Refurbished electronics.

Finwe

Has anyone had much experience when purchasing refurbished electronics? I'm curious as to what exactly it entails, and what would be the cons to purchasing one.

Because I've noticed you can save alot of money with refurbished goods, and am curious as to why exactly that is. I don't want to save a little money just to have it all wasted when it falls apart on me.

gpett

Yeah, I have bought open box products and refurbished items.  But only where there is either a warranty equal to a new product or a huge discount.  Do not consider open box or refurbished items if you are only saving 5-25% as compared to a new item.  I would only consider open box or refurbished if there was a 25%-65% price reduction.  Part of the cost of a new item is the warranty that comes with it.  If you are not getting a warranty then 50% off of retail is a good rule of thumb.  Unfortunately most retailers do not offer that big of a discount for open box or refurbished items.  So in most cases the savings is not really worth it as compared to a new item with a warranty.

Draenor

The only product that I've ever been in the market for that was sold as a refurbished model was game consoles, and I don't trust the stores that sell them nearly enough to go near them...especially not with how delicate consoles are these days.  Back in the day I had a refurbished Nintendo 64 that ran fine for years, I even ended up selling it to a friend and as far as I know, the thing still runs.  You should remember though, that the more complex these things get, the more easy they are to break...and the advice above my post is very smart.

Finwe

Well, the item in particular I'm looking at, is a $230 item, selling for $180 refurbed. And comes with a

Limited Warranty

This Item's Warranty is:

- 36 Months Parts

- 36 Months Labor

 

Which tbh, I have no idea what that means.

I never shop for electronics, and am completely ignorant on the whole thing.