Refurbished computers from stores: Are they worth buying?

I have never bought a refurbished. But, I have read that refurbished machines get more attention by the manufacturers than do new machines. They check them out. To be on the safe side, however, make sure when you buy a refurbished machine from a retailer that they have a reasonable return policy. My experience with BestBuy and Circuit City has been great. I have purchased a couple of items that when I got them home they were not exactly what I expected. Returned them with no questions asked. I did return them within 7 days. So, if you make your decision, check the computer out immediately. Use all of the drives and burners. Work it hard and see if they come up to your expectations. Good luck.

Refurbished is o.k. if you are purchasing the unit from a trusted supplier. Check the seller's feedback ratings and read the comments, etc. The seller should have a 99% customer satisfaction rating. Make sure the product comes with at a six month warranty. For the amount you are paying, also check the specifications against a new computer at Circuity City, Best Buy, etc. The bottom line is that you want to buy from a reputable seller, purchase a product with a warranty, and have access to someone that could service it when something goes wrong. Obviously, a reputable, local small business that sells refurbished computers would be better.

Yes they are! Most of the time a customer buys a comp and brings it back because of some minor issue they had with it and the technicians will fix the problem and they'll sell it for way less than it's worth. Get an extended protection plan if you think you need one.

Yeah. If you want a computer for just basic surfing, e-mail, writing documents, a cheap used computer that's a few years old is ideal. But do not buy a used computer for Gaming or Media editting... it's lifespan would not be worth it.

If you do want a computer for basic use, the one on that bestbuy page is actually overkill (although, as i said, it wouldnt last long gaming). It also didn't seem to come with a monitor! I would get an even older and cheaper used computer. Even put all FREE linux software on it (http://www.distrowatch.com/).

That would depend on the individual buying them.. Personally. I am afraid of buying a refurbished one but that is me and why? I have absolutely NO reason as to why because they(refurbished ones) are gone over completely and come out like new and would operate like a new one.. So, in reality, they are OK. Do insist though that they have a warranty like a new one otherwise.. scrap the deal....

I have two dells, a laptop from off lease auction and a refurbished desk top. Both have been running over two years with no problems. Check their web site.

It depends what type of warranty they have on them. If they say if it does not work, and you can bring it back, read the fine print. Some may not be returnable after you open them out of the box.

If they come with a warranty that lasts at least a year, yes. Remember, you get what you pay for. I would buy locally so that you can take it to them if something goes wrong. Good luck on your purchase.

For the price, Yes.

Dont get one unless its from a good reliable store and has some sort of guarantee that goes along with it.