When a consumer returns a laptop to the store, whatever the reason may be, the store then sends the laptop back to the manufacturer to be inspected and eventually refurbished, or in other terms, to be brought back up to the original manufacturer specifications. Basically what they are doing is rebuilding the laptop, as if it were new, and then they can resell the newly refurbished laptop to consumers.

Buying a refurbished laptop, aside from the much lower price tag, is no different than purchasing a new laptop from your local retail store. Refurbished laptops have been fully inspected and tested by the manufacturer, so they work just like new. In most cases when you purchase a refurbished laptop you will even receive the full manufacturer warranty along with the stores standard return policy, so you really have nothing to lose.

Refurbished laptops typically run several hundred dollars less than the exact same model being sold as new. As with any purchase always ask the store about their return policies and warranties on the specific product before purchasing.

No it won't and let me explain. Any product being sold, even new, can come with defects from the manufacturer and as a result, they may not function properly. However, by purchasing a refurbished laptop, you will not be in any greater risk of a malfunction, than you would if you were to go out and buy a brand new laptop. When the manufacturer refurbishes the laptop they hold that laptop to the same standards as the new ones rolling off of the assembly line. As I mentioned above, they typically come with the same warranty, so should there be a problem, you are still covered on your purchase.

So I have sold you on the idea of buying a refurbished laptop and now you want to know where you can get one, right? Refurbished laptops are widely available at many online retailers and some stores as well. The models and availability fluctuate heavily so you really never know what you might find.

A good place to start is to perform a Google search on either refurbished laptops, or a specific model of refurbished laptop. You might also call your local computer store and see if they carry any in store or have any on their website. You can also turn to eBay.com, although I recommend you talk to the seller and make certain that the laptop they are selling is manufacturer refurbished and not refurbished by a third party. As a special bonus, I have included some links to online stores that usually have refurbished laptops in stock, see the list below.

1. Dell Outlet


2. Overstock.com

3. Geeks.com

4. CompUSA

5. NewEgg.com

6. Circuit City