How to Find a Used Laptop With Warranty

Whether you’re upgrading to a new laptop or looking for one at a fraction of the price, buying used can be a smart move. But be careful—many marketplace listing sites are known for scams and sellers who aren’t honest. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that can help you find a used laptop with warranty without taking the risk.

The most obvious option is to buy directly from the manufacturer, who can give you clear terms on warranties and offer more options for a laptop that works like new. Brick-and-mortar retailers such as Best Buy, B&H Photo Video, and Adorama can also sell used or refurbished laptops. You’ll want to read the description carefully, and be sure to check for specific hardware issues such as memory and processors.

Many companies sell refurbished laptops, including major manufacturers such as Apple and Dell. These laptops may be returned for any reason and resold with the original warranty. They are usually inspected, cleaned, and repaired, with the data of the previous owner wiped before resale.

In addition to offering a warranty, these laptops may be cheaper than buying new. This is because the computer has already been through the initial testing phase and has a reputation for reliability. In fact, a Consumer Reports Reliability Survey found that new Apple computers experienced only 7 to 9 percent failure rates per year, while Windows machines had a 15-percent rate.

Aside from reputable electronics refurbishers, you can also find laptops in the refurbished section of Amazon and eBay. Both of these websites have laptops that are certified as refurbished, meaning they’ve been inspected and repaired by experts. They’re sold at a lower cost and typically have a one-year warranty in addition to the seller’s money back guarantee.

However, if you’re shopping for a used laptop with warranty on eBay or Craigslist, make sure to look closely at the description and ask for photos and videos to see the condition of the computer. If a seller is reluctant to provide these, or insists on a payment method such as check or Venmo before you’ve ever laid eyes on the product, that should be a red flag.

If you do purchase a refurbished laptop, be sure to check for minor cosmetic imperfections, particularly on the screen and keyboard. The battery may have lost some of its charge over time, and hardware components such as storage drives and trackpads can wear out quickly. Also, be sure to test the laptop out for basic functionality, such as opening apps and running games.

Whether you’re purchasing a refurbished or a new laptop, you should consider an extended warranty for added peace of mind. Be sure to read the fine print, understand what it covers, and weigh the pros and cons of each. If you do choose to invest in an extended warranty, choose a reputable company with good customer service and a history of excellent products. Be careful, though—extended warranties can be expensive and often don’t pay off when a problem occurs.