Refurbished IBM laptops are a good option to consider when shopping for notebook computers for your business for a number of reasons. One major drawback to buying used computers has traditionally been the limited warranty and return policy. While it is important to buy IBM certified refurbished computers and know the criteria for certifying used IBM laptops, the warranty and return policy for used IBM notebook computers often provides quality support for the product.

When shopping for used IBM laptops, always look for the term "refurbished" and for an IBM certification, even if you are buying from another distributor. Newer software can often be used with older IBM models as long as you have the necessary system updates and compatible hardware. Depending on the package you get with the computer, a refurbished model may even come with better hardware and software installed.

The used IBM notebooks basics to keep in mind when you shop include the following:

1. Learn the criteria for certifying a refurbished IBM laptop.
2. Get the support and downloads available for your used laptop.
3. Shop smart for the best deals on used IBM notebooks.

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

Get certified refurbished IBM laptops for a quality guarantee

Refurbished IBM laptops bought from IBM all come certified and tested, with a standard 7-day money-back guarantee and a 3-month limited warranty. If you buy from another distributor, the laptop may still carry the IBM certification. If the distributor uses a different type of warranty or quality control, check out the specifics of what is covered.

I recommend: Refurbished IBM notebooks may have cosmetic flaws, but are guaranteed to have fully functioning hardware in addition to a refurbished battery and backup recovery software, among other features. Certified used IBM notebooks from other companies, like Lighthouse Computer Services, have the same features, and can also be customized with refurbished storage and hardware additions.

Enhance used IBM laptops with support and downloads

New and refurbished IBM ThinkPads can be updated using the downloads available online from IBM and Lenovo. Because used IBM laptops may not have had their software updated, download the automatic updating software for your model online to get a used model up to date.

I recommend: Search IBM support and downloads for your system type to find updates available online. The Lenovo ThinkVantage system update software is also available for used IBM laptops and will automatically maintain your computer so that it can function like new.

Know when a refurbished IBM laptop is the best deal for you

Refurbished IBM laptops can provide not only a better deal, but a better package when buying a notebook computer. To get the best deals and options, compare a refurbished model and its features with a new model offering similar choices. Don't assume that the lowest price is always the best deal, since you may get a lot more for a slight increase in cost.

I recommend: Read the discussion comparing new and refurbished notebook features for IBM and other brands at PCWorld. If you are shopping for computers for a registered nonprofit corporation, you may be able to get a refurbished IBM laptop from TechSoup, a company that provides donated corporate computers and accessories, including IBM, to nonprofit corporations for low or no cost.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When shopping for a refurbished ThinkPad, be aware that after 2005, IBM and the ThinkPad notebooks fall under the company Lenovo, and may carry the Lenovo brand name rather than or in addition to IBM. IBM or Lenovo support and products can be used with a refurbished ThinkPad laptop.

Buying a refurbished IBM laptop takes some research and business savvy. However, the hunt pays off in savings. When you’re searching through websites for a refurbished IBM laptop, ask the same questions as buying a new computer.

Smart shoppers compare prices against new IBM computers to make sure the same used IBM notebook isn’t available at a retailer for less. In addition, consider whether the seller offers a warranty. While many private sellers have the advantage with pricing, a computer company tends to offer a warranty. The proper research yields an increased opportunity to find the perfect refurbished ThinkPad for the best price.

When choosing refurbished IBM laptops consider:

1. The expandable capabilities of IBM used laptops.

2. The hardware and software included with the refurbished IBM laptops.

3. The cost of upgrading the computer compared with buying a refurbished ThinkPad.

Answering yes, to these fundamental questions helps to ensure you’re not buying a lemon. And if possible, test used IBM notebook computers before buying.

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

Check expandability of used IBM laptops and the warranty

Refurbished IBM notebooks may sound like a great deal, but does it meet your needs today and into the future? Evaluate the expansion capabilities of the used IBM notebook or its maximum capacity now. A laptop is already obsolete when updating it isn't possible.

I recommend: The best place to shop for the highest quality refurbished IBM notebooks is IBM. The company offers a guarantee that its laptops meet stringent guidelines. You can also find an extensive selection of refurbished ThinkPads at USANotebook.com, with a six-month warranty.

List what hardware and software is installed on used IBM notebooks

When you're searching for a used IBM ThinkPad notebook, you'll want to know what internal hardware is included. Does the refurbished computer include video card, sound card, modem, CD-ROM drive and other features you need? Also, know what software comes with the computer and get the original copies of the programs.

