Here Are 5 Electronic Devices You Should Never Buy Used
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There was a time where Amazon, eBay, and free shipping weren't a thing. (If you're too young to remember, ask your elders). You didn't complain when something shipped in one to two weeks, instead, you rejoiced when your item arrived a day or two early. You didn't click "Buy Now,” you waited in line at K-Mart. And if you wanted a unique gift for Father's Day or Christmas, you checked The Sharper Image or Hammacher Schlemmer magazines.
Yes, today's world is full of conveniences like ventilated seats and robot vacuums; but, online shopping is one thing we all take advantage of more often than not.
Of course, not all online shopping is Target, Amazon, or Wayfair. Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Craigslist, help shoppers find the perfect—often used—items at great prices. But, as useful as electronics can be, you may want to think twice about buying some items. There are some used items that we either caution against; or that we'd judge you for buying. Continue reading to learn about 5 Electronic Devices You Should Never Buy Used.
An Electric Toothbrush or Nose-Hair Trimmer
Let's get this out of the way. Don't buy electronics that have been in bodily orifices. I don't care how long they were soaked in alcohol; that's just straight up nasty.
You might say “but, the toothbrush heads are new.” I don't care, if you've ever seen the charging base of a well-used electric toothbrush, you know all the Clorox in the world ain't gonna make things right. Just stay away.
Smart Doorbells or Security Cameras
The Internet of Things (IoT) is finally starting to take off. With it come many new smart home products that make us humans lazier or more productive depending on who you talk to.
Siri and Alexa now control everything from your vacuum to your fridge to your car. Our houses are entering the future, but it's not cheap. Buying used smart devices can be tempting, just remember IoT devices aren't particularly secure; and, used devices with cameras should be avoided if at all possible.
According to [Wirecutter and Mashable], smart camera vulnerabilities can allow previous owners to spy on buyers. That's right, that used camera you just installed in your children's bedroom, might not be as private as you think it is.
While most manufacturers patch security vulnerabilities and often a factory reset will do the trick; buying new—where possible—is the safest bet. Many devices besides cameras may have hidden software or altered firmware, sometimes we have to take the risk to save money, but at least be aware of these risks.
Notebook Computers
Computers are another item that we often need to buy used to save money and get the best possible deal. Keep in mind, you never know what it's been through and it probably won't have a warranty.
I once bought an owner-refurbished MacBook on eBay, only to discover when upgrading the RAM and storage, that it had been submerged in water at some point. Luckily it worked and I got a pretty good deal; but, this wasn't something that was disclosed to me at time of purchase.
I'm not saying don't buy used computers, but be careful and find out as much as you can before you do.
A Router
Like smart security devices, a router is another thing you should take time to consider before buying. While many good home routers cost hundreds of dollars, it's important to remember this device is your gateway to the Internet. It provides a firewall against the outside world; and, and internal routing between all of your devices.
If a router’s firmware has been replaced with malicious code, it could be hazardous to your safety and privacy. Cameras, computers, and smartphones rely on your home Internet. When building your home network, consider buying a new router for better security and peace of mind.
AirPods or Earphones
Remember at the beginning when I said don't buy any used electronics that go in your mouth, nose, etcetera? Well, that includes earphones. I know many readers will be thinking ‘no big deal’; and, that's fine. In reality, it's probably fine. Personally, I don't like sharing earwax. But hey, that's probably just me.
What Wouldn't You Buy Used?
Some items on this list are subjective to personal opinion. Many readers won't see anything wrong with this list, but what about you? What pre-owned things will you never buy and why?
Please share your thoughts in the comments and on social media. Your opinion may vary and we’d love to hear what you think. Thanks for reading!