Should You Ever Buy Tech 2nd Hand?

Is It Ever Worth It?

Times are tight and people across the world are feeling the bite of the recession. By the same token we still all want tech and gadgets at a cut price. It can be worth doing but you should always be careful.

What You Should and Shouldn't Buy

Laptops, Phones, Tablets and their accessories. Laptops, always best to try and avoid buying 2nd hand unless you can get them through official retailers that refurbish items (apple are quite good, items are latest gen and have original box, no cosmetic wear and tear and retains a year warranty)

The Good

Apple
PC World
Currys
(Most OEM's)
Dell
Acer

The sites above are all retailers that offer refurbished products meaning that they are in full working order and look as new, if anything isn't in order then it will be stated in the product description. They don't offer huge savings but you can get anything from around 10-40% depending on where you go.

The Bad

Ebay
Craigslist
Gumtree

There are so many unknowns with the sites above as there are some bad people out there who are only out to make a quick buck. You must be really careful if its the way you want to go, i wouldn't advise it but if you are going to do it then make sure you phone the seller and actually have a conversation about the item, make sure they can provide you with a serial number and  service history (if any) why they are selling it, any potential issues / faults and cosmetic wear and pictures. If you are having it delivered to your house make sure you always get parcel tracking and they aren't just taking your money. However most importantly make sure there is a refund policy as should the item be not as described you can get your money back. If there isn't one or it is a bit indecisive and shady the DO NOT BOTHER.

For Laptops

http://www.thelaptopcentre.co.uk/ ,
 http://www.pcworld.co.uk,
 http://www.currys.co.uk/

For Mobile Phones + Tablets

http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/
 http://www.purplegossip.com/ ,
  http://www.studentcomputers.co.uk/

The Verdict

Finding the cash for the latest thing can be troubling and impossible but it doesn't mean you have to go without. If you have the money then buy it new, always but new but if that simply isn't an option then keep in mind what I have mentioned in the article as the internet is becoming an increasingly dangerous place for consumers and you can be vulnerable if you aren't careful.

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