Five top tips for buying a refurbished Apple computer
If you're in the market for a new computer, you may be considering buying a brand-new Apple device. However, did you know that you could save money by buying a refurbished model instead?
Refurbished Apple devices are those that have been previously owned but have been restored to their original condition by Apple or an independent technician.
Here are my five top tips for buying a refurbished Apple computer.
Do your research
Before you buy a refurbished Mac computer, check if it is possible to upgrade the computer – there are Apps and websites where you can find this information.
Will the refurbished Mac be capable of easily running more recent versions of the Mac operating system and third-party software you require?
Is the computer intended to be used as your main or a secondary machine so will a slightly slow processor do the work you need?
Where will you buy your refurbished computer from?
There are plenty of different websites and retailers that sell refurbished Apple computers. However, it's important to make sure you're buying from a reputable source. One way to do this is to check any reviews from other customers.
When you buy a refurbished Apple computer, it's important to find out what type of warranty is offered by the seller. Most reputable sellers will offer some kind of warranty, whether it's a 30-day return policy or a more comprehensive plan that covers repairs and replacements for a longer time period.
How much will it cost to make software updates or hardware upgrades?
One thing to keep in mind, when buying a refurbished Apple computer is the cost of making any necessary software and hardware updates. Depending on the model you purchase, you may need to update to a new operating system or make memory capacity upgrades. These costs can add up, so be sure to factor them into your budget before making a purchase.
Are new applications compatible with the operating system and the computer’s hardware?
Another important consideration is whether newer applications you may want to use are compatible with the older operating system and hardware on the refurbished computer. In some cases, you may need to purchase an upgrade in order to run newer versions of software or take advantage of newer features. Checking these things in advance will avoid any surprises down the road.
Create a ‘pros & cons’ list
Listing the ‘pros & cons’ of your buying options is a great way to make a balanced decision.
When it comes to buying a refurbished Apple computer, some of the ‘pros’ may be that the Mac is cheaper to purchase, meaning that you can afford a higher specification than if you bought a brand new comparable model.
‘Cons’ may include the computer running slightly slower than the brand new equivalent, having older software, smaller memory capacity or some minor cosmetic damage. The model you want may also not be available when you require it. This means you may need to compromise on your preferred choice or you may have to wait longer for it to become available.
Weighing up the ‘pros & cons’ will help you to make a more informed decision about which option is best for you.
Cost considerations
Finally, I now suggest that, in order to help make your final decision, you take a look at the monetary considerations again.
Take the price of the refurbished Mac computer (including the possible upgrade and extra software costs you have identified) and compare it to the price of a brand new Apple model, which will include the latest hardware and software versions and will work straight out of the box (and if it doesn't can be returned for a refund or replacement).
You will now be able to decide if the cost-saving and ‘pros’ on your list outweigh the ‘cons’ and the higher cost of a brand new Apple model. This should put you in a better position to make an informed decision.
If you have any other questions or need help making a decision, please feel free to contact me. I'm always happy to help!
Call (+44)1420 53 8575 or email help@x-mac.co.uk.
