How we grade
Grade tells you what it looks like. Not how it works.
Every device passes the same functional test. The grade only describes cosmetic condition, so you pay for the appearance you need and nothing more. Wear that matches the grade is expected, accepted and not a defect.
Refurbished, properly
What refurbished actually means
A second-hand laptop is one somebody stopped using. A refurbished one has been taken apart, checked, repaired where needed, cleaned, wiped and tested before it is sold again. The word gets used loosely, so we are specific about what ours have been through.
Our stock comes through manufacturer refurbishment programmes run by brands like HP, Lenovo and Dell. That backing is the reason we can price competitively and still offer a 12-month warranty, extendable to 24 months, where most refurbished sellers offer three to six.
Factory reconditioned
Units are reconditioned in a factory environment, not on a workbench. That means controlled processes and consistent results.
Genuine parts
Where a part is replaced it is a genuine manufacturer part or one that meets the same specification. No generic substitutes.
Manufacturer test procedures
Devices are tested to the same standards the maker uses on its production line, which is why we can back them for longer.
Before a device is listed
Functional test
Processor, memory, storage health, display, keyboard, ports, battery, Wi-Fi and audio are all checked. Anything that fails is repaired with genuine or equivalent-to-new parts, or the unit is rejected.
Data wipe and fresh OS
Drives are securely erased. Where an operating system is listed, a clean, activated copy is installed.
Cosmetic inspection
Lid, chassis, screen and keyboard are inspected under good light. The grade describes only what the device looks like.
The three grades
What to expect
- —Looks new or close to it
- —Often as-new, open-box or balance-of-warranty stock
- —No visible marks on lid, chassis or screen
- —Keyboard and touchpad unworn
For customer-facing staff, executives, or anywhere the device is on show. As-new and open-box units may still carry the remainder of the manufacturer's own warranty on top of ours.
Shop Grade AWhat to expect
- —Factory reconditioned and fully functional
- —Fair wear from normal office use is expected
- —Minor scuffs on the lid or base
- —Keyboard may show light shine
Our most popular grade. The right balance of price and presentation for everyday staff machines.
Shop Grade BWhat to expect
- —Works exactly as it should
- —Visible scuffs, scratches or small dents
- —Worn or shiny keys
- —Priced down for the cosmetic marks, which are accepted and not a defect
Lowest price. Ideal for back-office, labs, training rooms and anywhere looks do not matter.
Shop Grade CSame warranty on every grade
Grade A, B or C, every device carries our 12-month collect-and-return warranty against hardware failure. Cosmetic condition never reduces cover, and cosmetic wear consistent with the grade is not a warranty matter.
Want longer? Add the extended warranty at checkout and cover runs for 24 months from delivery.