Why Buy Used Computers

When it comes right down to it, there are three primary reasons to purchase used computers. Number One is Cost Number Two is cost. The third reason is supporting a Green Environment.

Purchasing a used computer can save you from 50% to 80% over a new unit. In cases where several units are being purchased the savings can only increase. If you were to purchase a new Dell Laptop, on average the price would be $2,000 (based on Dell web-prices published at 3pm eastern on 11/21/08). On balance a relatively similar Laptop from Bob Johnson’s has an average price of $400 - $700.  Thus, the potential is up to  a $1,600 savings. If you need a rugged laptop for use in a harsh environment, costs can run up to $5,000 (using Panasonic Toughbooks as an example). The most expensive and equivalent rugged laptop from Bob Johnson’s (also a Panasonic), is $1,299 to $2,000 depending on configuration. And, you will find similar savings with our used Desktops. This is all great news for cost conscience organizations and in today’s economic turmoil that probably includes every business and individual.

Now, let’s address the top four common objections to purchasing used computers that we hear:

• How do I know I am not buying a worn out not so nice looking machine?
  At Bob Johnson’s we are very particular about the units we accept in for resale. We put each unit through a six point rigorous testing schedule and if they pass, we update and clean the computers so they perform and look as close to new as possible. The rest we use for spare parts.
• What happens if the machine fails am I stuck with having purchased a lemon?
  Bob Johnson’s computers carry a Limited Lifetime Warranty. That means that if something goes wrong in the first 30 days we cover all parts and labor (including shipping). Then for as long as you own the unit you only pay for the parts.  There is no labor charge.
• But how do I make sure the used computer does not slip into being out of date?
  While we can not slow progress (nor would we want to), you can return the unit to us for updating twice a year (optimization as often as you need to). Some parts may be extra in terms of cost .  Then when you are ready for newer machine you can trade your unit for store credit.
• If I am going to buy used, why not save even more on an e-Bay or with other private sellers?
  Such products are generally good and people are generally honest about the products condition. However, are you willing to spend money and risk no warranty and no after sale service etc?  At Bob Johnson’s Computer Stuff we have a full and complete repair center and often can diagnose issues remotely. With that capability we frequently can have a technician resolve problems over the phone.
• But I want a brand name computer – not something that was built in someone’s basement.
  The computers we sell, Laptops and Desktops, as well as our spare parts are all name brands. For example, we carry Dell, IBM, Panasonic and HP to name a few. Again, we are very particular about what we buy and sell as our customer’s best financial and business interests are one of our core values.

As we hope you can easily see, there are benefits to buying used computers and your purchase dollars are protected when you buy from Bob Johnson’s Computer Stuff. We are very particular about what we buy and sell and that is how we can stand behind every computer with a lifetime warranty.

From a Green perspective: At Bob Johnson’s we believe in reusing and repurposing existing goods for the preservation of the environment – and that comes back to all of us in hard dollar savings and a cleaner, more healthy environment for generations to come.

Call us at Bob Johnson’s or visit our website at www.bobjohnson.com or our educational site at www.usedlaptops.com for more information.