Three-Step Guide For Buying Refurbished Or Used Servers
When in the market for new hardware, you should always first take a look at whether that same model has a refurbished or used option. The main reason for this is that brand-new hardware will always cost a lot more, which is not viable for many individuals and smaller businesses.
This is often the case with servers. Many businesses rely on servers to store data or to run multiple operations across many connected users. And the more powerful the server is, the higher its price will be. Of course, more power will allow you to scale your operations, but you still have to determine whether you need top of a line server or a budget-friendly one. And luckily for many, there are many server options for various wallets.
For instance, there’s a lot of misconception about refurbished versus used servers. Many individuals put refurbished into the same category as used servers, which could be farther from the truth.
Let’s explore the experience you will have with refurbished or used servers below and how to plan your buying strategy.
Refurbished Vs. Used Servers
By definition, a refurbished server is a used device that was later thoroughly repaired and restored to its original condition by an expert technician. The performance output you can expect from this type of server is as good as a brand-new one, and on top of that, you can even expect it to last for years.
Reputable refurbishers will provide you with an assortment of some of the best servers on the market from brands such as Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc. So, to put things into perspective, if you can get your hands on refurbished HP servers, there is no point in forking out money on brand-new ones of the same model.
Furthermore, refurbished server prices are lower than new ones, and they are perfect for small businesses that want to set up whole operations with the help of powerful hardware devices. Refurbished servers are also risk-free as the refurbishers pay extra attention to all the components that might have been damaged due to prior use. On top of that, most sellers will run through tests and determine whether the device is fully fit for use and issue a warranty so that even if the server malfunctions, the buyer can recoup their spent funds.
On the other hand, used servers are usually sold in online stores, and they often go for much lower prices than refurbished and new ones. However, you can never really know in what kind of condition you will receive the server.
Tips On Buying Used Servers
If possible, you should make the trip and review the server’s performance and condition before purchasing. Ask the seller to provide you with information in regard to the server’s usage, upkeep, and date of purchase.
If you notice that the server’s exterior is damaged, you should probably seek another one. But that’s not always a clear indicator that the server is not fit for use. Ask the seller to show just how well the server performs and if it’s to your liking, proceed with the purchase.
It’s worth mentioning that no one will guarantee that the server will serve you for an extended period, as the used server doesn’t come with any warranty most of the time. So, even if you might fetch a solid price for used servers, you should carefully consider your decision.
Buying Refurbished Servers
When considering buying a Dell or HP refurbished server, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind. First, always buy from a reputable vendor who offers some warranty on their product. Additionally, review the device’s specifications to determine whether it fits your current needs. Ask the seller to elaborate on the entire refurbishment process and inquire whether they have done tests to determine if the device will have a solid performance output.
By doing this due diligence ahead of time, you can ensure that you get the best out of your refurbished server purchases.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, your chosen server will depend on your budget and needs. However, if it’s possible, you should always opt for refurbished hardware, as you can never know just how well the previous owner treated the device they are now selling as a used one. Look for reputable vendors specializing in restoring used devices and fully refurbishing them to get the most value out of the device for your money.
