Things to keep in mind when buying a used computer

If you're thinking of buying a second-hand computer, you probably know it's risky. However, don't worry, in this article we will tell you what to keep in mind when choosing to buy a used computer.

The origin of the old computer

Things to keep in mind when buying a used computer Picture 1 Knowing the source will make it easier for you to choose when buying a second-hand computer

Used computers also come in a variety of different origins and knowing this information will make it easier for you to choose when buying a used computer.

Old computers liquidated from companies and offices

Old computers are liquidated by companies to replace new computers. These computers are usually low profile and most are still in good use. However, this type of computer is only suitable for doing normal office and printing tasks, can listen to music and watch movies online, .

Second-hand computers imported from abroad

Old computers are imported from abroad. This type is often referred to as a Second-Hand microcomputer. These are usually microcomputers with brands such as Dell, HP, . assembled synchronously. After being imported, they will be classified, checked and replaced if any damaged components inside. This type of computer is very diverse, from low-end machines suitable for office work and entertainment to high-configuration machines dedicated to high-end 3D graphics design.

Old computers liquidated from Game rooms

Old computers are liquidated by Game rooms. This type of computer can also be used in office work, entertainment, . Because these machines are assembled to play games, often equipped with graphics equipment - Video Card (VGA Card) so it is also suitable for use in graphic design, image processing. However, if you want to use this type of computer to play games, then please consider hardware configuration such as processor - CPU, RAM Memory and Video Card - VGA can meet the system requirements of the Game you want to play or not because they may be liquidated because they do not meet the requirements to play new Games.

Used computers resold by users

Used computers are resold by users. This type of computer is also very diverse and depending on the configuration it can meet different needs of use. However, there will be two cases. If the user sells the old computer to buy a new, more powerful computer, there will be no problem. However, if the user sells this computer because it has some error such as the computer is unstable, or the computer crashes, freezes, sometimes shuts down or restarts on its own, . these are all These are very annoying bugs and very difficult for buyers to spot.

Where to buy used computers?

Things to keep in mind when buying a used computer Picture 2 Buy used computers for sale at the warehouse

Where to buy cheap and good used computers? This is the question everyone asks when buying a used computer. The answer is Google, search for information about used computer stores, see reviews of these stores on websites and remember to be selective, there will always be new information. conflicting news as competitors drown each other out.

Buy used computers at the warehouse

You'll find some advertisements for warehouses that specialize in second hand computers, or Second-Hand computers imported from abroad. If you have knowledge about computer hardware, you can choose to buy a suitable computer at a relatively cheap price. However, when buying used computers at the warehouse, you may not be covered by the warranty, usually the place of sale only allows you to check the machine on the spot.

Buy used computers at stores

These stores will buy used computers at the warehouse, bring them back to clean, check and repair, and then sell them back to customers. If you are not familiar with computers, buy here. Of course, the price will be more expensive, but when you buy a second-hand computer at the store, you will have a warranty and will be more assured to use it.

Buy used computers for sale on buying and selling websites

As we mentioned above, when buying old computers of this type you have to be careful because it will not be covered under warranty. If you know how to check the machine and pay the price, you will also be able to buy them at a very good price, which may be the same or cheaper than the purchase price of the liquidation warehouse.

Check the parameters of the computer

After you have chosen a place to sell used computers, when buying a computer, you must check whether the parameters of the computer components are correct as introduced by the seller or not.

Instructions on How to view the parameters of computer components with Speccy

Old computer but not old components

Things to keep in mind when buying a used computer Picture 3 The computer is old but the components inside are still under warranty

Not everyone knows that computers that are assembled from discrete components and computers sold in unbranded or store-branded stores will be warranted depending on the components inside. . In which CPU, Mainboard, RAM are always guaranteed for 36 months. Hard drives - HDD and other components are warranted for 12 - 36 months depending on type.

If you're lucky, you may be able to buy an old computer, but the internal components are still under warranty. The warranty period is marked on the warranty stamp affixed to each component. From the information printed on the warranty stamp you can find out where these components are sold.

Lifespan of computers

When buying used computers, you will certainly wonder how long they have been used and how long they can be used. The life of a computer, or rather, the life of the components inside the computer will depend on the environmental conditions as well as the way you use them.

Under normal conditions of use, the hard drive will often be the fastest component to fail. A hard drive can run well for more than 10 years or it can fail within 5 years. The power supply also has a similar lifespan. Mainboard, RAM and other components will have a longer life. Finally, the component with the longest life span is the processor - CPU, this smallest component is virtually undamaged throughout the life of the computer.

The ability to repair and upgrade old computers

First of all, ask the seller if it is possible to repair and upgrade old computers when necessary. For example, you want to upgrade the CPU with a higher speed, add more RAM to increase the memory capacity of your computer, install more graphics equipment to play new games, .

If the seller doesn't know or doesn't want to answer, you can find out yourself. The component that you need to know that information is the motherboard - Mainboard, it will decide whether the computer can be upgraded or not and to what extent.

Guide How to identify the manufacturer and model of the Motherboard

Older computers may not include a monitor

Things to keep in mind when buying a used computer Picture 4 A full desktop set

It should be noted that some old computers may be sold not as complete sets, but only with the case (often called the CPU unit). That means you have to buy an additional monitor, keyboard and mouse to use it.

Price of second hand computer

Be sure to compare prices before you buy a used computer. With the same configuration, how much does a new computer cost and how much does an old computer cost? Second-hand computers and assembly machines how much?

Warranty and return policy

When buying a used computer, no matter how carefully you check it, there is no guarantee that the machine will not be damaged when used for a long time. So it's best to buy used computers in places that have a warranty and exchange them if the machine is badly damaged or does not meet your needs.

In the case when buying a used computer case without a warranty, its price will have to be cheaper and you should also set aside some money to spare for repairs if there is damage.

Check if the computer is running well

After you have considered the above notes, the next part will be to check the computer to see if it is working properly. If the computer is not covered by warranty, you must check it thoroughly before you buy it.

See the guide How to check if the computer is running well or not

Lesley Montoya

Update 08 May 2023