Refurbished or open box notebooks are usually `customer returned` laptop computers due to a number of possibilities. A refurbished notebook is not the same as a used laptop and, in strict sense, it is a used laptop for only a maximum number of 30 days. Refurbished notebook computers can be the result of various possible reasons which include `customer returns` within the warranty period, defective internal or external hardware components or even units that are damaged during shipments or in transit. In all of these circumstances, the manufactures usually replace the components of unit that are either damaged or defective, put the unit through a quality check process and revised the warranty, prices and labels of the refurbished units.

However, when a unit is returned within the warranty period, for example, due to the customer dissatisfaction with poor customer services, it may not have any defects at all. Even in such a case, the manufacture will put the unit through a quality check process and resell it as a refurbished unit.

The ongoing recession has suddenly brought refurbished notebooks back to the consumers` limelight as more and more laptop aspirants are yearning to own portable computer gadgets within their shoe-string budget. Knowing that a refurbished laptop computer is not a brand-new one, it is natural that a number of questions would be doing round in your mind. So should you settle for a refurbished portable computer unit? Let us delve deeper into the digital dilemma:

Comparing prices – A refurbished laptop can be a lot cheaper than a new laptop computer. Those who are looking for buying laptops at cheaper prices should consider purchasing a refurbished unit. While purchasing it, many people compare prices of different models from different brands along with their features. This is because they want to get a unit that can fulfill their maximum requirements with cheaper prices. Make sure you compare the prices before deciding to buy one.

Analyze additional features – Often, before reselling a refurbished laptop, the manufacturers verify the unit and add some more features to it to attract buyers. Hence, you can find a refurbished unit with some added features than a new unit. As it has been discussed that the price of such units are lower than that of new units, you can doubly benefit from the deal while purchasing refurbished computer. However, you need to make sure that the added features match up to your requirements.

Check warranty period – Usually, the warranty period of a refurbished laptop is less than a new laptop computer. It may deter you from opting for a refurbished unit. But, the good news is that some brands offer warranty upgrade offers for some of their models with payment of an additional cost. While checking for the warranty, make sure that the warranty on the items is offered by the manufacturer itself. Usually, the warranty on a refurbished notebook lasts for 6-12 months. It is wise to select one that offers minimum 6-months warranty.

Read return policy – The return policy with a refurbished computer differs from that of a new one. The return time limit of a refurbished laptop is often shorter. However, there are some brands that offer equal return time for both refurbished and new computers.