Issue 51.16
Before I jump into today’s subject, I want my readers to know that it is still an option to get computers with Windows 7. Many of my customers still don’t like Windows 10 and wish to go with a new or used Windows 7 machine. Windows 7 will be supported at least until 2020 and most new computers include the ability to upgrade to 10 without additional cost when you decide to. I have developed sources to meet that need, so, if you are in that boat, contact me at the number below and I will assist you.
I know it is last minute, but even after Christmas, if you didn’t get what you want in the tech world, there is a low-cost alternative. Let’s face it. With phones that cost $500-$700, computers that run from $300 to $2000 (depending on speed, power, capability etc.), game systems that run $300-$500 and even game software that can run $50 or more, those of us on a budget get quickly strapped for cash. Buying used (or refurbished) electronics and games used to be a troublesome effort since many things came from questionable websites or private parties. With the rise of pawn shops, major internet stores like Amazon, Tiger Direct and others deciding to carry used equipment and backing it up, it is a lot more comfortable to save on the budget in this way.
With most of this type of tech, guarantees are still limited to giving you time to evaluate and make sure they work – about 30 days. However, many of these stores are offering extended warranties for a price that is often not very expensive. I don’t generally recommend those warranties for new computers and monitors because they are costly and the new items usually have at least a one year warranty in place. For cheap printers and used tech it is often fairly inexpensive to add a year or two of confidence in your equipment for a reasonable price.
Typically, used laptops are in demand. They are available from dealers like me and from pawn shops as well as online. Pawn shops usually don’t give much of a warranty, but online dealers usually give the 30 day warranties and I give a 90 day warranty. This gives you time to discover any unknown or weak problems with the item you purchase and get it corrected or replaced. One important note. If you buy online, make sure it is coming from a company you trust and not someone using their site to sell without credibility. For example, ebay and Amazon both have used tech and computers available. Some are sold by reputable outfits and some are not. Check the seller ratings and reviews before you buy even if they “guarantee” things. A guarantee is only as good as the person or company backing it up.
Because laptops are so popular, supply and demand drives the price up. Used desktops are usually quite a bit cheaper for the same power and capability and they usually last longer, but they take up more space and peripherals are required, so most pawn shops and many dealers do not carry them. You can get them from private dealers (like me) and some online companies. Used or refurbished game systems and software for them are available at many tech stores and online. You can even trade in old software you no longer need for a bit of credit towards your purchase and some will even buy high-demand games for cash so they can resell them.
As with anything that costs more than a few dollars, I recommend checking out the seller carefully, especially with used computers as you may end up with hardware that is infected with viruses or other problems if you are not careful – and always remember to have a backup of anything important.
Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 33 years, 26 years of it locally with Bits ‘N’ Bytes and Musicomp and currently works as a computer consultant. If you have questions you can reach him at 435-668-7118 or shaun@musicomp.net.