Any drawbacks to buying refurb?

[worldwearyeyes]

Looking at the refurb 20" iMac that Apple is selling. With the same warranty as a new imac, are there any drawbacks to buying this over a "new" one?

cheers...

 

[iGary]

You don't get the "real" original Apple box (comes in a brown box).

Aside from that, it does have the warranty, but you are risking buying a machine that may have already had problems and the problems that may come with that.

Some users reportgetting a machine with better specs than specified. I wouldn't hesitate to buy a refurb.

 

[IJ Reilly]

I've been happy with all of my refurb purchases. I actually like the idea of buying an electronics product that's been through the factory twice, with the assumption that it gets more quality control attention the second time around.

 

[m-dogg]

And I don't even the think the brown box is definite. I think I've read comments here that some people who bought refurbs get the original/nice packaging. It seems like it's hit or miss.

I'm considering a refurb for my next purchase too. This topic comes up often, and I've rad a lot of positive comments...

 

[jadekitty24]

I've been very happy with my Powerbook refurb. And like iGary said, some people receive higher spec machines than what they ordered. I ordered one with a 60 GB hard-drive, and got one with 80, and it was stated to ship with Panther, I got Tiger. There wasn't a mark on it and to this day it runs perfectly mint, aside from whatever I do to it. I would highly recommend it.

 

[Eniregnat]

My refurb PB was worth it. No problems, and it didn't even have a blemish. I think the software was packaged in a ziplock bag though.

 

[manglerbmx]

i bought a referb powermac and came in original box and software was in little package too just like new ones. i guess it just kinda depends sometimes.

 

[DrumaChick420]

About refurbs- Does all the software come with the comps as stated when buying a new one? OS, Ilife 06 etc? How about the hand book etc?

Also, from the time you buy it does one have a year of the free warranty?

Off topic- Can you purchase the Apple Protection plan at a later date or do you need to buy it at the time of purchase?

Seriouly considering a refurb right now.
Thanks.
J.

 

[generik]

Is it possible to buy a refurb and get a badly dented/scratched up machine?

I don't mind getting a brown box, but what'd irk me is getting a comestically marred computer right out of the box

 

[asxtb]

I bought an iSight that was used on the floor at my local Apple Store. It has a few blemishes on the casing but the thing works great!

Don't think it actually qualifies for being labeled as refurbished though.