Amazon Renewed Monitors: Worth The Money?

Amazon Renewed is a program that offers refurbished, rebuilt, and previously owned items at reduced prices. While buying a refurbished monitor can be a great way to save money, it also comes with added risks. However, if you do your research and make a considered purchase, you can minimize these risks. Amazon Renewed products come with a guarantee from Amazon and are inspected and tested by qualified technicians. They should work and look like new, with no visible cosmetic imperfections when held 12 inches away.

When buying a refurbished monitor, it is important to use a reliable retailer that offers warranties and guarantees that the product has been thoroughly tested and is in working order. Amazon is generally considered a reputable seller, and its Renewed program offers a one-year warranty or 90-day guarantee.

Some things to keep in mind when considering a refurbished monitor from Amazon or elsewhere include checking for dead pixels, ensuring the model has the features you need, and comparing prices and warranties with other options. While buying a refurbished monitor can be a handy cost-saving tactic, it may not be for everyone, and it is important to understand the risks and manage your expectations.

Amazon's grading system

Amazon has a grading system for its used items, which includes the following categories:

• Like New or Open Box: An item in perfect working condition. The original packaging is intact and in good condition with only minor damage possible.
• Very Good: A well-cared-for item with limited use that remains in good working condition. The item may show limited signs of wear and cosmetic blemishes.
• Good: An item that shows wear from consistent use but remains in good condition and functions properly. It may be marked, have minor cosmetic damage, and may be missing some parts or accessories.
• Acceptable: An item that is fairly worn but still functions. Signs of wear include scratches, dents, and worn corners. The item may be missing some parts or accessories.

Amazon Renewed products are backed by the Amazon Renewed Guarantee and are restored to their original factory settings. They fall into one of the following cosmetic conditions: Premium, Excellent, Good, or Acceptable. Premium and Excellent products have no signs of cosmetic damage when held 12 inches away. Good products have light scratches that are barely visible, and Acceptable products have scratches that are visible and perceptible to the touch.

Amazon's guarantees

Amazon guarantees customer satisfaction with its Amazon Renewed program. The Amazon Renewed Guarantee promises a full refund or replacement for any product that does not satisfy the customer or does not work as expected. This guarantee is valid for 90 days from the receipt of the purchase, or within a year for Renewed Premium or Automotive products.

Amazon also provides quick support for claims and free troubleshooting via a single point of contact. The Amazon Renewed Guarantee is applicable to select Renewed products, specifically mentioned on the product information page.

All products on Amazon Renewed are either professionally inspected and tested by Amazon or a third-party seller. The suppliers are qualified manufacturers or specialised third-party refurbishers who meet strict criteria and performance targets. The inspection and testing process includes a full diagnostic test, replacement of faulty parts, and thorough cleaning.

The products are then graded into one of four cosmetic and functional conditions: Premium, Excellent, Good, or Acceptable. Premium products have no signs of cosmetic damage, no scratches on the screen, and a battery life of over 90% of the original. Excellent products are similar but with a battery life of over 80% of the original. Good products may have light scratches that are barely visible and imperceptible to touch. Finally, Acceptable products have visible scratches that are perceptible to touch, but no scratches on the screen, and a battery life of over 80% of the original.

Customer feedback

Another customer who bought two iPhone 8s and an iPhone 12 through Amazon Renewed had no complaints, stating that the devices worked like new. This customer also reported saving hundreds of dollars on each iPhone, although the devices were a few generations behind the latest models.

A customer on Reddit who bought a renewed monitor from Amazon described their experience as a "coin flip". The first time they ordered a like-new item, it was perfect and had simply been opened and returned. However, the second time, the item had a severe problem that went undiagnosed and had to be sent back.

When it comes to buying refurbished monitors in general, it is recommended to only buy from reputable retailers that offer warranties and guarantees. Amazon is considered a reputable retailer, and its Amazon Renewed programme offers a one-year warranty, ensuring that the product will "work and look like new".

Overall, while there may be some risks associated with buying renewed or refurbished monitors, customer feedback suggests that Amazon Renewed can be a reliable option for those looking to save money on electronics.

