Finding an affordable laptop can be a challenge, especially if you’re on a tight budget. However, there are ways to get a good used or refurbished laptop without spending a fortune. Here are some of the cheapest places I’ve found to buy discounted laptops.
Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon are great places to find used and refurbished laptops at low prices.
eBay
eBay has a wide selection of budget laptops covering many brands, specs, and conditions. I always filter eBay search results by newly listed, price + shipping lowest first, buy it now, and nearby locations. This surfaces the best current deals on laptops. I also check the seller’s feedback rating – I only buy from highly rated sellers (98% positive feedback or more).
Some tips when buying a used laptop on eBay:
- Read the full description – check for details on specs, condition, warranty, etc.
- Ask questions – if something is unclear, message the seller before buying.
- Check photos – look for signs of wear and tear or damage in pictures.
- Consider warranty – some sellers offer short warranties, adding some protection.
Overall, eBay is my go-to for finding cheap used/refurbished laptops, especially older models. I once bought a 3 year old Dell Latitude for only $120! With some diligence, great deals can be found here.
Amazon
Amazon has a wide selection of discounted new, used, and refurbished laptops. They also offer easy returns which is reassuring when buying used.
I always check the condition rating and seller ratings when considering a used laptop on Amazon. My minimum criteria:
- Used condition rating of “Very Good” or “Like New”
- Refurbished condition rating of “Professionally Refurbished”
- Seller feedback rating of 95% positive or higher
One tip – sometimes the same laptop is listed by multiple sellers at different prices. I always compare offers to find the best deal.
While selection is not as broad as eBay, Amazon is reliable with flexible delivery and returns. I’ve found some lightly used laptops here for under $200.
Local Classifieds
Checking local classified ads can uncover deals on used laptops available nearby for pickup.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace allows local buyers and sellers to connect. There’s often a good selection of used consumer laptops for sale at reasonable prices.
I always check the seller’s profile and deal terms before purchasing. I only buy from sellers with good ratings who offer returns if the laptop doesn’t work. Meeting in a public place is also recommended when collecting the laptop.
This approach requires more effort than buying online, but offers the advantage of inspecting the laptop locally before purchasing. I also negotiate the price in person which can lead to bigger discounts.
Craigslist
Craigslist is another source of local laptop listings, often from individual sellers. The available selection is hit or miss, but persistence can pay off.
I try to respond to newly posted listings fast. I also negotiate prices via messaging before meeting up. As with Facebook, I inspect the laptop before buying and meet in a public setting.
The listings on Craigslist tend to be older laptops, but these can be ideal budget options if still in good condition. I once talked someone down to $80 for a 6 year old Acer!
Refurbishers
Purchasing refurbished from a professional refurbishing company can provide quality and warranty assurances.
Dell Outlet
The Dell Outlet sells Dell’s refurbished laptops with full 1 year warranties. There are frequent sales which drop prices lower.
I always opt for “scratch & dent” models which can have minor cosmetic defects but deeper discounts. Sorting by lowest price helps surface the best deals. Models are often last-gen but still solid performers.
dell Outlet is my top recommendation – their refurbishing process is reliable and warranties provide peace of mind. I’ve had great experiences buying here.
Lenovo Outlet
Similar to Dell, Lenovo sells discounted refurbished laptops directly. They offer outlet-exclusive coupon codes which helps maximize savings.
The Lenovo ThinkPad series are especially well-suited for refurbs – these business laptops are built to last. Match this with a factory warranty and you’ve got a workhorse laptop on the cheap!
Apple Refurbished
While not the cheapest option, Apple’s refurbished store is worth mentioning for MacBooks. Models here are professionally restored and come with a full 1-year Apple warranty.
Selection is limited but refurbished MacBooks can be hundreds less than new. If you want Apple quality for less, this is the way to go. Just don’t expect rock-bottom prices.
Final Tips
Here are a few final tips when shopping for an inexpensive used or refurbished laptop:
- Look for Intel Core i5/i7 – these still provide good performance
- Aim for SSD storage – SSDs make a huge speed difference
- Check battery health – ask sellers to confirm battery capacity
- Verify operating system – make sure it meets your needs
- Consider upgrades – RAM and storage may be upgradeable later
With some savvy shopping at the right places, finding a quality laptop on a tight budget is totally doable. Let me know if you have any other questions!
