How to Buy Used Gadgets

Tech News 17 November 2009 | 0 Comments

Every now and then you see a deal online or in stores for a used gadget. Should you try and buy it.
Sometimes you can end up buying gear that is used accidently. This stuff is usually labeled “refurbished” or “factory reconditioned.”
Different website and stores use different descriptions so it is a good idea to investigate whether or not the gadget is actually used if you are not sure. Many busy stores and sites also have a lot of inventory going through their site day after day so it is a good idea to check back and look for deals whenever you can.
Used electronics are not a good idea nor is buying anything with a lot of moving parts like a multi-disc changer. You can’t replace this type of part if it is broken for good.
It is also a bad idea to buy television sets and monitors that are used. This is because bulbs burn out, tubes fade and pixels die. On the other hand, amplifiers, AV receivers, and some single-disc DVD players will hold their value, even if they don’t offer the latest 6.1-channel home-theater experience. Used speakers can be a good choice, too, though they’re generally not something you want to buy without listening to first.
If you’re purchasing a used computer, a handheld, or something similar it is important to assess how old it is…as a rule of thumb try not to buy anything that is more than six months old.
Try to get a warranty with it. The best protection is to buy reputable products from dealers who give you 30 days to change your mind, Ideally, the product will come with the original manufacturer’s warranty (usually at least a year), but many refurbished goods offer only 90 days. However if adding an extended warranty costs a lot you might want to buy new in the first place.
Price it right: Don’t go higher than 80 percent–or below 50 percent–of what the device costs new, and beware of stores that try to sell you too many “extras like chargers and power cords
You’ll get the best prices from private sellers, many of whom sell via auction sites. Stick with sellers who meet the requirements for being part of the PayPal Buyer Protection program, which will reimburse you for up to $1000 if you get ripped off. The best strategy? Know who you’re buying from before you pull out your credit card!

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