Are you thinking about buying a used computer in-person or online? Wait! Read these helpful tips and tricks beforehand so you don’t get ripped off!
Is your computer dying a slow death? That’s a total bummer.
This is especially true when your old machine has started running super slow or the OS is too outdated to be of much use anymore. Looks like it might be time for a new machine.
But when your finances are tight and every dollar matters, you might find yourself shopping for a used machine to save a few bucks. When it comes to buying a used machine, how can you know if you’re getting ripped off?
You’ve come to the right place for answers.
This article takes a look at important tips for buying a used computer. Keep reading to discover insight into finding a used machine without getting hosed in the process.
- Check for Any Physical Damage
Once you’ve found a computer that you’re interested in buying, the first thing you should do is look for any physical damage. This is true for both desktops and laptops.
Depending on the age of the machine, many used computers will have some form of damage, even if it’s limited to a few minor scratches. Don’t freak out if the machine isn’t in mint condition.
The key is to keep an eye out for major dents, cracks, or severe scratching that might be evidence of abuse and potential internal damage.
- Check the Keyboard
Take a close look at the keyboard. This is especially important when buying a laptop.
Are any keys missing? Do they all function properly and smoothly when pressed? Do the letters look worn?
All of these details matter.
A laptop keyboard is also a good place to inspect the machine for dust, dirt, corrosion, and water damage. Again, minimal wear and tear are to be expected, but more extreme damage is a sign that all is not well under the hood.
- How Many USB Ports Does It Have?
Anyone that uses a computer on a regular basis understands the importance of USB ports.
These are ports on your computer that enable the use of external components such as keyboards, storage devices, and for connecting cell phones for charging.
Most computers, including laptops, should be designed with at least two USB ports. Everyone is different, with varying needs, thus it’s important to have a good idea of your personal needs before purchasing a machine lacking in USB ports.
- Inspect the Battery
It’s no secret that a laptop computer needs a good battery. After all, you won’t be able to plug in everywhere you go. Thus you will end up relying on a quality battery to keep you up and running.
When shopping for a used laptop, remove the battery if possible. Does it appear physically damaged in any way? Again, minor scratches are fine.
Mac laptops no longer feature removable batteries, so you’ll need to assess the battery by looking at the settings.
Most modern laptops feature decent battery life, but this will mostly depend on the type of machine, any water damage it might have sustained, and the degree of wear and tear it may have been exposed to.
Never hesitate to discuss battery life with the seller. Just be sure to research the specific model of the machine prior to the conversation so you’ll be knowledgeable and aware when someone is trying to sell you a load of BS.
- How Much RAM Does It Have?
Go into setting on the machine and take a look at how much RAM comes loaded on it. Keep in mind that not everyone requires a ton of RAM.
This obviously impacts the performance of the machine, but mostly affects speed, and will be noticed most when using multi-media or gaming.
Knowing how you’ll be using the machine will make it far easier to assess the amount of RAM that will best serve your needs. After all, simply surfing the web isn’t dramatically impacted by RAM.
If you’re concerned about how much RAM you need, do some research online or contact an expert at your local computer repair shop.
- Check Out the Hard Drive Capacity
You might not care about the size of the drive, but it’s important to be aware that hard drives fill up quickly, especially if you download tons of music or movies. After all, media hogs drive space like crazy.
Fortunately, you can easily check the size of the hard drive, and quickly identify the amount of available space remaining on the drive. Most hard drives will be fully wiped before being sold, so you should have maximum space available at the time of purchase.
Just be sure to ask the seller to run a disk scan prior to purchase to ensure that it’s not damaged.
This is also a great time to delete or change AppleID on Mac so that no one can attempt to hack into your old files.
- What’s the Condition of the Touchpad?
Another important part of a laptop is the condition of the touchpad.
Is it scratched or dinted? Does it appear to be warped?
The key is to make sure that it functions properly when swiping and clicking.
- Scan for Viruses
This is true for all used computers, but especially for Windows machines.
Hopefully, the machine will come loaded with quality anti-virus software so you can run a scan to make sure it’s free of nasty malware.
Buying a Used Computer Made Easy
When it comes to electronics, it’s important to be an informed consumer.
Fortunately, these tips for buying a used computer will help you find the best computer possible without getting ripped off.
Keep scrolling to discover more helpful lifestyle tips and advice.