Ways to Save: Think Refurbished Electronics

December 12th, 2006 | by Molly's Brother |

A couple of years ago, I was looking to buy a new computer. Unfortunately, the computer I wanted was slightly out of my price range. While discussing this issue with a friend, he suggested I look on the company’s website to see if they offered the make/model I was looking to buy. Not only was I successful in finding the computer I wanted, but I was able to upgrade to a more expensive model (and I STILL saved money).

I admit. I was hesitant about buying a refurbished product, especially such a high-ticket item.

But after talking to a customer service representative with the company, he walked me through the process and calmed my nerves. For many items, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with them except for the fact that they’ve been opened and taken out of the original packaging. Sometimes, an item might have a cosmetic issue that doesn’t effect performance. Regardless, by the time the item has been recertified it is operating like new.
Here are the three things he said to consider when buying a refurbished item:

  1. KNOW YOUR SOURCE If you’re spending a ton of money, then buy directly from the manufacturer. If you’re buying online, both Apple and Sony have easy-to-find links to their refurbished products. I’m sure other computer and elctronic manufacturers are the same. I’ve known of other sites, such as refurbdepot.com. But if I am spending hundreds of dollars on an item, I feel much more comfortable buying direct.
  2. ASK ABOUT THE WARRANTY For me, it was crucial that I receive the same warranty for my refurbished computer as I would for a brand-new item. And I did. This is a deal-breaker. If they can’t stand behind their factory-certified product and offer me a comprehensive warranty then I’m not buying it.
  3. UNDERSTAND THE RETURN POLICY As with the warranty, the return policy should be identical for brand-new and factory-refurbished items. After all, you need ample amount of time to figure out if the item is working properly.

Research it and see if it works for you. A quick glance at the Apple link above shows laptops and desktops anywhere from 20% to nearly 30% off. Glancing through the factory certified refurbished iPods available, some are being offered at a savings of 40%.
For me this experience has worked out. I’ve had no problems with the computer. When I need to replace this computer or my iPod, I’m heading for Apple.com to see what offers they have.

  1. 2 Responses to “Ways to Save: Think Refurbished Electronics”

  2. By Michael on Dec 12, 2006 | Reply

    Hey hey! I purchased my SLR Camera from refurbdepot.com two or three years ago. It retailed for $399 or $499, I fail to remember which. I do know that I purchased it for $150 (ish). I also decided to purchase their 7 year extended service plan for about $30, mainly because it was the first time I had ever purchased refurbished equipment and I thought the (relatively tiny) extra investment was worth my ease of mind.

    It’s turned out to be one of my more treasured toys. Great post!

  3. By Molly's Brother on Dec 12, 2006 | Reply

    Michael,

    That’s an awesome buy. There are so many great deals out there. If people understand that they can get like-new electronics at such a discount, I think a lot of people are going to be looking for refurbished items.

    Thanks, too, for passing on your experience with refurbdepot.com I’ve never used the site, so it’s great to hear feedback from friends of this blog.

    By the way, even with the $30 extended service plan, that turned out to be an AMAZING deal.

    Again, thanks for sharing your experience.

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