Before you buy a used computer...

Same as buying a new computer. Write down the model and specs, and then go home where the salesclerk can't pressure you. Look it up on the web.

One poster had bought a refurbished Windows 7 desktop and was happy with it. Upgraded to 10 and had all kinds of problems. Turns out that it is an XP computer that had been upgraded to 7.

Any rig that can run Vista can probably run 7 or 8, and then be upgraded to 10. And since some XP rigs can be upgraded to Vista (Usually a bad idea, by the way), they can be upgraded to 10. The different architecture of the internal hardware will probably accept 10, but it isn't designed for it.

Vince Massi said:

Same as buying a new computer. Write down the model and specs, and then go home where the salesclerk can't pressure you. Look it up on the web.

One poster had bought a refurbished Windows 7 desktop and was happy with it. Upgraded to 10 and had all kinds of problems. Turns out that it is an XP computer that had been upgraded to 7.

Any rig that can run Vista can probably run 7 or 8, and then be upgraded to 10. And since some XP rigs can be upgraded to Vista (Usually a bad idea, by the way), they can be upgraded to 10. The different architecture of the internal hardware will probably accept 10, but it isn't designed for it.

Indeed.

You should look for the Microsoft genuine sticker (make sure it says OEM) that it actually has that OS installed. Also many computers have a sticker (designed for windows...) but these can sometimes be fake.

As a general rule of thumb I always go for a popular brand that is common and a NEW computer. Used computers are usually okay but you do have to use it at your own risk.

Hi there

I wouldn't recommend buying a USED computer - unless it had a virtually unobtainable part I could use as a spare. I just don't see value in Used computers compared with New ones these days -- I've nothing against buying some stuff used but Computers have always seemed particularly bad value as Used compared with the equivalent New gear. Professionally refurbished stuff might be a different ballgame but "generic used" - I'd avoid.

Often you can get FREE (sometimes working) computers etc by going down to the Tip or looking out for Offices chucking out stuff. Old laptops are good for extracting the old HDD's -- make useful backup / archive media or using as test machines.

Cheers
jimbo

Valid points, Jimbo. I have bought two used laptops and one used desktop and did well all three times. I tested them carefully at the pawnshop first, because they have a no return policy. The prices were low enough to justify being used.

Buying used computers isn't a bad idea, but I would recommend worrying only about the hardware with the plan you will supply your own license. I've purchased several used or refurbed computers, but have specifically looked for ones without licenses. Most of us have more OS license than we know what to do with. I've got over 40 Windows 7 licenses that I legally own, and am probably only using 5-7 of them. This way, you can separate your "issues". When purchasing the computer, all I care about is the hardware and if it is all perfectly functioning.

Useful information, Snooker. I assume that you bought it directly from Dell which is a reputable source.

When you buy from a pawnshop (as I have successfully done), remember "Let the buyer beware."