[header] How to buy used laptops [title] Purchase refurbished instead of used--if possible. [step] A refurbished laptop is one that has been maintained and repaired, often brought back to brand-new quality. A used laptop is one that has not been touched up at all. 
Because refurbished laptops have been examined and maintained, they are often more reliable than used laptops and, thus, less prone to breaking down immediately. However, refurbished laptops can be a bit more expensive and less available than used laptops.