Whether your current computer is causing you problems or you just need another computer for your home, choosing between a new and used computer is something you might be considering. Before making this important decision, read the following tips to discover information you may not have considered.
Buying a Used Computer Versus Buying a New One Tip #1: When Comparing Specs, Which is Cheaper?
Computers have come down in price quite a bit, so don’t be surprised if a used computer costs the same as a new one. The seller may have paid a lot for their computer a few years ago and may be charging only a fraction of what they paid, but it’s still too much for what you’re getting. Look closely at the specs and then compare those to a new machine. Which is cheaper?
Buying a Used Computer Versus Buying a New One Tip #2: Has the Hard Drive Been Cleaned?
When buying a used machine, you do not want to have to sort through and delete all of someone else’s documents. Before you even look at the computer, make sure the hard drive has been reformatted. This will ensure that the hard drive isn’t loaded down with junk that you don’t need.
Buying a Used Computer Versus Buying a New One Tip #3: Are There Any Problems?
Ask the seller if the machine has had any problems. Better yet, ask the seller why they are selling the machine. If they stumble around, trying to come up with an answer, walk away from the transaction. If the seller simply says that they want to upgrade to a more powerful machine, that’s fine. The important thing is to be sure that the machine doesn’t have any hidden surprises.
Buying a Used Computer Versus Buying a New One Tip #4: Can You Try It Out?
Ask if you can try the computer out. Go to the person’s home or have them bring the machine by your home and look the machine over. Try running simple applications to make sure that they run properly. If the machine runs extremely slow for the amount of ram that the machine has, there is something wrong. Give the used computer a good going over before buying it.
Buying a Used Computer Versus Buying a New One Tip #5: Does It Comes with Software?
A new machine is going to come with software. More than likely, a used machine will only come with an operating system. This is something to really consider, especially if you need a word processing program, etc. Many new machines come with this software already installed. Then again, this may be an advantage for you. If you already have the software at home, this will save you from removing programs you don’t need.
Buying a Used Computer Versus Buying a New One Tip #6: Is It In Good Condition?
How is the appearance of the used machine? Does the DVD tray work properly? Do the drives read discs properly? Look for any problems. Check the monitor for cracks, scratches, dark spots, etc. Make sure everything is in good condition. If you have to replace parts of the machine, a new computer may be cheaper.
Buying a Used Computer Versus Buying a New One Tip #7: What Comes with It?
Does the machine even come with a monitor? This is something to consider. A new monitor may cost more than some new machines. When you buy a new computer, you almost always get a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Many companies are adding free monitors to their machines. Sometimes you can even get a free LCD monitor with a new computer.
Buying a Used Computer Versus Buying a New One Tip #8: Is the Price Reasonable?
As I mentioned above, the used machine you are thinking about buying may have cost the seller a pretty penny, and even selling the machine at fourth of the original purchase price makes the computer more expensive than buying a new machine with the same specs. Seriously consider the price before buying a used computer.