I recommend: If you're looking for the best bargain, try online auction sites, but make sure the return policy is generous. Some sites to search include eBay and Amazon. On eBay, you can limit your search to local sellers so you can ask to see the computer before bidding on it.

Compare the price of upgrading a refurbished IBM computer with a new ThinkPad

The price of used IBM laptops can be deceptive. Think about how you want to use the computer and whether the refurbished computer has enough memory and other capabilities to augment your projects. If not, add up the costs of upgrading.

I recommend: If you're a hands-on person, check out the condition of your refurbished IBM ThinkPad first-hand. The best place to start is the online IBM Support Center . To compare the price of your refurbished computer with new prices, go to NexTag for a list of new ThinkPad prices.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Remember that the cheapest used IBM notebooks are not always the best buy. Check online at major retailers, auction sites and locally for refurbished IBM laptops with the highest quality.
• •  Chinese company Lenovo acquired IBM's personal computing division in 2005, so you'll see more recent models of IBM laptops, including the ThinkPad, carrying the Lenovo brand.

Used IBM laptops can offer businesses the technology they need at a price that adheres to their budget. However, it is important when looking at used IBM notebooks or refurbished IBM laptops that potential buyers protect themselves from a financial standpoint. While it is true that a refurbished IBM Thinkpad or a used IBM Thinkpad notebook can save a business money in the short run, it is very important that companies purchase their refurbished IBM laptops and used IBM notebooks from reputable and reliable used IBM notebook vendors.

When considering dealing with used IBM notebook vendors or individuals who sell used IBM notebook computers, consumers need to be informed about the best ways to go about these types of purchases. Used IBM notebooks advice and ratings information can greatly assist in the education of consumers interested in purchasing a refurbished Thinkpad or any other used IBM notebook computers when you:

1. Examine the benefits of purchasing refurbished IBM notebooks and the advantages from purchasing laptops from used IBM notebook vendors.

2. Compare websites that offer reviews of refurbished and new IBM Thinkpads and IBM laptop computers.

3. Peruse educational websites offering advice regarding the purchase of used IBM laptops and refurbished IBM laptops.

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

Review the benefits of refurbished IBM notebooks versus the benefits of used IBM notebooks

Advice sites are instrumental when it comes to refurbished used IBM notebooks advice and ratings. Vendors and experiences can be categorized in an easily understood manner, helping your company to understand the benefits and drawbacks of working with refurbished or used IBM notebook computers.

I recommend: PCWorld.com discusses the pros and cons of refurbished IBM notebooks, including refurbished IBM Thinkpads. It illustrates for readers what refurbished IBM laptops make available to consumers, offering beneficial information. BobJohnson.com continues to explain such devices in easy to understand terms. eHow.com discusses the many benefits of purchasing used IBM laptops and specifically used IBM thinkpad notebooks.

Learn about the experiences of buying used IBM notebooks by reading reviews by businesses

Review and informational sites assist others with used IBM notebooks advice and ratings by explaining how businesses and individuals benefited from purchasing laptops in such conditions. As a result of learning about others' experiences, consumers can make a more educated decision as to whether or not a new or refurbished IBM laptop would be beneficial for them to purchase.

I recommend: Buy.com discusses what individuals can expect from their refurbished IBM Thinkpad computers. Underneath the specs and features, buyers, including employees from businesses, discuss receiving their purchases and how the used equipment benefitted them. This type of information allows other businesses and individuals to understand what to expect from such a purchase. PriceGrabber.com offers similar reviews of used Levono IBM notebooks, complete with the strengths and weaknesses of the used laptops and notes to IBM on the state of their used Thinkpad computers.

Learn tips and tricks for purchasing used IBM laptops from education and informative websites

Websites offer all kinds of information to interested parties. There are many which will even offer advice to individuals and businesses that are considering purchasing used or refurbished IBM laptops and notebooks for their employees.

I recommend: There are many websites offering their opinions to businesses and individuals regarding the potential purchase of a used or refurbished IBM laptop computer. NotebookReview.com discusses how and when purchasing such a laptop may be beneficial, while DaileyInt.com offers advice on secondhand laptops and computers, including those manufactured by IBM. Tech.Yahoo.com offers advice on when, if ever, individuals and businesses can benefit from purchasing used or refurbished computers.