How To Buy A Used Computer?

As you learn how to buy a used computer, it pays to be patient and careful. When it comes to purchasing anything that has had a previous owner, caution is the keyword. Of course, there are some excellent used computers available, just as there are fine used cars and clean, serviceable used furniture.

It’s important to separate the junk computers that are thrown into the dumpster from a usable computer that might help someone with personal tasks. In fact, in most places today an individual has to pay to throw a computer in a dumpster because of the chemicals and components that are not easily recyclable.

By contrast, some computer users simply want to upgrade to a faster CPU, a better monitor, more storage capability and so on. If this is the case, their current computer might work well for someone who doesn’t need quite the capacity or speed that the original owner is looking for. The key is to locate these sellers.

Those with experience in building, servicing and selling computers, new or used, urge the used-computer buyer to look closely at the software that is already installed. This software may actually account for most of the value in the purchase.

Another factor to consider, both for software and for the hardware, is what the original use of the computer was. If you are considering a computer that was built by a knowledgeable person who designed the system for one or two specific purposes, you may be getting an excellent value. Just make sure that your interests match those of the original owner. This may mean that you can take the system home and start using it right away, without installing a lot of new programs.

As you learn more about how to buy a used computer, you will find that a pre-owned system with some of the average components and hard-drive space will cost about $200 to $400. These can be fine for home use, small office use or for the college student who needs to work with text and a few Web pages.

When you pay somewhere in the $600 to $800 range, you can get a personal computer that will perform almost any task, though gaming speed and graphics might be a bit limited. This price range is about where some of the new desktops and laptops start, so keep that in mind as well. Computers with 2 “gigs” of RAM and huge hard drives, combined with a nice monitor, may cost in the $1,000 to $1,500 range.

As mentioned earlier, caution is the key in buying a used computer. A good general rule is that a used computer, no matter how “choice” it is, shouldn’t cost more than a new one with the same capabilities. Once that is set in your mind, take some extra time to look closely at the system or systems you are considering. Start the process by listing, in writing, exactly what the computer will be used for. This will help narrow down the choices as you shop.

Consider purchasing from an individual that you trust, or work with one of the major retailers or manufacturers to buy closeouts, remainders from inventory and so on. Attend a computer show or conference and talk with others who have the same interests. The bottom line is: If it doesn’t feel right it probably isn’t.

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