Used? Or Refurbished?

What does “refurbished” mean, anyway? Be sure to read the fine print, because different retailers apply the term differently. Generally speaking though, “refurbished” is a label used by many manufacturers to identify cameras that have been returned by resellers and cannot be sold again as new. In most cases the cameras were sold by the reseller to a consumer, and the consumer returned the camera to the reseller for any number of reasons. These cameras typically are in perfect working order, but cannot be sold as new because of consumer protection laws. Factory-trained technicians thoroughly inspect the cameras, making any necessary repairs, and the manufacturer wholesales it to be sold as refurbished – at a substantially lower price compared to a new product. They are a bargain, and have already had all of the bugs worked out.

You’ll usually find only recent camera models being sold as “refurbs,” however. Older models are generally not refurbished by the manufacturers for the simple reason that they’re not being retuned by resellers in large numbers. If you’ve been following a certain camera model that you’ve had a hankering for – a Sony V1 for example – snap it up quickly when you see it available as a refurbished product. If you don’t, the window of availability may close for good.

Used digital cameras are a different matter. In most cases they have not been factory inspected or serviced. Often they have been treated with tender loving care and are in like-new condition. And then again, some look like they were dragged behind a tractor-trailer down a hundred miles of Interstate. Many come with the original box, software and documentation, but of course, circumstances vary widely. If you’re buying from an individual, there’s usually not much of a warranty, although you may be able to negotiate a short-term money-back guarantee. If you’re buying from a retail store, you’ll often get a warranty that ranges anywhere from 30 days to six months. By the way – thirty days is really long enough. If the camera works for a month, it should continue working for a long, long time.

                                                                                   What to check before you buy

Warranty term, included accessories, availability of owner’s manual and other documentation, and of course, the price of the same or comparable camera in brand new condition. Also, be sure check what storage media it uses, and the capacity of the media that is included with the camera.

Go to the camera manufacturer’s website and download all of the pertinent documentation you can find. Make 100% sure that the camera is 100% compatible with the computer and operating system you use. This is seldom a problem, but sometimes is.

If you have a multi-format USB card reader, you won’t have to worry much about whether or not there’s a cable included – you won’t use it, anyway.

                                                                                               What to watch for

Missing accessories, missing or outdated software, cameras that show visible signs of abuse (dents, scratches), or make funny noises – these are sure indications that the camera may not end up being much of a bargain, after all. If you’re buying from an individual, ask if the camera has been dropped (dropping is usually lethal) or has ever gotten even just a little bit wet (always lethal).

Remember that impact sufficient to create a visible crack or dent in the body cover of a camera has, by the laws of physics, transferred significant shock to the innards of the camera – and that’s never a good thing.

What to do if you’re really tempted but still not sure
Ask if the camera is returnable if it turns out to be a lemon. Often, retailers will give you full credit toward a new or different used camera provided that the one you return is in the same condition as when you purchased it.
Check Dave’s review of the camera on this site. If his conclusion was “Highly Recommended” and the camera is at a super-savings price, either buy it or call me so I can.

Check the manufacturer’s website for specifications and features. You may be able to download the owner’s manual before you take the plunge.
Talk to a friend who knows a lot about digital cameras. Do your homework.