Guide to Purchasing Refurbished Technology Online: Tips and Places.

The appeal of shiny new technology, like the impressive smartphones captured by Sam Rutherford, cannot be denied. However, it is not always necessary to opt for the latest model with every purchase. Choosing refurbished products can be a more economical alternative, sometimes saving hundreds of dollars compared to buying new. Additionally, it's a much more environmentally friendly option, as much of the environmental impact of a device occurs during its manufacturing process. Buying refurbished is also more efficient than recycling, helping to keep a device out of the electronic waste stream for longer.

The terminology surrounding what is considered "refurbished technology" varies, as there are no specific regulations regarding it. Generally, refurbished products are of higher quality than "used" items you might acquire from an individual. This means they have undergone testing, cleaning, and repairs, if necessary, and should function as if they were new, with only some minor marks revealing their previous history. However, not all suppliers offer the same reliability when it comes to refurbished options. It is important to know where to look for refurbished products that guarantee a documented refurbishment process.

Considerations When Buying Refurbished Devices

Refurbished vs. Used

It is essential to differentiate between these two terms. Used items are typically sold "as is," meaning you inherit the condition and quirks of the device as left by its previous owner. Although many refurbished devices have had a prior owner and stem from the trend of upgrading devices, others are lightly used and come from the numerous returns generated annually. In any case, a refurbished item must have undergone testing to verify it works properly, along with cleaning, repairs, and, if necessary, part replacements.

Since there are no government regulations on these products, it is up to sellers to define the steps for preparing a device for sale. For instance, the refurbishment of Apple, Bose, Microsoft, Google Pixel, and Samsung devices includes cleaning, inspections, part replacements, and shipping in new boxes with original accessories. Each of these companies also offers a one-year warranty.

Warranties and Returns

A refurbished device should work just as well as a new one, but the only way to guarantee this is to ensure it comes with a warranty. All the recommended sites in this article include a warranty with their products. If you find an item labeled as refurbished that does not offer a reliability warranty, it’s best to look elsewhere.

A good return system will allow you to return the product (preferably with the same free shipping you would receive with a new one) for any reason, even if you simply had a change of heart. This way, if a refurbished product does not meet your expectations, you can return it without needing to justify any defects.

Sanitization

Since most refurbished technology has been previously used, it’s important to consider the issue of sanitization, especially with items like headphones and ear buds. It is suggested that whenever possible, you buy directly from the manufacturer, especially when it comes to technical devices like smartphones and laptops. For instance, if you need a new MacBook, it’s advisable to first check Apple’s refurbished stock. Repairs are conducted using original parts, which increases the chances that you will acquire items that have been properly dissociated from their previous owner and that all data has been erased.

Also look at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy if you're on a tighter budget or looking for devices from a manufacturer that may not have its own refurbished line. Refurbishment marketplaces like BackMarket can be helpful if you’re looking for older or specific items, or if price is your primary concern.

In the case of Apple, while the company has reduced what it offers in exchange for devices, it continues to get a good inventory of refurbished MacBooks, iPads, and more. These devices undergo inspections and repairs with original Apple parts, and refurbished iPhones and iPads receive new batteries and casings. In addition to phones and tablets, the brand sells refurbished MacBooks, watches, Apple TVs, and accessories like the Apple Pencil. Everything ships in a new box with the cables and accessories that a new item would come with, plus a one-year warranty and a 14-day return period.

Refurbished Products from Other Brands

Samsung, for its part, typically only offers the refurbishment of smartphones on its site, though you may find attractive deals, as a refurbished Galaxy phone can cost up to 30% less. These devices include a new battery, are tested and repaired with Samsung parts, and are shipped with new packaging, cables, and the latest software, along with a one-year warranty.

Bose offers a variety of refurbished products, from speakers to headphones, with discounts ranging from 10% to 45%. Each item goes through testing and cleaning processes, with a free 90-day return policy and a one or two-year warranty, depending on the item.

Sonos devices, which typically do not have discounts, also have a special appeal in their refurbishment program, offering items that have been tested and repaired in new packaging, with a 45-day return policy and a one-year warranty.

Microsoft primarily offers refurbished Surface tablets, laptops, and Xbox consoles, which are also tested and cleaned before being sold, with warranty and return policies similar to those of other brands.

Other Retailers

Some smaller manufacturers like Dyson, Vitamix, Nintendo, and JBL have their own refurbished products, but for other brands, it may be necessary to go to retailers. Amazon Renewed offers refurbished products that have gone through a professional cleaning and inspection process, unlike Amazon Warehouse, which sells used items without refurbishment. Amazon's refurbished devices come with a 90-day warranty, covering both returns and warranty, including the option to return an item that did not meet your expectations.

Walmart Restored follows a similar model, using third-party sellers and offering a 90-day warranty and return period. Their products usually specify that they should not have visible defects from a foot away unless stated otherwise.

Target’s refurbishment program presents variations in warranties by item. Depending on the listing, you may see warranties of six months, one year, or none. However, most items allow for a return period between 15 and 30 days, although you will need to return the product to a store. While it’s recommended to avoid purchasing tech devices without a warranty, Target’s program can provide access to a greater variety of technology at competitive prices.

Best Buy combines refurbished products, clearance, and open-box items in its Outlet, although most refurbished products must be looked for under the label "Geek Squad Certified Refurbished." These devices have been upgraded by Best Buy's repair centers or by the manufacturer and come with a 90-day warranty and a 15-day return policy.