The best way to buy a used computer laptop
When you’re interested in a used computer laptop, you have a couple different options. You could buy a used laptop computer from an online site like eBay or a local used computer shop. Or you can purchase refurbished laptop equipment from a reputable manufacturer like Dell.
At the Dell Refurbished Store, you’ll find lots of used laptop computers for sale that have been completely refurbished and restored to the highest standards of quality and reliability. That’s not something you can necessarily expect when you buy a used computer laptop from an online site, a third-party seller, or a local shop. When you shop Dell’s rebuilt laptops for sale, you can have complete confidence that you’ll get a device that has been thoroughly inspected, tested, and repaired to meet strict standards.
What is a refurbished device vs. a used computer laptop?
Here’s an easy way to compare a used computer laptop vs. a refurbished device.
- A used computer laptop is a device that was previously owned and operated by another user. These machines are typically sold “as is,” without any guarantee that the device has been tested or that any malfunctioning parts have been repaired.
- A refurbished laptop from Dell is a machine that has gone through a comprehensive process where it is inspected, tested, and repaired to restore the device to a set standard of quality and performance. Like a used computer laptop, a refurbished device may have some cosmetic damage like scratches, discoloration, or shiny spots around the keyboard. But in contrast to a used computer laptop, you can have great confidence that a refurbished device will deliver excellent performance and reliability.
How Dell refurbishes used computer laptops
At Dell, our refurbished laptops are devices that were previously leased to a corporate customer. When the lease ends and the equipment is returned to us, we designate certain machines for refurbishment. This involves:
- Selecting the highest quality equipment. We carefully inspect each device and choose the best systems for our refurbishment program.
- Performing extensive functional tests: We perform a variety of tests to make sure that all components are present and functioning properly.
- Repairing or replacing components: When components fail a test, we repair or replace them to ensure the laptop is in excellent working order.
- Fully wiping down the drives: To completely remove all the data and files from the previous user, we follow strict standards for sanitizing digital media.
- Restoring factory settings: All disk drives and components are restored to their original factory settings.
- Issuing a cosmetic grade: Our team carefully inspects the exterior of each device and gives it a cosmetic grade based on the amount of visible damage.
Throughout the process, every device is audited multiple times to make sure it meets our high standards. Any computer that fails these audits is recycled rather than refurbished.
The advantages of a refurbished vs. new or used computer laptop
Buying a refurbished laptop from Dell offers several key benefits over purchasing a new model or buying a used computer laptop. With a refurbished device, you can:
- Get a higher quality device than a used computer laptop. Since refurbished computers go through an extensive process of testing and repair, they inevitably offer better performance, which is why they come with a warranty.
- Enjoy a lower price point than a new laptop. When compared to new models, refurbished laptops are far more affordable, allowing you to save money or to buy a more powerful device without spending a fortune.
- Contribute to a greener planet. At Dell, our mission to become the greenest technology company on the planet means we are committed to refurbishing or recycling 100% of all Dell systems that are returned to us. As a result, we prevent 1,000 tons of electronic waste (e-waste) from being added to landfills every year. Buying a refurbished device is an environmentally friendly choice that helps us in this effort.
- Buy road-tested equipment. A Dell refurbished laptop is a model that has been around for a year or two, so you’ll find lots of industry and user reviews that can clue you into its performance history and track record. This offers greater peace of mind about the quality of the system you’re buying and what you can expect from it.
All the details
Here’s what you get when you buy a refurbished computer from Dell rather than a used computer laptop from an online seller or local shop.
- A 100-day warranty: Because we are dedicated to delivering reliable, durable, and low-cost refurbished computers to the U.S. marketplace, we stand behind every product we sell with a 100-day limited warranty. This covers defects in materials and workmanship of the hardware products. For greater peace of mind, you can opt for a one-year warranty at checkout for an additional cost.
- Customer support: Our machines are backed by a U.S.-based customer service team that can help with questions and troubleshooting during the warranty period.
- A preconfigured laptop: Because the components within our refurbished laptops have been thoroughly tested, we are unable to swap out or upgrade components or customize the device before it is shipped to you.
- 30-day returns: If you’re not satisfied with your purchase, you can return your refurbished laptop within 30 days of the date on the invoice in exchange for a store credit, less any charges for shipping and handling. Depending on the reason for the return, a restocking fee may also apply.
- Cosmetic grades: Every refurbished computer at Dell is given a cosmetic grade based on the amount of damage to the machine’s exterior. Grade A laptops are in very good to pristine condition, while Grade B devices will have more scratches, discoloration, or shiny surfaces on or near the keyboard. Grade B devices are usually priced lower than Grade A laptops. Regardless of the cosmetic grade, any external damage will not affect the performance of the laptop.
FAQs
What is the Dell Refurbished Store?
The Dell Refurbished Store is your direct source from Dell for refurbished laptops and other equipment that have been previously leased by corporate customers.
What equipment does the Dell Refurbished Store sell?
In addition to finding great deals on a sale laptop used, you can visit DellRefurbished.com to buy used desktop computers, all-in-ones, servers, workstations, monitors, and accessories that have been refurbished to the highest standards.
Is it safe to buy a refurbished or used computer laptop?
While buying a used computer laptop often comes with no guarantee of performance or quality, buying a refurbished laptop from a reputable source like Dell is quite safe, since the product will have been thoroughly inspected and tested and will come with a warranty.