We rely on our devices every day, whether it’s for work, school, or just life stuff, so it’s important they actually work for what we need. When something is slow or broken, it’s frustrating and can mess with your productivity. But before you rush out to buy something brand new, it’s worth asking: could a used device do the trick?
Buying used tech can be a smart way to save some money, especially with prices creeping up on everything these days. In fact, a recent report showed that around 70% of people bought or sold used technology in 2023 and the market has only grown since.
That said, you still want to be smart about it. Here are eight things to check before buying a used device.
1. Is the Device Still Supported?
This one’s a biggie. Before you buy, double-check whether the device still receives updates from the manufacturer. Older devices that don’t get security or software updates are more vulnerable to viruses and cyberattacks, and that’s not a risk you want to take.
For Windows devices specifically, keep in mind that Windows 10 is reaching its end of life on October 14, 2025. After that, Microsoft will stop releasing updates, including critical security patches. That means any computer still on Windows 10 will become a much bigger security risk unless it qualifies for an upgrade to Windows 11.
So, when you’re considering a used laptop or desktop, make sure:
- It’s already running Windows 11, or
- It meets the hardware requirements to be upgraded to Windows 11.
What does that mean? To run Windows 11, the device needs a compatible 64-bit processor (1GHz or faster, with 2 or more cores), at least 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability, TPM 2.0, and a DirectX 12-compatible graphics card. Many older systems don’t make the cut, especially when it comes to the processor and TPM.
If it can’t meet those requirements, it’s probably not worth buying, no matter how low the price tag is.
2. How Old Is It?
The age of a device affects everything from performance to how long it’ll be supported. Even if something seems like a good deal, it’s not a bargain if it’s so outdated that it struggles with basic tasks.
Try to find out the release date of the model, not just when the previous owner bought it. Some devices stay on the shelves for a while before being sold. Look up the specs and compare them to newer models, just so you know what you're getting into.
3. Battery Health
Batteries wear out over time, and that can really impact how usable a device is. A phone, tablet, or laptop with poor battery health might need to be plugged in constantly, which is... not ideal.
If you're buying from a reseller or retailer, ask if they can provide battery health info. If the battery is weak and the device is otherwise solid, look into how much a battery replacement would cost and factor that into the total.
4. Any Physical Damage?
Cosmetic wear is one thing. But if a device has dents, cracks, or signs of water damage (like discoloration or rust around ports), you could be looking at internal issues that won’t show up right away.
Don’t ignore the signs of heavy use. A device that’s been through the wringer might not last much longer—no matter how good the price looks.
5. Are All the Accessories Included?
Missing accessories can be an expensive surprise. At a minimum, make sure you’re getting the charger or power adapter. It’s even better if other extras—like cases, dongles, or keyboards—are included.
If anything’s missing, look up the cost to replace it and add that to your total. A "cheap" device can turn into a pricier one pretty fast.
6. What’s the Return Policy?
A solid return policy is your safety net. Whether you’re buying from an individual or a store, know what your options are if the device doesn’t work as expected. Some sellers offer short-term warranties or limited return windows. Others may sell devices “as-is,” which means no take-backs.
Don’t skip this step, it can save you a lot of stress (and money) if something goes wrong.
7. Is the Price Actually Worth It?
Just because it’s used doesn’t mean it’s a deal. Compare prices across different sellers, and also look at the cost of brand-new models. Sometimes, the difference in price is so small that buying new, with a full warranty and guaranteed support, makes more sense.
And don’t forget to account for any needed upgrades or repairs (like replacing the battery, adding storage, or buying missing accessories).
8. Can You Test It First?
If you're buying locally, try to meet the seller and test the device in person. That’s the best way to catch any issues early.
If meeting up isn’t possible, ask for a video showing the device turning on and going through basic tasks. You can also stick to buying from established retailers who offer return options and test the device in-store.
So… Should You Buy Used?
Buying used tech isn’t a bad idea, if you go into it informed. A little research can help you avoid a dud and score a solid deal. Always check for things like battery health, update support, visible damage, and return policies before clicking "buy."
Have a question about a device you’re eyeing? Reach out—we love this stuff. If you'd like to check out our current recommendations, check out our blog on the specs we recommend: https://www.layer2computers.com/our-blog/looking-for-a-new-computer-here-is-what-to-get
