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While it is recommended that businesses buy new laptops and desktops for their needs, small businesses, non-profit organisations and startups will struggle to do this. 

However, computer problems may be common which can drain your money and time.

With top-level hardware is often outside of their budgets, what is your best move? Fortunately, there are some ways that you can save money on the business-class computers your company needs.

One of the most common solutions is to buy refurbished or lightly used hardware. This is a viable option when you buy from a reputable vendor who ensures that the computers will meet the long-term needs of their customers. 

To get the most from these purchases, you should get a technology expert involved in your hardware decision making. 

If you are unsure where you should look for discounts on desktops and laptops for your business, there are a few places to start.

You should also know the various ways that you can save on these computers. If you want to save money without sacrificing quality, here’s what you need to know.

Tip #1 – Dell Outlet

Any business or organisation that has a tight budget for hardware should head to the Dell outlet. 

While the stock is not very predictable, you will be able to get some great business-class laptops and desktops are a considerable discount. A lot of the hardware is marked as refurbished and in many cases, this means that they were returned without being used. However, these computers cannot be legally sold as new again. 

Of course, it is recommended that you have some guidance from a technical professional when picking computers from Dell outlet.

Tip #2 – Apple Certified Refurbished Products

There is a common perception that any Mac will be more expensive than a PC. This is not completely true when it comes to business computers and the actual price difference is much less than you might imagine. 

Many businesses also find that Macs need less maintenance and will last longer than many Windows machines which provides a long-term saving that you should consider.

Of course, a brand-new Mac might not be in your budget. If this is the case, you should look at Apple’s Certified Refurbished products as a way to get a large discount. This is similar to Dell Outlet in terms of product predictability. However, if you have the time and know what you want, you can get a very good deal.

This is a simple step used by eCommerce entrepreneur Tierra Alma, she explains “people commonly think a refurbished computer is a damaged computer. In most cases refurbished means a device was returned to the manufacturer after the buyer changed their mind. Selling products online we had to ensure our hardware was up to standard, and we’ve seen the value of refurbished devices time and time again.”

Tip #3 – TechSoup

If you run a non-profit, TechSoup is a great resource for serious discounts on both hardware and software. There are some vendors who have limits on the types of non-profits they offer discounts to on TechSoup. However, all nonprofits should consider this resource when looking for computing hardware.

Tip #4 – Previously Leased Computers

There are a lot of vendors who offer leasing options and will sell their previously leased inventory at a good price. It is important to note that these computers will have some wear and tear. However, they will generally be a good option at a good price when you need the hardware for your business.

Choosing well priced hardware can help save money in the long run according to the business loan specialists from Max Funding. They explain “used equipment holds its value in a way that new equipment does not. For those looking to buy computers as part of a business venture, minimising upfront costs and reducing long-term depreciation can make a huge difference in the long run.”

Tip #5 – Vendor-Agnostic Technology Partners

Any business should look at this option regardless of the budget they have for computer hardware. A lot of IT services providers also rely on the profits from computer sales as well as their great services in other areas. The profits they get comes from a heavy alignment with certain vendors.

A vendor-agnostic partner is different and will prioritise the service they offer over any hardware sales. These providers are going to be more likely to ensure you think through the hardware you really need.  They will also not push one vendor’s products because it is in their interest to do so. 

These partners will often suggest some low-cost upgrades to the hardware you currently have.  Upgrades such as adding memory will prolong the life of your hardware when it is appropriate.  These partners will generally think in the same manner as your internal IT staff and look to save you money.

This is an example post, originally published as part of Blogging University. Enroll in one of our ten programs, and start your blog right.

You’re going to publish a post today. Don’t worry about how your blog looks. Don’t worry if you haven’t given it a name yet, or you’re feeling overwhelmed. Just click the “New Post” button, and tell us why you’re here.

Why do this?

• Because it gives new readers context. What are you about? Why should they read your blog?
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The post can be short or long, a personal intro to your life or a bloggy mission statement, a manifesto for the future or a simple outline of your the types of things you hope to publish.

To help you get started, here are a few questions:

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You’re not locked into any of this; one of the wonderful things about blogs is how they constantly evolve as we learn, grow, and interact with one another — but it’s good to know where and why you started, and articulating your goals may just give you a few other post ideas.

Can’t think how to get started? Just write the first thing that pops into your head. Anne Lamott, author of a book on writing we love, says that you need to give yourself permission to write a “crappy first draft”. Anne makes a great point — just start writing, and worry about editing it later.

When you’re ready to publish, give your post three to five tags that describe your blog’s focus — writing, photography, fiction, parenting, food, cars, movies, sports, whatever. These tags will help others who care about your topics find you in the Reader. Make sure one of the tags is “zerotohero,” so other new bloggers can find you, too.