If you’re shopping for an affordable desktop computer, you’ve probably seen the words used and refurbished. They may sound like the same thing, but there can be an important difference.
A used computer is generally a previously owned computer being sold again. A refurbished computer has typically gone through some level of inspection, testing, cleaning or repair before being offered for resale.
But the word “refurbished” by itself doesn’t guarantee quality. What really matters is who refurbished the computer, what was tested, what was replaced or upgraded, and what support comes with it.
At Emerald Computers in Peoria, Arizona, we sell refurbished desktop computers and help customers compare affordable computer options based on what they actually need the computer to do.
What Is a Used Desktop Computer?
A used desktop computer is simply a computer that has had a previous owner.
It might still be an excellent machine. However, when buying directly from an individual or an unknown online seller, you may not know much about the computer’s history.
Questions worth asking include:
- How old is the computer?
- Has the computer been tested?
- Does the storage drive have problems?
- Does every USB and video port work?
- Has the computer been overheating?
- Has anything been repaired?
- Has Windows been properly installed and activated?
- Can the computer be upgraded?
- What happens if something stops working after you buy it?
A low purchase price isn’t necessarily a bargain if the computer immediately needs repairs or upgrades.
What Is a Refurbished Desktop Computer?
A refurbished desktop is also previously owned, but it should have gone through a refurbishment process before being resold.
That process can vary considerably between sellers.
A properly refurbished computer may be:
- Inspected
- Cleaned
- Tested
- Repaired when necessary
- Configured with a fresh operating system installation
- Upgraded with better hardware
- Checked for proper operation before being offered for sale
This additional work is the main reason shoppers should distinguish between a computer that is merely used and one that has actually been refurbished.
Used vs. Refurbished Computers: The Main Differences
| Feature | Used Computer | Refurbished Computer |
|---|---|---|
| Previously owned | Usually | Usually |
| Inspected before sale | Not necessarily | Should be |
| Professionally tested | Not necessarily | Should be |
| Cleaned | Varies | Typically part of refurbishment |
| Hardware repaired if needed | Unknown | May be repaired during refurbishment |
| Hardware upgrades | Varies | May be upgraded |
| Seller support | Often limited with private sales | Depends on the refurbisher |
Are Refurbished Desktop Computers Good?
They certainly can be.
The better question is: Is this particular refurbished computer good?
There are excellent refurbished computers and poorly refurbished computers. That’s why buyers should look beyond the label.
Consider the computer’s processor, RAM, storage, physical condition, operating system, upgradeability and who performed the refurbishment.
Why Business-Class Refurbished Desktops Can Be a Good Value
Many refurbished desktop computers started life as business computers.
Businesses regularly replace fleets of computers even when the existing machines are still functional. Some of those systems can have plenty of useful life remaining when properly inspected and configured.
Business-class desktops can also be attractive because many were originally designed for office environments where reliability and serviceability were important.
Depending on the model and configuration, they can make excellent computers for home offices, small businesses, students and everyday users.
Look for an SSD
One of the most important things to check when buying an older desktop is its storage.
A computer using an older mechanical hard drive can feel frustratingly slow even when the processor and memory are adequate for everyday tasks.
A solid-state drive, or SSD, can make a major difference in everyday responsiveness.
An SSD can improve:
- Windows startup times
- Application loading
- File access
- System responsiveness
- General everyday usability
When comparing two refurbished computers, don’t compare the processor alone. Look at the entire configuration.
How Much RAM Do You Need?
The amount of memory you need depends on what you’re doing with the computer.
Someone browsing the web, checking email and working with documents has very different requirements from someone editing video, running large business applications or playing modern games.
Another important consideration is whether additional RAM can be installed later.
Check Whether the Desktop Can Be Upgraded
Upgradeability is one of the major advantages of many desktop computers.
Depending on the machine, you may be able to upgrade:
- RAM
- SSD storage
- Additional storage
- Wi-Fi
- Graphics
- Power supply
- Other compatible components
If you’re planning to keep the computer for several years, having room for future upgrades can be valuable.
When Should You Buy Used Instead?
A straightforward used computer can make sense when the price is extremely attractive and you know how to evaluate the hardware yourself.
For example, an experienced computer technician or enthusiast may be comfortable buying an inexpensive used PC because they can diagnose problems, replace components and reinstall software themselves.
For someone who doesn’t want to troubleshoot an unknown computer after purchasing it, buying from a computer business that has inspected and tested the machine may provide additional peace of mind.
When Does a Refurbished Computer Make More Sense?
A refurbished computer may make more sense when you want to save money compared with buying new but still want the machine inspected and prepared before purchase.
Refurbished desktops can be particularly attractive for:
- Home computers
- Small businesses
- Office computers
- Students
- Remote workers
- Secondary computers
- Internet and email systems
- Microsoft Office and productivity
- Budget-conscious buyers
Refurbished vs. New Desktop Computers
Buying refurbished isn’t automatically better than buying new either.
A new computer may provide newer hardware, newer connectivity standards and other features that are important for certain workloads.
The goal should be to find the computer that provides the best combination of performance, reliability, features, upgradeability and price for what you’re actually going to do.
If you want to compare more options, see our desktop computers for sale in Peoria, AZ.
Shop Refurbished Desktop Computers in Peoria, AZ
If you’ve decided refurbished is right for you, Emerald Computers carries refurbished desktop computers at our Peoria location.
Inventory changes regularly, so available brands, models and configurations can vary.
See our refurbished desktop computers in Peoria, AZ page or visit our store to see what’s currently available.
Not Sure Whether to Replace Your Current Computer?
If you’re shopping because your existing desktop has become slow or unreliable, don’t automatically assume you need another computer.
Sometimes an SSD, additional RAM or repair can extend the useful life of your existing PC.
See our guide to computer repair costs in Peoria or learn more about computer repair in Peoria, AZ.
Visit Emerald Computers in Peoria
Emerald Computers – Peoria
7642 W Vogel Ave, Building 3
Peoria, AZ 85345
623-240-2424
If you’re comparing a used computer with a refurbished computer, stop by and tell us what you need the computer to do and your approximate budget. We can help you compare the desktop systems currently available.
Call Emerald Computers at 623-240-2424 or visit our Peoria computer store to see our current selection of refurbished desktop computers.
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