"Should I buy a Used or new system? I don't have enough money, and used systems always break easily." The question and many thoughts come to mind when considering purchasing a new handheld or actual video game console. It is definitely a hard decision to make when you are buying electronics or anything in general around the price range over $100.00. Most buyers want to get the best price for what they pay for any item. Most buyers look for the best deal. So what is the difference and what is the best decision between buying a used or new system?

  Well, what many consumers do not understand about a used or refurbished system is that sometimes the system has never been touched in many cases. Being in the video game business and selling new and refurbished accessories and hardware, I have seen some used or refurbished systems that look brand new. A good refurbished system comes with most original accessories if not all. If you are shopping online, be careful of sellers who do not include the original accessories. Always read the fine print carefully, especially on eBay.

  Obviously, there is a difference between used and new systems, however, I would suggest to purchase used or refurbished systems if the money is an issue. For example, an Xbox 360 Premium system on eBay refurbished will go for around $275.00 starting price in addition to shipping. And sometimes it would come with additional accessories. In the retail store or any retail website, you would be paying $399 for the system and that will not include shipping (if you buy online) and if you are at an actual retail store, that does not even include the taxes or extra games or accessories you need to purchase with your system. Every year, the refurbished and used market for all electronics, especially video games is growing rapidly. This is a result of consumers realizing that trading and purchasing used or refurbished goods is similar to purchasing a new item but at a fraction of the cost. Another good reason of purchasing a used or refurbished system is that you can use the money you saved on a used system to purchase games or accessories to go with the unit.

 Again, when purchasing a used or refurbished item, please take a look at the fine print. Also, make sure there is some type of warranty or warranty card with all your used goods. Many sellers online and websites offer some type of warranty to guarantee their used product for no additonal cost. If you are shopping at retail stores, they will most likely offer you a warranty plan also.

 So the next time you consider purchasing any item, consider looking for used or refurbished video game consoles, and you will also have extra spending money for other games or accessories. Good Luck!