Top 5 Benefits of Choosing a Reconditioned Tablet Over a New One

New gadgets come out every year, and it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of using brand-new technology. However, behind each new device is a hefty price tag and an unspoken environmental cost. Manufacturing new electronics like phones, tablets, and laptops requires a lot of energy and raw materials, and discarded electronics, e-waste contributes to the ultimate global waste crisis.

One simple way to reduce this impact is to think reconditioned or used. More and more consumers are using refurbished devices. Although the word "refurbished" may sound concerning to some, these devices have several benefits that make them an excellent choice for those looking to save money while being environmentally conscious.

In this article, we'll discuss the key advantages of buying reconditioned tablets and why they are a worthwhile consideration over brand-new alternative.

1. Significant Cost Savings

One of the biggest reasons people choose reconditioned tablets is the price reduction. Brand-new tablets can be expensive, especially if you're considering high-end models from brands like Apple or Samsung. On the other hand, a refurbished tablet is typically priced 20% to 50% lower than their brand-new counterparts. This means you can enjoy the same high-quality technology at a fraction of the cost.

In some instances, you may find that a reconditioned high-end model costs the same as a brand-new entry-level tablet, giving you access to better specifications and features without additional cost. Many tech retailers also offer financing options, making refurbished tablets an accessible choice for budget-conscious buyers.

2. Environmentally Friendly Choice

The environmental impact of electronic waste is awful. Every year, millions of tons of discarded electronics end up in landfills, releasing harmful substances such as lead and mercury into the environment. The demand for new electronic devices also contributes to deforestation, mining for rare materials, and a high carbon footprint from manufacturing and transportation.

If you buy a refurbished tablet, you're contributing to reducing e-waste and reducing the demand for new electronic production. This helps conserve valuable resources such as metals and plastics while reducing electronic consumption's overall carbon footprint.

Many brands now prioritise sustainability, and buying refurbished allows you to extend the life of a device that might otherwise have ended up in a landfill.  Under the hood, some retailers offer trade-in programs that allow you to return old devices for proper recycling or refurbishment. By supporting the refurbished market, you play a meaningful role in promoting a more sustainable tech industry and making a positive environmental impact.

3. High-quality and Thoroughly Tested Technology

Many people misunderstand refurbished devices as of lower quality or unreliable. However, this is far from the truth. Reputable retailers and refurbishers put these tablets through rigorous testing and quality checks to ensure they work like new. Any faulty or worn-out components are replaced, and the devices are restored to excellent working condition.

In many cases, refurbished tablets go through more testing than brand-new ones. Manufacturers and certified retailers scrutinise every component, ensuring they meet performance standards before entering the market. Additionally, many refurbished tablets support updated software, a fresh battery, and even new outer casings, making them virtually better than a brand-new product. When buying from a trusted seller like Laptop Outlet, you can be confident that you're getting a reliable and high-performing device.

4. Access to Higher-End Models for Less

If you've always wanted a premium tablet but found it out of your budget, a refurbished option can make it more accessible. For instance, instead of settling for a lower-end new model, you can get a previous-generation flagship reconditioned Android tablet or iPad at a lower price. Many refurbished tablets have excellent specifications, high-end processors, and high-resolution displays that perform exceptionally well.

With rapid technological advancements, new models often come with only minor upgrades from their predecessors. This means that a reconditioned tablet from a previous year might offer nearly the same performance and features as the latest model but at a significantly lower price tag. Whether you're looking for a gaming, productivity, or entertainment tablet, a refurbished high-end model can provide an exceptional user experience.

For example, you could select a refurbished iPad from the previous year instead of getting a brand-new budget tablet with limited storage and a lower-quality display. The iPad would offer advanced features such as Retina displays, enhanced processing power, superior camera quality, and additional functions such as Apple Pencil support, giving you a much better experience for the same price as a new entry-level model. This way, you get premium capabilities without stretching your wallet.

