Rebuilt desktop computers can be a great deal. Often these are scratch-n-dent computers that were returned to the manufacturer, or desktops that a company leased for a short time and returned. After going through the remanufacturing process, these refurbished Gateway computers are sold for half the price of the same computer new. Although you can't custom-order remanufactured Gateway computers, you can snag great deals by keeping your eye on the sites that sell refurb desktops.

The following suggestions will help you figure the pricing and costs of remanufactured Gateway desktop computers:

1. Buy used Gateway desktop PCs when you are looking to slim down your IT budget.
2. Consider the cost and duration of any warranty before you buy refurbished Gateway desktops or laptops.
3. Make sure you're actually getting a good deal by comparing the price of the refurbished and new product.
   

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

Save money when you purchase rebuilt Gateway desktop computers

Always compare the specs on the refurbished machine to the specs on the original product. Gateway will use the same parts when they rebuild a computer, but a third-party reseller with often sell rebuilt Gateway desktop PCs with alternate parts. Be wary of purchasing an open box product, because it has NOT been rebuilt, and is often sold as is.

I recommend: You save between 50 and 70 percent the cost of a new Gateway computer at RefurbDepot.com. TechforLess offers refurbished, factory refurbished, factory sealed, scratch and dent and open box Gateway computers for between $300 and $600. They quote the lowest price they have found on the Internet for the particular PC your are interested in. As always, though, you should do your own research.

Make sure that you get an extended warranty for your used Gateway desktops

Gateway remanufactured computers come standard with a free 90-day satisfaction guaranteed warranty from Gateway. Purchasing an extended warranty on a refurbished system is a very good idea. Ideally, the warranty should be offered through the manufacturer or a reputable third party, because that ensures that the system will be repaired to spec should any part fail.

I recommend: Consumer Priority Service is a third-party warranty and service plan provider. CPS has a strict no-lemon policy--if your computer fails three times for the same reason, they will replace the entire desktop. For more information about Gateway's 90 day manufacturer warranty, or other warranty products, visit the Gateway website.

Compare the prices of refurbished Gateway PCs with the same PCs new to see if you are saving

No matter what discounts a site claims, do your own research. If the model you are purchasing is currently available, always compare the price of the refurbished Gateway desktop PC with the price of the new computer on Gateway's website. If it is an older refurbished computer, check other places like eBay to see if you can get a valid price point, and verify your savings. Make sure you factor in the cost of an extended warranty with your price comparison.

I recommend: Check the prices of current models on the Gateway website. Often, you can search CBS Interactive for a review of an older Gateway model. These reviews usually include the cost of the system when it was sold new.

When your computer hardware budget is slim, consider rebuilt Gateway desktop computers. Some include a free 90-day warranty, for others purchase extended warranties with on-site parts and labor. Certainly, consider using rebuilt desktop computers in non-essential locations, such as a training room or for software testing. Gateway remanufactured computers have been totally refurbished at the factory. Some are products returned by customers in like-new condition. Find rebuilt desktop computers that are compatible with what you already have, or an out-of-stock Gateway remanufactured PC to replace existing systems in your organization.

Some things to consider when buying refurbished Gateway computers:

1. Examine the warranty --Gateway offers a free 90-day satisfaction guaranteed warranty. Warranties on used Gateway desktops offered by other resellers vary, so examine carefully.
2. Inquire about financing plans -- Gateway offers 48-month financing plans at an interest rate of 14.9% for most applicants on refurbished Gateway computers. Other resellers may not have financing plans.
3. Compare price and features --There are several sources for Gateway remanufactured computers, each with its own return, financing, and guarantee policies. Check what accessories come in the box, as some only include the central processing unit.

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

Buy refurbished Gateway PCs directly from Gateway

Gateway, along with other computer manufacturers, makes it a little hard to find the refurbished section, because they want you to consider buying new. If you take the time to navigate the site, however, you can buy used Gateway desktop computers at bargain prices.

I recommend: Use this direct link to cut navigation time to remanufactured Gateway computers. Prices here are higher than in the general marketplace, but the models sold here all have generous amounts of random access memory (RAM) and better warranty and return policies.

Buy Gateway remanufactured computers from online resellers

There are some fantastic deals on refurbished Gateway computers at reseller sites. You will find a greater selection of models and generally lower prices. In addition, they usually come with a keyboard and speakers, but you will often find them to be a little short on RAM.

I recommend: For fast order processing and satisfaction, Tiger Direct is fantastic. In addition, they have great prices and a reasonable warranty program. Another good place to buy refurbished Gateway desktops is RefurbDepot.

Buy a Gateway remanufactured PC from an online auction site

Be very careful ordering rebuilt desktop computers from online auction sites. Check their ratings and return policy thoroughly before purchasing.

I recommend: Online auction site eBay has a storefront for remanufactured Gateway computers, as does Amazon.com.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you see a remanufactured Gateway PC on the Gateway site that you want, snap it up. Refurbished Gateway desktops go fast, and there might not be another one available.