Where to buy used desktop computers?

Used desktop computers offer a balance of performance and savings, ideal for tasks such as work, study, or light gaming. You can find them in specialty stores, trading platforms, or general retailers, but it's essential to check the equipment's quality, warranty, and compatibility.

This article explores where to buy these computers in Spain, with a focus on reliable sources and recommendations to avoid problems.

Options for buying second-hand desktop computers

1. Online stores specializing in refurbished equipment

These stores offer inspected, tested, and guaranteed computers, ideal for safe shopping.

• Examples:
  • infocomputer: Offers desktop PCs from brands like HP, Lenovo, and Dell, with up to 2-year warranties and 24-72 hour shipping. Popular models include the HP EliteDesk 800 G3 (Core i5, 16 GB RAM, 240 GB SSD).
  • Borax: Over 25 years selling refurbished equipment, with options like All-in-Ones and Mini PCs, a 2-year warranty, and a physical store in Madrid.
  • JetComputer: Extensive catalog of refurbished desktops, from basic models to workstations, with a 2-year warranty and shipping within 24-48 hours.
  • PC Deals: Specializing in professional equipment (business leasing), with a 2-year warranty and customizable configurations.
• Advantages:
  • Equipment inspected and certified.
  • 1-2 year warranty.
  • Customization options (RAM, SSD, etc.).
• Disadvantages:
  • Prices are somewhat higher than on private platforms.
  • Limited stock on specific models.

object lesson: A Lenovo ThinkCentre M920S (Core i5, 16 GB RAM, 240 GB SSD) at InfoComputer can cost around €200-300, with warranty and Windows 11 pre-installed. How to activate Windows 10 without programs?

2. Platforms for buying and selling between individuals

Platforms like Wallapop and Milanuncios allow you to buy directly from individuals, offering competitive prices but with greater risks.

• Examples:
  • WallapopThousands of desktop PC listings, with prices up to 44% lower than new ones. Example: Tower PC with Intel Pentium G5400, 8 GB RAM, and 220 GB SSD for ~€150.
  • Milanuncios: Similar to Wallapop, with options such as HP or Dell towers at prices starting at €100, although the warranty depends on the seller.
• Advantages:
  • Very low prices.
  • Great variety of models.
• Disadvantages:
  • Without official guarantee in many cases.
  • Risk of defective or untested equipment.
  • Need to verify physical and technical condition.

CouncilAsk the seller about the reason for the sale, previous use, and whether they include a warranty. Inspect the equipment in person if possible.

3. General online retailers

Major platforms like Amazon and eBay offer refurbished desktop computers, often with limited warranties and fast shipping.

• Examples:
  • Amazon: Refurbished products section with PCs from brands like HP, Dell, and Lenovo. Example: HP 600 G2 (Core i3, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD) for ~200 €.
  • eBayNew and used desktop PCs, with auction or outright purchase options. Example: Dell OptiPlex 7050 (Core i7, 16 GB RAM) for €250-350.
  • BackMarketSpecializing in refurbished products, with up to a 2-year warranty and shipping within 48 hours. Example: Dell OptiPlex 7470 All-in-One for ~€400.
• Advantages:
  • Wide choice.
  • Clear return policies (especially on Amazon and BackMarket).
  • Fast shipments.
• Disadvantages:
  • Prices may be higher than on individual platforms.
  • Quality varies depending on the seller.

object lessonAt BackMarket, a refurbished iMac with 32GB RAM and a 512GB SSD can include an original keyboard and mouse, with a commercial warranty.

4. Physical stores in Spain

For those who prefer to see the equipment before buying, physical stores offer additional reassurance.

• Examples:
  • Cash Converters: A chain with stores in several Spanish cities, offering desktops with a three-year warranty and a 3-day trial period. Example: Lenovo ThinkCentre M14 (Core i900, 7 GB RAM) for approximately €16.
  • Borax (Madrid): Physical and online store with inspected PCs and a 2-year warranty.
  • LotesPC (Madrid): Specializing in used computer lots, ideal for businesses or schools, with 24-hour shipping.
• Advantages:
  • Physical inspection of the equipment.
  • Direct advice.
  • Guarantee in many cases.
• Disadvantages:
  • Less variety than online.
  • Limited availability by region.

