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Buying your laptop
With the soaring popularity of notebook computers, the options available to consumers is growing every week. So how do you get the best deal on your chosen laptop computer?
Many people are turning to the internet these days for all their purchasing needs, with many online stores offering everything that traditional offline shops have always prided themselves in, such as:
- competitive prices;
- great service;
- expert advice; and
- assistance with installation and operation.
Traditional shops will, of course, have on-the-spot advice and service and will quite often be open to negotiations and bargaining regarding laptop price and additional features. On the other hand, online stores usually have a set price, with ordering completed without the need for sales assistants, often cutting out the option of getting a better deal than the one advertised. It's worth bearing in mind, though, that the lower operating costs of online stores quite often result in lower prices to begin with.
Other purchasing options available to laptop buyers are to buy from an auction (either online or offline) and classified advertising (again either online or offline). Online buyers also have the option of purchasing directly from the manufacturer's website, although this can quite often result in a higher retail price.
To discerning laptop purchasers, buying a second-hand notebook can offer the best deal. If possible, always inspect your chosen laptop before you buy it, including seeing it booting-up, working and closing down. When buying second-hand online, it's not always practical to examine the laptop before buying, therefore there are a few tips to consider that could assist in choosing the right second-hand laptop computer.
Never assume you know the answer if it's not detailed in the product description. If a satisfactory answer is not forthcoming it might be time to look for something else.
Honest sellers give good, detailed descriptions of the products they are selling. If information has been omitted it is likely they are trying to hide something.
Don't get caught out buying something you don't want because you didn't check out the model number properly.
Second-hand does not mean new so expect your laptop to have some imperfections. Make sure you don't get any surprises on delivery of your notebook by checking details such as battery life, screen condition, keyboard condition, accessories included, software included and any repair history before purchasing. It's also worth checking the authenticity of any included software.
If the laptop comes with a warranty, make sure it is transferable and valid, especially if you are buying from another country.
When purchasing a new laptop, condition and warranty should not be an issue, however it is still important to arm yourself with as much information as possible. Do your research, ask questions, ask for an in-store demonstration and, above all, don't let the salesperson bully you. If you don't need it, don't buy it.
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