Should You Buy Used?
In the market for a new laptop or phone? Well, your safest bet might be to buy your tech completely brand new, right? Well, not so fast: while pristine devices come with hefty price tags, secondhand gadgets can offer excellent value as well. Sometimes, it could even be a third of the price you'd pay for something off the shelf! To help you make better choices as a tech owner, here are 10 arguments for buying used tech, and 10 against it.
1. You Can Save Hundreds of Dollars
Let's not beat around the bush. The one reason used tech is worth buying is simply because you'd be saving yourself a whole lotta money. Of course, you'll still need to take into account the device's age, condition, and original price, though most of the time they'll be well within your budget.
2. You Can Afford Higher-End Models
Wanted that new phone when it first came out but couldn't justify paying full price? You're in luck now: shopping secondhand means you can purchase higher-end models that were once out of the question. That means, at a fraction of the original price, you could end up with something that's well worth it!
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3. Older Devices Can Still Perform Well
Even if you're the type to chase the newest tech out there, you can rest assured that most devices nowadays can last quite a while. Sure, it might not have all the latest cool features, but that doesn't mean it's outdated. Just make sure the hardware meets your needs!
4. You'll Reduce Electronic Waste
What happens to those old phones you throw out after a year? Well, they add to a growing environmental concern. If you don't want to contribute to a wasteful habit that only hurts our planet, going for secondhand electronics is a much smarter, sustainable choice.
5. You Won't Experience as Much Depreciation
The moment you buy something new electronics, the sooner they lose value, especially when newer models become available. That doesn't mean a device that's three years old is no longer worth the buy, though sticking with relatively newer picks might offset some of that initial depreciation and make it easier to resell it later.
6. Refurbished Devices Can Be Reliable
Don't want to buy from a shady online seller? Don't worry—you can always go for refurbished. Whether it's a product from an authorized retailer or from the original store, these devices often have undergone thorough inspections and been given new batteries and outer shells before being offered for sale. Phew.
7. You Can Find Discontinued Products
Considering most devices are replaced in the lineup as soon as their successors are released, buying used tech is the way to go if you had a previous design you particularly liked. Scan through the secondhand market, and you'll have access to plenty of discontinued goods that might better suit your needs and preferences.
8. They're Great for Temporary Needs
If you're not planning to spend much time with your used device, there's no point in getting it brand-new. Whether it's a used laptop or a secondhand monitor, they can both make greater fits for your setup for any work that's short-term. That way, once you're actually ready to upgrade, you'll at least have saved some cash.
9. You Can Experiment
Trying unfamiliar tech? Well, why spend thousands of dollars on something you're not entirely sure about? If you've just been curious about a certain feature, getting used tech means you'll have more leeway to experiment. You might even discover a new interest without dropping too much cash!
10. You May Find Excellent Deals on Accessories
Brand-new devices are unlikely to offer hefty discounts, but even smartphones and laptops released the year before could have pretty good discounts. Provided they're in excellent condition, you'll be able to complete your setup while keeping the total costs manageable. You just have to keep an eye out!
And yet, used tech isn't always the best call. Before committing to a secondhand device, you'll want to consider all the potential disadvantages, too:
1. The Battery Might Be Worn Out
Unless you're buying a refurbished device that's been given a new shell and battery, you'll want to be prepared for how bad the battery life might be on secondhand tech. It doesn't help either that replacing it could end up canceling out whatever amount you saved.
2. You Don't Know How It Was Treated
There's another risk you'll have to be ready for when purchasing used tech from unknown sellers: you don't know what you're actually getting. The previous owner might list it as "like new," but it could come dented or pretty roughed up. It might even have damaged internals without you knowing!
3. Software Support Could Be Ending Soon
Unfortunately, most manufacturers don't provide software and security updates indefinitely, which means you'll need to be strategic about which devices you buy. If the secondhand piece you have your eye on is already approaching the end of its supported lifespan, you're better off skipping it.
4. Repairs Could Cost More Than Expected
It might not just be the battery that needs replacing—you might later find out that other parts of your secondhand tech need fixing. All those costs add up, and paying for professional repairs could end up being almost as much as purchasing a brand-new device.
5. You Might Not Get a Warranty
Unlike new electronics, devices purchased through private sellers typically don't come with the same warranty protections. That means you're on your own if something stops working shortly after you bring it home! It's a reminder to always read the terms and fine print before you commit.
6. The Device Could Be Locked or Stolen
Not only do you have to worry about your secondhand tech being more outdated than it seems, but you also never know if it's actually stolen goods. If they are, they may have security locks that prevent you from using them properly. Always check and verify thoroughly before you buy!
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7. You Could Encounter Privacy and Security Risks
If the previous owner didn't do a complete wipe, you might end up with a device that contains unfamiliar software, unwanted applications, or even potentially malicious programs. Of course, you could always do a proper reinstall yourself, though this could be tricky for those who aren't tech-savvy.
8. You're Missing Out on Newer Features
Sure, you might not need all the new features, but buying used tech does mean you'll be missing out regardless. Plus, depending on how old the secondhand device is, you might have to settle for older application versions! If certain improvements are important for your personal or work routine, you might want to go for something newer.
9. There May Be Hidden Wear and Tear
As we've mentioned, not all sellers are honest. That means you might end up with a device that looks pristine on the outside, only to have worn charging ports or severely aging cooling fans that significantly impact how it runs. While some issues aren't necessarily dealbreakers, they can still be frustrating to deal with.
10. The Savings Might Not Be Worth It
Sometimes, you have to say it as it is: some used tech is just not worth the savings. If it's only slightly below its brand-new equivalent or it lacks the bells and whistles you'd really benefit from an upgraded device, save yourself the headache and shell out a bit more for something better.
