Buying used laptop/notebook

Tomas_S

Hi just looking for few advises here.
I'm looking to buy a used netbook privately, so was wondering is it possible to do some tests on the spot? Like hard drive etc.?

dazzday

Testing bad sectors on HDD etc are impractical and to be honest not really worth it (at worst a HDD costs very little these days)

Try these steps before you buy:

Check for physical damage.

Start it up and boot INTO windows (Dont just check if the lights turn on etc!). You'll notice any gpu display problems, OS failures etc here

Turn screen up to full brightness and check for dead pixels etc.

Open notepad etc and test all keyboard keys.


Go to run command and run "dxdiag". This will give you a nice overview on h/w specs including gpu, cpu and installed ram.

Possibly test speakers with an audio file if you wish.

Possibly check fan vents for noticable dust and excessive heat etc or if fans are running at max with very little load.

Covers most immeadiate concerns.

bonzodog2

Check speaker quality, screen, USB and network. You can always replace the hard drive and re-install Windows if necessary.

Tomas_S

Thanks for replies, got one and happy with it so far.