Who doesn’t need a computer these days? Technology equipment has been essential in people’s lives ever since their fascinating features were discovered. For their careers and business, most adults are required to use it. Some use it for school while younger ones are fond of the entertainment that it offers. But everyone is aware that this handy technology comes with an expensive price tag and is not always attainable. This is the reason why few users are opting for used computer purchases instead of buying new units.

Used computers are also known as second-hand or refurbished units meaning they are not brand new, but they are still functional. They are old but not genuinely obsolete. Moreover, most of these used computers are cheaper than the regular price of newer ones. So, if you think of it, a used computer purchase is undoubtedly a great deal, but hold that thought because, like any other thing, such investment has its advantages and disadvantages.

Suppose you are one to consider used computers, read on. Discover both of its possible benefits and risks; then, weigh your options. 

Pros of Purchasing Used Computer

There are good reasons why a used computer purchase is well-known among most users. No one would dare to sell or avail of the product if it has any perks. Not to mention that it is not only beneficial for the users themselves but also to the environment. The following are some of the pros of buying a second-hand computer.

Saves money

This is the most evident reason why used computers are a go-to option. Users on a tight budget will not have to worry about spending too much on a single piece of equipment. Since they are often offered much lower prices than brand new ones in the market. Moreover, if you are a company in need of many computers, then buying used computers will save you tons of money.

Environment Friendly

Upon making a used computer purchase, you prevent a particular piece of equipment from being e-waste ending up in a landfill. The alarming increase in e-waste and its negative impact on the environment is an ongoing world problem. Thus, your simple act of buying these used units helps lessen the weight of the said problem.

Convenience

Buying a used computer is convenient because you can find them in an instant. You can browse on any online platforms, and next thing you know, you got yourself a computer. Used computers are also convenient in the sense that when they require hardware repairs, most of their parts are often available; unlike the latest models, which need unique and expensive components, used computers are likely to have generic domains. This is why their repairs are easier; since you can gather its needed parts from a lot of other used computers elsewhere.

Pre-installed

Unless you decide on wiping every single bit of content on the hard drive, you are pretty much to own a unit that has pre-installed useful software. This will save you the hassle and cost of uploading fresh ones. This way, you can immediately use the computer and proceed to whatever you need to do – might it be a deadline at work or school papers. 

With Warranty

In contrast to what most users are afraid of used computers to have a warranty. Most users hesitate to buy second-hand units because they think investing in the equipment will be useless since it does not carry a warranty. This is not entirely true; many suppliers and manufacturers see to it that even used computers are provided with at least a 6-month warranty. This is to encourage more people to trust this type of computer.

Cons of Purchasing Used Computer

While there are many reasons to go with a used computer purchase, keep in mind that there are a few disadvantages to still look into; knowing the potential risks and compromises will give you a better understanding if such purchase is worthy or not. Below are some cons to consider:

Limited Performance

Used computers are ideal for basic tasks and operations, but if you are the type of user who needs a unit that offers a flawless and fast performance, this second-hand equipment is not for you. For the reason that this kind of computers’ IT capacity is often limited. They can only hold a specific amount of computer activities and take their time to perform each one, so, understandably, the difference in performance between a brand-new computer and a used one is somehow notable. 

Repairs

Most used computers are convenient to repair, as mentioned before, but the downside is how many times you will need a repair. The majority of used computers tend to quickly malfunction or crash if you do not sustain proper maintenance. So, if you find it hard to keep up with these technicalities, you can expect a handful of repairs along your way.

Data Breach

This is one of the biggest concerns of people before a used computer purchase – data breach. Plenty of users doubt second-hand computer because they are afraid that this equipment might come with privacy risks. The sentiments and scares from previous buyers have worsened the buzz regarding the issue; few sellers are guilty of hacking and tracking their buyer’s computer activities. Although some sellers insist that this is not the case, most users are still skeptical.

Shorter Lifespan

Second-hand computers can last as long as any new computer with proper care and ideal conditions. But computer types like these are mostly defective or worn-out. Therefore, it is evident that they generally have a shorter lifespan and have a higher tendency for disposal.      

To Purchase or Not?

The final decision will still depend on your needs and the things you can compromise in exchange for a good deal. Even purchasing a perfect computer among the latest models is close to impossible. There will always be a negative thing or two that you are willing to overlook to intentionally get the thing you need. 

That is why it is crucial to assess the genuine reason for your purchase - is it because of the need to do the simplest of tasks or want to experience greater technology? The answers to such questions will mostly determine if you are going to proceed with a purchase or not.

If you still want to push thru a used computer purchase, there are some points that you must keep in mind. First, a reliable dealer with verified products can prevent most of the cons. If you can, do a background check and try to find trustworthy reviews from previous buyers. Ensure that they are also sourcing from dependable partners since the equipment provider plays a significant role in the later consequences. For example, if you secure a used computer purchase from a trustworthy seller, you would not need to worry about a data breach or privacy risks because they will not harm their image. Furthermore, a respectable supplier will not give you equipment of low quality. Thus, the number of your possible repairs will decrease, and computer performance will be fine. 

You can always do a total wipe-out before usage if you want to be sure in every used computer purchase. This will help you clean the contents that the previous owner left, and you can reinstall its operating system; but if you worry that a clean wipe of the hard drive is not enough, you can decide to change it altogether. There are computer hardware experts that are capable of doing such a task. They can also discard the old hard drive with the right disposal measures.

In the end, it all boils down to if you want or need to purchase one because there can be hundreds of pros and cons in a list, yet it is what you feel that still matters the most.

Abtron to the Rescue!

It is indeed daunting to make a used computer purchase, but as long as you have the right people guiding you through the process of buying until maintenance, you should not worry a thing. In Abtron Computer Services, we do the same thing. We provide the best computer hardware alongside its related services. Abtron is an official corporate dealer of the biggest IT companies today – Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung! You can be rest assured that we will handle your units with as much professionalism as our renowned partners.

Moreover, we do not only deal with tracking and managing hardware assets, but we are also experts in secure data destruction. We are capable of destroying data on media and electronic devices that prevent privacy risks. All these are made available to fit in whatever budget you might have. Contact us to know more!