Consumers believe Compaq computers are well-built and long-lived, which means you can easily find them for sale as Compaq refurbished computers. Compaq merged with Hewlett-Packard in 2001, so more recent models use the name HP Compaq computers. Some refurbished Compaq computers come with Windows XP and some come with Windows Vista. Be sure your computer has the system requirements for Windows Vista before upgrading, or plan to keep it a Windows XP machine.

Reasons to buy a Compaq refurbished computer instead of a new one include:

1. You will save money buying a refurbished Compaq computer instead of a new one;

2. You help the environment by keeping older computers from ending up in a landfill;

3. And you receive a computer restored to like-new condition.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Cut costs when you buy refurbished Compaq laptops

Compaq laptop computers are rugged and dependable. They have a lot of features packed into a small package. Many old laptops come with Windows XP, which some users prefer to Windows Vista.

I recommend: Choose from a selection of refurbished Compaq laptops or buy products as is at USA Notebook.com, Inc., where they offer the option of upgrades. Browse through a large number of used Compaq and HP laptops, mostly former corporate-lease machines, at Laptop-Advantage.

Purchase a desktop Compaq refurbished computer

Compaq desktop computers are reliable budget-end computers. Save even more money off the list price when you buy a refurbished model.

I recommend: Find refurbished Compaq desktop computers at RefurbDepot.com, where they have a 30-day return policy. Buy refurbished desktop computers at Tech for Less LLC, one of the world's largest vendors of refurbished computer equipment, peripherals and electronics. Purchase refurbished Compaq desktops without operating systems from ElectroComputerWarehouse.

Find Compaq used parts or refurbished ones for your computer

Replace a failing laptop battery or AC adapter with a new battery or a Compaq used power supply. Install a Blu-ray disk burner in your computer. Buy a docking station to increase the efficiency of your laptop.

I recommend: Search through a large selection of used and refurbished Compaq parts, including Compaq used switches, at Netstream International Inc. Search a number of categories for Compaq parts at GetPartsOnline, where they offer quality parts at low prices.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The easiest upgrade to perform on Compaq refurbished computers is upgrading the memory. Vendors that sell computer memory have instructions on installing it in your computer.
• •  If you find a laptop's touch pad hard to use, purchase a USB mouse to use with your laptop. USB mice come in wireless and corded varieties, and you can buy them wherever you buy computers and computer accessories.