that were unwanted gifts.
The big reason to go used or refurbished is the amount of money you can save, especially if you're not particularly worried about getting something in perfect condition. This can also be an eco-friendly option, extending the lifespan of devices that might otherwise get thrown away and reducing e-waste. A lot of energy and resources go into manufacturing new devices, so buying used or refurbished on a regular basis means you're contributing less to that.
However, deciding to buy used or refurbished can be a stressful or fun experience, depending on your perspective. The key is to know where to buy from and what to look for. Look who you're buying from and adjust your skepticism accordingly. Refurbished items from big name manufacturers sold through official stores are a safer bet than used gadgets from unknown sellers.
When buying refurbished items, look carefully at the device's ratings in terms of performance and damage, any warranty that's being offered with the gadget, and what the returns policy is. Check what accessories are included, as otherwise you'll need to buy these separately. For used gadgets, try and get as much information as you can from the item listing, and check on battery health and capacity.
The best places to buy used and refurbished tech include eBay, which has its pros and cons but remains one of the best places to pick up used tech, as long as you do it carefully. Back Market has long been a trusted outlet for refurbishers, and it takes a lot of the stress and hassle out of buying refurbed tech. Swappa is a mix of eBay and Back Market, with clearly categorized listings and user reviews. Gazelle is exclusively for phones and tablets, and prides itself on its simplicity and ease of use.
Amazon Renewed is worth a look if you're prioritizing convenience and safety, with a 90-day guarantee window for returning items. The quality on offer can vary, so check listings carefully. Alternatively, you can opt for the official refurbished outlets, including Apple, Samsung, and Dell, which score highly on reliability and trustworthiness, though the savings may be less significant.
