Score Big on Refurb Electronics – DIY in 5 Ep 267

Опубликовано 25 января 2026, 14:01

Refurbished electronics are a great idea, so long as you’re smart about shopping for them.
Here are five must-ask questions to ensure you shop like a pro without breaking the bank.

Refurb or open box?
They sound similar, but open box usually means someone bought it, peeked inside, and changed their mind, while refurbished is a product that’s been used and then processed for resale. Meanwhile, pre-owned could mean anything. US law says that they can’t sell it as new, which is something. Still, read the fine print!

Who refurbished?
Manufacturer-refurbished (aka factory-certified) is the gold standard. Better testing, better parts, better peace of mind. Third-party refurbs could be fine but quality varies. Check if the refurbisher is authorized by the manufacturer; if not, you may be taking a risk.

What’s included?
Don’t assume—check the listing to ensure essentials like chargers, power cables, and accessories are included. Hunting down proprietary chargers is no fun. Some sellers might toss in generic replacements, but there’s no guarantee of quality. Factor in the cost of extras when you see a listing says “unit only”.

Warranty included?
As-is equals no warranty, which equals a big risk for you. Even a short guarantee of one to three months is common. If it’s not clear, ask before you buy. A little coverage goes a long way. If the manufacturer offers extended coverage, shell out—even if only for the peace of mind it provides. It’s pennies compared to a new device!

What’s the return policy?
Some issues take time to show up—battery life, for example. Aim for 14-30 days to test-drive your tech. Final sale is usually not worth it, unless you’re getting a staggering discount. Check also if returns are free or if you’re eating the shipping cost.

Extra tips
Look for seller ratings and customer feedback. A 4.8 star refurb shop is a big green flag.
Compare prices. 20-30% savings is what you should look for with refurbs.
For phones and laptops, ask if the battery was replaced or tested. Old batteries will cause you frustration.
Check the device supports the latest OS.
Software Updates: Make sure the device supports the latest OS. No one wants a gadget stuck in 2018.
Refurbished electronics can be a total win… if you ask the right questions first! Got other tips or horror stories? Drop them in the comments, and I’ll catch you next time on DIYin5!

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0:00 Intro
0:21 Refurb or open box?
0:48 Who refurbished?
1:08 What’s included?
1:31 Warranty included?
1:55 What’s the return policy?
2:14 Extra tips