| Computing freedom, independence, and mobility don't | | | | playing CDs, surfing the Internet, and more. Laptops |
| have to come with a hefty price tag. | | | | allow access to all these features from anywhere. |
| Manufacturers refurbish laptop computers that have | | | | All laptop manufacturers offer refurbished laptops, |
| been returned. The laptop might have a scratched | | | | including such popular brands as Dell, IBM, Toshiba, |
| screen or other minor blemish. In some cases, the | | | | and HP. |
| laptop was an unwanted gift or its packaging was | | | | Computer prices are affected by type of processor, |
| dented. The laptop is inspected by the manufacturer, | | | | operating system, modem, and network card; size of |
| tested for quality, and repackaged for sale at a much | | | | the hard drive and RAM (Random Access Memory); |
| lower price. | | | | and whether there is a CD/DVD-ROM/RW, a video |
| While many new laptops can cost thousands of | | | | card, a sound card, and zip drive. Prices are also |
| dollars, most refurbished laptop computers usually | | | | affected by screen size and type of chassis. |
| cost less than a couple of grand, and often less than | | | | The price will be affected by all these specifications, |
| $500. In most cases, they are as good as new and | | | | along with how well preserved the chassis is, the |
| have a very low return rate. They even come with | | | | name of the manufacturer, and whether you acquire |
| guarantees and warranties, just as you would expect | | | | the laptop form the factory or through a private |
| with a new model. | | | | dealer. Private dealers charge less, but beware: not all |
| A refurbished laptop can satisfy most people's basic | | | | dealers are up to par with their refurbishing skills. Be |
| computing needs, such as word processing, running | | | | sure to go to one that is reputable and experienced. |
| software, reading e-mail, creating spreadsheets, | | | | |