Council: Bring a USB drive with tools like CrystalDiskInfo to check the status of your hard drive in the store.

5. Local or second-hand shops in the Canary Islands and other regions

Specific regions, such as the Canary Islands, have stores specializing in used equipment.

• Example:
  • Used Computers in the Canary Islands: Exclusive online store for the Canary Islands, with affordable desktop PCs and up to a 2-year warranty.
  • Used Computers (Guadalajara): Free shipping throughout Spain, grade A equipment with a 1-year extendable warranty.
• Advantages:
  • Personalized local attention.
  • Competitive prices in specific regions.
• Disadvantages:
  • Limited to certain areas or specific shipments.

Tips for buying a second-hand desktop computer

1. Check specifications:
   • Make sure the processor (minimum 3th generation Intel Core i5/i8 or AMD Ryzen 3) and RAM (minimum 8 GB) are sufficient for your needs.
   • For Windows 11, confirms support for TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.
2. check the warranty:
   • Choose stores that offer a 1-2 year warranty (like JetComputer or BackMarket).
   • Avoid unsecured purchases on private platforms.
3. Check your physical condition:
   • Look for “Grade A” equipment (little signs of use) at refurbished stores.
   • If you buy from a private individual, check for scratches, ports, and fans.
4. Confirm the operating system:
   • Make sure it includes genuine Windows 10/11 or is prepared for Linux (such as Ubuntu).
   • Check license activation.
5. Compare prices:
   • Compare platforms to find the best deal. For example: An HP EliteDesk 800 G3 might cost €200 on InfoComputer, but €150 on Wallapop without a warranty.
6. Test the equipment:
   • If possible, turn on your PC and check its performance with tools like CPU-Z or HWMonitor.

Considerations for 2025

• End of Windows 10 supportIn October 2025, Windows 10 will stop receiving updates. Make sure your computer is compatible with Windows 11 (Intel 8th gen CPU or higher, TPM 2.0) or consider installing Linux (such as Ubuntu) for longevity.
• SustainabilityBuying refurbished reduces electronic waste, supporting the circular economy.
• Budget: Second-hand PCs can cost from €100 (basic) to €400 (gaming or workstations), depending on the configuration.
• Expected use:
  • Office/Study: Core i3/i5, 8-16 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD.
  • Gaming: Core i5/i7, 16 GB RAM, dedicated GPU (such as NVIDIA GTX 1650).
  • Design: Core i7, 16-32 GB RAM, NVMe SSD.

Common troubleshooting

• PC not compatible with Windows 11:
  • A satisfactory solution: Install Linux (Ubuntu, Mint) or use Windows 10 until October 2025.
• No warranty:
  • A satisfactory solution: Buy from stores like InfoComputer or BackMarket that offer a guarantee.
• Faulty equipment:
  • A satisfactory solution: Test the equipment before buying or use return policies (BackMarket, Amazon).
• High price:
  • A satisfactory solutionCompare on Wallapop, Milanuncios, and refurbished stores to find the best deal.

object lessonIf you buy a Dell OptiPlex 7050 on Wallapop and it won't boot, check the status of the SSD with CrystalDiskInfo or request a return if the store allows it.

Conclusion

To buy used desktop computers in Spain, the best options include specialty stores like InfoComputer, Borax, JetComputer, and OfertasPC, which offer warranties and inspected equipment. Platforms like Wallapop and Milanuncios are ideal for low prices, but require more caution. Retailers like Amazon, eBay, and BackMarket offer variety and easy returns, while brick-and-mortar stores like Cash Converters allow for direct inspection. Check specifications, warranty, and compatibility with Windows 11 or Linux, especially with the end of Windows 10 support in 2025, for a safe and cost-effective purchase.

FAQs

• Is it safe to buy a second-hand PC on Wallapop? It can be if you check the condition of the equipment and the seller is trustworthy, but opt ​​for stores with a warranty for greater security.
• What warranty do refurbished stores typically offer? Generally 1-2 years, with exceptions such as BackMarket (up to 3 years).
• Can I upgrade a used PC? Yes, desktops are easy to upgrade (RAM, SSD, GPU), but check compatibility with your motherboard.
• Which operating system is best for a used PC? Windows 11 is supported; if not, Linux (like Ubuntu) is Free and lightweight.