What
do refurbished laptop grades mean?
This is where the laptop has been either sold and then returned or used as a demo or display model. Following this, it’s then put through a process where it’s inspected, cleaned and updated. It’s assigned a ‘Grade’ based on its condition before being re-boxed and sold.
The grade assigned can tell you more about the history of the item. The most common ones you will see are A, B and C. The grade denotes the condition you can expect, with A being the best. That, in a nutshell, is what a refurbished laptop is.
What about 'Open Box' models?
These are generally in better condition than any of the refurbished laptops, being ‘as new’. 'Open box' covers laptops that returned from the customer, unused. We can't sell them as new, as the box is open, and the item handled. Condition-wise they are placed just below new and above 'Grade A'.
What
does refurbishing involve?
1. The laptop is inspected, with any marks and blemishes being noted
2. The laptop is then fully tested by a qualified engineer to ensure it's in full working order
3. After the test is completed, the laptop is then cleaned and assigned a grade
4. Finally, the laptop is re-boxed ready for sale
There are various reasons why a laptop could be returned. For example:
● The screen is too large or too small
● The customer needs more ports
● The specification doesn’t meet the customer’s needs
● The laptop was an unwanted gift
● The colour or design isn’t as expected
● The item was ordered in error
Grades
of Refurbished Laptops
Grade A (Excellent)
These will usually be laptops where the item was sent to a customer and returned within 14 days. They will have very little use and will be in excellent condition and will have the odd scratches and/or marks. We sell these with a full 12-month warranty.
Grade B (Very Good)
These will usually be laptops that have been used for a bit longer than grade A, maybe around 30 days. They more cosmetic marks, scratches and dents - with the device being in full working order. We usually sell these with a 12-month ‘Return to Base’ warranty.
Grade C (Good)
These will have deeper scratches and marks, with possible generic or missing accessories. They are in good working order. They will be used for up to 60 days and wear and tear will be noticeable. These We sell these with a ‘Return to Base’ warranty.
Used vs refurbished laptop
While Grade A and below have been used, they aren’t the same as used items sold privately. This is because they’ve been inspected, tested, cleaned and updated by a professional. This results in a guarantee that they work well and come with a warranty to back this up. Privately purchased used items are a gamble – they’re sold ‘as is’ and don’t have a warranty provided.
At TEKshop, we don't generally sell laptops if they were with a customer for longer than 60 days.
Advantages
of Refurbished Laptops
Price
Refurbished laptops are more affordable than buying new, sometimes by quite a margin. If you choose a ‘Grade A’ model, then you’ll get one in excellent condition too.
Environmentally friendly
If refurbished laptops weren’t for sale, they would be sent back to the manufacturer. They would then eventually end up in a landfill somewhere. This is an issue, with laptop e-waste contributing towards a worldwide ecological problem.
Reduces e-waste
Refurbishment reduces the number of laptops destined to become e-waste, giving so many of them a new lease of life. You get a great value laptop, for a great price, AND do your bit for the environment. Win-Win!
Quality Assurance
If you care about the price and the environment, why not buy a used laptop from an online marketplace? Because you can never be sure how fit this machine is for its purpose, as they’re sold ‘as seen’. So for peace of mind, buy a professionally refurbished machine with confidence. Confidence that you don't get with a privately sold used item.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Are refurbished laptops as good as new?
For functionality, yes – they’re the same regardless of condition and will be in full working order. They may be scratched, but they are professionally inspected, tested and cleaned. They also come with a full 12 month warranty in most cases. You can't expect a refurbished laptop to be 'as new', but you'll lose nothing in performance.
Will a refurbished laptop last as long as new?
We refurbish laptops between 14 and 60 days old, so they’re just as likely to last as new.
What is the best grade for a refurbished laptop?
Grade A is the best true ‘refurbished’ grade. Outside of this, we also do ‘Open Box' models – which are essentially as good as new.
Do refurbished laptops come with a charger?
All laptops will come with at least a charger. Some may also come with other accessories – the product page will make this clear on a ‘per-item’ basis.