How to choose a refurbished laptop in Kenya: a 10-point checklist

A good refurbished business laptop, such as an HP EliteBook, Dell Latitude or Lenovo ThinkPad, is built to last longer than most new budget laptops at the same price. The catch is that condition varies from unit to unit. Use this checklist before you pay, whether you buy from us or anyone else.

1. Start with the specs that matter

• Processor: Intel Core i5 or i7 from the 8th generation or newer (look for model numbers like i5-8350U) runs Windows 11 officially. 6th and 7th generation chips still work well for office and school use.
• Memory (RAM): 8 GB is the comfortable minimum today. 16 GB if you code, edit photos or keep many browser tabs open.
• Storage: always an SSD. A 256 GB SSD is fine for most people; avoid laptops that still use a spinning hard drive.

2. Check battery health, not just the charge

On Windows, open Command Prompt and run powercfg /batteryreport. Compare Design capacity with Full charge capacity. Above 70% is good for a used laptop; below 50% means you will be tied to the charger.

3. Look at the screen properly

Open a plain white page and a plain black page at full brightness. Look for dead pixels, bright patches near the edges and yellow tint. Check that the hinge holds the screen firmly at any angle.

4. Test every key and the touchpad

Type in a blank document, including the number row and the Enter, Shift and Backspace keys. Click with both touchpad buttons and try two-finger scrolling.

5. Try the ports you will use

Plug a flash disk into each USB port, test the charger port with a little wiggle, and connect to a TV or monitor if you plan to present.

6. Wi-Fi, camera, speakers and microphone

Connect to Wi-Fi, join a quick video call and listen back. These are the parts most often found faulty after purchase.

7. Windows should be activated

Go to Settings → System → Activation. It should say Windows is activated. Business laptops usually have a licence stored in the firmware.

8. Inspect the body

Light scratches are normal. Cracks near the hinges, missing screws or a swollen battery (the base does not sit flat) are not.

9. Ask about warranty and returns

A trustworthy seller gives a clear return window and a warranty in writing. At SkopeSana you get a 7-day return window and every laptop is tested before listing.

10. Compare total cost

Add delivery and any accessories (a charger replacement can cost KSh 2,000–4,000). A slightly more expensive unit with a better battery is often the cheaper choice over two years.