As long as it's in great condition, is it wise to buy a used laptop from somewhere like ebay?
Any known issues that one should be aware of when buying a used laptop?
2006-10-27 04:39:44 · 11 answers · asked by william_gardner 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Laptops & Notebooks
If you can't afford a new one, sure. Here's some things to consider:
1. Does it have the Windows CDs?
The first thing you want to do when you get the computer is re-format it, delete everything and re-install Windows on it. If they're not including the CDs you can't do that.
2. Does it state exactly the condition it's in?
On eBay, you can return items if they're not exactly what's described. They should tell you if everything's working, and exactly what is not. Be sure to inspect it immediately. If you have to return it, photograph what's wrong with it if applicable, so you can prove that it wasn't damage in transit from you back to them (that would be blamed on you, because of poor packing, etc).
3. Does it meet your needs?
Figure out what your needs are. For example, if you're playing a certain game, what are the minimum specs? No use getting something used because it's cheap if you're not going to be able to do what you have to do on it.
Remember that repairing a laptop is generally more expensive than repairing a desktop computer, so make sure that you ask any questions you have before you bid.
2006-10-27 04:49:55 · answer #1 · answered by calliope320 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sure, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, if you're using eBay, check the seller's rating and don't buy anything substantial unless they have a decent rep and a money-back guarantee if it doesn't work. Consider using their escrow service. It's a bit more expensive, but might be worth it depending on how you perceive the risk.
Start it up as soon as you get it and return it if it doesn't work. You don't want to spend any significant time mucking about trying to fix it. Also, you're going to want to subscribe to a decent antivirus program and give the machine a complete scan as soon as you get it. And you're probably going to want to take some time deleting junk the previous owner left behind that you don't want. (A smart seller will do this beforehand.)
Also, older laptops will have older batteries that might not retain a charge as long. That might not matter if you plan to use it in a college library and keep it plugged in, but it will matter if you plan to take it on a plane. Replacement batteries are not cheap. Give it a full charge and then leave it on battery power only and see how long it takes to run down.
As with any used thing, balance what you are saving against what it's costing you in terms of time and function. There are some nice bargains out there, but some real ripoffs as well.
Caveat emptor.
2006-10-27 11:57:03 · answer #2 · answered by jaywalk57 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
i would buy a used laptop from some one i knew and trusted, if it was in good condition, as you can always reinstall it. But i would never buy one off ebay new or used.
2006-10-27 11:50:18 · answer #3 · answered by Bobby B 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I wouldn't. You don't know if it's been abused or about to give out or what. I bought a used HP and 2 months later ended up having to replace the hard drive for $96...Never again!
2006-10-27 11:45:45 · answer #4 · answered by Greg M 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Never in a million years. You don't know the exact background to why it's being sold or what it's actual condition is like. It could turn into an expensive mistake.
2006-10-27 11:42:28 · answer #5 · answered by Carella 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Only if you were the salesman so I could kick you in the face for asking such a boring question.
2006-10-30 15:49:01 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, it will be outdated, and you don't know with the battery if it may catch fire. Your battery also may be at the end of its life cycle
2006-10-27 11:51:36 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Absolutely.
Especially on e-bay because they offer conflict resolution in case someone tries to rip you off.
Just remember...
You may not always get what you pay for, but you absolutely always pay for what you get. (And you almost NEVER get more than you pay for!)
2006-10-27 12:03:50 · answer #8 · answered by troydowning 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Unless you know a lot about computers already, I would avoid it because you dont know if it has spyware on it or viruses.
2006-10-27 11:42:42 · answer #9 · answered by Annette J 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
check it through first very carfully find eveything you can about the condtion.
and if it were me NO.
get a new one with a warrenty.
2006-10-27 11:46:54 · answer #10 · answered by outrun_7 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