When old is new For buyers, used computers offer a way to get a good system inexpensively. But for sellers, a computer's value can be much lower than expected.
Buyers can shop for used computers everywhere from retail stores to online auctions.
In addition, major PC companies such as Dell and Gateway offer refurbished models. These generally are returned units that the companies test before reselling, usually at a discount of 5 percent to 15 percent. Ask if you can use the machine before the purchase to check it out yourself. A computer made by a well-known manufacturer might be easier to have repaired than a generic clone. If not, it may not be legal.