Used Computer Hardware

Save money on your next PC?

Buying used computer hardware and equipment is a area where you want to tread carefully. If you know what you are doing, some great deals can be had on eBay (watch the feedback numbers of the seller). You can also keep an eye on your local newspaper classifieds.

If you are going to buy used computer hardware, you have to obtain it on-the-cheap. The reason is simple: only fast food depreciates quicker than computer gear. You've probably seen the ads, and you may have read my comments on those ads (hint: don't fall for them!). Nevertheless, new equipment might be cheaper than you think.

Don't overlook warranty either

Used computer equipment typically has little or no warranty. When it comes to hard drive, especially one with "smart" status, it's kind of like a light bulb. If it works, it works, and no telling for how long. If it's a motherboard you are buying, make sure you have a guarantee that it was fully operational when removed from the system.

Sometimes you can find refurbished computer hardware from a reputable source, even ebay, where you have some assurance that it will work.

Just buy the whole thing, even if you only want a piece

Maybe you want to buy an entire PC used. Many of my clients will sell old PC's to their staff for next to nothing. This is a fantastic deal for the buyer, as long as the machine is new and fast enough for the intended purpose. And in their case, they know the PC was working properly when taken out of service.

Don't look a gift horse in the mouth

I have to digress here based on one client's experience, though. This man GAVE away old PC's to employees. Nice, eh? Not so fast. One employee had the audacity to come back 3 months later and complain that the keyboard was bad and wanted a replacement. Huh? It was free, moron, what do you want? It was several years before this client offered that again, and then only after making the recipient sign a waiver of any warranty. (No Kidding!)

Maybe you only want one or two components of the machine. Well, with the exception of having to properly dispose of the rest, buying the whole thing makes a lot sense. Again, you can test it, know it's working, then disassemble it yourself with care. And, maybe you can eBay the rest!

Used computer hardware CAN save you money, but be careful out there, you don't want to pay for it with undue amounts of time; unless you have so much time you don't value it.

I personally deal in used computer hardware all of the time. If a client wants to get rid of something, I try to find a buyer where it will meet the need - at the right price for both parties. As long as both sides trust me, all is good. Fortunately they have known me long enough that they can trust me, and no one has been disappointed yet.