Modern laptops come with many new features and updates that are often necessary to perform various tasks. However, the high-end systems also come with hefty price tags that sometimes make them unaffordable. If you want powerful yet affordable solutions, you can explore second hand laptops.
When we say second hand laptops, we do not mean buying a used laptop from a user. You will find two categories if you search second hand laptops online: refurbished and renewed. While both are technically second hand laptops, refurbished and renewed laptops are quite different from each other. So, do not randomly choose any option thinking renewed and refurbished mean the same thing. The device might not match your expectations.
In this blog, we will help you understand what each term really means and which one might be the better choice for you.
INDEX
What Does "Refurbished" Mean?
What Does "Renewed" Mean?
Key Differences Between Refurbished and Renewed Laptops
Which One Is Better for You?
Buy Best Refurbished Laptops Online in India at Mobilegoo
Frequently Asked Questions About Renewed and Refurbished Laptops
1. Does "Renewed" Mean "Brand New"?
2. Is Refurbished Better Than Brand New?
3. Should I Buy Refurbished or Second-Hand?
What Does "Refurbished" Mean?
A refurbished laptop is basically a device that was once owned and used. However, it was later returned by the user for some reason — maybe it was damaged, defective, or the owner just did not need it anymore. The short answer is that it is not a brand-new laptop anymore. However, you cannot exactly call it a second hand device because it has been refurbished, i.e., restored to its original condition by professional refurbishers.
The refurbishment process:
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Initial Inspection: The first step in the refurbishment process is inspection. The experts thoroughly check the device for functional and physical issues.
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Repairs & Replacements: If any issues are found during the inspection, the refurbishers take note of them and then fix them. They first try to repair the faulty parts. In case any part cannot be repaired, they are replaced.
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Deep Cleaning: The refurbishment process is about restoring the device to its original condition as much as possible. We are talking about both functional and physical conditions. So, once the internal components are checked and fixed, the technicians clean the device inside and out. It is also important because it clears the fans and vents and reduces the chances of the laptop overheating.
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Factory Reset: If you are buying a laptop, it is very obvious that you do not want any data from the previous user. By taking up extra space, it can make managing your laptop storage a little difficult, especially if you have a lot of data. The refurbishers restore the device to factory settings — you get a clean OS installation with updated drivers and firmware.
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Testing Again: Once the device is ready, a final testing round is done. This second round is essential to ensure that the refurbished product is ready to be shipped.
Refurbished laptops are very different from second hand laptops — they are more durable and efficient. Additionally, you will get a warranty on refurbished laptops.
Just keep in mind that some products may have some cosmetic defects. If you want to buy a device that looks new, keep an eye on the refurbished grade rating. Like new or Grade A laptops have minimum cosmetic defects.
Also Read: Simple Tips to Maintain and Care for Your Refurbished Laptop
What Does "Renewed" Mean?
- General Condition: As mentioned earlier, renewed laptops are second hand laptops as well. However, these laptops were in good functional condition when returned. So, these devices do not require as many repairs as refurbished devices. The expert just checks the functionality of the components to make sure everything works properly.
- Visual Standards: Renewed devices are generally not that old when returned. Therefore, these devices can be expected to look clean and free of major cosmetic issues. Do not mistake them to be in flawless condition either. These are used laptops at the end of the day and might have signs of previous use. The experts will perform a basic cleaning to get rid of the dust and dirt.
- Functional Check: During the checking process, the experts ensure that the device is powering on and booting up properly. Also, they ensure that the ports work fine and there are no loose components or connections.
- Minor Replacements (Sometimes): If there is a major flaw (like a failing battery or cracked screen), the part may be replaced. But, always remember that renewed products are not always fully restored.
Make sure that you do not get confused between renewed laptops and refurbished laptops. While they are in perfect working condition, these devices are not so thoroughly checked by the experts. Therefore, they are not restored to their original conditions.
