refurbished computer meaning?

I have been searching for a new gaming laptop for a long time and have finally found a cheap and powerful REFURBISHED one that seems perfect. but i wanted to make sure, from people that work at dell and stuff what that really means. does refurbished mean that the customer sent it back and they didn't want it cause of a problem and the company fixes it but leaves like a few dents and dings and stuff but the computer is like new performance wise like the screen is still nice and new and everything works and they make sure of that. or do they just get it to turn on and make sure it works until it gets to that persons house and leave all the problems it had in the beginning. this may be a stupid question but i want to be safe.

Anonymous2013-02-13T16:06:39Z

It should mean it has been thoroughly tested, and any worn or suspect pats have been replaced. It should also have a totally clean new operating system install. Are you actually buying it from Dell? They do not generally sell refurbished machines. If you are not, it is unlikely to be truly refurbished. Most people just dust them off, remove any serious marks and then sell them as is. And with n real warranty.

WayneH2013-02-13T15:59:59Z

By definition, refurbished means fixing any hardware/software problems and returning the device back to factory specs. Cosmetic problems are not included.

I've bought IBM/Levono refurbished desktops and laptops since 1999 with zero problems. A little cosmetic blemish doesn't matter.

Soccerstarjim2013-02-13T15:59:18Z

I would not buy a refurbished machine. It means something has been repaired or replaced. If you do end up getting one make sure there is a warranty on the computer.

DrDave2013-02-13T15:58:00Z

Could be the customer didn't like it, could be it had serious hardware problems. I had a client that bought a refurbed Emachine once and had to send it in 3 times. Buyer beware. I give them 50/50 odds.