| Buying a computer is a significant investment. Just like | | | | great reviews when it was new will be more likely to |
| buying a car, you can often save big money by | | | | keep you happy now. Reading reviews can also help |
| choosing a used model. A used computer that is even | | | | you understand it's strengths and weaknesses. Will this |
| a few months old can cost half what a new model | | | | machine be sufficient for what you are planning to use |
| costs - and offer the same functionality. If a seller is | | | | it for? A perfect business machine will not be the |
| motivated by wanting some other shiny new gadget, | | | | same as a great gaming tool. |
| they will often price their current one at a very | | | | Find out if there is any software included. Older |
| attractive level. So, what should you look for before | | | | software should include disks, license keys and |
| buying a used computer? | | | | manuals if possible. A computer with no software is |
| Be sure to get all the details from the seller. How much | | | | not much fun. |
| memory? How old is it? How often was it used? Is it | | | | No matter what you are looking for, there is very likely |
| still under warranty (usually only applies if it is less than | | | | something out there that will meet your needs at a |
| one year old)? If it is a laptop, ask about the cord and | | | | fraction of the cost of new. You can find some great |
| the screen. These are two areas that often go bad | | | | deals around the holidays, as many people are |
| first. | | | | upgrading for the latest shiny new gadget while their |
| You can learn a lot by looking up old reviews on the | | | | current used computer is still in great shape. |
| models you are considering. A used computer that had | | | | |