Refurbished or new: how to buy a laptop on a tight budget

A two-year-old business laptop often has a better keyboard, screen and build than a new budget one. The risk is a tired battery and no warranty.

1. Ask for the battery health report and avoid anything below 80 percent.
2. Look for a seller warranty of at least six months.
3. Check ports and hinges in person.
4. Run a memory and storage test before you pay.
5. Keep the invoice for the warranty.

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