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Computer Recession Replacement Options

Are you looking for a cheap computer replacement option? When money is tight and your computer has just died a horrible death what are you options, other than purchasing a new one.  Have you considered an ex-lease computer?

An ex-lease computer is a pre-loved computer, normally used by a business for 2-3 years under a finance (lease)  agreement.  Once the term of the lease expires the business replaces the computers under a new lease.

So what are the benefits of buying an ex-lease computer?
•    Of course cost is the major factor compared to a new computer.  Ex-lease computers will start around $250+.
•    Normally they come from a business environment so they are generally well maintained and should have been dusted and cleaned, internal components tested and the hard drive formatted.
•    They are capable of performing the basic home and office tasks of running e-mails, internet, and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Powerpoint).
•    They are a great option if you require Windows XP as some software (accounting, payroll, or design) is still not fully compatible with Vista.
•    Even though they are 2-3 years old they can have reasonably good specs, as they are business models, when compared to a home computer.
•    They are a great 2nd computer option for the kids to prevent them filling your computer with viruses!

Pitfalls of ex-lease computers?
•    Since they are older they will more than likely operate at a slower speed to a new one.
•    With file sizes ever increasing the need for large hard drives (storage space) is important.  An older computer will have a smaller hard drive compared to a new computer.
•    They come with a shorter hardware warranty period. The warranty period may also be limited, as the computer components will be starting to become obsolete, and their MTBF (mean time before failure) will be getting closer i.e. a CD/DVD lasts typically 3-5 years. If you have one that was already 2 yrs old, it would most likely fail in the following year or so.
•    Upgrading hardware components can be an issue. Some new components may not actually physically fit into an older system i.e. a new PCI express graphics card would usually not be able to be put into a machine that is older than 2 years as it would not have the correct slot.

In some cases an ex-lease computer is an ideal solution due to the lower average cost. They can support older software requirements and are suitable for basic tasks.   We are finding that they are becoming a more popular option in the current economic environment.