5. Warranty and Return Options

Another reason to consider refurbishing between reconditioned and new tablets is the warranty and return policies many devices come with. Certified refurbished tablets offer warranties ranging from 90 days to a year, which cover repairs or replacements in case of any issues. Some retailers also provide return windows through which you can test the device and return it if it doesn't meet your expectations.

Unlike buying second-hand tablets locally, opting for a refurbished tablet from a reputable retailer ensures you get buyer protection. Many sellers also provide customer support and assistance if you experience any issues. This makes buying refurbished a safer and more convenient approach than purchasing an uncertified used device.

Additionally, some retailers offer extended warranty plans, allowing you to protect your investment further. If you're hesitant about buying a refurbished device due to concerns about reliability, these warranty options can provide peace of mind and make the decision easier.

Refurbished Tablets Guide: How to Choose a Refurbished Tablet

So, have you decided to buy a refurbished tablet? Great choice! But with so many second-hand tablets or refurbished options available, how do you ensure you get the best device for your needs? From checking the refurbishment grade to verifying warranty coverage, buying the right refurbished tablet requires some careful consideration. In this section, we'll guide you through everything you need to know to make a confident purchase.

Check the Overall Condition of Your Refurbished Tablet

The condition of the tablet should be your first and foremost concern when buying a refurbished tablet. Here is how you can evaluate the condition of the refurbished tablet to avoid surprises after the purchase:

• Look at the Exterior for Any Damage: Start by checking the outside of the tablet. Is the screen in good shape, or are there cracks or scuffs? A damaged screen can affect the tablet's work, so you want to ensure it's clear and free from any big imperfections. Also, check the tablet's body, does it have any dents or deep scratches? Small marks are fine, but anything serious could mean the tablet has been dropped or handled roughly.

• Test the Display: Next, make sure the screen functions properly. Look for any dead pixels, tiny spots on the screen that don't light up, and ensure the colours look bright and clear. If the screen is dim or there are odd colour patches, this could indicate a problem with the display. A well-refurbished tablet should have a sharp, vibrant display with no troubles.

• Test the Performance: Take the tablet for a quick test drive. Open a few apps, scroll through the web, and see how it works. Do the programs load quickly? How do the games run if you are buying them for gaming?  A refurbished tablet should operate smoothly without lag or freezing. If it's slow or unresponsive, there might be an issue with the tablet's performance. Ensure its quick and easy to use before paying for it.

• Check the Camera and Other Features: If you plan to use your tablet for photos, video calls, or other camera-related tasks, make sure both the front and rear cameras are working properly. Take a few pictures and check if they're clear and sharp. Also, test other features like the speakers, Wi-Fi, and touch screen to ensure everything is in order.

Ensure Your Refurbished Tablet Has Good Battery Life

A tablet with a shorter battery life can be less convenient because it requires more frequent charging. This becomes especially troublesome if you use your tablet for activities that demand long battery endurance, like watching movies, gaming, or working remotely. Moreover, a tablet with a short battery life may cost more over time, as you might need to charge it more often, or the battery might fail sooner than expected.

It's important to remember that the battery life of a refurbished tablet might not meet the manufacturer's original specifications, as the battery may have worn down over time. However, you should look for information from the original device manufacturer and the refurbisher about the expected battery life for the tablet you're considering. If purchasing online, you can also check out customers' feedback on the product for an honest review of the battery life.

Verify the Storage Capacity of Reconditioned Tablets

When buying a pre-owned tablet, storage space is one of the most important things to check. The last thing you want is to run out of space for your apps, photos, and downloads soon after setting it up. Think about how you plan to use the tablet. If it's just for web browsing and streaming, 32GB or 64GB might be enough. But if you like downloading movies, playing games, or storing work files, you'll need at least 128GB or more. Some tablets allow you to expand storage with a microSD card, but not all do, so check before you buy. This can be a convenient way to add storage space to the tablet without purchasing a new one.

