what are the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a used or refurbished computer?

Answer 1

Advantage:
*Cheaper

Disadvantage:
*Shorter (if any) warranty
*May have unadvertised problems or worse, intermittant problems*
*Usually overpriced for the hardware
*You don't know if the software you're getting with it licensed appropriately.*
*If you don't know the vendor, buyer beware.*
*Can be underpowered for doing certain tasks.

*Could happen when buying new if you buy from a less reputable vendor.

Answer 2

The one i'm using now came from dellauction.com I have no complaints. Unless you are into hardcore gaming, like quake3 or half-life 2, The refurbished is the way to go in my opinion. The only thing that has really changed much in the last 3 years is the graphics chips have gotten better. Other than that, a 2 year old 2 gigahertz laptop runs just as fast as a new 2 gigahertz.

Answer 3

Advantages:
cheaper
easier to replace

DisadvantageS:
it's used so it has a shorter life span;
probably need to get an upgrade on RAM
hardware might be dusty or starting to rust
------
If you plan to use your computer for 5+ years I advise you to buy a NEW computer. If you plan to use it 1-5 years without major update/upgrading, then just get a refurbished/used and make sure that it isn't about to burn out.

Answer 4

When I can walk into Office Depot and pick up a brand new machine with Windows XP SP2 for less than $400, there is no way I am even shopping for a used one.

Answer 5

Refurbished:
Advantages:
It is usually cheaper, most of the rework and or repair its done by the manufacturer.
Disadvantages:
Is a previously used or broken ant one point, it could have a shorter life span.
Used:
It's always cheaper, but it could be obsolete, and of course with not much of long lifespan.