Things to Check before Buying Used Electronic Items

Buying used electronics is always a tad tricky as even God almighty Himself cannot predict when an electronic item may just stop working or go out of order.

 Nevertheless, you can strike a pretty good deal and contribute something to the environment too (viz. recycling). However, to ensure that your sweet deal retains its sweetness, you must comprehensively review some key points before buying a used electronic item.

1. Review the Product

In this ever-changing world, technologies go out of date in a matter of months, even weeks. Do ensure that the product you are buying is compatible with your needs and specifications. Do some online research, go through the product reviews, or ask your friends about the product. Basically, you need to go through the routine that you would generally do in case you were buying a new product.

2. Get Familiar with the Jargons

Used products on sale may be tagged as refurbished or reconditioned. Refurbished denotes that the product is not used necessarily. There is a good chance that it might have been sent back to the company for replacement due to some minor defect. Refurbished products may also come with a warranty. Reconditioned items, on the other hand, have definitely been used and then probably repaired for sale.

3. Check Product Description thoroughly

Minor details about the condition of the product like scratches and marks are often listed in the description of the product. Analyse the description thoroughly and ensure that none of them is a deal breaker. In case the product description is not available, ask for one.

4. Product Questions

Do not hold back any questions that you may have in mind regarding the condition of the product. Check whether the electronic item is refurbished/repaired by manufacturer or any third party. Manufacturer refurbishing is generally more preferable. Also enquire if the seller is offering any warranty with the product. You may also want to check if the product comes with its essential accessories like charger, USB cable, headsets etc.

5. Analyse the Price

It is always prudent to compare the price of the used electronic to the price of a brand new one. The difference in the price should be significant even if the product is in mint condition.

6. Where to Buy

Buying used electronic items from friends or acquaintances is always a good option as you get the chance of using the product before actually buying it. Other than that, manufacturers and prominent digital stores also offer refurbished products. That is your next best option. Buying from third party through online marketplaces should be your last option as it is quite an unreliable option.

Buying used electronic items is not necessarily a Pandora’s Box if you do it right. It is important to do thorough research before you buy a used electronic item. Of course, some specific models of electronics last much longer than others. So, it is preferable to go for models that are known to withstand the test of time. In the end, it also depends on your luck. So if you are on a streak of bad luck, it is not highly recommended to buy used electronic items.

Muhamad Hafetz bin Md Yatim
18457

Chemical Engineering