Are refurbished electronics worth the savings?

Some refurbished electronics are worth the savings, BUT when dealing with electronics this is not usually the case. There are many reasons why purchasing a used and fixed electronics products are not worth the small savings difference:

-Refurbishing quality and job: Many times a refurbished electronics device will have 'new' parts in it that were either salvaged from non working electronics yet the particular part is good; or the new parts are of a lower quality then the originals (ie RAM or HD in a computer). This is one way savings are passed on.

- Outdated technology: One can't hope to keep up with technology, but many products to have various release editions that are small improvements over past releases. Case in point: The iPod. If you bought a refurbished or even new iPod a week before the video iPod you know what I'm talking about. Dramatic updates and changes aside, makers of electronics often release 2.0 and on versions of electronic, especially Apple Computers. The 5 generation iPod has been updated at least twice since coming out in 2006. Also when buying refurbed computers keep in mind you may not only be getting subpar replacement parts inside, but your getting a computer whose technology is already too far behind to be worth the small savings.

- Wear and Tear: No matter how good a refurb job is or if it is even done in the first place, all products are subject to normal wear and tear. (Ever see the commercials for CarFax?) Electronics are especially prone to wear and tear which often isn't described in the details of the refurbished products. Portable electronics could have cosmetic damage, internal damage, stress cracks in the casing, or even flat out not work upon purchase.

Also on Ebay many sellers sell 'refurbished' electronics. These 'chop shop' deals are usually sold because the quality parts are replaced with subpar parts or considered reject product from a company. In order to make sure your getting your money's worth look for sales on the latest electronic gadget you seek. Make sure its new, consider a warranty, and always shop around. Electronics are usually an investment because of their price tags, so make sure your getting an unused, untampered with device new out of box.