In Kenya today, owning a laptop or desktop computer is no longer a luxury, it has become a necessity, much like clothing.

As digital literacy and remote work gain momentum, the need for personal computers has never been greater. According to KEPSA, over 2.4 million Kenyans were engaged in online work as of March 2024, highlighting the growing significance of digital opportunities and global connectivity.

The shift toward digital transformation has created more job opportunities, particularly for young people venturing into fields such as graphic design, web development, online writing, video editing, and online course creation.

This surge has also fuelled the growth of related businesses, including laptop retail and repair shops. However, the rising demand for laptops has led to an influx of counterfeit and substandard products, with Africa becoming a dumping ground for outdated machines.

While this remains a concern, today we focus is on understanding the key differences between new and refurbished laptops—an important distinction, given the popularity of refurbished machines in Kenya.

To shed light on this, we spoke with Edwin Nganyi, an IT expert and founder of ECB Technologies in Nairobi. He explained what sets these two categories apart and how consumers can make informed decisions.

New vs. refurbished laptops: Understanding the basics

New laptops are fresh from the manufacturer, untouched and unused, while refurbished laptops have undergone repairs, diagnostics, and restoration to bring them back to working condition. According to Nganyi, the higher cost of new laptops stems from their pristine state and the fact that they come with manufacturer-backed warranties.

“A brand-new laptop is straight from the assembly line, meaning it has the latest hardware, full warranty, and optimal performance. A refurbished laptop, on the other hand, has been used before and restored, though its efficiency depends on the refurbishing process and the quality of replacement parts used,” he explained.

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The refurbishing process

Nganyi outlined the standard refurbishing process, which includes:

• Diagnostic testing to identify faulty components.
• Replacement of damaged or outdated parts.
• Data wiping to ensure privacy and security.
• Thorough cleaning and exterior restoration.
• Performance and battery testing to confirm functionality.

Why choose a new laptop?

If budget is not a constraint, Nganyi advises purchasing a new laptop for the following benefits:

• Authentic hardware: All components are original and straight from the manufacturer.
• Superior performance: Newer laptops generally have better processing speeds and updated technology.
• Full warranty: Most new laptops come with at least a one-year hardware warranty and additional software support.
• Longer battery life: Since the battery is brand new, it offers optimal performance and longevity.

Advantages of a refurbished laptop

Despite being previously used, refurbished laptops have their perks, including:

• Affordability: They offer similar functionality to new laptops but at a lower cost.
• Customization: Buyers can often inspect the device before purchase and negotiate warranties with dealers.
• Eco-friendly choice: Choosing refurbished devices reduces e-waste and promotes sustainability.
• Pre-installed Software: Many come with pre-installed operating systems and essential programs, ready for use.

Risks of Buying a Refurbished Laptop

However, Nganyi warns that purchasing a refurbished laptop comes with potential downsides:

• Reduced efficiency: Restored parts may not match the original performance levels.
• Shorter battery life: Many refurbished laptops have weaker battery capacity due to prior usage.
• Risk of stolen goods: Buyers must ensure they purchase from reputable dealers.
• Substituted components: Some refurbished models may contain non-original parts that affect performance.

How to choose a reliable refurbished laptop

Nganyi advises consumers to check the following before purchasing a refurbished laptop:

• Inspect the physical condition for any significant damage.
• Test all ports, audio inputs, and outputs.
• Verify the specifications, including storage, memory, and processor generation.
• Check the hard disk health and temperature.
• Ensure the screen, keyboard, webcam, and battery are functional.
• Confirm the warranty terms provided by the seller.

Warranty and lifespan considerations

New laptops typically come with a standard one-year hardware warranty and up to three years of software support. Refurbished laptops, however, have varied warranties depending on the dealer, with some offering only a few months or none at all.

Nganyi notes that while new laptops generally last longer, a well-refurbished laptop—especially one restored by the original manufacturer using Grade 1 components—can have a lifespan comparable to a new one if properly maintained.

Making the right choice: New vs. refurbished laptops

Ultimately, the decision between a new or refurbished laptop depends on budget and intended use. Nganyi recommends that buyers weigh their options carefully:

• If performance, longevity, and warranty coverage are top priorities, a new laptop is the best choice.
• If affordability is the main concern and the laptop is for basic tasks, a refurbished machine can offer good value.
• Buyers should research models, brands, and specifications to ensure they purchase a laptop that suits their needs.

Nganyi concludes that with informed decision-making, consumers can maximize value for money while ensuring they get a device that serves them well.