subject: What to Look for in a Used Laptop [print this page] Since technology has improved, even older laptops that are used still have plenty of speed to surf the internet, do word processing, and other tasks that need to be done. Buying a new laptop is always an option but used laptops are quite a bit less expensive and still quite useful. What should you look for when buying a used laptop?
The biggest concern is the screen. At times laptops can get small cracks in the screens. This discolors everything around the crack. At others times there are something called dead pixels. This is when the individual LCD pixels die leaving a black blank space. If buying a used laptop, be sure to check the screen and make sure that it works. If buying online, ask about dead pixels and cracks in the screen.
Another area of concern is the screen hinge. When laptops open and close, sometimes the hinge on older laptops tend to break or are close to breaking. Be sure to get a used laptop with a quality hinge. Some laptops like Lenovo models use metal hinges as opposed to plastic ones meaning the used versions of these are generally better.
The battery on a used laptop will probably be dead or close to it. Make sure that the model you are considering to purchase has a backup battery option. You will have to buy a completely new battery to use the laptop when it's not plugged in. Check the prices to make sure that this won't be too expensive.
The health the computer's ports will be important. At times on older model laptops USB ports can stop working. Be sure that you find one where the ports are still healthy so that you can add external hardware without much issue.
While you can save money with a used laptop, if you don't find one that is in good condition, it can end up costing you in the end. Be sure that you get a used laptop that still is a quality machine.
