Should You Buy Used Tech?

There are a number of words with which used equipment is described, from ‘vintage’ to ‘refurbished.’ Our devices need to work well because we use them every day. A device that’s slow or broken is inconvenient and can affect productivity for day-to-day tasks.

BUT that doesn’t mean that buying a brand-new phone, desktop, or laptop is best option. Let’s look at what you should consider before making the purchase of a used device.

Things to Consider Before You Buy Used Technology

It's all about functionality while saving some cash. According mpb.com, 70% of consumers bought or sold used technology in 2023. It’s a popular market that’s expected to grow to $2.7 trillion in 2025.

Buying used technology requires some caution.. Before purchasing used electronics, consider the following:

Is the Device Still Supported?

For good cybersecurity, it’s important that when buying used tech, you need to make sure it is still supported with updates and security patches. Older devices may not receive new software, which could make them less safe to use. Security updates protect your gadget against cyber attackers.

Without security updates it’s easier for hackers to get in. To protect your information, you should always be able to update the device you’re using.

Do NOT buy it if a device doesn't get these updates. Check the manufacturer's website and see how long they support the device, because all tech has an end date. This will let you know how long you can use it safely. Some brands support their products longer than others do.

How Old is the Device?

Age is very important. If the device is a few years old, you may experience some performance issues, whereas newer devices generally work better and have long-lasting quality.

Tech moves quickly these days, so be sure to check when your device originally hit the market. You can look into newer models of devices and see their capabilities, too. Decide if the device will still provide whatever you require in the way of functionality.

How’s the Battery?

For example, there are some phones with such an expensive battery that if it goes out, it’s better to get a new phone. Try to get a rough idea about the battery health. Certain vendors may provide that information for you. A healthy battery will allow you to use your device for long periods without having to charge it.

If the battery health is low, you should add the replacement cost to your calculations.

Look for Physical Damage

If you can plainly see damage on the device, it could signify bad performance. Cracks and dents might indicate falls or careless handling. They could also signal severe internal problems within the gadget.

Look for discoloration or rust because water damage can also cause a number of problems. If there’s noticeable damage to the device, it may not be worth it. Major defects can impact how the device works when you use it daily.

Make Sure All Accessories Are Included

Check that you’re getting everything that you might need with the gadget. Missing items could mean additional purchases later. Chargers and cables are important. Ensure that they are present with your purchase or reassess the purchase price.

Also, cases and headphones are always nice to have. Check whether they are included. If you have to purchase these items separately, it will add to the overall cost.

Is There a Return Policy?

Find out the details of the return policy because you want to be able to take it back if something goes wrong. If anything happens to the device, a warranty can help with repair or replacement. To be safe, check these details before purchasing.

Compare the Costs

Compare the cost to new and other used alternatives to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Sometimes buying a brand-new device doesn't cost much more. Why go used if a new one is just a few dollars more? Research several sellers to make sure you’re not overpaying.

Can You Try It Before You Buy It?

You should be able to check out the device’s performance. It's always a good idea to try a device before you buy. This is especially true when buying on a peer marketplace. If at all possible, meet the seller and try out the device in person. It's the best way to test before making a commitment.

If you can’t meet the seller in person, ask for a video. It’s not hard for the seller to make a video demonstrating the device or set up a demo in a zoom meeting. This way, you can make sure you’re not wasting your time. To be safe, you can purchase a used device from a major retailer and test the device in the store.

So, Should You Buy Used or Not?

Buying used technology can be a pig in a poke, but it may also be excellent. How will you know? If you think about these things, you're likely to make a good choice. Remember to check key things like battery health, device support, and prices before you buy. While used tech can be cheaper than new, it’s not always a better deal.

Make sure the device you choose will work well for your needs. It should also be secure to use and be functional for a long time. If you can find a used device that’s not too old at a comparable price to new ones, you may have a great deal on your hands.