PickGlobe
Refurbished electronics can save money, but the word means different things at different sellers. Consumer Reports (US) and Which? (UK) set out what to look for. Seller policies change often, so check the seller's current page.
This guide is based on the public sources listed at the end. We have not tested the products or services mentioned.
This is a short reference page. The full guide is Online Shopping Rights and Returns: UK, EU, US and Canada Compared.
The terms
Consumer Reports says sellers do not define "refurbished" consistently, and uncertified refurbishing may be little more than cleaning, repackaging and repricing. It names seller programmes, such as Amazon Renewed Premium, but does not define "open-box" or "renewed" as general terms. Treat them as the seller's own words.
Warranties and returns (as stated by Consumer Reports in April 2025)
| Seller | Warranty |
|---|---|
| eBay Certified Refurbished | Two years |
| Apple, Bose, Microsoft, Samsung | One year |
| Amazon and Best Buy | 90 days (Amazon Renewed Premium: one year) |
| Dell | 100-day limited warranty |
Return windows quoted: Amazon 90 days, Apple 14 days, Dell 30 or 21 days depending on the item. Consumer Reports suggests having at least a month to decide. These figures date quickly, so check the seller.
What to check
- The seller's warranty and return policy.
- Whether the seller is certified (Consumer Reports cites ISO and R2).
- Whether replacement parts, batteries and chargers are new or used.
- Whether your credit card gives return or warranty protection.
UK advice (Which?, laptops)
Grades such as A, B and C differ by seller, so check each seller's definition. Warranties run from 30 days to three years, with one year typical. Online shops give you a 14-day cancellation right. Under the Consumer Rights Act you can reject faulty or misdescribed goods for a full refund within 30 days. A private seller must describe the item correctly but need not volunteer faults.
Check operating-system support (Which? says to avoid Windows 10), the processor generation, the security update end date, photos of the charger and port, and battery wear.
See also warranties vs your legal rights.
Last checked: 15 October 2026. Sources: Consumer Reports, should you buy refurbished electronics (updated April 2025); Which?, how to buy second-hand or refurbished laptops.
