The Clueless' Guide to Pre-Owned Gadgetry

Disclaimer: If you would look at the title, it specifically states Clueless' which means that this article is geared for those who are not that knowledgeable, and is not an article written by the "clueless".

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'Tis the season again. Companies will be handing out (or doling out?) the Christmas Bonuses to their hardworking drones and one of the most asked questions I get during this season are the following:

• Is it okay to get a 2nd hand cellphone? It really looks good!
• Is the laptop that is posted at bidshot a good buy?
• A friend is selling his PDA, should I get it?
• A desktop PC is being sold by an officemate for only [insert amount here], is the price reasonable?
  

There is no definite answer to such queries so I decided to write down stock/generic answer here.

There are a couple of things to think about before getting a Pre-Owned (actually a euphemism for 2nd Hand) gadget:

1. Look at the general appearance of the merchandise. It should look good, especially if you think that the price the seller is asking for is a bit high.
2. Looks can be deceiving. Test out the merchandise in question. Make sure that it still does what it was designed to do. If possible, "burn it in" and no, it doesn't mean that you need to put it in an oven for testing. It simply means that you should test it for a long amount of time. It should still work even if it is left on for a few hours.
3. Check for completeness. Most, if not all, bundled accessories and peripherals should be included with the merchandise. Stolen gadgets are often sold as "unit only" and buying them will make you liable under the Anti-fencing law.
4. Buy from reputable sellers and if possible, someone you personally know. Should anything goes very wrong with your purchase, you should be able to easily get in touch the seller.
5. And lastly, DO YOUR HOMEWORK. Make sure that you know what you are getting into when buying pre-owned gadgets. Make sure that you really need it and there is a need for it. Look at the price. If the price of the pre-owned item is not too far off the price of a brand new one, save up and get the brand new stuff!

These are just a few tips. I will follow this blog up with particular things to look for when buying specific gadgets. Till then, happy shopping and don't spend that bonus in one big splurge!