Key Differences Between Refurbished and Renewed Laptops
|
Aspect |
Refurbished |
Renewed |
|
Source of Device |
Usually returned, defective, or used (can include demo units). |
Generally pre-owned and returned, sometimes with no major faults. |
|
Repair Process |
Thorough testing and replacement of faulty components. |
Basic testing and repairs are done only if needed. |
|
Cleaning |
Deep internal and external cleaning is done. |
Cleaned for resale. They generally do not have cosmetic errors. |
|
Testing Level |
Detailed diagnostics and performance testing are done to ensure functionality. |
Basic functional checks are done only. |
|
Warranty |
Generally comes with a longer warranty period. |
Has a shorter warranty period (90 days common). |
|
Appearance |
Cosmetic condition depends on the grade of the refurbished laptop. |
Can have light to moderate cosmetic wear. |
Which One Is Better for You?
Here is the honest truth: it is difficult to give any one answer for this. It depends on your needs. So, you will have to consider all the different angles before making your purchase.
If you want a reliable device for important tasks, you should go for a device with verified repairs and testing. So, a refurbished laptop will be better in this case.
People looking for a device for light use can consider a renewed laptop. They might prove to be a more economical choice.
Whether you buy a refurbished laptop or a renewed laptop, the quality of the product is important. Therefore, you should always buy them from a trusted seller. Make sure to check the seller’s ratings, reviews, return policy, and warranty terms before finalising your purchase.
Buy Best Refurbished Laptops Online in India at Mobilegoo
As we mentioned earlier, the quality of the device is very crucial when you are buying a refurbished or renewed laptop. So, you must also be careful when choosing the seller. Some sellers may sell poor-quality devices at a lower price. At Mobilegoo, you will always find the best refurbished laptops in India. Our laptops offer top-notch performance and come with a warranty. Also, you will get heavy discounts on them. EMI options are also available if you do not want the financial strain of making a large payment at once.
People buying a renewed or refurbished laptop can also consider selling their old devices. At Mobilegoo, you can also sell your old and used laptops and get the best value. It is a very simple process. You just have to provide the details of your device and confirm the sale. We will pick up the device from your doorstep and provide instant cash payment. You will always get the best deals on used and old laptops from us.
Frequently Asked Questions About Renewed and Refurbished Laptops
1. Does "Renewed" Mean "Brand New"?
Just like renewed and refurbished laptops are different, renewed and new are different as well. When something is listed as renewed, it means it was pre-owned. However, it was returned after a short period of time and then cleaned and tested by experts. So, while it is not a new device, it functions like one. You might see small cosmetic signs of wear. Also, the device might not appear in its original packaging.
So do not expect a sealed original box with untouched contents when buying a renewed laptop.
2. Is Refurbished Better Than Brand New?
The answer is both yes and no. Let’s break it down:
Brand new laptops are straight from the manufacturer — never used, come with full warranty, and are guaranteed to be in perfect condition.
Refurbished laptops, on the other hand, have been used or returned. Although they are tested, repaired, cleaned, and restored, you might notice a slight difference in terms of functionality. However, a refurbished laptop is not a bad alternative. You are getting a high-end model at a lower price. This is often one of the biggest deciding factors. Also, you get the latest OS/drivers.
With that being said, if you are the kind of buyer who needs the latest release and full warranty, you should buy a brand new laptop.
But if you are smart about where you buy the refurbished device from, you can score an amazing deal without compromising much at all.
3. Should I Buy Refurbished or Second-Hand?
The short answer is a refurbished laptop. It is a safer and smarter option in most cases. Refurbished laptops come tested, repaired, and cleaned. Also, you get a warranty on them.
However, second hand laptops are sold “as-is” by individuals or marketplaces. No prior testing or repairs are done. Also, an additional warranty is not provided. There are high chances of hidden issues (battery, overheating, damage) if you are not buying from a reliable seller. So, it may be cheaper upfront, but riskier in the long run.
Only if you are tech-savvy and know how to check a used laptop in person can a second-hand laptop work for you.