Important: The actual usable storage is always less than advertised. The operating system and pre-installed apps take up space, meaning a "64GB" tablet might only give you around 50GB to work with. Thus, double-check the storage capacity in the tablet's settings. A trustworthy seller will list the correct storage size, but it never hurts to confirm.

Look for a Minimum 6-month Warranty on Refurbished Tablets

It's important to stay protected if the refurbished tablet you bought encounters any issues or defects. When buying a refurbished tablet, a good warranty isn't just a nice bonus; it's a must-have. A solid 6-month warranty or more gives you peace of mind, knowing that if anything goes wrong, you're covered. 

Think of it this way: If a seller is confident in their refurbishment process, they won't hesitate to offer a warranty. It shows they've properly tested the tablet and trust its quality. Conversely, if there's "no warranty or just a short one", that could be a red flag. 

A good warranty should cover essential things like hardware malfunctions, battery issues, or unexpected faults, not just superficial fixes. Always check the fine print so you know what's included. And if a seller offers a 1-year warranty, it's even better! 

Ensure You're Getting Great Value When Buying a Refurbished Tablet

It's obvious to save money when buying a second-hand tablet. However, consider what devices like tablets offer: unlimited opportunities and a chance to explore your interests and hobbies. With that in mind, consider what features are essential for your device to provide the most incredible value to you.

Once you've identified the tablet makes and models that align with your needs, research the typical prices from various refurbished electronics retailers. This will give you an idea of a reasonable price for the refurbished tablet and help you make an informed choice.

Consider the Brand Reputation When Purchasing a Refurbished Tablet

It's important to consider the brand of the device you want, a refurbished tablet. Like new products, some brands are known for their quality, reliability, and customer service, while others might not offer the same level of trust. Choosing a well-known, reputable brand can make a big difference in the quality of your refurbished tablet. Leading names like Apple, Samsung, and Lenovo usually have strict standards when refurbishing their products, meaning you're more likely to get a tablet thoroughly tested and restored to its best possible condition. In addition, reputable brands often offer better warranties and customer support, so if you run into any issues with your refurbished tablet, you'll have a safety net to fall back on.

Understand the Refurbishment Process Before Buying

Lastly, research and ensure you are buying from a trusted retailer. The refurbishment process can vary greatly between sellers and knowing what to expect can help you make a more informed decision.

Top tablet refurbishers typically use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts to maintain the device's dependability during refurbishment. Moreover, reliable sellers implement a comprehensive quality control system to ensure the device performs at the same high level as new models. The retailer of refurbished electronics should be able to describe various tests they perform to ensure top-quality refurbishments.

Some sellers even provide detailed information about the refurbishment process, so you know exactly what's been done to the tablet before it reaches you. If the seller can't give this information or their process seems vague, it might be a sign to look elsewhere.

Where to Get the Best Deals on Refurbished Tablets?

When it comes to finding deals on refurbished tablets, Laptop Outlet is your go-to destination. We offer a fantastic selection of high-quality reconditioned tablets for sale that won't break the bank. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a premium device at a discounted rate, we've got you covered. Every device undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets our high standards so you can shop confidently. Plus, we offer a range of exclusive offers and deals to make your purchase. The best part? Refurbished tablets at Laptop Outlet come with warranties so that you can shop with peace of mind.

FAQs

Are reconditioned tablets reliable?
Yes. Reconditioned tablets are tested, repaired, and certified by professionals to ensure they meet quality standards before resale.

Do reconditioned tablets come with a warranty?
Most reputable retailers provide a warranty on reconditioned tablets, giving you peace of mind similar to buying new.

How much money can I save with a reconditioned tablet?
Savings typically range from 20% to 50% compared to the price of a brand-new model, depending on age and condition.

Do reconditioned tablets look used?
Not usually. Many are refurbished to near-new condition, with only minor cosmetic signs of use, if any.

Can reconditioned tablets run the latest apps and updates?
Yes, as long as the model supports current software updates. Always check the operating system compatibility before purchasing.