Our store sells new Apple technology, but nevertheless, we decided to devote this article to choosing a used Mac. Of course, it’s always better to buy a new device with a package and a warranty, but you may be considering buying a used computer right now. In this article, we will analyze in detail what you should pay attention to so as not to get a “pig in a poke”. Indeed, although the gadget may look good, there are nevertheless a number of hidden problems that will manifest themselves in the future.
If you are planning to buy heavy duty Industrial PC devices for a business, you should remember the tips mentioned here.
Pros and cons of buying a used MacBook, iMac
Such devices are cheaper than new ones, so for many this is a decisive factor. On the other hand, such a purchase is akin to a lottery, there is always a chance that you will be sold a problematic device, carefully hiding all the shortcomings. Looking ahead, let’s say that you can still buy a used Mac, but very carefully. It is worthwhile to carefully approach the selection, inspection and testing of the device. Especially if this is your first experience, and you simply do not know what to look at.
What to check on a used Mac?
If we talk about MacBooks and other Apple computer equipment, the most common reasons for their breakdown are mechanical damage and liquid flooding. Therefore, let us dwell on these signs in detail.
Hull integrity
Laptops crash quite often. Monoblocks iMac – less common, but such cases also occur. If the computer case has deep dents, scratches, deformations, it is most likely that it fell or hit hard. In addition to a spoiled appearance (which can be tolerated), this may indicate internal damage. Mounts, screen hinges, damaged cables, or even microcracks on the motherboard can be broken. In addition, traces of blows on the screen unit may mean that the matrix was also damaged.
Display test
Pay special attention to the condition of the screen of your laptop or all-in-one Apple. If, when turned on, stripes are visible on it, the backlight blinks, spots – this indicates its malfunction. In this case, both the device matrix and the backlight system, screen cable, or video card can be damaged. Further repairs will be so costly that it makes no sense to buy such a defective device.
Severe overheating
After turning on the computer and working on it for a while, you may notice that the case has noticeably heated up, the characteristic noise of coolers appears, freezes and slowdowns are possible. Most often, this indicates that the device needs to be cleaned of dust with the replacement of thermal paste. But not always. Damaged components after flooding, voltage surges, mechanical stress – may not work correctly. Problems with power circuits, faulty fans, etc. are common. All this can lead to the fact that over time the Mac will get hotter and hotter until it fails at all. The advice in this case is to contact specialists who will disassemble the computer and carry out diagnostics.
Ports and connectors status
All the connectors that are on the MacBook and iMac are designed for charging them, connecting external devices, displays, headphones, etc. Inspect the ports carefully and check if they are working properly. Quite often, any of the connectors can be burnt, deformed or damaged. This will lead to further inconvenience when working with such a computer.
