Cheap notebook computers seem to be listed everywhere you look when it comes to laptops. Perhaps you’re one many who in the past has always loved the experience of buying a brand new computer in the box.  With some of the rock bottom prices floating around currently on refurbished and used computers it may result in an attitude change after taking a look. Word is starting to get out that refurbished can be a great way to save a pile of cash often getting the same exact notebook computer complete with a 6-cell battery combined with a amazing warranty to back it up.

Where do they come from?

Many have heard the terms reconditioned or certified refurbished but really have no idea where the systems tend to come from.  With deals plastered all over the net, many have developed notions of these computers being salvaged from the junk pile of large offices cleaning out their inventory. What many often refer to as a used laptop sometimes has never even been turned on. The reality is that the vast majority of these units are simply computers that were recently sent out as new but were returned for some reason or another. Sometimes it’s a simple cosmetic blemish or dislike of the color. Of course occasionally it’s a genuine hardware issue. Whatever the reason for the return these units each major manufacturer has a extremely robust system of cleaning ,updating and ultimately testing that is churning out such quality that we are starting to see a major industry buying shift.

Why are they so cheap?

Of course it often seems a little too good to be true sometimes when you see some of these deals listed. We’ve all seen the ads for refurbished wholesale used laptops cheap. Do these computers really have  the newer windows 7 home premium and worthy components like Intel processors? The reality is yes they typically all have the latest parts and operating systems.

It’s not uncommon to see the same Dell notebook with a core 2 duo with webcam listed for 800 in the refurbished outlet section when the same computer brand new is selling for 4-5 hundred more in the new section. The fact is by law they cannot resell the computer as new even if the computer was returned having never been turned on.  Of course the perception is everything is used so major companies like HP and Dell are forced to give major discounts to move these computers. The thing is with the warranties they are now offering it takes all the risk out of the equation.

What are the drawbacks?

One of the main drawbacks is that you typically don’t have an option to customize the computer.  Usually the stock is limited to whatever happens to have been returned as of recent and put back up for resale. Because of this you sometimes have to be patient to find the system you are looking for. If you are one of those types who is looking for a specialized processor with specialized hardware then probably a refurb is not going to be for you. For the majority who simply need a standard system for checking email and surfing the web it can be  great option for those looking to save money.

Are the Warranties Solid?

What seems to be responsible for the industry buying shift is the warranties now being offered. These notebook computers and refurbished desktop computers are now being shipped with the same warranty as the brand new PC’s. Typically it’s a 1 year warranty with an option to extend the warranty for an additional two years. This helps many gain a level of comfort like never before with fears of battery issues or a webcam malfunction among other things. The bottom line is if you get a lemon you are still covered. To boot many companies like Dell  are offering free shipping.

Where is the best place to shop to find cheap deals?

Without a doubt shopping online is the best route to go when looking for windows or Mac based systems. Of course they are all typically going to have your standard stuff like DVD players and CD ROM drives as the big guys deal in a bit newer equipment.

Local retailers simply cannot compete with the industry giants in terms of testing capabilities and warranties offered. Moreover these major manufacturers like Dell and Apple move enough volume for them to be able to afford to offer these computers at significant discounts with full one year warranties. Typically if you’re shopping for a notebook or cheap gaming computer locally you not only will pay more but you will make a huge sacrifice in the warranty. So be sure to purchase direct from one of the major manufacturers.