Buying a used laptop can be a great way to save money, but those savings come with an increased risk of getting a faulty device. You should be careful and thorough in your evaluation of any used devices you consider buying; otherwise, you could end up wasting more money than you tried to save. You need to inspect more than just the outside when evaluating technology, used or otherwise. This guide will help you understand what to look for when buying a used laptop or desktop PC, but can also be helpful for other types of used devices.
Determine Your Needs
Identify Your Purpose
First, identify why you need the device. Whether you are buying it for work, gaming, or general use will dictate the specifications you need to look for. For example, gaming PCs need powerful GPUs, while business PCs focus on reliability and battery life.
Set a Budget
Determine how much you are willing to spend to narrow your choices. Remember, used devices can vary greatly in price, just like new ones. Setting your budget beforehand can prevent overspending.
Check the Laptop's Condition
Inspect the Physical Condition
Examine the laptop for any visible damage, such as cracks, dents, or scratches. Additionally, test the hinges to ensure they are not loose or broken. A well-maintained exterior often indicates that good care has been taken to maintain the laptop.
Test the Keyboard and Touchpad
Test the keyboard and touchpad to ensure they work without any issues. Type a few sentences using all the different keys to ensure they all respond, and test the touchpad for responsiveness and accuracy. These are crucial components, and any issues with them could render the laptop practically useless.
Check the Screen
Turn on the laptop and check the screen for dead pixels, discoloration, or flickering. Additionally, ensure you can adjust the brightness levels and other display settings without issue. A damaged screen can be costly to replace.
Inspect the Ports
Test all the ports on the laptop, such as USB ports, headphone jacks, and charging ports. Make sure they all function correctly, as non-working ports can be inconvenient and limit the laptop's usability.
Check the Battery Life
Ask the seller about the laptop's battery life, as an old battery may not hold a charge well, and replacing a battery can be expensive. Ideally, you should turn on the laptop and see how long the battery power lasts, but you can also use software to check the battery's health.
Assess the Internal Components
Processor
The processor determines a laptop's performance, so it's critical to check the processor's model and speed and compare it with current standards. Older processors might struggle to meet the minimum requirements of modern applications.
RAM
RAM affects multitasking capabilities, so ensure any laptops you consider have enough RAM for your needs. 8GB is the minimum for general use, while 16GB or more is ideal for gaming or heavy multitasking.
Storage
Check the laptop's storage type and capacity. SSDs are faster and more reliable than HDDs, so an SSD with at least 256GB is recommended. Most importantly, make sure the laptop has enough storage for your files and programs.
Graphics Card
This next component is essential if you need the laptop for gaming or graphic design. Check the GPU and ensure it meets the requirements for your applications. Integrated graphics are fine for general use, but dedicated GPUs are practically required for demanding tasks.
Verify the Software and Operating System
Pre-installed Software
Check what software has already been installed on the device. Ensure there are no malicious programs, and ideally, no unnecessary ones either. A hard reset/fresh installation of the operating system is ideal, as it ensures a clean slate on the device.
Operating System License
Verify that the operating system is genuine and licensed to ensure you receive updates and support. Ask for proof of sale or license keys if necessary.
Research the Seller
Check Seller's Reputation
Research the seller's reputation and make sure they aren't trying to scam you. Reviews and ratings from previous customers are a good starting point. A reputable seller is more likely to provide a quality product and good customer service.
Ask Questions
Don't hesitate to ask the seller questions. Inquire about the laptop's history, reason for selling, and any past issues. Honest sellers will provide clear and detailed answers.
Test the Laptop
Before finalizing the sale, perform a thorough test of the laptop. Your initial test should include running different applications to check performance, connecting to Wi-Fi to test the internet connection, and playing a video to ensure the speakers and display work well. Additionally, use diagnostic tools to test the hardware components and identify any hidden issues.
Consider Upgradability
Some laptops allow for easy upgrades, so you should figure out if the laptop you are looking at is one of them. Check if you can upgrade the RAM or storage to extend the laptop's lifespan and improve performance. However, it is also important to consider the cost of potential upgrades and whether upgrading an older laptop is worth it compared to buying a new one.
Compare Prices
Research Market Prices
Research the market prices for similar models and ensure you are getting a fair deal by comparing prices from different sellers. Remember that a lower price isn't always better if the laptop has issues. Factor any extra costs into your budget, such as new batteries, chargers, software, or anything else the laptop will need if you purchase it.