Some of the best laptops can cost around $1,000.
Most shoppers (78%) are concerned about those steep price tags for back-to-school tech, according to a recent CNET survey. Even with plenty of student deals and discounts, there’s another way to spend even less on that tablet you need for the back-to-school season.
If you’re not on the hunt for the latest and greatest, CNET experts stand by refurbished tech.
“In some cases, you can do well with a previous generation of a premium product that’s almost as good as the current model but is well discounted because it’s the previous generation,” said David Carnoy, a CNET executive editor and audio expert. He buys refurbished products usually labeled “Like new” or “Very good.”
But beware. Not every secondhand device is worth the discounted price. Here’s what CNET experts want you to watch out for before buying a bargain.
Check the laptop or tablet’s battery health first
To maximize quality over time, Carnoy recommends checking the battery’s condition to make sure it’s like new or has recently been replaced. Matt Elliott, CNET senior editor and computer expert, agrees that this is the most important detail to look at.
“When a battery starts to go, that really begins to shorten the lifespan of the product and your return on investment,” Elliott said.
Some laptops have built-in apps and software to check the battery life of a device. For example, if you’re buying a MacBook, you can go to the System Settings to check the battery health. If it’s “Normal,” the battery should be OK. But “Replace Now” and “Replace Soon” alerts should be a cause to pause if you’re buying the laptop in that condition.
If battery longevity is a top priority, start by looking at the best battery-life laptops to maximize your runtime.
Read the warranty and return policy before you buy
Most new products come with a one-year limited warranty to cover any defects or software issues. Just as if you were buying new, Carnoy recommends at least a one-year warranty for any used device you buy.
Backmarket is one of a few secondhand retailers CNET experts recommend, and it has a one-year limited warranty offered by the seller from the date of delivery. The warranty covers defects, but like most warranties, many instances aren’t covered, including any accidents or manufactured parts that you change.
Elliott also recommends being aware of the return policy before buying. Backmarket’s is 30 days, like most retailers.
Read more: The Best Places to Sell Your Used Electronics: 7 Trusted Marketplaces in 2025
Look out for dings and defects in the device
Some scratches or features may be worth overlooking, especially if they won’t sacrifice the functionality. But Elliott recommends taking a close look at the device before buying.
“Read the product description very carefully so you understand the type of wear and tear on the product to prevent being disappointed if it arrives with a scratch, dent or another cosmetic defect,” says Elliott.
Carnoy bought a refurbished iPad from Best Buy that was in “Fair” condition, but had a steep discount. It had a single scratch mark, but he was able to cover it with a case, so it was worth the cost. In other cases, you may be able to save money by getting the latest version with no dings or defects.
“For instance, Sony’s current flagship headphone, the WH-1000XM6 costs $450. But Sony still sells the WH-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM4, which cost less and are still very good headphones,” said Carnoy.
But it’s always best to look closely at the device and its specifications before you buy. If you’re unsatisfied, that’s where the return policy can come in handy.
Don’t ignore back-to-school tech deals
Retailers, including Best Buy, Apple, Lenovo and Amazon, all have deals in time for back-to-school, so don’t let secondhand tech be your only money-saving strategy.
Some retailers may offer deals on new tech that may mean you’ll save even more money than buying a used laptop or tablet, and some last for a while. For example, students, parents and educators can choose AirPods or an eligible accessory when buying a Mac or iPad with educational savings through Sept. 30.