Cost-saving

If you're looking for a cost-saving option for a monitor, buying a renewed one from Amazon is a great choice. Here's why:

Significant Price Reductions

Renewed monitors on Amazon offer substantial savings compared to buying brand new models. You can find monitors with significant price reductions, sometimes even up to half the price of their original cost. This makes it an attractive option for those on a budget or looking for a bargain.

Amazon's Renewed Guarantee

Amazon provides a guarantee for its renewed products, ensuring that they have been thoroughly inspected and tested to work and look like new. This guarantee includes a promise of no visible cosmetic imperfections when viewed from 12 inches away. Amazon also offers a one-year satisfaction guarantee or a 90-day Amazon Renewed guarantee, depending on the condition of the item. This provides peace of mind and protection for your purchase.

Rigorous Quality Assurance

Renewed monitors go through a rigorous quality assurance process. Companies tend to replace defective components, such as panels, control boards, or furniture, and conduct retests to ensure the monitors are free of issues. This means that common issues like dead pixels or backlight bleeding are often already addressed, giving you a hassle-free experience.

Reputable Retailer

Amazon is a well-known and reputable retailer, which is important when considering buying refurbished items. They have a robust system in place for dealing with refurbished products, and you can trust their guarantees. Amazon also provides excellent customer service, making it easier to deal with any potential issues or returns.

Wide Range of Options

Amazon offers a wide range of renewed monitors from various brands, including Dell, Samsung, LG, and more. This gives you a diverse selection to choose from, allowing you to find a monitor that fits your specific needs and preferences.

Positive Customer Experiences

Many customers have shared positive experiences with buying renewed monitors from Amazon. Some have mentioned that their purchases worked like new, with minimal to no signs of previous use. This indicates that Amazon's renewal process is effective and provides reliable results.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a cost-saving option, an Amazon renewed monitor can be an excellent choice. With significant price reductions, Amazon's trusted guarantee, rigorous quality assurance, and a wide range of options, you can find a monitor that suits your needs without breaking the bank. Just be sure to do your research, read reviews, and understand the terms and conditions before making your purchase.

Risks of buying refurbished

While buying a refurbished monitor can be a great way to save money, it does come with certain risks. Here are some key points to consider:

Cosmetic and Functional Defects

Refurbished items may have cosmetic defects such as scratches or dings. While these may not affect performance, they can be an issue if you are particular about the appearance of your devices. More importantly, there is a risk of functional defects, such as dead pixels or backlight bleeding. Even after repairs and quality checks, there is no guarantee that the monitor will be completely free of issues.

Limited Warranty and Returns

Refurbished products typically have a shorter warranty period compared to new items. While some retailers offer warranties and return policies for refurbished monitors, they may be more restrictive. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions before purchasing to understand your options if the product develops issues.

Reliability and Longevity

There is a risk that refurbished monitors may not be as reliable or long-lasting as new ones. Some people have shared experiences where their refurbished electronics broke down after a certain period, usually within a year or two. This can be a concern if you are looking for a long-term investment.

Inadequate Testing and Repairs

While reputable companies have strict refurbishing programs, there is still a chance that issues may go undetected. In some cases, monitors may be improperly repaired or inadequately tested, leading to unexpected problems down the line. It is important to choose a trustworthy seller that follows industry standards and conducts rigorous testing.

Outdated Models

When buying a refurbished monitor, you may be purchasing an older model that is no longer in production. This can impact the availability of spare parts and support from the manufacturer. It is worth considering whether the benefits of a lower price outweigh the potential drawbacks of owning an outdated model.

In summary, while buying a refurbished monitor can offer significant savings, it is important to be aware of the potential risks. These include cosmetic and functional defects, limited warranty coverage, reliability concerns, inadequate testing and repairs, and the possibility of purchasing outdated models. To mitigate these risks, it is advisable to buy from reputable sellers, thoroughly research the product and its reviews, and ensure that you understand the terms of the warranty and return policy.

Frequently asked questions