A good refurbished laptop typically lasts between 4 and 6 years, depending on the model and how you use it.
This surprises many people, as "refurbished" still sounds to some like “already worn out”. But that image is incorrect. Refurbished laptops from reliable webshops come from the professional market: these business-grade laptops are often used in companies for only 2 to 3 years before being technically inspected, cleaned, and resold. These devices are built to last and, with proper care, are perfectly ready for a second life.
What determines how long a refurbished laptop will last?
The quality of the original device, its condition, and how you use it all contribute to its lifespan.
A refurbished device is not the same as a used laptop from a private seller. These are typically business laptops from well-known brands like Dell, HP, or Lenovo, built for durability. They often have metal housings, strong keyboards, and more robust components than cheap consumer models.
Condition also plays an important role. A device in premium condition (at Back in Use) is almost like new. Devices in excellent condition may show light signs of use but still function perfectly.
Finally, how you use your laptop matters. For browsing, emails, Netflix, and admin tasks, your device will perform well for years. If you use it for heavier applications like video editing or gaming, it will age faster.
Does a refurbished laptop last longer than a cheap new one?
Yes, often it does. Because refurbished laptops are usually much better quality than most new models under €500.
Cheap new laptops (e.g. from supermarkets or unknown webshops) often use slow components, weak batteries, and plastic casings. They’re not built to last. They boot slowly, freeze when multitasking, and become outdated within 2 years.
Refurbished laptops, on the other hand, mostly come from the business world. That means strong performance, fast SSDs, solid batteries, and replaceable parts. For the same price, you get a device that can last 2 to 3 times longer.
A refurbished laptop costing €400 today likely cost more than €1,000 when new. So yes, the quality is there – and you’ll notice it.
How long will the battery last?
At reliable refurbishers like Back in Use, batteries are tested and replaced if they are too weak.
Battery life is one of the biggest concerns with second-hand devices. And rightly so – no one wants a laptop that only works when plugged in. That’s why the battery is thoroughly tested during the refurbishment process.
Back in Use has a clear standard: a battery must have at least 70% of its original capacity. If it’s below that, it is replaced with a new or better one. That way, your device stays truly mobile.
With normal use – not constantly pushing the device to its limits – the battery can still last another 3 to 4 years. Just like in a new device.
What about updates, software, and performance over time?
As long as your device still receives Windows updates and has enough RAM and storage, it will continue to perform well.
What you plan to use the laptop for matters a lot. For basic tasks like checking emails or browsing, 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD is more than enough. If you want to multitask or do video editing, you should look at 16GB RAM or more, and extra storage space.
A refurbished laptop from Back in Use always comes with the latest official version of Windows, so you’re up to date from day one.
Do I get a warranty if something breaks?
Yes. At Back in Use, you get a 2-year warranty (upgradeable to 3 years) on every device. That’s the same as with a new laptop.
And this warranty isn’t just for show. If something goes wrong – like a broken keyboard, faulty port, or software issue – your device will be repaired or replaced.
This warranty gives peace of mind. You’re not just taking a gamble – you’re making a smart, informed decision.
How can I extend the lifespan of my refurbished laptop?
With good habits and a few simple steps, you can easily add 1 to 2 extra years to your device’s lifespan.
Some practical tips:
- Don’t leave your laptop plugged in all the time. It helps preserve battery health.
- Clean your laptop regularly, especially the ventilation areas. Dust = heat = wear.
- Keep your software updated and use a good antivirus.
- Use a protective sleeve when carrying it around.
Bonus tip: avoid installing heavy software you don’t need. Keep your system clean and it will stay fast.
So, what can you expect in terms of lifespan?
A high-quality refurbished laptop, like those from Back in Use, will typically last 4 to 6 years.
For a device priced between €400 and €500, that’s an excellent deal. Especially since you don’t have to compromise on performance, reliability, or warranty. You’re buying a professional-grade laptop that has already proven itself – and is ready for a second life.
👉 Thinking about a refurbished laptop? Explore the premium selection at backinuse.be.
